Graduate /
Homeless situation - personal statement [10]
I would like to thank everyone who answered to this topic. However, after discussing this with a professor, I decided not to include this in my personal statement. He advised against it. The following is what I have, could someone read it over and maybe suggest something? I think it's missing something? Thanks!
Personal Statement
It was a cold autumn afternoon in the south shore of (city, state). A young girl walked door to door, trying to help a cause she believed in. She managed to grab the attention of some, explicating the plight of endangered wildlife, motivated and determined to help a cause she recently learned about at school. With vigor and excitement she asked for donations to go towards helping a national environmental campaign. A few hours later, with a few dollars in tow, she stuffed an envelope with twenty-six dollars to help a nonprofit organization protect endangered wildlife. That little girl was me - I had decided that I wanted to be involved in the environmental field that day.
I entered () University as a mature student, choosing Geography with a Concentration in Human Environment as my major. The first semester of my studies went well; however, from fall 2001 until winter 2003, I was unable to fulfill my responsibilities as a student due to medical reasons. My grades lowered for the duration of that time, resulting in subpar performance. Following that episode, I returned to my studies for the winter 2005 semester, stronger than before. My grades gradually rose with perseverance and hard work, and I was recognized and listed on the Dean's list in 2006. I am confident that my performance from the most recent years is indicative of the performance you can expect of me in your graduate program. During my undergraduate career, I became proactive in the classroom environment. For example, I took it upon myself to help other students understand class material with tutoring sessions, and was responsible for arranging several study groups. During group projects, I often became a leader due my ability to recognize a person's strengths and weaknesses, and assigning tasks based on those traits.
As I succeeded in my courses at () University, my interest was peaked by a brochure that advertised student exchange programs. I was confident and eager to apply to study at (different Univ) University (SFSU) as a J-1 student for spring 2007. I selected () because it was situated in the City of (), California; which is at the forefront of environmental awareness and sustainability. Once accepted, I packed my bags and left Montreal with a curious and open mind. My time there was both academically and professionally significant. As a member of the International Education Exchange Council (IEEC), I was given the opportunity to become a Project Coordinator for a fundraising event benefiting outgoing () students. Furthermore, that summer I finally obtained hands-on experience in the environmental field as an intern serving as an environmental protection assistant for the Environmental Review Office at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in (). My time there was invaluable, as I learned a great deal concerning the environmental planning process. During my time there, I was given the opportunity to review Environmental Impact Statements and Natural Resource Management Plans. The internship had reinforced the fact that environmental management is defiantly the career path I want to pursue. (See Resume).
Obtaining a Master of Science in Environmental Management is a natural extension of a long-standing interest of my career development in the environmental field. I am particularly attracted to the (school) program for its focus on providing the tools necessary to become a successful environmental professional. One of the great advantages of your program is the ability to work while obtaining a graduate degree; I am currently in the process of seeking an internship and will seek employment for the duration of my studies. In addition, the program would benefit me by enhancing my education and career development with exposure to seasoned faculty, graduate students and working professionals, allowing me to build collegial and professional networks. I particularly look forward to the opportunity to study with Professor () and () for their interest in resource management, respectively, and with Professor () whose research includes risk assessment and environmental management. My undergraduate degree and my internship experience at the EPA have reinforced my desire to work in the environmental field and I believe that your program would help provide a deeper level of understanding and experience to maximize my contribution as an environmental professional. Aware of graduate school rigors, I believe that I am mature enough and academically ready to provide () with a student who is mature, is an active participant and who is interested in environmental problems and solutions. On the completion of the program I plan to continue pursuing work in the environmental field, working towards the goal of becoming a project manager or hold a managerial position in the public sector. With a () degree, I can make a positive contribution in the environmental profession in the years of change and challenge that lie ahead.
Today, looking back at that little girl walking door to door, asking for contributions to help endangered wildlife, I know that I never did lose passion for environmental stewardship. I have always sought to learn more about the world surrounding me and will continue to do so. I strongly believe that graduate school will help me by providing the building blocks necessary to continue my path to becoming an environmental manager. I look forward to the many challenges ahead and hope that I am given the opportunity to contribute to your program.
Thank you for your consideration.
