Convocation….

Hmm…I don’t know why, I’m not really excited about the upcoming convocation in UNIMAS on 4th August. I even told my parents that if they can’t attend, it’s okay. In fact, only my mom and little sister will attend. My father could not attend as it’s not school holiday and as a canteen operator, you can’t close even for one day. But my dad told me: “That ceremony whether i attend or not is not important. What matters most is for you to prove that the degree you’re about to get has really upgraded you to a greater level. If you have, i’ll be the happiest dad, far happier than just that short moment attending your convo!” That few lines from my dad enlightens me and it makes me proud to be his son!

For me, convocation is just an official ceremony to mark the end of a 4-year “battle” to get a paper called “Bachelor degree”. I’ve always thought that it’s not the destination that matters, but the journey. It’s a great learning experience for throughout the 4 years in UNIMAS. I must say it was the most meaningful period of my life as within that short duration, I have experienced notable changes within me. Knowledge, personality, leadership, mental strength are just some of the things that I’ve gained from that journey. And what I’ve gained from it cannot be measured just by a few minutes on stage, getting that scroll from Tun TYT or Pehin Sri. Yes, it’s a “celebration” that many would anticipate by giving their very “best”, like buying new clothes, new shoes, new hairdo or even new under garments just for that occasion. They would tell you, “I don’t care what I’ve done to come this far, but I’m going to make sure i look good and pretty on convo day!”. Some even prepare an invitation list of who to invite for the occasion. Well, who am I to judge a person. It’s okay for everyone to enjoy as i know it’s not an easy journey for some.

But whatever it is, everyone has their very own reason to celebrate. To all my TESL coursemates, congrats and see you guys during convo.