Jack, English, Iowa State University

Statement of Objectives

You may find it interesting that my aspiration to be an expert in economics actually began with a series of illnesses I suffered in my childhood. A frail boy, I frequently visited local hospitals that were in extremely bad condition. Initially I thought my parents took me to those hospitals out of a concern over a fight family budget, but later I discovered that most Chinese hospitals at that time were poorly equipped due to an underdeveloped economy. This experience instilled in me, from an early age, a strong desire to do something to improve the overall economic situation in China so that sick children like me can be treated with better medicine and more advanced medical equipment. In retrospect, I even feel grateful to those unhappy experiences in hospitals, for they made me more mature, persevering, and above all, more determined in pursuing my professional direction than many of my peers.

This strong will to master economics, combined with an innate indomitable character, has always spurred me on to pursue excellence in my economics study. To get an unbiased view of different schools of economics, I did not stick to Chinese textbooks dogmatically, but spent much time reading western works such as The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money (1936) by John Maynard Keynes and Free to Choose (1979) by Milton Friedman. While reading these books, I formed the habit of thinking critically. This analytical power really added to my intellectual depth. Through my study, I came to realize that economics is more than a tool to eradicate poverty. It not only provides an effective way to allocate scarce resources, but also gives us a different outlook on issues in our daily life. We will transcend our meticulous calculation of personal gains or losses, and care more about the welfare and efficiency of the whole society. In fact, the more I was immersed in it, the more I became fascinated. And this intensified enthusiasm encouraged me to work even harder. In order to solidify my mathematics background, I went all the way, rain or shine, to Tsinghua University auditing lessons given by famous professors like Mr. Hu Xiancheng and Hu Jinde. This painstaking effort paid off as the knowledge I learned from those lessons, such as differential equations and multivariate calculus, really helped me understand many economic models.

I have also taken every opportunity possible to strengthen my hands-on experience. My undergraduate years have seen me participate in various kinds of social work that are challenging and educational. From July 26th to October 16th this year, I took part in the preparation for the World Stock Market Conference of China High-Tech Fair, an international grand gathering where leaders of renowned domestic and overseas enterprises came to give lectures. My job was to keep in touch with the lecturers, arrange schedule for their speeches and help translate the lecture notes. To facilitate my communication with those financial experts, I raided the National Library for everything I could find on international economics, finance and venture capital. I also read newspapers, surfed the Internet and consulted my teachers to keep track of their latest trends. Through my work, I have accumulated much first-hand information about the financial straits that Chinese high-tech enterprises are currently in, and came to know what those enterprises wanted most, namely, new blood, venture capital and advanced managerial mechanism.

Despite a very favorable job market for English majors in China, I have made up my mind to pursue further studies. I want to achieve a higher goal in life and to realize my dream of becoming an economist. Of all the branches of economics, international economics is particularly fascinating to me, not only for its long history, but also for the significant role it plays in the development of economics. Many new theories originating from it, such as the theory of the second best, has had a tremendous impact on general economics research. Welfare economics and growth theory have also benefited a lot from international economics.

For a developing country like China, the research on international trade and finance is of vital importance. How to deal with the new protectionism of developed countries, how to avoid risks posed by excessively unstable exchange rate, how to improve the effectiveness of foreign exchange markets, and how to treat the double-edged sword of direct foreign investments are all serious problems confronting us. Therefore I have made a point of learning this branch of economics and have gained some basic knowledge about it by taking relevant courses and reading authoritative academic journals like the Journal of International Economics.

In my opinion, the development of the micro part of international economics, international trade, has followed a gradual yet distinct path. However, the research in the macro part, international finance, is lagging far behind and still has a long way to go. For instance, the asset-markets approach to exchange rate determination, synthesizing postwar investment theories and rational expectation, has taken a major leap from earlier practices, but tests of this approach have produced mixed or inconclusive results concerning its empirical validity. In the meantime, other theories, like international capital mobility approach, are still open to discussion. From my point of view, only when we find a completely fresh analytical method can we truly achieve major breakthroughs in the R&D on international finance. And I really want to make some contribution to this field. Meanwhile, I am also intrigued by some new phenomena in international finance, such as the integration of global stock exchanges, the risk analysis of E-money, the feasibility of a single currency in Asia and the policy control of international hot money. But in order to gain more insight into these issues, I have to be armed with sound knowledge first, and I deem it necessary to further my study in the United States, the most developed country in the world where I will have easy access to the latest financial information and most advanced economic theories. As a long-term plan, I hope to work in a research agency or a prestigious university like yours concentrating on academic research, and move a step forward in this field, which is to solve economic problems in China as well as the world.

I understand that your Ph.D. program is designed to provide rigorous training in theoretical and applied economics leading to research positions in academia, private business and government. During the first year of my Ph.D. study, I will take more math courses than required because I understand typical Ph.D. programs in economics stress on a strong mathematical foundation. In the meantime, I will try my best to study econometrics well since it has become an increasingly important tool to analyze economic phenomena. From the second year on, I will work mainly on two field areas, international economics and financial economics, and give special attention to topics concerning China. With your rigorous training programs, my Ph.D. study at Iowa State University will be both challenging and rewarding and I believe this experience will serve as a stepping stone for me to achieve my ultimate academic and professional objectives.

