What I've learnt in this year

This year I went through I lot. It is not what I have expected but nevertheless I am glad I have been given this heavenly chance and I am forever indebted to my patron. For this reason I will always remember what this society have given to me and I wish some day I will become someone's patron too. I know there is a theory about the pyramid sponsorship is not as beneficial as giving out the whole lump sum to a bigger group of audience, but as someone at the receiving end, I must say, it's different. I hope one day their investment will pay off.
1. I learn that there are some very ultra-talented people in the world and everyone is special and beautiful in its way.
In Hong Kong and in my environment in particular, everyone wants to get into B-school and a job in i banking. But in Columbia, you see violinist, journalist, entrepreneur, poet, neuroscientist etc etc. Of course there are stil tons of people who want to get into i banking. But still they have a chance to study LitHum, CC etc etc I truly envy this chance of having a liberal education. When they complain to me how useless the course is, I truly truly truly wish I could be in their position to complain about that.
2. You don't need to be ultra sociable and try to be friends with everyone.
It is not a requirement for you to be friends with everyone. Some people just are not interested in you. No need to moan. Go to another group and make some other nice friends.
3. Work hard.
I thought I worked really hard in order to get into college. and I thought my college life before coming to Columbia is really really intense. Turns out I did some of my most intense study here in Columbia. A lot of readings and critical thinking. I really enjoy them because I know this is the only chance I will have in my life to do something academic as this. I will never have the chance to do it again.
4. Be kind to people.
I said that a lot before but preaching is different from teaching. You cannot learn it. You have to reflect on your own value system and be enlightened. One day you suddenly realise you could ACTUALLY really make that happen. Whatever indecent things people did to you, forgive them.
5. Sometimes life is not a box of chocolate.
It is a piece of shit sometimes. Be calm and carry on. Mentality is tricky thing.



and a lot more. It is difficult to put it in words, for a lot of things I've learnt are intangible and it's about how I deal with people. There is not one situation I can point to. More like clustered multidimensional characteristics that guide me through ups and downs.

Peace of mind and peace of emotion.