How I made it to my dream university?

                       How I made it to my dream university?

"One belongs to New York instantly; one belongs to it as much in five minutes as in five years." – Tom Wolfe.

From the moment I set foot in New York City, I felt an undeniable connection. The towering skyscrapers, the ceaseless energy, and the sheer ambition that permeated the air resonated with my dreams. It was on a school trip to the United States for the World Scholar’s Cup Tournament of Champions that I first encountered the city that never sleeps. As we toured the halls of Harvard, the labs of MIT, and the vibrant campus of NYU, I found myself drawn to one place above all others​​- The stern school of business.

There was something special about stern, something that went beyond its academic excellence and prestigious reputation. It was its spirit—dynamic, global, and bold. Walking through Washington Square Park, I envisioned myself discussing financial models with my professors, learning from the best minds, and being part of a culture that celebrates innovation and diversity. The defining moment came when we visited the Wall Street. Standing there, amidst the heartbeat of the financial world, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. The fast-paced world of finance, the electric atmosphere, and the unrelenting pursuit of success fuelled my determination to study in the financial capital of the world.

Of course, this journey was not one I embarked on alone. My mentors, parents, seniors, and headmaster played an instrumental role in encouraging me to dream big and apply to the world’s top universities. Their unwavering support pushed me to challenge myself and aim higher than I ever thought possible.

Gaining admission to a university as prestigious as NYU Stern was no easy feat. It required years of dedication and relentless effort. I immersed myself in business management internships, authored international research papers, and even established NGOs to drive meaningful change. Competing in and excelling at international Olympiads sharpened my analytical skills, while engaging in professional-level research expanded my intellectual horizons. Perhaps one of the most transformative experiences of my journey was serving as the School Captain. The leadership, confidence, and resilience I developed in that role prepared me for the challenges ahead and solidified my belief in my potential.

The application process itself was another battle. Crafting compelling essays, perfecting my personal statement, and preparing for interviews took months of tireless effort. Every word had to reflect my passion, my vision, and my determination. Thankfully, my teachers and seniors guided me every step of the way, helping me refine my essays and navigate the intricate admissions process.

Then came the night that changed everything. It was 3 AM when I gathered the courage to check my email. My hands trembled as I opened the letter from NYU Stern School of Business. And there it was—"Congratulations!" In that moment, every sleepless night, every challenge, and every sacrifice became worth it. The sheer joy of knowing that I would be attending the best school for finance in the world was indescribable. It was not just an acceptance letter; it was the key to my future, the first step toward my dreams.

• Vardhan Bansal, XII Com