I realize that, given my academic background as an English major, I am against all odds in applying for a Ph.D. degree in economics, but ! have every reason to believe that the English language courses I have had are actually a special advantage of mine rather than a handicap. As a language major, I have read something about everything in my extensive reading class thus broadened my horizon and gained a unique perspective on economic phenomena. Through these readings, I have acquired a comprehensive understanding of different cultures and customs, which I believe, will be conducive to my study on international economics, a discipline analyzing the interdependence between different countries. My writing ability and oral communication skills have also been strengthened since I must, from time to time, communicate with American visiting scholars here in the English department. All these qualities I have developed through English study have become my most precious possessions, which, together with my preparation in economics and math, will ensure a promising outcome of my graduate studies in your department.

My life to date has seen my deep interest and competence in economic studies. Now, as I look to the future, I recognize my continuing need for intellectual stimulation and my desire to establish myself. I have the intellectual prowess, commitment, and enthusiasm to be an excellent economist, and I hope you will allow me to take the vital first step toward this goal at Iowa State University.

With GRE 2400, I Want to Say
The idea of writing something for MicroEdu struck me many times. From the delight of winning GRE 2400, to the depression of being denied by top schools, the whole application matured me.

I had too many things to put down, including my endless gratitude to Jinbo and other MicroEdu members. Without your enthusiastic support, I would never have gotten offers. So, to write down my application experience is almost a responsibility to me.

I am an English major from an average university. My second major is economics and international trade, which draw my special fascination. Feeling what I learned in college is far from enough, I want to pursue further studies in economics. Meanwhile, going abroad to see more of the outside world will broaden my horizon. Thus, I stepped onto the road of going abroad.

Things are far from smooth. My middle school classmates and parents all told me that the chance for Chinese arts students to get offers would be slim. Acting on an impulse, I replied, "Where there is a will, there is a way. If I do not try, how can you know that I cannot make it?" I made a resolution to apply.

However, at that time I made the decision too hastily, partly due to my unyielding spirit, or rather, stubbornness. Also, at that time, I hadn't read Jinbo's 9-Step Guide. Otherwise my life orbit might have changed a lot.

The TOEFL test was a big strike to me. As an English major, I thought it would be easy for me to get a score above 650. Even after finishing the test, I had a wonderful feeling. However, when I received the score, I could not believe my eyes.

Yet I was not crestfallen. I then started to prepare for GRE and even derived fun from it. The process of taking GRE can really make one more mature and persevering. For anyone of a normal IQ, hard work and scientific methods will surely secure a score above 2200. But my score, 2400, was beyond my expectation, and I admit that luck played an important role. The success in GRE boosted my confidence. Losing my usual calmness, I even forgot to objectively analyze my background. I thought I could easily enter a top US university.

It was then that I got to know MicroEdu. By reading its articles, I realized that GRE/TOEFL scores only played a small role in the application. From an average school, without research experience or published papers, I had to try my best to explore more of myself and make an excellent Personal Statement.

The first draft of my PS was full of brag. Jinbo gave me much pertinent advice. I spent days and nights on the second draft, but it was still of poor quality. The biggest defect was that ! did not know much about my intended major. I firmly believed I had the academic potential, but my undergraduate education had not built a solid background for my future studies. I went to the library, read books, and consulted my teachers, but the PS progressed little. The final version was still not satisfactory. But it seemed that it was beyond my ability to make any significant improvement.

Ordinary personal statement, weak recommendations, and poor academic background, my only strengths were high GPA and GRE. If I had taken MicroEdu's advice, I would not have wasted so many dollars on top schools such as MIT, Columbia and Princeton. But I stubbornly stuck to my dream. No matter how slim the chance would be, I refused to give up. As you can imagine, I have received two offers in economics, both from middle-leveled schools.

Looking back, I have a sum-up. Hope it serves for latecomers:
- Before applying, think hard and make a practical plan for your future. Don't apply blindly, or with the intention to keep up with the Jones. Going abroad is not the only way to succeed.

- Evaluate your own conditions objectively. Scores don't play a significant role in application. Your PS, recommendations, and academic background all count. Don't aim too high.
- Never lose heart. As long as you are applying in the correct way, you will finally succeed, whether you are an arts or science student. Be confident all the time!

- Spend time on your target program. Only when you understand it profoundly can you write a good PS. Applicants, who want to change majors, should pay special attention to this since they usually do not know much about their future study fields.

- Polish your communication skills. This can be achieved by visiting and writing at MicroEdu everyday. Reading good articles and others' experiences will add to both intellectual depth and communication skills. These qualities will be reflected in your application materials.

- Last but not least, I want to tell all the prospective applicants: Strive for your future! Once you choose the path of going abroad, you have no way of turning back. Forge ahead on this road of thorns and laurels, and you'll finally see your dream come true!

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Gloria, International Finance, Georgetown University

Personal Statement

A top student of Finance in Shanghai Jiao Tong University, one of China's best, I have long been interested in economics. After 4 years study and research work in the field, together with a great many practical experiences, it is now my most ardent wish to undertake further studies in your Masters program to scale higher intellectual heights.

