When I was considering my university choices two years ago, I chose to apply to all the universities that are not particularly famous for their engineering departments. I assumed that if I went to a more liberal arts-oriented university, I could focus less on math subjects or that the math-related/based subjects in these universities would be less intense. My assumption, of course, couldn't have been more wrong and sillier. IU does not have an engineering department at all, but the math involved here is just as equally tough as in other schools.
There are times when I regretted my decision to come to IU, but there is one thing in IU which I cherish that keeps me going: the privilege of enjoying great music and plays. To give everyone a little background information: besides the Kelley School of Business, IU is most famous for the Jacobs School of Music and the whole art industry, which includes theater, drama, and dance. In fact, Bloomington city is renowned for its excellence in producing good art pieces in the state of Indiana.
I first got in touch with theater when I was in Form 3. My school was organizing a trip to watch a 4D theater act in KL. Many students signed up for that trip, but the positions available were limited. I was interested in joining the trip, but I hesitated due to my poor English skills at that time. I was afraid that I couldn't understand the play. To my surprise, my English teacher turned down a lot of excited students but chose to offer me a position on the trip.
I remember how she called me to her desk and asked if I was interested in watching the play. She proceeded to explain that she made me the offer because she knew that my family was not financially stable, so she wanted to give me this chance to enjoy something. I don't remember what she said exactly, but that's the main idea. At that time, I was offended. My first thought was, 'Well, I know I don't come from a wealthy family, but is my family that poor that someone who barely knows me can tell from my face? Did I behave poorly in terms of manners?'
However, I knew in every way, my teacher meant well. So, I took the invitation gladly and I enjoyed the show very much.
Before I came to the States, I was fortunate to study under a great English teacher who loves Broadway. He exposed me to the wonderful combination of songs and dances, wrapped around with intriguing storylines and acting skills. Because of him, I have always wanted to watch a Broadway show.
Thanks to IU, I watched my first Broadway show, "Chicago," during my first semester here. I had known a few songs in the musical like "All that Jazz" and "Cell Block Tango" because my group used them in our American Culture Studies project before. Since then, musicals, plays, dance showcases, operas, ballets—I have watched so many wonderful productions brought together by either IU or other local art companies. To further elevate the excitement, I watched most of the shows for free or at a very low cost (student price or promotion package). The only time when I paid a regular price for a ticket was for "The Phantom of the Opera" during my visit to New York City.
So, after so many shows, have I ever gotten tired of all these shows? No.
Every time before a show starts, my excitement builds up just like when I was 15, ready to watch my first show. Every time when I don't get a good seat or when I am almost late to a show, my impatience gushes forth just like when N and I were queuing for more than two hours outside of the theater, together with a hundred-plus students, in hopes of getting a free seat during the "Chicago" preview night. Every time when I sit at my seat watching all the other people find their seats, I am once again reminded that I am blessed to be able to enjoy such luxury. Every time after the show ends, I am amazed, impacted, and refreshed.
Finally, every time after a show, I know the decision was indeed wise. All praise to the Lord for guiding me to IU!
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