Statement of purpose - Essay Example

ment of Purpose. As an International from Korea, who has been studying in the USA since the seventh grade, I have a unique cultural perspective. I am deeply conscious of my good fortune to have the opportunity to be a part of the American education system. I am particularly appreciative of the plethora of opportunities for experimentation available in various fields, and the open-mindedness of the people. This freedom to explore has played a major role in helping me to discover that it is Psychology and Economics which appeal to me, as career and life choices.

My background has heightened my awareness of ethnic diversity, and, at the same time, shown me the basic similarities in thought and values which characterize all people, whatever be their nationality. I am very alive, especially in these tumultuous economic times, to the role that the economy plays in the everyday life of every individual. In this scenario, I am confident that my pursuit of Psychology and Economics will equip me to meld my interest in people, and in the economy, into a set of skills which will enable me to contribute my own share towards the betterment of society.

Sometime in the future, I see myself using the English language proficiency I have gained in the USA to make a difference in the lives of Korean children. Despite my time in Korea being confined to summer vacations with my family, I am deeply conscious of my identity as a Korean. I even attribute my love for golfing (I was varsity at golfing for three years at High School), to my ethnic identification with Tiger Woods! I am inordinately proud of the technical prowess, dedication and hard work, which have gone into the making of Korea’s enviable reputation on the world stage as an economic power house.

My own parents’ success as business entrepreneurs is living proof of Korea’s strengths. Above all this, I love the culture of personal and family relationships, and the feeling of belonging. Very simply, Korea is home to me! It is where I plan to spend my life after my academic career. That said, I must confess to a deep regret that my knowledge of Korea - its culture, history, art, people, cuisine - is very superficial. I am passionate about my desire to discover myself and my country anew, and explore every facet of my nationality.

Seoul National University’s direct international exchange program is the perfect opportunity for me to continue my academic pursuits in my field of choice and, at the same time, discover my roots as a Korean. SNU’s acknowledged position as the most reputed University in Korea will allow me to enhance my knowledge of Psychology and Economics, and gather the credits and experience required for my undergraduate degree. At the same time, the program will give me the chance to sample the Korean education system and, above all, prepare me for life in Korea.

I will have the longed-for opportunity to experience Korea at first hand. Living and studying in Korea will fill out those gaps in my personality brought about by being a Korean, and yet knowing very little about my own country. I am confident that my year at SNU will be a turning point in my life. I will hone my academic skills at one of the premier universities in the world, while I rediscover the Korean in me. I am also confident that I can contribute to the student community at SNU. My experiences as an International student in the USA give me the ability to interpret and bridge the cultural diversity which differentiates the USA and Korea.

This also makes me uniquely positioned to be an ambassador for two different cultures, each with its own inherent strengths, particularly in the economic area. I can make the best of two worlds and take others along on my voyage of discovery.