Early Clicks: How the Internet Tapped into My Heart

When we talk about the internet, we often take for granted the vast digital landscape we navigate daily. But can you remember the very first time you went online? That initial dive into the world of the internet is usually a memorable experience because it marks the beginning of a new adventure.

I can't recall exactly when I started surfing the internet, but it was around 2007 when I was in the third grade. Back in those days, accessing the internet was not as straightforward as it is today. You had to connect your computer to a telephone line and ensure you had a network card installed.

I vividly remember the day after school when my uncle came over to help my father set up the internet on our family computer. The process was noisy—the loud sounds it made when dialing up to connect were unforgettable. My first action was to explore the world of search engines, with Yahoo being the popular choice at the time. Eagerly, I attempted to search for cartoons, hoping to watch some online. However, the limitations of dial-up internet soon became apparent. Pictures took minutes to load, and videos were out of the question. Frustrated, I quickly realized that watching cartoons was not going to happen.

Not one to give up, I came up with a clever workaround. I convinced my father that I needed to download pictures for a school project. He believed me and kindly took me to a cybercafe in Taman Seri Andalas, Klang, where I had grand plans to play games and watch videos, all recommended by friends. Unfortunately, my father stayed by my side the whole time due to the cybercafe’s regulations. Since I had lied about needing to do school work, I spent my time pretending to be busy and even printed out some pictures to make my story seem credible.

Looking back, it might seem like a mundane experience to some, but for me, it was an adventure that brought me closer to my father. His support and the sacrifices he made played a significant role in my continued passion for IT. That day at the cybercafe didn't just connect me to the internet—it connected me more deeply with my dad. It's a memory I cherish as it reminds me of the beginnings of my journey in the tech world. Thank you, Dad, for being there for me. Im sorry i couldnt show you my journey now anymore but I promise that I will continue this path that you create for me till I reach the top.

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