That One Time I Identified with GRIT
This isn't an excessivelyinspirational story. In fact, I'd want it to be as close to reality aspossible. To put it simply: I applied three times to the same program beforegetting in. Before Angela Duckworth popularized the idea of grit, I'd like tobelieve I went around living some semblance of it.
I first came around my master's program, IITASIA, through my alma mater's newsletter. I don't quite recall why it wasparticularly enticing but I seem to have latched on this one specific program for the next 3 application cycles.
It initially came as a featured program ofthe private scholarship, Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship. This was attempt#1. I had no clue how to apply to grad school and I think my research proposalultimately fell short with being asked if I had a professor/lab group in mind —I didn't.
My second attempt was a more popular one —the famed Monbukagakusho (MEXT). Fairly vague memory and well, notsurprisingly, I didn't make the cut. It wasn't a particularly notable rejectionbecause the embassy doesn't contact you if you failed to make it for the nextphase of the screening.
For the third and grittiest thing I'vedone, I just straight up applied! Difficult because I had to go through all thebureaucracy while reviewing for the GRE and TOEFL. Not to mention, this methodbecomes increasingly burdensome throughout the span of the program because Ihave to make sure I can support myself on top of paying tuition. Everyexemption, every post-admission scholarship, every part-time job... I kept myeyes on.
Those years were thus far the best timesof my life! Yet, in hindsight, was also a struggle of sorts. I really took toheart all the small things that helped me get through my 2-year journey; theystill overwhelm me to tears to this day. I was able to experience so manythings despite my own shortcomings. It was both humbling and extremelyfulfilling.
Nowadays, with the MEXT scholarship to myname, I feel so spoiled! In sheer contrast to my earlier experiences:everything is oriented, residences have been set, even monthly budgets areoutlined. Vanilla, I would say, albeit being incredibly convenient. That is not to say I particularly enjoy masochistic anxiety for my future. Independence isits own reward.
Looking back is always a treat as I would remember how unrealisticallypersistent and energetic I was in my youth. I fondly recall looking up seniorsfrom that same program, asking for advice and comparing if I could ever be onpar. I dug through the Internet crevices to strengthen my case by example
These days, it doesn't have to be so hard.The GradMAP Network is a medium to gather and match mentors and mentees fromrespective communities for real impact on prospective students. It's a greatway to match up ala senpai-kouhai with grad school aspirants to personallyassist them in their applications.
This is a great initiative which wouldhave definitely helped me 10 years ago, hence why I'm giving back as a mentorthrough GradMAP Philippines. I implore fellow scholars to reach out and do thesame. I assure you, your wisdom can change at least one person's life.
