Written by Hassan Abu Edwan.

A wise man once said, “If you don't get lost, there's a chance you may never be found.”

When we find something we are passionate about, we give all our heart and soul to do what is necessary to accomplish it, it becomes our self-proclaimed purpose in life, hence it gives us a sense of belonging and true identity .

This was the thing I, and most people of my age, lacked the most. I never gave much thought as to what I wanted to do with my life, or what I’m most passionate about, or what lays beyond the small world I live in. A single push is all I needed to realize my true potential and uncover the skills within.

In 2007 I got the chance I’ve been waiting for, I was chosen for the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) scholarship, a great privilege. A whole sea of opportunities lay ahead of me all of a sudden, and I got a chance to unearth the person I wanted to be.

Through a set of challenges and wonderful experiences I discovered more and more about myself and realized that I still have a long way to go, this was only the first step, and yet the most crucial, it was then that I realized where I was and most importantly where I wanted to be.

When I returned home after the life-changing experience, it was apparent to everyone who knew me that the person who left a year ago was not even close to the person who came back. I started planning for the years ahead, and pursued every possible opportunity. My current goal is to apply fora Fulbright scholarship and receive a Master’s degree in Business Administration, which I’ve been preparing for in every possible way. Driven by ambition I’ve finally discovered who I am, and where my deepest passion lies.