I am very fortunate to be an undergraduate student of English at the University of Dammam, in Saudi Arabia. During my studies, I discovered that I am passionate about literature in general and English literature in particular. I believe that English literature possesses an overwhelming power; it has the ability to entertain as well as challenge the reader to appreciate a deeper understanding of the world. One of the great novels that had a huge impact on me was Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre. Reflective of Victorian times, the various themes inspired me to question conventional wisdom regarding the independence of women of the era. In addition, it is truly an exercise in analytical thinking. My courses through University encouraged my enthusiasm to seek and to strive towards literature. A good writer’s words can sometimes overwhelm and be awe-inspiring, deeply affecting the reader’s soul.
In the past several years, I have been involved in charity works as it enhances my self-esteem and gives me the ability to understand different aspects of people’s lives. I have had the pleasure of participating in teaching children how to improve their skills by working with them painting, writing, reading and sewing. From time to time, I volunteer with the neighborhood in bazars to benefit the poor and the needy. I really enjoy attending conferences and consider it a great treat. Three recent conferences that I have attended were: the conference of Islam and Peace, about how Islam and peace are used interchangeably. I also attended The Arabic Language conference, which explained the importance of Arabic as the language of the Holy Quran. The last conference was called Inspire Me. It discussed how successful people become what they are. It inspired me to follow through with my career goals, which are to teach at the university level and research the relationship between literature and human culture.
My university studies have enabled me to sharpen skills beyond the literature world too. I am proficient and have mastered computer skills, and am very capable of using the Microsoft Office software suite to full effect. I can make compelling PowerPoint presentations and can use Excel to the maximum effect. Furthermore, I have learned to use numerous academic databases to further research that I am conducting myself or in collaboration with other students and faculty. I am an effective time manager, and I am able to manage teams that I work with to complete steps of a project in a timely manner. Collaboration in university, through volunteer work, and community groups has honed my ability to relate to a wide range of people: I have met a wide range of people and having this experience has helped me develop an open mind and has given me the ability to deal with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
The study of literature opens up new worlds and allows one to explore new possibilities. Through the art form of the written word, the lowliest person is transported to novel realms that engage the imagination. Furthermore, literature accounts for history in remarkable ways, whether it is through the medium of the biography, or the historical novel. Similarly, it can introduce someone to new concepts of scientific thought and create ideas that merit further exploration. The various genres of literature insure that everyone can be entertained and enlightened and the field truly encompasses the entire range of human thought.
I am astonished by the curriculum your University offers and I am convinced that your English Department provides an environment where I can flourish and develop my analytical skills. The strengths of the program are well matched to my own scholarly interests and goals. I am eager to be enrolled in such a great place and propel my adoration of literature to the next level. I’d love to be part of this huge campus and to enrich my student colleagues’ experience and myself.