Economics caught my attention when I was in high school, during which time an incident that could be called a turning point in my life took place. Thanks to my good English, I was once offered an opportunity to work as an interpreter for a Foreign Investment and Business Promotion Fair held in Tangshan. I gladly accepted it as an honor, yet I didn't realize how challenging it would be until I had to cram a heap of books into my brain just a few days before the fair, almost knowing nothing about economics and business. Though I was terribly worried at first, I was surprised to find that as I went on, a strong interest was gradually rising in me. I began to expect success when half way through the books. I did make it to the fair. I dealt successfully with all those terms and made my contribution to the final agreement. I was enthusiastic with the gaming and tactics in the negotiations and my mind was filled with questions concerning the current economic policies of the Chinese government. I became so fascinated with the discipline that I re-read all the books to find answers to my many questions. It was a surprise to my teachers and friends when later I chose Finance as my major in college as natural science, such as Mathematics and Physics, was considered most likely to be my choice. I was a member of a class especially arranged for students who are considered talented in natural science and I was the winner of many prizes in national competitions in mathematics. I never regretted my decision after my experience with the fair, it was only super clear to me where my true interest lay and what was to become the subject of the career for my life, and of course, that is economics.

I acquired a solid academic background in economics and finance in my college years, exposed systematically to concepts and theories of economies and finance. It was brought home to me how mathematics is critically important in modern economics, as some modern theories of economics are demonstrated by pure mathematical induction. In the National Competition of Mathematics Modeling, which is usually the field of CS and Maths majors, the team I was on won the second prize. I was awarded Excellent Scholarship in 1997 and 1999.

The interest in economics and finance drove me to study more. I gradually came to realize how much I did and could benefit from the experience. Knowledge is the treasure, but practice is the key to it. While keeping an outstanding academic record, I never stopped my research into economics "in action" -- I've been keen in obtaining hands-on experience.

In 1997, I had a richly rewarding working experience with the Beijing International Trade Institute, which challenged my capabilities and potentials to the extreme. The opportunity to work with the institute, which was one of the most important in China, was tempting to every economic major and extremely difficult to obtain for a freshman like me. I tried very hard and was finally offered a position as an assistant for my outstanding mathematic abilities. My job was gathering and analyzing data for the institute. And how hard I worked to make the best of myself! With my successes in solving problems with my own mathematic models, I acquired a better understanding of the key role math plays in economics. While growing more confident in myself, I was increasingly discontented with my undergraduate math studies and determined to learn more. The team spirit was another fruit gained by the experience. Seeing my data and analyses joining with those of my professional colleagues and advancing towards wonderful results of a successful project, I learned to respect other people's labor and to value the collective work. Fully motivated, I worked beyond myself. I spent all my holidays at work and some weekends even on the train between Shanghai and Beijing. When a project I participated in won the highest prize for social sciences in Beijing, when professionals recognized my work, when I scored the highest in statistics and my term paper (for being well trained and prepared by the Beijing experience), I felt all my pains paid off.

Through my above and other experiences, I am enriched with a profound understanding of the economic situation in China and its urgent need for personnel highly specialized in relevant fields. A Finance major during undergraduate studies, I am always fascinated by the strict and charming reasoning of economics as a subject. By joining you in your program, I hope I can further my studies and make more achievements. This would make it important for me to come back to China and make my own contributions to its development, which is to be, I dare'say, the career goal of my life.

Due to my constant study and practice, I have acquired a good command of reading and speaking abilities in English. I read many economic canons in English when in college, from the Wealth of the Nation by Adam Smith to books by Samuelson. I have little difficulty in communicating with English natives. Because of my contribution to the friendship between New Orleans and Tangshan, I was honored by the Mayor of New Orleans with "Certificate of Merit" in 1999. I helped build relations between an American company, Alexander & Hamilton, and the Shanghai local government and business chamber, when the company was setting up a representative office in Shanghai. My American friends and I still keep in touch and the friendship is well cherished.

Your institution, with a highly qualified faculty and nurturing academic atmosphere, is the university I've long admired. Therefore I sincerely ask you to make serious consideration to my application.

I'm confident that, under your seasoned guidance, I can give full play to my potential and realize my career goal with economics.

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Ale, Computer Science, Temple University

Statement of Goals

In my mind's eye, the most comforting and uplifting scene is a shining beacon standing on a solid rock; its beam penetrating the cold darkness and radiating rays of hope and direction to ships astray. As I endeavor to craft a truly impressive statement of self for your critical evaluation, the hard soul-searching and retrospection involved can also be rewarding by affording a precious moment of quiet reflection on the past in order to find new inspirations for the future while letting in the beam of hope and direction.

Since my early childhood, the tales and cartoons of eccentric speaking robots have always fascinated me .On my tenth birthday, my father presented me with a remote-controlled toy car. How my little mind was enthralled and puzzled by the lifeless gadget that can comprehend orders as if it is intelligent! I disassembled and assembled the car in search of an answer, to no avail. The seed of curiosity and inquiry was sown.

In 1994, when operating systems and programming language were virtually alien to China, I cherished the privilege missed by most of my Chinese peers of being exposed to several computer literacy programs such as Dos 3.1 and Basic Language at Shenzhen High School, the only provincial key school in the "Silicon Valley" of China. I wondered about the entry to the realm of the computer, peeking inward in amazement. At that time, computer science seemed to be the answer to my childhood puzzles. In 1997 I was admitted as a major in Computer Communication by (university name), which enjoys top ten ranking in Information Technology across China.

