The Physics Department - Why Davidson supplement essay?

Why Davidson?

I am a kinesthetic learner as I value an academic setting where I get to work closely through research and practice. I have always been curious about everything that works around the world, which led me to enjoy Physics and try to venture deep into my questions by studying deeper into the topic that would lead me closer to answering my questions. At Davidson, I intend to pursue a major in Physics to allow myself to explore various topics from multiple angles.

While I was exploring the Physics Department at Davidson, my attention was caught up by two courses: Advanced Laboratory and Independent Research. These courses provide the opportunity to dive deeper into the field and understand the subject matter with much depth. During my high school, I realized the necessity of science laboratories to understand concepts as we seldom used our school laboratory due to COVID-19. Thus, I struggled with lab skills and had many doubts about the subject matter. I also noticed that lab skills cannot be taught by simply demonstrating them; one has to use the equipment to understand them. Therefore, the availability of advanced equipment at Charles Dana Laboratory will help me learn concepts with clarity.

Moreover, I regularly read the articles published by the Association of Asia Pacific Physical Societies, Elsevier, etc which gives me enormous exposure to the pool of knowledge. When I read the articles, I always dreamt of being a part of the publishing community for the benefit of learners like me. When I discovered that we can conduct Independent research and honor programs as Sigma Pi Sigma facilitates us, I felt that dreams are meant to be true. Therefore, Advanced laboratory and Independent research are the best combinations for learners like me to make deep learning possible. Furthermore, I also plan to be a member of Sigma Pi Sigma to enhance my peer networking skills and receive constant advice and guidance from mentors for overall development.

I also intend to minor in Astrophysics. Under Professor Kristen Thompson I plan to not only engage in classroom activities but also participate in observational programs and community engagements such as Davidson Space Day and Star Party. Being part of the Nepal Astronomical Society's activities, I have realized the significance of resources to match our frequency of learning. Thus, such opportunities provide a hands-on learning experience to foster my learning skills and allow me to learn and share my knowledge with peers and locals.

Additionally, the dynamic and functional Honor code validates students' voices and advice. Therefore, I feel that for a student like me who comes from a small city, a close-net school alongside ample opportunities is a perfect place to grow socially and academically. Moreover, with self-scheduled exams, open discourse on concerning issues, and students taking ownership of their learning, I can develop essential skills like integrity, honesty, and compassion that contribute to overall growth.

Moreover, as a defender of the soccer team in my high school and a regular participant in debate competitions, I plan to participate in the soccer team and debate club at Davidson. Having gained experience in these fields, I hope to contribute in every possible way and bring positive impacts to these clubs.

The main question is in relation to what you can contribute to the unique learning experience at Davidson. All that I have read about so far in this essay is the learning experience the applicant hopes to achieve once he is accepted into the university. It lacks the proper pre-college skills development and interest that would qualify him as having some sort of non-English learning theoretical and practical experience that would enhance the student community at Davidson. The reviewer is actually looking for high school graduating applicants who have some sort of unique realizations or experiences that can be shared with the learning community he will be adopted into at the university. That is the basic premise that this essay does not come close to touching on. Although it is somewhat implied, mere implication is not enough. It must be embodied through the pre-college learning experience. Revise the essay to provide information about a learning background that would complement the college learning experience for the applicant and other involved learners at the university.