It's the dream we carry in secret
that something miraculous will happen,
that it must happen
that time will open
that the heart will open
that doors will open
that the mountains will open
that springs will gush
that the dream will open,
that one morning we will glide into some little harbour we didn't
know was there
The lines of this poem by Olav Hague captured everything I felt
when on 10th August, 2007, in the doctor’s waiting room I heard from
an ecstatic sister screaming on the phone that I had received a full
scholarship (including to and fro airfare) to study for an MPhil in Development
Studies at the University of Cambridge! The recollection of that moment still
warms my heart and I say another Thank You to the stars for the wonderful opportunity
I got.
As a young journalist when I applied for the course at the
University of Cambridge, I was armed with only my conviction, a desire to
directly work on social issues and a hope to build a successful career.
Cambridge gave me the exact platform to realize all my aspirations. Today I
work as communications manager (marrying my love for writing with my commitment
to the social sector) at a well established NGO drawing a very comfortable
salary and can only look ahead to an ever brighter future.
In my three-and-a-half years at Cambridge, where I had the
privilege to study at one of the world’s top universities and work for two
years, I was transformed in more ways than one. Not only did I benefit from the
exceptional academic richness of the institution, I was introduced to various
cultures, made fantastic friends (who visit me regularly in India), back-packed
across Europe, and learnt how to work and excel in an inspiring international
work milieu. It is not just the memories but the tremendous growth in my
personality and confidence, for which I shall always be grateful to the
university. I discovered a whole new me.
And this experience has been invaluable on my return to India. Not
only did the degree and the international work experience make the transition
very smooth (when I decided to return and work for my country), but it equipped
me with skills and understanding that continue to aid my professional growth.
Furthermore, it has catapulted me into a league through alumni circles, which
has immensely facilitated professional networking and enabled me to
continuously receive international exposure.
I have since helped many
friends, cousins and students apply for degrees abroad to help them realize
their potential and dreams. It gives me great pleasure to see aspirants
recognize their talent, draft an impeccable application and go on to make the
world their oyster. The experience of studying at a premier institution in a
foreign country is extremely useful because it lends perspective that goes much
beyond the academic knowledge gained. You step into a realm of infinite
possibilities as doors open and you have the choice to make what you will of
your future.
If you are interested in
finding out how you can expand your horizon and would like me to help you with
your statements and applications, please write to me at meenal.bansal17@gmail.com and I
will get back to you.
You could also visit my facebook page 'Realize Your Dreams' and read the reviews.
Delighted to help you communicate your own worth,
Meenal.