In the past three years in college our curriculum has covered a very diverse and demanding course of study including computer science, mathematics and information engineering. The unfathomable intricacy of data structure, the amazing dynamics of database and the brain-racking but mind-challenging, programming of C++ made the study not a drudge but a highly fulfilling and joyous activity to me. Meanwhile I was also selected as a candidate for university-wide interest group in Mathematic Model whose mission is to build mathematical models in a diverse aspect of life in a software environment. Besides the annual scholarship and a third-degree prize title at the 4th Jiangsu province- wide competition on Advanced Mathematics for college students, payoff also came as being chosen as volunteer interpreter and technician of the 22nd Universal Postal Union Congress held in Beijing in August 1999, which encompassed 2000 delegates from 189 countries. In addition to the rewarding technical support work, the practical experience gained there also witnessed a water-shed in my mindset and future outlook. Through fruitful association with delegates of diverse cultures, beliefs and backgrounds, I came to realize that no single culture or nation can handle the challenges and problems humanity faces on earth, the common resolution lies in mutual cooperation and interdependence.

Likewise the unraveling of my childhood puzzles cannot be accomplished by Computer Science alone. When "deep blue", the super computer, defeated the world-class Russian chess player, an added urgency was rendered to my quest for an answer. Finally, almost thankfully, I came to see the answer lying in a highly interdisciplinary study which involves computer science, engineering, psychology, philosophy and linguistics etc. and that is Artificial Intelligence, a system that seeks a better understanding of human intelligence and sensing processes, and a system that values a combination of advanced study in both humanities and sciences. Thus arose a career choice in which to seek fulfillment, trying to be a lifetime student, researcher and promoter for Artificial Intelligence. And my particular interest of study covers (field name).

Frankly, while attending school being my. core task of 22 years of life, I do not have the privilege of possessing a pool of research experience that so many applicants boast. Neither am I aided with a thick, richly adorned resume as applicants returning to grad school from life's variety of adventures. But for my longing to fulfill a personal calling in life, I am encouraged by the thought that my sound academic potential, strong commitment and a firey quest for knowledge will be worthy of your serious consideration.

The MS program in AI at Temple University, with its challenging interdisciplinary research opportunities and distinguished faculty, naturally attracts me as the next ideal stop along my intellectual journey. Like a ship rediscovering direction and embarking on a new course, I hope my study at your distinguished department will not only resolve an old puzzle of a young girl, but also help transcend the puzzle-solving into a quest for the truth governing this universe, while letting in a ray of hope and personal growth.

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Peter, A State University, CAD/CAM

Statement of Purpose

During the past ten years, as with most individuals, I have experienced both frustration and success in my personal endeavors. But regardless of what I encountered, being dedicated, I have continued to pursue my original goal of research in the field of Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM).

My interest in CAD can be traced to the course of mechanical drawing. In the class, due to my poor physical drawing skills, I always made the drawing papers a mess. This little frustration made me fascinated with the CAD software the first time I touched it. I found it to be so natural and convenient! I wish someday I could develop CAD tools to help other people to overcome the same problem I once met. With this desire in mind, I studied most computer science courses by myself.

At the same time, I finished all the required courses of design and manufacturing and kept a top 5% position within the department, which gave me a solid theoretical background. I also spent a whole semester interning at the biggest automobile factory of China. I cherished the opportunity and did especially well. From it I gained abundant practical experience, particularly in the area of manufacturing. My strong ability in practice and my adept skills in computer programming made me distinguished among my classmates.

In 1994, I developed my first CAD program, a Transmission CAD system. The idea came to my mind when I noticed that the engineers in the frame department of the automobile factory were often troubled with complex computations and drawings. With the support from Dr. (name), my undergraduate advisor, I developed a program that was well received by the factory engineers, resolving most computational problems and providing a graphic library of frequently used patterns. It is at that time I realized the value of being a researcher. The feeling cannot be simply described as "exciting". it is great! After that I applied for the admission of the graduate school of (name), whose research of Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing in Mechanical Engineering is considered among the best in China.

However, I encountered a rather severe setback. In my last year of undergraduate study, I spent too much time in research, resulting in an academic performance unsatisfactory to the demanding professor, and I also failed in the National Graduate Admissions Exam.

But I never gave up my pursuit! On the contrary, I became maturer. As a college teacher of Computer Aided Design and two other courses in the following two years, I tried to make my class one of the most favorite among students and I succeeded. To make my instruction more understandable and interesting, I always think from the viewpoint of students. I understand that only by putting myself into their shoes and communicating frequently with them can I find what they really need. I also continued my research work. For example, I participated in a project "CAI System for Theoretical Mechanics". My main focus for this project was to make the system more user-friendly to the students. I learned the learning process of our students and designed a system that is intuitive for them. With the two years of experience, I formed my own ideas about the CAD: to develop a good CAD tool, you must be a good designer first.

In 1997 1 applied to (university name) for a Master program again. I won the highest score of all the applicants in the admission examination. I was admitted into the best CAD/CAM program in China. In the three years of study at (university name), I realized the spirit of the research: Creative. Instead of the common method, I tend to find more effective ways to solve problems. In the project (name), no longer to be satisfied with only developing a drawing and computing tool, I want to build a real "design tool" that could retrace the process of designing. After one year's work, I completed the tool independently using the "Top-Down" approach. In the second project (name), to capture the intention of the designer, through analyzing the relationship between the features and assembly model, I developed a new algorithm to achieve the automatic design of the features based on the assembly model. As a result, I authored two papers which were adopted by A and B (both the journals were indexed by El).

During my research and development, I feel I have achieved a deep understanding of CAD/ CAM. It is not just solving problems that arise in the design and manufacturing process, but more importantly it can bring revolution to the mechanical industry through providing engineers a new method of design and manufacturing such as: Concept Design to represent a design through form-function relationships, Collaborative Design to achieve seamless tool integration and better co-ordination of human activities, Concurrent Design to fulfill the integration of the product and process geometry with manufacturing knowledge. I realize the insufficiency of my knowledge so I have decided to pursue my doctoral degree in a highly industrialized country such as the USA.

