💡 Gratitude and Context#
First and foremost, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Bolashak program. Thanks to them, I am studying at one of the world’s top engineering universities — NYU Tandon, fulfilling a childhood dream of studying abroad.
Being in the US is already a huge step for me, and this chapter of my life is open thanks to Bolashak.
✍️ My Exchange Story#
The NYU Tandon Global Exchange program caught my attention from the very first day of orientation.
I’ve always wanted to participate in an academic exchange — it was part of my dreams since my undergraduate years.
The application process was straightforward:
- Review information on the program website.
- Complete the application and write a motivation letter.
- First, NYU reviews your profile, then the host university selects candidates (in my case, a Belgian university).
I was thrilled to be selected just two weeks into my master’s program.
⚠️ Why I Withdrew My Application#
Given the conditions of my scholarship, participation in this exchange is not included in the scope of my grant. Out of respect for the rules and structure, I decided not to continue with the application.
This does not diminish the program’s value: it provides opportunities for studying abroad and offers an incredible experience, for which I am genuinely grateful.
💭 Why Try Even If You Know You Might Fail#
Even though I knew early on that this exchange might not be possible, I decided to apply anyway. Why?
Trying, even when success is uncertain, teaches you important lessons about yourself and your limits. It helps you:
- Explore your ambitions without fear.
- Understand how rules, structures, and real-world constraints work.
- Reflect on what opportunities truly align with your goals.
- Gain the satisfaction of closing a personal “unfinished business” — in my case, fulfilling the childhood dream of attempting an exchange.
So, even in situations where the outcome may be a “no,” the process itself is valuable. It’s about learning, experimenting, and being brave enough to try.
🏛️ Insights on the Bolashak Ambassador Program#
Before the official launch of the ambassador program, I had the idea of sharing practical advice, helping new students, and building a useful support network.
When the official email about the Bolashak Ambassador program arrived, I realized that the format was more focused on representative duties and organizational tasks. My expectations — personal initiative and practical support — did not fully align with the proposed role, so I decided not to participate.
The key lesson: choose projects that align with your personal interests and goals while respecting rules and program structures.
🎯 Key Takeaways from This Experience#
- Try things, even if the outcome is uncertain.
- Gratitude for opportunities: studying at NYU is already a huge achievement.
- Conscious choice: sometimes it’s better to decline formal roles and focus on what truly matters to you.
- Learning from the process: attempting something difficult or unlikely helps you grow and understand the world around you.