Since third grade, when I learned about the anatomy of the human body, I have been intrigued by how all the organs of the body could work in synergy to produce such a complex human being. I was even more impressed by how viruses and bacteria-microorganisms so miniscule that they are not visible to the naked eye-could kill organisms as big as humans. Since then, I have dreamed about becoming a scientist.
Last summer, I got the chance to further chase these dreams when I was selected for one of the limited student internship positions at the National Cancer Institute, one of the leading research facilities in the world.
Interning at the National Cancer Institute has made me confident that science is the right path for me. When I first started as an intern, I was somewhat intimidated as I tried to grasp all the new terminology and techniques that were thrown at me. But in a matter of two weeks, I was able to decode the genetic information encrypted in blood and organ cells through extraction, amplification, and sequencing. I enjoy doing experiments, collaborating with other scientists, and listening to lectures given by top scientists. Research is like a Sherlock Holmes mystery. Just as in a murder mystery, where each clue brings thrilling and spine-tingling revelations, each time I start a new experiment and gather the different pieces of my scientific puzzle, I find myself holding my breath in anticipation of what I will find. What kind of picture will the pieces form? The mystery, the setbacks, the twists, and the suspense are all what make the experience ever more enjoyable.
In the future, I plan to continue researching, but I would also like to be able to apply the research in practical means through engineering. I want not only to study problems but also to devise solutions for the problems. John's Hopkins' prestigious biomedical engineering program will help me achieve these goals. As a Johns Hopkins' student, I will be able to attend lectures given by top researchers and engineers who are making the latest progresses in their fields. As a mere undergraduate, I might even be able to apply what I learn in the classroom outside in practice at the Cell Engineering Laboratory or other laboratories across campus. The Core curriculum will provide me with a solid fundamental understanding of biomedical engineering, while still allowing me the freedom to focus on cell and tissue engineering. In my future, I want to be able to help advance the medical and scientific communities by inventing new technologies that will make life more comfortable for people of the present and future. Majoring in biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University will provide me with the skills to pursue these dreams.
I think intrigued is the most over used word I have seen in app essays, I also read an admissions officer's blog that they get sick of the word, perhaps change "intrigued' in the first paragraph to " mystified?"
"as big as humans" but in perspective you might need what is called a justifier: exchange for as seemingly huge as humans
When I first started as an intern, I was somewhat intimidated as I tried to grasp all the new terminology and techniques that were thrown at me.
I think "mere" downplays your supposed importance say rather, "As an undergraduate"
Good Luck! =]
