Yale, Harvard, here we come!
In a narrative that is as inspiring as it is aspirational, two Malaysian students have ingeniously balanced a rich blend of extracurricular engagements alongside their academics, charting their path to two of the most prestigious universities in the world – Yale and Harvard.
Lee Wei Lun and Thamini Vijeyasingam, through their illustrious journey of self-development and leadership, have not only secured admission but have also set an exemplary standard for what it means to be a holistic student.
Both students, hailing from distinct colleges in Kuala Lumpur, Lee from Sunway College and Thamini from Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL), took on the mantle of A-Level student council presidents. Their leadership roles, however, were just the tip of the iceberg. They embarked on gap years filled with initiatives and projects that demonstrated their commitment to personal growth and community service.
The United States college admission process, known for its holistic approach, played a significant role in their journey. According to Lee, the US universities’ emphasis on well-rounded applicants encouraged them to explore beyond academic excellence. He shared insightful guidance for like-minded peers, highlighting the importance of stepping out of comfort zones.
Lee’s gap year was spent founding KITS Malaysia, a non-profit aiming to empower underprivileged youth, alongside delving into the tech world as a junior analyst at a budding startup. This proactive approach echoed in his advice to ambitious students – It’s never too late to start pursuing your dreams.
Thamini spent her gap year immersed in various internships, leadership roles in student organisations, and even international competitions. Her activities were driven by a deep-seated desire to explore her passions and refine her career aspirations.
Both Lee and Thamini attribute much of their success to adept time management and mental resilience. Lee was aided by self-help literature and thought leaders, while Thamini utilised productivity tools to effectively balance her academic and extracurricular commitments.
Looking ahead, Lee aspires to blend his technical expertise with business acumen, aiming to develop a career in product management. Yale’s vibrant and interdisciplinary ethos appeals to him, offering the perfect environment to forge his path. Thamini, drawn by the allure of making an impact through her work, plans to major in economics with a minor in philosophy at Harvard. She looks forward to being part of an enriching academic and campus life that resonates with her values.
Their stories underscore the importance of an early start in college applications and the value of extracurricular activities in developing a well-rounded profile. Thamini’s advice to future applicants highlights the utility of a gap year for personal growth and clarity in educational and career goals, albeit acknowledging it might not be feasible for everyone.
Lee and Thamini’s journey to Yale and Harvard stands as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating the power of initiative, resilience, and the pursuit of holistic education. Their story is a testament to the fact that beyond academic excellence, it is the experiences we seek and the challenges we overcome that truly shape our paths to success.
