Learning from My Past: Improving for My Future
“We are products of our past,
but we don’t have to be prisoners of it.” Rick Warren
As a bilingual student from China, attending college in the United States presented unforeseen challenges as I adjusted to this new environment in America. Even though I was very excited to be here, my ambition did not complement my immaturity. Regrettably, I did not earn straight A’s as done in high school and I did not focus or concentrate enough on my studies as I should, which resulted in earning a C average. Nonetheless, after realizing my errors, I was determined not to allow past mistakes derail future career goals. I would not be a prisoner of the past.
As shown on the attached resume, while attending Qingdao Agriculture University in China, I conducted independent research. And at the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a graduation date of May 2014, I have successfully completed all course requirements and assisted in research topics such as: Roles DNA Cytosine Methylation in the Regulation of Genome Structure and Transcription, and the Study of Base Flipping of Transcription Initiation Using Stopped-flow Kinetic Analysis. Currently, I am conducting research to use intrinsic tryptophan (W) fluorescence changes and stopped flow kinetic studies to characterize steps in the mechanism of converting the initial specific closed complex between bacterial RNA polymerase and promoter DNA to the transcriptionally-competent open complex. With each research project, I was a dependable team player and fulfilled requirements.
With any research project, there are some common obstacles to overcome: paraphrasing work done by others, lacking a connection with “key” members of the discipline, experiencing technological difficulties, and identifying publishing options. However when bilingual, these obstacles can be perceived as overwhelming challenges; but with passion for research process, intrinsic interest in the topic and determination to succeed, I have not allowed these to hinder my efforts. Rather, I have enthusiastically sought and found solutions to enable my success.
The University of Texas (UT), College of Pharmacy has a top ranked program, outstanding professors, and world-class facilities. It offers a discipline-integrated approach to manage disease states, and a case-based team approach to design patient-specific therapeutic planning. The curriculum provides a comprehensive array of pharmaceutical services that enables its graduates to become leaders in the profession. These academic approaches will definitely expand my knowledge, boost my confidence level, and assist me with further study. I am interested in and prepared to earn a Doctorate degree at UT because this will help me become an effective leader in my country – a pharmacist who makes a difference in the lives of others.
During the last two years, I have matured greatly, improved my academic performance, and learned from past mistakes. I have successfully achieved academic goals envisioned and now ready for the next step towards achieving my dream. I am determined, dedicated, and driven to realize my future career goal; and provided the opportunity, I will rise to meet all academic challenges at your university and become a graduate that UT can be proud of.
