Page 23 - CPS Chronicle Issue 23 April 2026

The journey felt long at times, but it members were not only teachers; they

never felt lonely. It meant leaving the were mentors who listened, guided,

comfort and the warmth of family. From and supported us. They pushed us to

the beginning, I knew this journey understand ideas deeply instead of just

was bigger than distance. It was about memorizing information. They wanted

growing as a person. Most importantly, us to analyze, and create ideas. Their

it was about the trust my family gave doors were open, their advice was

me and the trust I needed to build in helpful, and their belief in our abilities

myself. was real.

There were evenings when I would sit Balancing ambition and responsibility

in my room after a long day of lectures, was maybe the most important lesson

thinking quietly. Sometimes I waited I learned. It was not always easy to

for a message after my mother’s hospital manage university work while staying

appointment. Those moments could emotionally connected to my family

have been difficult, but instead of letting from far away. But instead of feeling

worry control them, I let her strength hesitant about continuing my education,

guide me. Her words were always calm I chose to feel thankful. I understood

and encouraging. She never wanted me that being at university was not leaving

to feel that I was missing something at my family behind; it was continuing

home. Instead, she reminded me that I their dreams through me.

was building something important for

the future. I was thankful for a family that never let

my doubt replace their encouragement.

I learned how to stay focused even My home stayed my foundation, the

when my heart was connected to two place where my values were built,

places at the same time. I learned how where I learned strength, and where

to carry responsibility with maturity, my ambition started. My mother’s

instead of fear. Going to lectures was strength became my daily reminder

no longer only about passing exams; it that challenges are not barriers but steps

became about respecting the sacrifices that help us move forward.

made for me.

This final semester feels different. It is

The university quickly became more filled with purpose and possibilities. I

than a campus. From the first semester, want to make it a chapter that matters,

I realized that I was in an environment to leave a mark, and to take every

made to help students succeed. Faculty opportunity the university gives. This

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