Educational interests and goals, educational background, special Essay

Educational interests and goals, educational background, special interests, and plans for when you return to your home country - Essay Example In 2006, I was given the Most Outstanding Boarder award from Hills International, as well as a Certificate of Achievement for academic results for demonstrating diligence in studies. I feel proud to state that, in 2007, I was among the top 10 percent of the Hills International graduating class. I received commendations for academic excellence in English and Mathematics, and in Physical Education. I also received the prestigious Caltex All Rounder Award for achievement at school and in the broader community. I was College Captain of Hills International College in 2007, and was also a student of the Hills International Golf Academy in 2006-2007. Sport has been an important part in my life-golf is a passion with me. Interest in the game developed because of my family-especially my dad-who, having served three terms as club captain of the Sabah Golf and Country Club, also takes keen interest in junior golf development in Malaysia. I started golf at the age of 12 under my father's coaching, and later trained under British and Australian PGA's. I have received many awards in the sport (a detailed list is enclosed), among which are the First Place for Girls Under 12 Sport Excel Junior Circuit qualifier (Sabah-2002) and the Best Overall Position for All Sabah Players-2003(international Event). In Australia, I represented the Methodist Ladies' College in the golf tournament for Western Australian schools, and also the Royal Fremantle Golf Club in all junior tournaments. My current scores are: average scores 9 rounds, 693 strokes, average 77; Personal Best Tournament Score 72 (par). I derive inspiration for my game from Jason Day, who studied at Hills, and is a golf buddy. Jason was the World Junior Champion in 2004. I spend an average of four hours a day practicing golf. I also play badminton, basketball and touch football for fun. I represented my school in Badminton, cross-country and middle distance running. I am also a PADI open water diver and have logged over 50 dives. I frequently dive at Sipadan Island, which has some of the best diving spots in the world. I read a lot during my free time, especially after my golf practice, which helps me to unwind. I have participated in arts and musical events too while in school. I passed the examination in Pianoforte with high honors, and obtained the third position in the 21st Inter-Secondary Schools Choral competition. I now play the piano for relaxation. I also received an 'Outstanding Achievement' mention in the poster competition for the theme Sports against Drugs under the Rotary Youth Leadership Development Program (2002). I have had some work experience, having worked as 'Assistant Banker' at the Commonwealth Bank, Claremont (W Aus.) in 2005. I have also done voluntary work with the deaf and dumb center at Bukti Padang, Malaysia. Here I participated in activities with hearing impaired children, and was a 'buddy' to a child at the center. I learned sign language for this purpose. I enjoyed my time and learned a lot during the past 3 years in Australia. I had the chance here to meet many friends and people from different parts of the world. It is this experience away from home as a student-athlete, which taught me the importance of being independent, as well