09/18/2024

This summer, I was fortunate enough to spend two months at Stanford University, thanks to a scholarship from ADEK. As a high school student, I had the rare opportunity to experience university-level courses while exploring a prestigious campus. Looking back, it truly felt like a pre-college experience that shaped me in unexpected ways.

The courses I took—public speaking, mixed media art, and politics of public service—opened my eyes to new interests. Walking through the Stanford campus, especially in the Main Quad, became part of my daily routine. I couldn’t help but admire the abundance of trees, particularly the coast live oaks that lined the paths.

One of the biggest surprises for me during this journey was discovering my potential in art. I spent countless hours in the studio, which was a beautiful, calming space that allowed me to experiment with mixed-media artwork. The creative process pushed me beyond my boundaries, and I was able to combine different techniques to produce work I’m truly proud of.

The dorm experience was another highlight. Nights spent with friends in their rooms gave me a taste of what college life would be like, complete with deep conversations, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

My public speaking course helped me in ways I didn’t expect. With the guidance of my professor and the experience of critiquing my classmates’ speeches, I was able to refine my communication skills and gain more confidence.

Finally, the politics of public service course was fascinating and, at times, amusing. I quickly learned that in the world of public service, there is never a single “right” answer—something that made for lively class discussions.

This experience taught me so much about myself, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to build connections with people from around the world. It wasn’t just an academic experience—it was a journey of self-discovery.