Kwon, Physics, Princeton University
Personal Statement
January 1, 2000, as usual, I was concentrating on debugging the computer program and inspecting the instruments in the quiet laboratory. After a brief examination, I switched the ignition power on. A dazzling ray of laser flashed, while a distinct heating curve appeared on the screen. The unfolding scene brought a satisfactory smile across the face of the elderly lady beside me.
It was the first day of a whole new millennium when I first gained reliable results for the project "Measurement for the Thermal Conductivity with Flash Method." One semester later, the system was introduced into many colleges general physics laboratories. When that lady, Professor D, initially enrolled me into this project, I thought it was no more than an easy programming task. Later these original research works intrigued me more and more. Often I thought over the program and electronic curcuits in the laboratory from day till night; then trekked back to my dormitory on the other side of the campus still with them in my mind. The raptures I felt for each progress, the beginning paragraph as an example, are unforgettable. This can be regarded as my first step in a formal research career of science. Contented with my fruitful performance and programming skill, Professor D led me to two other projects.
My interest of science dates back much earlier. As a naughty boy, I was curious of the surrounding world. Physics was my first friend. It told me the basic principles of various phenomena. Besides my curiosity, the conflict between my external vigor and internal tranquility also compelled me to study -- a perfect way to unite them. So I studied strenuously in the Science Class courses. As a byproduct of my enthusiastic effort, I won a first class prize (ranked 6th) in the China Physics Olympiad. That entitled me to enter any of the top Chinese universities without examinations. Then, there came the choice for a major. I have dreamed of being a pioneer in the realm of creative technology, thus I chose physics to get a general understanding for science and technology.
My undergraduate years were substantial and successful. Not only did I maintain an excellent standard in academic studies, but also undertook various research works. These can be confirmed by my high grades, and many honors. To facilitate advanced study, I also selected many courses of electronics. Discussing problems with several ingenious peers was enjoyable part of life, too. Most important of all, the detailed layout of my future pursuit with science had been set: Nanotechnology, Electronic Materials and Devices. To invent new devices or improve the properties of existing ones, is the very challenge that I have been zealously seeking.
The idea has lingered in my mind since long ago, and it became more enterprising recently, l,ast summer I started to do my Diploma Thesis at Laboratory (name), an open laboratory in Chinese Academy of Sciences. My subject is really difficult to conduct molecular dynamic simulation of self-assembled nanostructures on the reconstructed silicon surface. In order to get a full comprehension of this subject, I had to consult with many researchers and refer to academic issues such as Phys. Rev. Lett, Mater. Sci. Nevertheless, my program never seemed to work. It thoroughly frustrated me and I even wanted to give up. Fortunately my tutor, Professor G, came to encourage me: "Your nice program is very useful. Don't you think that you are contributing to the impending modern age?" He mentioned that the whole project concerned with high-density information storage was honored "towards the next generation of CD" by the Science News. Meanwhile the web news reported that Electronics became one of the leading fields in the US. These facts profoundly clarified my career view. Electrical Engineering is a perfect bridge between theoretical research and its applications. By exploring Electrical Engineering, the most ESSENTIAL and PROMISING technology, I can expedite the development of the new age. For example, future Quantum Computers may use novel devices designed by me. Considering my resolution, it is probably not surprising that my research is in steady progress now.
These rich experiences, combined with my strong knowledge background and youthful ambition, drive me to pursue my longtime fascination with electrical materials and devices further. Another advantage for me is my proficiency in computer programming. In addition to my demonstrated works, for example, I have carried some data processing works in a state key laboratory and made a video of the magnetocardiography.
As for my future plans, I hope to study in depth towards a Ph.D. degree in the US. Among the top institutions, PRINCETON attracts me most. I couldn't resist the opportunity to work in the best campus of science and technology in the world. Princeton's N Laboratory is my first choice. I understand that your graduate program is very demanding, and I have always been preparing for the challenges. My excellence in both theoretical and experimental studies will guarantee my potential for your requirements.
If admitted, at first I will continue building a firm knowledge foundation and later enjoy my pleasure in some high-quality research works. During the last year or so of my Ph.D. program, I will get ready to return to my motherland and take a vital profession. In terms of a career, I see myself taking theoretical calculation, analyzing experimental data, and applying new achievements to feasible technology.
Once I experienced pain when I had my knees bruised during the Sports Meeting last year. But the decathlon competition intoxicated me so deeply that I did not give up. Thrillingly I finished as 4th of all 16 competitors, and the triumph became one of my special memories. In sum, Electronics is the same adventure for me. Eventually, aspirations generate inspirations.
