KGSP personal statement for master in cyber security program

application essay for kgsp

Imagine being raised in a society where technological infrastructures are lacking, where access to digital devices is rare, where a large percentage of the populace are ignorant about Information Technology and where internet services is a luxury. Well, I don't have to imagine this as this is the case in my country. This should expectedly hinder my zeal to acquire knowledge, rather, it became an incentive for me to study Computer Science and Information Technology in other to contribute my quota in changing my country's situation.

My interest in computer science and information technology started towards the end of my high school years. That was the time most companies and establishments started the use of information systems which they had to contract the design to foreign companies or individuals. Since my country does not have the best facilities for the study of Information Technology, I travelled out of the shores of the country to Sudan -a country in Africa with a reputable university where my dream can be fulfilled. I thus, had my undergraduate training at the University of Garden City which is an academic member of the International Telecommunication Union.

Although faced with the challenges of harsh weather and language barrier in Sudan, I was not deterred in the quest for my goal. I persevered, and with diligence and hard work, I completed my studies in flying colours. My undergraduate coursework include; Computer Networking, Network Security, Information Security, Computer Programming, Software Engineering, Database Management, and Mathematics among others.

Within my undergraduate years, I served as the Academic Secretary for the Federation of Oyo State Student Union (FOSSU) and the Senate Clerk for the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). Handling these positions has helped in building my skills in leadership, diplomacy, communication and interpersonal skills in relating with people -both Nigerians and other nationalities.

I have organized and participated in some academic programs such as:-
·Paper presentation organized by FOSSU Sudan chapter.
·A seminar on Conflict resolution: an emotional intelligence approach organized by FOSSU Sudan chapter.
·Sudan model World Health Organization organized by the African Medical Students Association (AMSA).
Currently, I am teaching Information and Communication Technology for International General Certificate of Secondary Examination (IGCSE) at Leaders International School, Sudan.
My passion to have a postgraduate degree in Cyber Security is borne out of the threat cyber-attack poses to the cyber system. The impact of cyber-attack is far reaching and cannot be quantified as it can affect virtually all sectors of the world's economy. For instance, Forbes projected that cyber-crime cost may amount to $2 trillion by 2019. It is thus obvious that securing our cyber systems is as important as (if not more than) creating a cyber system.

Although, Nigeria is still in the developmental phase of creating automated systems, cyber-attack rate is alarmingly high. Hence, a postgraduate research in cyber security will go a long way in keeping our cyber systems safe.

It is my strong belief that the Korean Educational System can help me achieve my aim as it has the best to offer in the world. Not just in terms of academics and technological infrastructure but for the high valued cultural heritage and social amenities. I have no doubt that if given the opportunity to be part of this intellectually and stimulating environment. My skills will be put to maximum use.

I hope to be among the successful applicants who will be offered the scholarship program by the Korean Government. I promise to abide by the rules and regulations laid down by the Government of Korea and make optimal use of the resources offered.

Olawale, the most significant problem in your essay is the lack of a Korean connection within your motivation, reasons for study, and professional exposure. Those are the main components that need to interconnect with a visible interest in Korea within your personal statement. It appears to me that you did not even consider the actual requirements for this essay because you even failed to prove that you have a strong foundation in terms of research and study opportunities, which are important requirements for this presentation as well.

You have focused too much on the Nigeria connection with Cyber Security and not enough in justifying why you should be awarded a scholarship based on how the Korean Cyber Security training programs tie in with your academic requirements and professional needs. There is a strong indicator of your interest in the topic, but it is not enough to convince the reviewer that you are actually interested in studying this course in Korea. Your essay can actually be used for any generic scholarship, which is not a good sign for your work. That means it borders on the common approach and will most likely not make it past the screening round.

Review the GKS-G personal statement writing topic requirements again. This time, write an essay that is centered on Korea as the focal point of your educational interests. Create connections whenever required and indicated to within the prompt discussion. This is not an essay that strongly leans towards a Korean education requirement for your application. I specifically want you to focus on proving that you have real Korean expertise based reasons for your desire to study in the country. Your motivation must also be Korea centered in order to convince the reviewer that this is not a generic scholarship essay that you are submitting to other scholarship programs for consideration.