Scholarship / mathematics - for NTU Scholarships [3]

Describe, in less than 300 words, a short essay on a subject of personal importance to you. You may choose any topic. Examples include: an event which has influenced you or a family member/friend/person who had a significant influence on you

The first time I thought of mathematics as a very interesting subject was when I joined math club at my junior high school. As time went by, my excitement to explore more in math grew bigger. I participated tens of competitions to measure how far my skills have improved. But, life is definitely not as simple as turning hands upside down. It took more than 2 years for me until I qualified to achieve my goal i.e. being participant of the INAMO (Indonesian Mathematics National Olympiad) in 2010 after going through some elimination.

For as long as I can remember, I've always been imagining myself standing at the podium with medal hanging around my neck. Unfortunately, I failed at my first chance to get medal. I got nothing but experience & I was quite sad. Nevertheless, I realized something. Like what the author Paulo Coelho wrote in his book, 'The Alchemist', I may say that God has given me "newbie's luck". Then, I promised myself to put extra effort so I'm able to bring medal home next year.

As if it had been destined, the second chance came to me. I didn't want to waste it anymore. I kept on practicing, struggling mightily, and praying night & day. But, what can someone do if God's drawn different fate from something he/she hopes? I was so shattered yet shocked to face the truth that I failed again. It was embarrassing & seemed like I was a total fool. Recovering my confidence & getting out of gloomy cave were very hard. I know all I can do were accepting & thanking God for the lessons He taught. Somehow, I felt tougher.

Now, I'm ready to start chasing new goals e. g. studying Environmental Engineering and being a scientist.