Why did I choose my current scholarship and How was the scholarship experience?
I didn't do much between the end of SPM and the results day, like most people, because it was a pandemic. I was able to read 100 books while also getting enough rest (obviously). Fast forward, I got straight A's and I know what I want to do, which is study economics. I tried to apply for all economics scholarships available, including Petronas, Bank Negara, and Khazanah. I've written scholarship essays and conducted extensive research (just to be prepared for the interview). If you ask me which scholarship I am most interested in, I would say Petronas. It's not because Petronas gives me a lot of money (hehe), but Petronas has made a significant contribution to my life (and Malaysians). When I see Petronas, I see Malaysian nation building. Whenever I see KLCC, I think of Malaysia. I chose Petronas because I want to be a part of their success as well as Malaysia's. Because of Petronas, our country has reached a point where it can develop to its full potential. Finally, I received a scholarship from Petronas and am now a Petronas scholar.
My experience with the Petronas scholarship was both stressful and challenging. I must say that Petronas is the simplest scholarship to apply for because the stages are simple (just comparing).
First stage (Fill out the application form)
I completed the application form, including my accomplishments and family information. It wasn't difficult, and all I had to do was submit the application at the end.
After a few weeks, I received an email informing me that I had been selected to attend their Petronas YoungStars Day (Yeah). Because of the pandemic, it was conducted remotely rather than physically, so I needed a stable WiFi connection and a gadget to use. I had two online exams to complete during YoungStars Day (one is a personality test and another is an aptitude test by Cambridge)
QUESTIONNAIRE FOR THE CAMBRIDGE PERSONAL TEST
This is a personality test is similar to the psychometric tests used in high school. The difference is that you must take it seriously. I don't have any tips for acing this questionnaire; all you need to do is be honest. Simply circle which sides you agree or disagree with.
Thinking Skills Assessment
This is a Cambridge aptitude test (English and Math). Yes, you must take a test similar to those given to Oxbridge students. So, if you pass this test, it means you can study at Cambridge (I hope?). I studied past papers on the internet and improved my English vocabulary and math skills. The English questions were the most difficult for me because the vocabulary was too advanced for me. The math questions were manageable, but I couldn't use my calculator because it was forbidden. No calculator is permitted. In the end I passed. YEAH
FINAL STAGE ( GROUP INTERVIEW)
I managed to go to the final stage after passing my TSA with flying colours (I think so). First and foremost, I'd like to state that my interview with Petronas was the best of all. The panels were encouraging and supportive of me. Myself and three other friends were given a case study about mental health and were asked to come up with a solution. My groupmates were all encouraging, and their suggestions were brilliant. We were able to find solutions, and I could see the smiles on my panels' faces. To share, three of the four of us received scholarships, and we became close friends here at KYUEM.
FINAL TIPS AND SHARING
1. Know what courses you want to do This, I believe, applies to everyone. You must be aware of your ambitions and the courses you wish to pursue. Choose your scholarship not to fly out of Malaysia, but to pursue your greatest dream. I say this because I don't want you to be disappointed in the end. Find a role that you enjoy and are willing to do for the duration of your university life
2. Be Yourself
Everyone wants a scholarship, and some try to stand out by faking themselves. Faking will never set make you stand out. Be yourself during the interview and be truthful when taking exams.
3. Conduct research
Researching will provide you with a wealth of information. Conducting research may also assist you in to stay professional during the interview. It can also help you write scholarship essays and brainstorm ideas for interview questions.
4. Don't be selfish during the Group Interview
You must collaborate with your groupmates, and this is factored into the evaluation. Assist your groupmates and give them a chance to speak. Interviewers dislike selfish people.
5. Possess leadership skills
Be a good leader rather than a corrupt leader.
Read Harits's first blog: Making Me~ Inequality vs. Curiosity
Delve into Harits's journey in discovering Economics at bit.ly/BlogSP-Harits-1
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