The next two days passed in a blur of relentless preparation. Ji-hoon buried himself in books, scouring through pages filled with historical events, economic principles, and political theories. He knew the interviewers would test more than just his grades—they would examine his critical thinking, his awareness of the world, and his ability to present himself as a worthy candidate.

He couldn’t afford to leave anything to chance.

In the mornings, he read newspapers, carefully noting key events in the world of politics, business, and technology. He memorized important statistics, traced policy changes, and tried to understand the economic shifts that had shaped the country. His scholarship interview wasn’t just about proving academic excellence; it was about proving he had the intellect and knowledge to make a difference.

In the afternoons, he switched to revising his school subjects—mathematics, science, and literature. He went through old exam questions, writing down detailed answers and reading them aloud to himself. If the interviewers decided to test him on his core subjects, he had to be ready to answer with precision and confidence.

But the real challenge wasn’t just studying. It was the self-doubt that crept in when he least expected it.

At night, Ji-hoon stood in front of the small mirror in his room, practicing his answers over and over again. He tried to speak clearly, ensuring his words carried confidence. He paid attention to his posture, straightening his back and maintaining eye contact with his own reflection.

Yet, no matter how much he practiced, a nagging fear lurked in the back of his mind.

What if I forget everything during the interview?

Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author's preferred platform and support their work!

What if they ask a question I can’t answer?

What if I fail?

He clenched his fists, shaking his head. He couldn’t let doubt win.

----------------------------------------

The atmosphere in the house had grown heavier with each passing hour. His mother, though proud, couldn’t hide her concern. She would peek into his room at random moments, making sure he had eaten something. Sometimes, she would silently place a plate of sliced fruit or a warm drink beside him before leaving, as if afraid any words might break his concentration.

His father, usually a man of few words, made his presence known in small gestures. Whenever he passed by, he would place a firm hand on Ji-hoon’s shoulder, offering silent support.

Even his younger siblings, Ji-sung and Ji-yeon, seemed to sense the gravity of the situation. They played more quietly than usual, keeping their voices low whenever they were near his room. There were no loud arguments, no playful fights—just an unspoken understanding that their older brother needed peace to focus.

The weight of expectations pressed down on Ji-hoon like an invisible force.

On the second night, as he was getting ready for bed, he heard the muffled voices of his parents through the thin walls.

His father let out a tired sigh. “If Ji-hoon doesn’t get the scholarship… I don’t know how we’ll manage the fees. Even if I take on more shifts, it still won’t be enough.”

A heavy silence followed. Ji-hoon’s chest tightened.

His mother’s voice was softer, but firm. “Let’s have faith in him. He’s worked so hard. If anyone deserves this scholarship, it’s our son.”

Ji-hoon closed his eyes, pressing his lips together.

This wasn’t just about him anymore. It never had been.

It was about his parents, who had sacrificed everything to ensure he got a proper education. It was about his siblings, whose futures depended on whether he could relieve some of the financial strain on their family.

He couldn’t afford to let them down.

He took a deep breath, his determination hardening.

No matter how nervous I am. No matter how difficult the interview will be—I have to succeed.

With renewed resolve, he picked up his notebook again, flipping through his notes one last time.

Tomorrow was the interview day.

And he would make sure he was ready.