The Ph.D. program of Mechanical Engineering at (university name) has a worldwide reputation. Both the faculty and facilities in the area of Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing appear to be especially strong. When I am reading the papers in the famous journals and international conference such as ASME annual, I often notice the familiar name of a member of your faculty in your department such as Professor (names). Also I find many projects of the (name) Laboratory really appeal to me. I think I am also qualified for them with a solid background in design and manufacturing, adept computer skills and my knowledge of design method, geometric/solid modeling, Artificial Intelligence, and Optimization. Above all, my devotion and creativity.

After completing my Ph.D. program, I will return to China to do research and continue my teaching life. I hope I will be able to raise funds to set up a laboratory and build a good relationship with the leading CAD/CAM provider in China, to translate my ideas into an industrial product and assist promising students to fulfill their dreams.

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Royer, Computer Science, University of Maryland

Statement of Objectives

As a Chinese graduate student of Computer Science, I am writing in support of my application for acceptance into your Ph.D. program in Computer Engineering. I wish to pursue advanced inter-disciplinary research in this ever-challenging and promising field, especially in the area of Artificial Intelligence and its applications in expert systems, control systems, and machine intelligence.

I anticipate completing my Master's studies next year at (university name), one of the top engineering schools in China. Majoring in Computer Application, I have focused my studies on fuzzy logic and its applications in various intelligent systems. I followed a traditional undergraduate curriculum for my minor, but my graduate studies have been challenging and rewarding. As a chief member of the research project "Approximate Reasoning on Vague Set," which is supported by National High Performance Computing Fund and (name) Science Research Fund, I conducted extensive research work in this field, from knowledge representation and reasoning to applications in fuzzy control, fuzzy decision-making and fuzzy expert systems. These works have been and continue to be published in several leading academic journals in China, as listed in the Publications.

Throughout my graduate study, I have maintained that the Fuzzy Set theory, together with other theories (such as the Rough Set theory and the Probabilistic theory), plays a fundamental role in intelligent systems, such as expert systems and robotics. Although these systems look quite different at first, if studied by their abstract model, many common features can be seen.
Nevertheless, different systems have different concentrations; and some look-alike parameters -- such as threshold value, certainty factor, weight factor -- are really case-dependent. In addition, they require significantly different methods to determine them. Due to the broad applications of these systems, I believe the progress we make will help shape the future of mankind. I would like to be at the forefront of such progress.

The success of my graduate studies is built upon the solid grounding I gained in my previous work and educational experiences. Although I pursued Computer Application as my minor in my undergraduate studies, I studied with diligence and creativity, mastering most of the major courses in computer science.

Upon graduation in 1992, I returned to my hometown and attained a position with Xiangfan Municipal Traffic Bureau. As a computer engineer, I was in charge of the development and maintenance of several Management Information Systems (MIS). One of them was the Transportation License MIS, which is a large database system managing more than 50,000 licenses issued to the drivers in a central Chinese city and its suburbs. I fully developed the system myself, an achievement for which I am quite proud. Now, whenever I take a bus home, I enjoy a sense of satisfaction knowing that our software helps so many people. I think of my software as my child. I made it, and feel pride to see it is helpful to others.

While working for the Bureau as a computer engineer, I also acted as a teacher, training other staff to master basic computer skills and operate the newly developed software. Most of my students are in their 30s or 40s. Teaching can be challenging, but I found that using analogies often makes things easier. By way of example, I once used the hierarchy of the Bureau itself to describe the computer architecture. They grasped the idea so well that sometimes they jokingly called the Chief-Director 'CPU.' As for me, they just called me 'Server.'

While they all mastered the skills successfully, I also found it interesting to discover that computer systems and human beings share so many things in common. Intuition and understanding of "the human experience" can make understanding computer systems and problem solving easier, especially in the field of AI. I use such ideas throughout my research.
To build AI systems that have human-level intelligence is a long-term goal of human beings. I believe that an interdisciplinary approach is needed to get close to our goal. I think that I have acquired the necessary theoretical framework and sufficient practical experience for further studies. I want to pursue an academic career on the cutting-edge of Computer Science, especially in the field of AI. This is why I am now applying for Ph.D. studies at your university in one – or a combination of-- the following areas: artificial intelligence, expert systems, control systems, and machine intelligence.

The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at (univeristy name) is well known for excellence in these fields, complete with an accomplished faculty and modern research resources. I am glad to see that research in Artificial Intelligence at (university name) is conducted in many areas, such as Applied Artificial Intelligence, Intelligent Systems-Neural Nets, and Fuzzy Logic. With your institution's emphasis on interdisciplinary research, I am sure my already extensive and productive research records will be greatly enriched should I study under your seasoned guidance. Such experience should adequately prepare me for a research or teaching career at a Chinese university, where I plan to take a permanent position.

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Shu Jin, Chemistry, Northwestern University

Personal Statement

Chemists are certainly known for dealing with molecules and atoms. Now as a senior in the chemistry department at Peking University, I feel I can succeed because I believe there is much more to chemistry than molecules and atoms. My passion for chemistry is demonstrated by my achievements, including winning first prize in the "Challenge Cup," which represents the highest level of scientific research at China's most prestigious university, Peking University. I have also published papers in App1. Phys. Lett. And chem. Mater. as an undergraduate. (More of my academic information is in my Resume and Research Experience).

