letter of Motivation
Dear Administrative Committee,
The feeling that Thailand's agricultural industry is left behind and cannot follow the trend of development is apparent to me. I was born and raised in the Northeastern part of Thailand, where many people still do farming for living. Seeing them working hard but earning less proved to me that the industry needs modern science. Therefore, my dream is to become an agricultural researcher. My name is XX, and I am applying for a MSc in Agricultural Biotechnology at Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE).
I completed my BSc (Second Class Honours) in Biological Sciences with Biotechnology specialisation from Mahidol University International College. There, I was prepared academically and culturally to join global research communities. Aside from my old perception of conventional farming, Plant Biotechnology was an eye-opening course for me. I learned that, with the advanced technology we now have, tiny pieces of genes can be regulated for improving crop productivity and yield. I enthusiastically finished the course by presenting a research paper on manipulating plant NRT genes to enhance NUE (Nitrogen Use Efficiency) and received a rare A.
I personally believe that plant biotechnology not only helps local farmers but also concerns sustainability. Thanks to NRT genes, I developed an interest in how genetic improvements can sustain environment while maintaining optimal crop yield. For instance, the intensive use of urea fertilisers to boost crop production causing N losses to surroundings can be changed as plants with manipulated NRT genes can use N more effectively. Thus, crop productivity is enhanced, and the amount of lost N decreases. I have also witnessed such impractical use of fertilisers in actual crop fields while working as a research assistant. Therefore, the MSc program at MATE will certainly deepen my understanding of plants at the molecular level and amplify my ability to apply it with technology in order to promote the concept of sustainable agriculture. Plus, the knowledge and skills obtained from the program will prepare me for a Phd and further qualify me to be a competent researcher.
Hungary is one of the countries that farming significantly impacts the national economy. Simultaneously, it is highly recognised for research and development. More importantly, the transition of the Hungarian agricultural sector towards innovation, resilience, and sustainability according to the newly approved CAP (Common Agricultural Plan) strategies, starting in 2023, is what I am looking forward to. This would be a great chance to observe and learn from Hungary so that it can potentially be a model for Thailand. On one hand, studying abroad usually comes with a language barrier and cultural difference; on the other hand, my four years in the international college will help me adapt and embrace a new culture without problems.
Being an awardee of Stipendium Hungaricum will definitely provide me opportunities to expand my comprehension of plants and biotechnology and fulfil my dream career as a researcher. I strongly believe that advanced agrarian development will move Thailand's agriculture forward, which then could result in better livelihood of local farmers and sustainability. Hence, it would be an honour being able to become a part of this developmental journey by the support from Stipendium Hungaricum.
Thank you for your consideration,
XX
