How Did I Get Here?

I thought I had better explain how I have got to this stage. First of all there was the application form to be completed. This consisted of a few questions about my life now and what I wanted in the future. Then, there was an essay question on UWC. All with word restrictions. The application took over a month to complete and a lot of stress. You had to try and say all that you wanted to say without using many words whilst also trying to show who you are. The hardest part, I found, was 'bigging myself up', you have to try and sell your self which is a very difficult skill. Some people come across as conceited where as others don't even get noticed. It's all about finding that perfect balance, and that's not easy. After asking a lot of people for advice, much research and numerous drafts the application was sent off!

Then comes the most agonizing part of the process. Waiting. Lots and lots of waiting. I rushed home every day to check the post and checked my email at every opportunity. Finally, that white envelope hits the door mat. Heart in hand, I opened it. Tears, lots and lots of tears. I hadn't made the next stage. Knocked out at round one. So many feelings of disappointment and doubt. After a week of sulking I got a very surprising phone call. I had been sent the wrong letter! At once I was jumping around the room with a big grin stuck on my face. So a couple of weeks later details about my interview came. It was to be at Atlantic College (AC). An overnight stay at Hogwarts, it goes without saying that I was very excited.

Finally, after some preparation, the day came to go to the interview. The interview was only 20 minutes long and it was the only nerve wrecking part of the experience. The rest was great fun. Lots of games were played, there was debates and discussions and tasks to get you thinking. There was a lot of time to talk, to students, alumni and fellow hopefuls. As well as a great party in the evening to unwind. The interview was a really great experience!

Then comes more dreadful waiting! You return to neurotic habit of checking post and your email inbox several times a day. Then another letter comes. Unfortunately, Mum got to this one first and the look says it all. I didn't make the cut. Disappointed yet again, but at least I got to go to the interview. Life goes on, with less sulking this time. I made plans to go to Whitchurch High School to study the International Baccalaureate. A few weeks go past and nothing special happens until I get an email. It is a late offer from UWC. A second chance, or is this my third? The problem is it's for a full fee paying place. More disappointment. But some brilliant people stepped forward to offer donations. Suddenly, the opportunity began to be a reality. So here I am. Going to Mostar on the 25th August and I am very excited!