Undergraduate / Interest in working in the UN and Peace Corps/ NYU; Academic Interests [3]

NYU's global network provides students with hundreds of academic areas of interest for students to cultivate their intellectual curiosity and to help achieve their career goals. Whether you are entirely undecided about your academic plans or you have a definitive program of study in mind, what are your own academic interests? Feel free to share any thoughts on any particular programs or how you might explore those interests at NYU on any of our campuses.

Since I was born my academic interests have ranged from anthropology to zoology. I've probably given a hundred different responses to the question "what do you want to do when you're older?" For me, this was the hardest question in the world in answer. I could not understand how I was supposed to narrow my interests down to one field when it seemed that nearly everything interested me. I can enjoy learning about any area of study as I simply love learning, but there has been a few subjects which I find particularly intriguing. These subjects excite me beyond any other, and they will lead me to find my answer to that dreaded question. As my passion for psychology evolved, I discovered that these subjects are the social sciences. Being a keen observer of human behavior throughout my life, I became absorbed in the works of Pavlov, Skinner, and Watson as I sought to find meaning for my everyday observations. I also have been greatly influenced by humanistic psychology and Abraham Maslow's concept of self-actualization. Achieving my potential and helping others to reach their own has remained as an important purpose that I have set for myself. I find more joy in satisfying the needs of others over my own, so selecting the right university and program is extremely important to me in order to gain as much as I can to benefit others. It was my interest in the Communist Manifesto that led me to delve into the field of sociology where I found what I was longing to learn about the workings of society. Upon learning about the relationship between institutions and society, I've been compelled to study several fields within the social sciences which I feel can be utilized to provide humanity with longer, happier lives. These fields include international relations, human development, education, and social work. Needless to say, I was thrilled to read on the NYU website that students interested in these areas are best served by the applied psychology program at NYU Steinhardt. Designed as an interdisciplinary program to develop students to practice in a multicultural world, I feel that there is no better place to partake in this wonderful opportunity than in world's melting pot; New York City. My interest in globalization and education are even further supported by the university's minor in Global Education, which is rarely offered by universities. With an abundance of domestic and international NGO work, NYC would provide me with more than enough opportunities to do exactly what I wish to do. With an interest in working among the United Nations and Peace Corps, this is a huge opportunity for me. Through hands-on learning with distinguished faculty in a variety of work environments, I will gain the experience necessary to succeed in real-world endeavors. Moreover, I will have the plethora of resources of the prosperous city at my disposal, including the vast amount of internship and employment possibilities. Robust academic and career opportunities are not the only things that draw students in from all over the world, however. The luxury of having of the best service and entertainment options make the city an ideal place for any college student. After learning about what NYU has to offer me, I have found the answer to my question. I want to go to NYU.

Undergraduate / Calm melting pot of culture and intellectualism / "Why Boston?" [2]

In no more than 250 words, please tell us why BU is a good fit for you and what specifically has led you to apply for admission?

Growing up in a small town, I've long craved for the fast-moving blur of opportunity found in big cities. By adapting to the conditions of my home town I will be able to apply my learned resourcefulness to the torrent of prosperity found in a thriving city like Boston. For quite some time I've been drawn to idea of attending college in a large city like NYC. This quickly changed when I started learning about Boston, which has everything I valued in NYC but much more. I find the existence of a college community and vibrant neighborhoods found within the populous city to be very appealing and unique. While NYC seems to be maelstrom of activity, the calm melting pot of culture and intellectualism found in Boston makes it my ideal choice. Being a top location for international students and having 16,000 undergraduates, Boston's multicultural landscape excites me for the opportunity to immerse myself in such a diverse college community. My burning desire to learn from other cultures would be fulfilled if I were to attend Boston University, and with such a premier study abroad program I would have the connection necessary to attain my dreams of studying amidst a different culture. The CAS Core Curriculum, BU Dual Degrees, and rigorous academics all drive me to pursue my educational career at BU, and I wouldn't hesitate for a moment o commit myself to this institution in order to better both myself and fellow students.

Undergraduate / Dr. John Roebke, a passionate teacher; Person of Influence [5]

I'm considering changing the adjectives that describe him in the beginning, but please tell me what you think as this is due in two days!

Within five minutes I was sure he was the wisest man I've met in my life. Today, I consider my encounter with him to be among the most life altering events that I've ever had. This man is Dr. John Roebke, a passionate teacher, band director, and scholar. I met him when I first entered high school, and I was immediately intrigued by his aura of intelligence and love. I became compelled to spend time with him, and quickly became involved in his classes. He inspired me to begin singing and join several music groups at the school, including pep band, jazz band, choir, men's chorus, and percussion ensemble. He even led me to involve myself in a state solo competition which I received an excellent rating in. My involvement with music facilitated my growth as human being in a myriad of transcendent ways, but it was my involvement with Dr. Roebke that proved to be the most enlightening.

What I learned from him goes beyond anything that could learned from music. Being a Doctor of Philosophy, he taught me how to think. I was astonished when he asked me to sit in on his junior-level philosophy class during my freshman year. He assured me that I was more than capable of doing well in the class and although the material was at times difficult to comprehend, I took it as a challenge to make certain that I understood each philosopher's writings that we analyzed. Never before had I challenged my myself in such many new ways, and I regard these experiences as being momentous to the development of who I am now.

During my whole life I've been philosophically minded, and meeting Doctor Roebke enabled me to identify and assimilate many aspects of myself that I saw in him. I take from my experiences with him qualities that are essential for my development as a conscious human being. Through him I learned to navigate my thoughts and emotions rationally, to apply logic to any situation, and to see the "big picture" of the world and myself. This led me to ripen my self-awareness and become self-actualized as I realized more fully who I am as a person. The influence I received from Doctor Roebke has strengthened me beyond description to persevere my intellectual and personal pursuits with much success, and for this I am forever grateful.

Thank you!

Undergraduate / Beautiful sounds of music; Common App - Extracurricular activity [7]

Briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences

From the moment I was born, I was surrounded by the beautiful sounds of music emanating from my older brothers' musical instruments. They greatly inspired me to develop my own instrumental ability, which has since turned into a life-long discipline. I am very grateful to have had music in my life as it has taught me numerous things that I will continue value for the rest of my life. Through practicing, composing, and playing music for several years, I have learned that dedication, discipline, and perseverance are essential for success. To me, music is an opportunity to progress in something that can greatly benefit myself as well as others. It is an outlet for my creativity and self-expression and has allowed me to connect with many people in wonderful ways. I consider musicality a tool for self development as it has certainly shaped who I am as a person. It has taught me so many invaluable things, including a tenacious work ethic, being one with my mind-body, and memorization skills.