1. We know you lead a busy life, full of activities, many of which are required of you. Tell us about something you do for the pleasure of it. (*)(100 words or fewer)
In my spare time I like to analyze stocks. I play virtual stock market games online with my friends and it has become one of my favourite pastimes. To be successful, I read press releases whenever I have free time, and checking the stocks on my phone in class became one of my "bad habits". My dad is also an expert in this field and I often go ask him for advice on my stocks. I hope to open an account once I turn 18 and trade legally with real money.
2. Although you may not yet know what you want to major in, which department or program at MIT appeals to you and why? (*) (100 words or fewer)
Economics absolutely fascinates me. The different complex models, the logical thinking, the tricky math problems opened my eyes to a whole new world. Studying at the MIT would be taking my passion to a new level as the opportunities offered by MIT are incredible. MIT Department of Economics has the best faculty in the world, including Nobel Prize winner Peter A. Diamond. Being able to study under and do research with such a superior faculty will undoubtedly widen my understanding of our economy. MIT also offers an Economics Exchange Program with Cambridge University which broaden the undergraduate experience greatly.
3.What attribute of your personality are you most proud of, and how has it impacted your life so far? This could be your creativity, effective leadership, sense of humor, integrity, or anything else you'd like to tell us about. (*) (200-250 words)
"Never give up." This quote may sound cliché; however these three words are a good summation of my attitude towards life. My tenacity and perseverance are the factors that caused me to strive for the best.
In 2005, my family had to move to China due to my dad's job placement. Not knowing how to read or write Chinese, I was enrolled in one of the top public schools of the city. I was almost crushed when I received my midterm report card that consisted of 18% in Chinese, 48% in Science, 52 % in Math and 98 % in English. However, I did not let it destroy my strong will of striving for the best. I stayed up late every night to memorize ancient Chinese poetry, to practice math problems, and to tackle the different scientific studies. When I became tired of studying, I told myself that only by pushing myself beyond my limits can I improve and progress. Day by day, night by night, I lived through what I would've called hell years ago. It was better than hell though, because I was able to climb to the top as I became one of the top students in my class. I left China later, but I am proud of who I became after that experience. I'm strong, determined, and fearless. There's nothing keeping me from following my dreams. Even if there is, I know that I will be able to overcome it as I will never give up.
4.Describe the world you come from; for example, your family, clubs, school, community, city, or town. How has that world shaped your dreams and aspirations?(*) (200-250 words)
Born in Shanghai, the economic center of China, I often found myself dreaming about working in a bank on the Bund. The magnificent neo-classical and gothic buildings on the Bund were the first things that opened my eyes to the finance world.
My days in Shanghai came to an end when my family immigrated to Canada. With the dream of becoming a banker in mind, I became close friends with my family's financial adviser at HSBC in Vancouver and was able to look at the banking world from her perspective. In 2005, my family moved to Shenzhen, a special economic zone in China. Because of Shenzhen's massive amount of foreign investment, many of our family friends work in the finance field. Through them, I learned that finance is very closely related to math, and the careers in finance are often very demanding and stressful. I was more than delighted to learn that finance is related to math since I love mathematics greatly. Although jobs in the field may be demanding, I see it as an adventure as I always like to challenge myself.
I currently attend school in Toronto, Canada and is still working towards my goal. As I walked down Bay Street, Canada's Wall Street, to the DECA business competition, I felt as though I am living my dream already. However, reality is that I am still very far, but with perseverance and astuteness, I'm sure someday my dream will come true.
5.Tell us about the most significant challenge you've faced or something important that didn't go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?(*) (200-250 words)
After living for over a year under the supervision of my guardian and away from my parents, I believed that I was incredibly independent and can undoubtedly survive on my own. When my guardian left for vacation, I was jumping with joy as it was a taste of freedom that I've never tried before. It was my chance to rule my own world, to throw parties and sleepovers whenever I could, and to skip school when I feel like it. Instead of feeling this "freedom", I left lost and lonely. It certainly wasn't easy either.
The great Canadian winter became an enemy as I fought my way through the harsh weather. Since I could not drive at the time, I often found myself walking on the dangerously icy sidewalks, or shivering at a bus stop. My fingers would turn numb when I carried my precious groceries home. People often ask if I'm scared, and I always answer them with a smile. The truth is I'm not scared; I'm terrified. I feared the feeling of loneliness, I feared the dark, I feared the emptiness of my house. But I learned to overcome these fears, and to take a different perspective. Every day there were new challenges that I faced: snow shovelling, power outrage, broken toilet etc. One by one I tackled them, and step by step, I climbed out of my fear. Through this experience, I learned that in life, there really is nothing to fear except fear itself.
I had trouble writing #4. I though it was realistic stating my career goals but I don't know ): please help! I'm really lost ):
Thanks so much!!
