Sample Essay

Having obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Information Engineering from ABC University, and worked as computer lab administrator and research assistant in my alma mater upon graduation, my immediate objective is to attend your esteemed University. I am interested in pursuing a Master's degree program in computer science with focus on computer graphics, database, and/or networking.

I consider the Hsinchu Science Park, center of Taiwan's high-tech industry, a home to me. When my father completed his PhD in material science from Northwestern University in the United States, he returned to Taiwan. He worked as as a research fellow and director of the Division of QA & Testing Inspection at the Hsinchu Science Park's Industrial Technology & Research Institute (ITRI), one of the country's highest ranked technological research foundations.

Having grown up in such an environment, I was constantly exposed to the leading high-tech developments of the time. The elementary and junior high schools I attended were experimental institutions set up for children whose parents work in the Park. At that time, computers were still considered a luxury in Taiwan. However, my school had a full computer lab and all students had access to computers at an early age. My school's special science education featured prestigious academics who conducted workshops and seminars for students. Growing up in such an environment made my interest in a scientific career an obvious and natural choice.

When I graduated second in my high school class, I entered my first-choice college, the Department of Computer Science & Information Engineering at ABC University. I consider my university experience to be important to my personal and academic growth. ABC University attracts the finest quality faculty and student body, and offers the finest computer lab in the country. Beyond the academic learning I attained at ABC University, the most stimulating and diversified educational institution in the country, I also developed valuable qualities to my future development. When I was in high school, I was considered to be a very gifted student but most of my time was devoted to the study of science. However, since my knowledge in computer and science was generally much better than that of my fellow students when I entered the university, I was allowed to pace my own personal schedule and thereby take up more time in extracurricular pursuits. This experience has made me a better-rounded individual.

My educational background can be best described by overall high academic standards and by high achievement in my special interest fields. During my university years I acquired an accumulated 3.7 grade point average and performed particularly well in classes that emphasized rigorous analytical skills and creativity. As a computer science and information engineering major, I received complete training in analyzing and manipulating a variety of computer concepts and theories. It was through my study that I have come to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the limitless potential of the world of computers.

My aspiration to become an expert in computer science drew me into serious study and research. During the second semester of my junior year at ABC, I performed my seminar project, Robot PC Server, under the instruction of my advisor, Professor John Lee. In this independent project I used Normad 200TM (designed by Nomadic Technologies Inc.) with an intent to convert the server of UNIX Version to PC. By doing so, I could manipulate robot with a Notebook. Through applying Radio Modem as a data medium, and Laser, Sonar, Infra as detecting sensors, as well as artificial intelligence programming, I was able to control effectively the robot movements.

In addition to working on the term project for "Computer Graphics" during my senior year, I worked with two students to complete the Quick Time Vertical Reality (QVR) System for our campus network system. This was an Image-based Walk-through System. I was mainly responsible for the image processing work in this project. Through applying computer simulation, I simulated the campus view of ABC with several pictures.

Another independent project I was involved in took place when I was undertaking "Advanced Computer Graphics" under Professor John Smith. I utilized the SGI Workstation and OpenGL to accomplish my term project entitled "Facial Texture Mapping". I used my own head photos as texture, through modifying the generic head model (for specific person), I was able to create a vivid mapping texture effect and rotate the model in real time speed to any desired angle. From this experience, I developed quite a predilection for software design and manipulation in generic head model modification. By studying how to generate different facial expressions and how to render realistic three-dimensional images from two-dimensional scanned images, I have gained hands-on knowledge in the scientific and technical skills necessary to excel and prosper in the graduate program.

During my last semester at ABC, I worked with two other classmates on the project: Intelligent Query and Searching System on WWW. Under the supervision of Professor John Lee and Professor Grace Jones, we successfully accomplished this intelligent agent project that integrated techniques in network, database, and artificial intelligence.

In addition to my present work as teaching assistant for the Department of Computer Engineering & Information Science, I also have the opportunity to participate in a healthcare network project developed by ABC University Hospital's Medical Engineering Center. Under the direction of the project originator Michael Chong, who is the Director of the Medical Engineering Center, and Professor Tom Lu and Professor John Lee, we attempted to promote the idea of building a national healthcare network system. The aim? To help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our country's National Health Insurance Program. In this project we designed several computerized simulation systems, which included a medical science reference databank, patients' medical history databank, healthcare service information management systems, computerized registration systems, healthcare payment systems, and health service monitoring systems.

After careful deliberation, I have come to the conclusion that a formal and systematic training in computer science will be the best way for me to accelerate my professional advancement. My undergraduate and professional experiences have allowed me to realize the importance of computer technology in my country's future growth, and have made me committed to developing my skills in this field. One day I may contribute to Taiwan's development in a more valuable and professional manner. My undergraduate education in mathematics gave me a solid related academic background from which to pursue my academic interests at a higher level. Furthermore, my experiences working as lab administrator and research assistant have given me an interesting outlook that will enable me to contribute to class discussions and group projects.

I sincerely look forward to having the opportunity to attending your University.