When I was offered the ASEAN scholarship to study overseas at twelve, I was elated at my personal and financial independence. As long as I produced good results, I was free to do anything. I filled my afternoons with plays, music performances and poetry slams, learning more about the local arts scene I never got to explore back in Malaysia, and meeting people from different backgrounds. Every conversation with strangers made made me realize how sheltered I was, living in...

NYU offers an immensely attractive international experience, with campuses in Shanghai and Abu Dhabi, the Freshmen Abroad Program and overseas seminars. I am excited at the possibilities for collaboration, innovation and creation these platforms facilitate. Combined with its prime location as the epicentre of arts and culture - being the location of the Tribeca Film Festival and Fashion Week, NYU offers an enriching experience charged with creativity and dynamism, and endless opportunities to learn and network. I'm drawn to the...

Get a teacher who has known you for at least a year, and who you are comfortable talking to. Make a list...

I would have done more research on the schools I applied to, such as approach seniors who have graduated or...