Over the past three years, I have immersed myself in the magic world of chemistry, especially in nanochemistry and solid materials. One of my most gratifying experiences was my role as a sponsor and main leader in building up our alumni association. I enthusiastically helped establish the honorable tradition of helping each other and increased communication between people.

The study of chemistry provides us with a venue to creatively explore the world of unanswered questions. Yet another important factor is chemistry's role as an applied science. Its influence is omnipresent, and can often greatly benefit humanity. In other words, chemistry is a science of substantial hope that helps human beings live more comfortably, in better health, and even in a better mood.

When chemistry is combined with other subjects, it can be very beneficial. Now that we have begun the 21st century, energy is becoming scarcer, and new-style fuel cell research is more vital than ever (my undergraduate research of solid electrolyte materials has important contributions to this field). This field provides a challenge for chemists and physicists. Meanwhile, biochemistry and biological research are the best "weapons" to improve our health and strengthen people's bodies. Cancer and AIDS are just two of these challenges waiting for chemists and biologist to conquer.

My past three years' academic studies have given me essential experience for chemistry research. My research achievements considered impressive for an undergraduate. I feel they prove my potential clearly. Meanwhile my work experience with the alumni association has demonstrated my helpful and cooperative spirit, and helped build my character in the face of difficulty.

I believe that man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to leave the shore. So as graduation approaches, I have decided to pursue my Ph.D. studies in the US. And I feel that my outstanding academic achievements can earn me the chance.

My next goal is first class production in a top field, especially performing research on chemical synthesis and materials exploration under physics theory. The combination of chemistry and physics will make it more proficient during our research for the mechanism of the changing of chemical substance, and to get more theoretical explanation during the creation of new materials. I also believe I will devote more time and effort on my chemistry research in a favorable scientific research atmosphere within the United States. I yearn to help create a new world that brings people together.

Also important is my value system which includes friendship, communication, and cooperation between people. For me, making progress in research is "first and foremost," but going all out in soccer is a close second.

Based on my three years research experience, including what I have learned from periodicals and the Internet, I understand that Graduate Study at Harvard is a matter of active learning in an atmosphere of intellectual excitement. Advanced coursework is not simply informational, but is designed to pose fundamental theoretical questions as well. I'm thrilled by the possibilities. To pursue and be a friend of Veritas is what I've wanted to do all my life. I am confident that I am well suited to Harvard. I believe my passion and my advanced research experience prove that I am a promising applicant for acceptance into your Ph.D. program. I would greatly appreciate it if you could consider my application for acceptance and financial aid.

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Yimin Hu, Chemistry, Stanford University

Personal Statement

A top student in Peking University, I am applying for acceptance into your Ph.D. program in Chemistry so that I can further my graduate training in a famous university which maintains an environment for objectivity and imaginative inquiry. I consider these two points very important to fulfill my dream: to become a top scientist in China.

I have performed well in the past three years. I rank top 6 of 170 in the Department of Chemistry. My GPA for core courses is over 90/100. You may note from my transcript that some grades are inconceivably high such as Physics, Modern Biology, and General Chemistry. Concerning experimental courses, in which teachers rarely give grades over 90, many of my grades are over 85. In Physical Chemistry Experiment, I am even graded 91. It is both an outstanding grade and an honor. Although my major is chemistry, I have taken more courses than others have. Mathematics, physics and biology are all important in chemistry. So I have taken Advanced Mathematics 03), General Physics (B), General Physical Experiment 03) and Modern Biology to strengthen my knowledge in these fields. In fact, the Department of Chemistry only requires us to take these courses with a difficulty level (C). Biology is even not required. By the end of 1998, I have not only finished them successfully but also received high grades.

Good grades in my department alone cannot satisfy me. Thanks to my distinctive performance in high school, I was accepted into a plan called Science Experimental Education when I was just matriculated into Peking University, and was permitted to continue the program in 1998 for my performance in 1997-1998 in Peking University. The plan is presided over by the ministry of education. Its mission is to train students to be eligible scientists. However, it also means a heavy workload. I should take about 40 hours of lessons every week and do experiments on the weekend. But it teaches me how to arrange my time efficiently: And, from this program I obtain a broad background, rare access to latest development and some research instructions.

In addition, I have also been chosen to do some laboratory work, which is a rare experience for undergraduate students. In 1999, I joined Professor Kou's group, which focuses on the catalyst of reaction that changes molecules such as carbon dioxide to more complex ones such as toluene. Kou is an expert in this field, which is also called C-1 reaction. In 2000, Professor Wang made me a member of his organic group. I have worked on synthesis of some organic materials till now. All this involvement in practical research has broadened my intellectual horizon and refined my chemistry expertise. A good example is that my article of a self-designed experiment in Physical Chemistry Experiment got a high score for the original idea and good result. Another example is that now I can skillfully operate many instrumental analysis apparatus such as UV-VIS, Spectrophotometer, HPLC, and X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer.

Because of my good performance, I have received many honors and countless oral praise. Every year I was awarded more than two scholarships, which rarely happens in Peking University
because nobody can be awarded two or more in a year except in unusual situations. One of them, Guangcai Scholarship, is the highest in my university. Only 20-30 students of 15,000 get the honor every year in Peking University.

One reason for my distinguished performance is my solid command of English, which allows me to read journals with ease. My regular readings are Science, Nature, J.A.C.S., Science American, etc. This advantage provides me exposure to the latest developments and extensive knowledge. Also it helped me win a high score in Modern Biology: my final article about enzyme received unusual praise from Professor Gao, teacher of Modern Biology.

