Undergraduate / Biochem and Bio-med Engineering- Why Michigan? [2]

Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (500 words)

I have always drifted towards biology and anatomy, from tinkering in my mom's classroom in China at age 5 to modeling how organic molecules interact with each other to form proteins. This joy for learning about life transferred into my classes, which are now overwhelmingly science based, including AP and college level courses, with plans to finish Organic Chemistry II and Molecular Biology next semester. I aim to double major in Biochemistry and Bio-medical Engineering, then advance to medical school to become a physician.

The University of Michigan first captured my interest in 8th grade at a school visit as I pictured the vibrant campus, spirited sports culture, and unique traditions.

Academically, exploring my double major with undergraduate research stands as my main goal as Throughout high school, I have pursued rigorous course loads with 5 APs during my sophomore year then excelling at least 2 lab courses and making the dean's list every semester during junior and senior year make confident with the course loads necessary for a double major. The Combined Degree program between LSA and the College of Engineering would enable me to pursue my differing interests while living and learning communities like the Women in Science and Engineering Residence Program (WISE RP) appeals to me as I would be in a innovation community of determined like minded students. Undergraduate research is equally if not more important to me as I would like to familiarize myself with the process and have a chance to actually put the knowledge from courses into practical use. I would like to first participate in a research group to familiarize myself with the skills and methodology of research. I hope to also raise new research questions or pursue a project of my interest in the future. University of Michigan's Undergraduate Research Opportunity would provide an hands-on introduction to the lab and research. But, more specifically the Chemistry department's Summer Undergraduate Research Program represents an in depth exploration of both the topic and research methods. While the engineering department's Vertically Integrated Program would provide invaluable opportunities to learn from graduate students, post-docs and faculty in an interdisciplinary environment.

Personally, I also found a diverse, close-knit intellectual community in a historic and city. As a 8th grader, hearing stories of traditions like wading across the fountain, avoiding the "M" in the Diag at all costs, and painting The Rock just sounded like an incredible amount of fun. Now, I love the traditions as they represent the family and support within the campus. When looking for campuses, a strange criteria I had was that they had to have a winter. After enjoying 6 years where winter composed of half the months,as strange as it sounds getting back to winter storms and scraping car windows sounds wonderful. The interaction and integration of the campus with the beautiful city of Ann Arbor along the Huron River also excites me with it's natural resources, vibrant social life, and opportunities for a variety of experiences.

(497 words)