Ali Koroglu: Defying Limits and Striving for Greatness
Facing Challenges Head-On
Success is often measured by numbers: grades, achievements, and milestones. But for Ali Koroglu, a student with cerebral palsy, success is about perseverance, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of his dreams. Scoring 3A’s and 1B in his A-Level Science exams is a feat many would celebrate without hesitation, yet Ali remains driven to do even better.
“I was still a little disappointed because I felt like I could have worked a little harder.”
This mindset exemplifies his unwavering commitment to excellence - he is always looking forward, always striving for more.
When Ali first embarked on his A-Level journey, he underestimated its difficulty.
“I thought people were overreacting - how hard could A-Levels actually be?”
However, reality soon set in, and he found himself grappling with the rigor of the coursework. There were moments of self-doubt, especially after receiving test results that didn’t meet his expectations. But instead of backing down, Ali made a conscious choice to push through. “I had already started A-Levels, so I might as well study to do the best I can,” he says, embodying a spirit of determination.
A Methodical Approach to Success
Ali’s study routine was meticulous. He read his notes, completed past papers, and diligently recorded his mistakes in a separate file. This allowed him to track his progress and learn from every error. Even when faced with particularly challenging subjects like chemistry, where certain topics refused to stick no matter how hard he tried, he refused to give up. Instead, he kept pushing forward, reinforcing the idea that persistence is key to overcoming any obstacle.
A Passion for Medicine
Beyond academic success, Ali has a clear goal. He aspires to be a neurologist. His motivation is deeply personal; he wants to contribute to the medical field in a way that directly impacts children with cerebral palsy.
“There are many doctors who work with them, including surgeons and occupational therapists. However, I think the diagnostics and progress tracking aspect of this disease, as well as countless others affecting the nervous system, is just as important.”
His choice also stems from practicality, as neurology requires fewer physical procedures than surgery, which might pose challenges for him.
Strength Through Perspective
Ali’s condition has shaped his outlook on life, but rather than seeing it as a limitation, he views it as a motivator. It has given him a purpose, a reason to push through even on days when studying feels overwhelming. His journey proves that challenges are not roadblocks but steppingstones to success.
Choosing BAC: A Step Toward Independence
Unlike many A-Level students who opt for schools, Ali chose Brickfields Asia College (BAC) because he wanted a taste of independence. He saw college as an opportunity to meet new people, join clubs, and experience a university-like environment. Initially, he commuted daily, but the exhaustion led him to move into the dorms - another testament to his ability to adapt and make the best choices for his well-being.
Words of Encouragement
For students facing their own struggles, Ali’s advice is simple yet powerful:
“As long as you put in the work, you will eventually get what you want.”
He understands the weight of uncertainty and anxiety that comes with academic pressure, and if he could speak to his past self, his message would be clear—“Don’t worry so much.”
Ali’s journey is one of perseverance, ambition, and unwavering strength. His story reminds us that success isn’t just about academic achievements; it’s about resilience, passion, and the courage to keep moving forward despite the odds. And with his determination, there’s no doubt that he is well on his way to achieving his dream of becoming a neurologist.
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