Undergraduate / Positive contribution to my own views of conflict and foreign affairs. Professor I'd Like to Study [3]

Name a Penn professor with whom you would like to study or conduct research and explain why

Feedback? Anything would be helpful...Thanks

Penn offers its undergraduates an eminent faculty and a wealth of research opportunities. Use the space below to name a Penn professor with whom you would like to study or conduct research and explain why.

Dr. Ian Lustick is very active in Middle Eastern politics, specifically in the Israeli and Palestinian conflict. He was president of multiple organizations that worked to understand global conflicts and historical issues in politics. He was honored with several awards, one of which came from the U.S. Institute of Peace. I have always been interested in how conflict and foreign affairs effect government and society, especially in this region because my family originates from Israel. Dr. Lustick's current research project concentrates on prospects for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. I have found we share the same passion for understanding and examining the variables that effect conflict in Middle Eastern politics and searching for a possible solution. I believe with Dr. Lustick's superior experience with Middle Eastern politics will positively contribute to my own views of conflict and foreign affairs and help me attain the skills needed to help solve the Middle East conflict.

This is my final version. I had to cut it down because of length requirements. Any advice would be great. Thanks again :)

Undergraduate / NYU SUPPLEMENT QUESTIONS -- DEADLINE SENSITIVE [4]

In addition to any work experience that you listed on your application, please tell us how you spent your most recent summer vacation.

Although I was busy working two jobs, I made it a priority to learn how to drive this past summer. Growing up in Manhattan, I relied on the subways and my own two feet. Initially I was scared to learn how to drive, but I was determined to overcome it. My attitude towards getting behind the wheel suddenly changed and I was no longer creating excuses not to drive. I knew that it was a valuable skill I would likely use in my future, and so I set out to accomplish that feat.

Describe a trait or characteristic that has been passed along to you by your family. Tell us why you like or dislike this aspect of yourself.

I admire my father's humor and believe that it has been passed down to me. He is great at telling jokes and making others laugh. I catch myself doing the same thing. Humor is a valuable characteristic that makes life more enjoyable. It is rewarding to see that I have put a smile on someone else's face. The spark in their eyes after telling a joke creates an instant connection. I like this aspect of myself because it lightens up the mood and creates a special bond with others.

New York City is an essential element of academic and cultural life at NYU. If you could engage in an activity or start a club or service organization at NYU, what would it be and how would you envision it impacting the larger community?

I would participate in a human rights advocacy group because I believe that it is essential to understand, educate and take action in human rights. It would raise awareness and encourage others to take initiative. In this city, there are exceeding amounts of organizations that are active and specialize in human rights. We could partner with organizations that have ties to places beyond New York. These connections could help bridge the gap that is separating NYU students from the larger community.

You have been selected to sing in a talent show. What song would you choose? Why?

"A Day In The Life" by The Beatles holds a special place in my heart. I would have the greatest pleasure performing this song because it reminds me of all the precious memories spent with my camp friends. I cannot help but flash back to us dancing on our beds and singing along using our hair brushes as microphones. This song allows me reflect on the good times in my life.

Please tell us what led you to select your anticipated academic program and/or NYU school/college, and what interests you most about your intended discipline.

My main interest lies within the discipline of political science, but I am also very much involved and attracted to numerous issues in international relations and urban studies. Now more than ever, I find myself drawn to politics, international relations and cities, and I want to learn more and more about other cultures and societies. I want to acquire a better knowledge of civilizations and governments, and to champion the cause of human rights in America as well as in other countries around the world.