My success can also be credited to my principle of being honest, modest and helpful. ! know that to be a scientist, I should learn first to be both a team leader and a team player. I was elected to preside over study affairs in my class in my school because I always endeavored to make an environment in which all people accepted responsibility to contribute to the success of the whole. Through the effort of all members, my class was the best in my school in all six years. In my university, I am in charge of my dormitory. This time my dorm became one of the best and was awarded a certificate of honor in 1999. In a research group, I share my ideas with others and have been well liked by my colleagues. It is a great joy to be a social one.

But the most important reason for my distinguished performance is that I have cultivated critical thinking and a solid background since high school. Via self-teaching, a crucial ability to face the challenges of today and tomorrow, I finished the three-year courses in a 3/ear and began to study some undergraduate courses. I was sent to numerous national and provincial contests and earned many awards including many First Prizes in the National Chemistry Contest, Mathematics Contest and Physics Contest for High School Students.

On the basis of my performance in high school, I could choose any major in any university in China to start my undergraduate study. I chose the Department of Chemistry in Peking University because I liked chemistry and because the Department of Chemistry in Peking University is the best one in China. My interest in chemistry came from my chemistry teacher in high school. He graduated from Beijing Normal University, the best normal university in China. His teaching was so interesting and effective that I have been fascinated with chemistry since then.

In Peking University, my attention is given to Organic and Physical Chemistry. They weigh a lot in the progress of society and have many important developments recently. These developments, such as the use of laser and molecular beam, natural product synthesis and new organometallic reagents, always interest me a lot. My transcript has shown that my related grades are excellent so I think I can achieve much in the two fields if I can be accepted by your university.

My dream to become a top scientist is the guidance of my life and I find your Ph.D. program is a vital step to fulfill it. The University of Washington has an international reputation for research and graduate programs and an environment that ensures the production of new knowledge. I am sure that these will give me necessary training to be a successful scientist so I have turned down the offer that my university gave me to enter into graduate studies without the admission exams, I think my choice is right and sincerely ask you to give serious consideration to my application.

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Hairong Tang, Physical Chemistry, MIT

Statement of Objectives

Before My University Life
"Naive, inquisitive, and imaginative," this was the impression I gave to others in my earl), childhood. In elementary school, I out-performed all of my classmates in most subjects. In 1993, I won the first prize in the National Mathematics Contest for high school students. My interests were very wide. Besides mathematics, I was a member of the chemistry, computer and English clubs of my high school. With the accumulation of my knowledge and the development of my interests, i found chemistrL as an important disciplinary in basic science, interests me more and more. In 1994, my entrance exam to Fudan University was waived and I selected chemistry as my major.

Fudan University, the Beginning of My Long Goals
In Fudan, in order to broaden my horizon and to satisfy my curiosities of modern sciences, I audited courses in several majors, including biology, solid state physics, mathematical physics, and quantum mechanics. I frequented the library to refer to different kinds of professional journals and periodicals. I tried to keep abreast of the latest developments in each field by attending various wonderful lectures. My hard work gained me various awards including the highest honor of our department, the DOW Chemical Prize in 1998. My overall GPA 3.8 and major GPA 3.9 ranked in the top 1% out of 160 students of my undergraduate class.

In 1997, Professor (name), who was chairman of our department, taught structural chemistry and noticed that I was very interested in theoretical chemistry. He kindly let me do research in his lab although I was only an undergraduate. At first, I studied the adsorption of small molecules on silicon clusters under the guidance of Dr. (name). This project was a continuation of what Dr. (name) did in Professor (name)'s group in Japan. I co-authored two papers in Chemical Physics Letters (NO/Si4-) and Journal of Chemical Physics (H2/Si4) in this project. As a reward, I was awarded the title of Excellent Graduate of Shanghai Universities (only top 3% can receive this award in our university) in July1998 and graduated one-half year earlier and entered graduate school at Fudan University with the qualification test waived.

Of course I chose my favorite subject and continued my research in theoretical chemistry with Professor (name). Professor (name)'s research is closely related to the study of metal surfaces and catalysis. Simulation of metal surfaces is a promising, yet challenging area. It is difficult to find a model to represent the metal surface, since the real surface is too large. At first I studied the convergence of the cluster selected to simulate a surface. The results were promising. I found the point to select a good cluster is to fulfill the maximum coordinate number of the atoms forming the absorption site. This finding is very helpful since we can use a smaller model to represent the surface. My research also tries to solve the problem met in industrial catalysis. The main concern here is to study the modification mechanism of the catalyst. Thus far, I have carried out detailed research on two kinds of modification: addition of halogen promoters and electrochemical modification. The study here is even more difficult since the system we stud), is much larger. The question was how to reduce the computation expense of the simulation. I found that applying the multiplayer ONIOM method of Professor (name) et al. could solve this problem. The application can greatly reduce computation efforts, but at the same time it also gives accurate results comparable to high-level time-consuming methods. It was the first time that this method was applied to a metal surface. My study on modification mechanism found that the work function change of the catalyst is closely related to its modification effect. This finding is helpful for experimentalists to design a good catalyst and promoters. During my two-year graduate stud), I published four papers as first author on SCI journals, including two on Surface Science, one on Chemical Physics Letters and one on Acta Chimica Sinica. In February 2000, part of my work was posted in the Workshop on Computational Chemistry in Hong Kong, and gained many passionate commendations. In October 2000, I was invited to give an oral report about another part of my work in the tenth National Catalysis Symposium.

