Hello 2012, Goodbye 2011

I still remember the fourth day of the Lunar New Year in 2011, embarking on my journey to Shanghai with dreams in my heart; I still remember studying day and night in the sixth teaching building to prepare for the GRE, from spring to winter; I still remember returning to the green field after taking the GRE and TOEFL, playing football to my heart's content; I still remember that chance encounter at the end of 2011, which stirred up memories that made my heart beat faster.

2011 was an ordinary yet fulfilling year, a time of growth and pursuing dreams.

2011 was the year my dream began. In that year, I devoted myself wholeheartedly to the GRE and TOEFL for my ideals. I have mostly forgotten the pain during that time, but I know I made it through. Now I am waiting for recognition from across the ocean and a new beginning.
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2011 was a lost year. My memories of that year are only in the sixth teaching building. I left early and returned late every day, living a life of going between the canteen, classroom, and dormitory. From January to November, I did not participate in any activities, and even my beloved football was temporarily put aside.

2011 was a fruitful year. I accomplished tasks I once thought impossible, persevering step by step, and finally achieving my New Year's dream in November. I had expected to be overjoyed as I walked out of the exam hall, but instead, I felt overly calm; the fatigue of the year had left me indifferent. After this "liberation," I returned to the sports field, to my class, and to school. Unable to suppress my restless spirit, several nights in late November 2011, along with my classmates, saw us work hard and achieve the "Excellent Class of the School" award.

2011 was a year of regret. Perhaps if it weren't for that chance yet inevitable encounter, I wouldn't be so sentimental, so remorseful, or so enlightened. Perhaps without that meeting, I would have forgotten that story. But God brought us together again, making me realize how foolish I had been. That long-lost feeling of my heart pounding, that shy yet energetic feeling, showed me what I needed to pursue. Change begins here: to make myself happy, to make you happy, and to make those around me happy!

2011 has passed, and the sound of firecrackers heralds 2012. I was born into this great nation, and I am honored to be part of the midnight fireworks, bidding farewell to 2011 and welcoming 2012. The past is now just a memory, whether happy or painful. As 2012 arrives, I will seal away those memories and face the future with a fresh perspective.

In 2012, I had three wishes: 1. To receive an offer from my dream university. 2. To help the team win the college cup championship. 3. To have you by my side.