Plan for the Future
Having experienced an exhilarating, arduous and fruitful graduate study, I have acquired the necessary theoretical background and practical experience for further study. Although I graduated from the Chemistry Department, mi' interests and my master project are closely related to Chemical Engineering, especially to those on Catalysis and Chemical Kinetics. I know the department of chemical engineering at (university name) is advanced in this field. Professor (name) also thinks that my background is suitable to do research in our department and encourages me to apply to 3'our department. I will take the following chemical engineering courses if I can be admitted: Fluid Mechanics, Transport Processes, Chemical Kinetics & Reactor Design, Thermodynamics & Kinetics. In addition, I am strongly attracted to the outstanding scientific atmosphere, the good reputation and the suitable climate of your university. To do research work at (university name) is a more desirable way to enrich myself.
It will be greatly appreciated if you can give a favorable consideration to my application for acceptance and financial aid.

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Dong Fan, Baylor College of Medicine

Statement of Purpose

My fascination in life science grew gradually as I was very surprised to learn that it is the small DNA that fundamentally determines the big difference between health and disease. Consequently, in the prestigious School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, I had the chance to be systematically trained as a researcher in molecular biology, into which I am ready to involve my whole life.

My Background and Research Experience
Because of my excellent performance in high school, waived of the National College Entrance Examination, I entered Fudan University in 1994. In the School if Life Sciences, one of the top 3 in China, I was exposed to large quantities of modern biological knowledge about biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology and genetics. I cherished this chance greatly and worked very hard. As a result, I achieved an excellent academic record during my undergraduate and graduate study, ranking top 2 in my class. The scholarships and honors I earned are the reflections of my academic achievements during my 6 years study in Fudan University.

In 1997 I joined the Human Gene Research Group, which is led by Professor (name) in the State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering. The group is very famous for its research in novel human disease gene cloning and characterization in China. Thus I have been doing research related to human genetics for 4 years. During the first two years in the lab, I did so-called in-silicon experiments through the Internet. The rationale is to obtain a complete or nearly complete cDNA sequence with probes by retrieving ESTs homologous to the probes from NCBI's GenBank and then assembling them to get a contig with computer programs in GCG package. In this way I successfully obtained more than 20 novel human genes, some of which have counterparts previously identified with critical functions in model organisms (e.g. mouse).

Later, as a graduate student, I did full-time research in cloning and characterizing two novel human genes namely PKIB and PKIG, both encoding CAMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor. The following is the experimental route. According to the contig sequences I obtained through EST analysis, I designed two pairs of primers to do amplifications in several cDNA libraries purchased from Clontech. Fortunately, I got the unique bands from two separate cDNA libraries, sequenced them to confirm after purification and cloned them to T4 vectors respectively. Then I mapped them to human chromosomes by radiation hybridization method. Through northern blotting in MTN membranes, I identified their expression patterns in 16 adult human tissues. At the same time I happened to find another human gene belonging to the PKI family in GenBank database. So in the same way as above, I cloned PKIA gene and identified its expression pattern. In order to get some clues to study the questions such as "why do humans need three different PKI genes?" and "do they function in similar ways?" I compared their expression pattern and found there exists a big difference in these three PKIs tissue distribution. Our paper reporting them has been published in Biochemical Journal (Zheng, L. et al., 2000, 349(2): 403-407). In addition, I collaborated with Dr. (name) to high level express human lysozyme genes m the yeast host Pichia pastoris.

My academic interests and career goal
These broad research experiences not only enriched my knowledge about the application of biological theories, but also made me more determined to explore the remaining questions in biology. As far as I know, biological science has developed into the post-genome era after the near completion of the Human Genome Project. With the huge amounts of nucleotide acid sequence data from various organisms, traditional biological research methods have been improved greatly through the application of new technologies such as gene chip. Now it is easier for biologists to identify the genes related to a particular characteristic of an organism with the methods of reverse genetics. Functional genomics has become one of the most challenging and promising frontiers of biological research. Therefore, the academic field I am interested in is focusing on functional genomics, including human disease gene identification, signal transduction, and computational biology for gene function characterization.

To be an outstanding biologist is my ultimate professional objective. I think the United States is the leading country in life science research with world class academic atmosphere and achievements. It must be an excellent opportunity to be trained formally in such an environment. My systematic biological background, deep-grounded research experience and great enthusiasm to undercover the biological unknown space proves my commitment to a Ph.D. program at your University.

Why Baylor College of Medicine
First, your school is very prestigious for its biomedical science research, with a broad range of concentrations, a long list of talented faculties, a huge amount of advanced facilities and a top rank in biomedical research in the world.

Second, the location of your school in a large biomedical center of Houston provides its faculties and students the advantages to communicate conveniently with the clinical practitioners in hospitals. One of the goals of biomedical research is to improve human's health. The application of basic science research into clinical practice can be accelerated by close cooperation of basic scientists and clinical doctors.

Third, the variety of your faculties makes your school a pleasant and inspiring place to be trained as a scientist. The research projects of your faculty members such as Professor (names) are very interesting to me. I deem their labs my desirable place to pursue a Ph.D. degree.

I understand that your programs are highly competitive. But I do cherish challenge very much and hope you accept my application. If I am admitted, I will be very proud of being a member of your community: At the same time I would like to contribute my intelligence to the variety and competitiveness of your school.

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