Personal Statement for Uni Students

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UC Perso rs o n al St at em en t s

© Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 1



Example 1 What is your intended major? How i nterest in subject d eveloped? Experience.

I intend to major in mechanical engineering. I choose this particular major as I am very interested machine design. This awareness began when I was small boy. In my childhood days, the days that when I did not know anything about engineering, I had a strong attraction to any kind of machinery; air conditioners, car engines, water pumps, and on and on. I thought “how does this work?”, “how was it designed?”, “WHO designed it?” This curiosity about how things work prompted me to take a physics class during my junior year in high school. After a year of physics I had learned a great deal, but I was still not satisfied. Coincidently, junior/senior year in high school is the time when people in my age start to decide their future. During my decision process, I immediately considered my interest in machinery. Since mechanical devices fascinated me, I quickly concluded that I should study mechanical engineering at the college/university level. However, I faced some challenges before I submitted my UC application during my senior year in high school. Over that summer, I went back to my birthplace of Hong Kong to visit friends. We talked about our decisions for university majors. One friend who intended to major in business told me about his interest. He said that if we studied business and became a CEO in a company, we could do very well financially. Financial reward affected my decision, and distracted me from choosing an engineering major. I knew engineering was the better choice, but I felt my future couldn’t be decided based only on my aptitude and interests alone. I had to think about my adult life and future financial security. I thus decided to split my intended majors into mechanical engineering and business at different schools. I could decide later. After I received the offers from two UC campuses, I hesitated. Both campuses accepted me as a business major. I had no engineering option at that time. After receiving my acceptances, I needed to fly back to Hong Kong for personal reasons. While I travelling on the aircraft, I kept thinking about that question; to enroll or not to enroll? Just when the plane touched down, the spoilers quickly rose, and the mechanism inside the wing came into my view. That scene completely fascinated me. A great feeling of curiosity about the mechanism filled my mind. My college-major question was answered at that moment. I changed my focus completely to engineering. I developed a new plan to enroll at Chabot community college, and then apply as a mechanical engineering major as transfer student. In my Chabot years, I took many major-required courses. Having a chance to deeply learn physics (particularly mechanics), I can now answer some of the questions I had about machinery. For example, I learned the function of the four strokes of the internal combustion engine cycle that powers automobiles. I also learned different kinds of object-motion, and the concept of the center of gravity. I even did a class project on the motion of airplanes. My analysis included the calculation of the center of gravity, the centripetal force when an airplane makes a turn, and the torque generated when it yaws. Besides preparing for transfer, I joined the Chabot engineering club. I attended the meetings and I had opportunity to learn about technology in my own field. One time the club President presented on wind turbines. He located some videos from YouTube which showed how people designed and built a low-cost wind turbine. Their design ingenuity amazed me. I never thought © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 4

that an old water pipe could be fabricated into curved fan blades. These videos gave me some ideas on how engineers engage the physical-design process. I also read library books about airplanes in order to learn how the control mechanisms function. I also like to search for online resources about aircraft. These materials provide me basic knowledge about mechanisms in the real world, which intensifies my interest in machinery design.

Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishm ent, contribution or experience.

While I attended middle school in Hong Kong, I joined a First Aid organization called St. John Ambulance, which is similar to the Red Cross in United States. During the time I spent as a St. John volunteer, I learned how to treat people well, and value others’ lives. These two perspectives would play a major role in deciding on my intended major of mechanical engineering. As I wavered between choosing business or mechanical engineering, I asked myself the question: ‘what do I want to achieve in my life?’. Aside from my general interest in engineering, this question also weighed heavily when I made my final decision. Earning a good living is attractive to almost everyone; including me. However, I didn’t want to live just for money - I wanted to contribute something more. I want to live a meaningful, productive life. A ‘meaningful life’ is interpreted differently by every individual in the world. My concept of this phrase is to do something that relates directly and positively to people’s lives. To accomplish this, mechanical engineering was the best choice for me. The job of an engineer is to design useful products to improve peoples’ lives. The physical design of a product or device is something which can not be easily done by a business major. In considering what it takes to be a science/engineering major, one recognizes a critical element that people should have deep in their heart. That element is called ‘passion’. My passion for mechanical engineering is that I want to use my skills to betterment of humankind. My passion for mechanical engineering is so important as it tells me that I know what I am trying to do, and also the significance of doing it. I am attempting to design or invent something that would affect someone’s life for the better. I am proud of having this type of motivation. I believe that people who learn science and engineering should use their knowledge to help people, and of course to avoid harming them. I would keep what I learned at St. John Ambulance in mind as I continue my study and join the practice of engineering.

Example 2 Prompt 1: What is your intended major? Discuss h ow your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field — suc h as volun teer wor k, internships and employment, particip ation in stu dent organizations and activities — and what you have gained from your in volvement.


I plan to major in Electrical Engineering. My interest in the electrical field began at a very early age from the simple seed of curiosity. As a young boy, I was always awed by my father for his uncanny ability to take apart and repair almost anything. As I grew old enough to actually understand this process and method, my love and interest for “how things work” blossomed into a passion. My mind would urge me to take apart everything; to decompose, understand, and rebuild every device within my grasp. As I moved into the later years of high school, physics and mathematics began to bring the fulfilling answers that I for which I searched. At that point I knew I wanted to continue down this academic road in a technical field. My interest in the electrical aspect of engineering did not develop until I started college and began actually building circuits; not only in class, but for fun in my free time. I was fascinated to see how I could learn techniques in advanced mathematics and engineering courses, and then come home and apply them in an increasingly hands-on and practical fashion. This hobby of mine eventually ….(to be continued (add experience) I realized engineering was more than a hobby or interest, but something I enjoyed both inside and outside the classroom. This experience strengthened and affirmed what became a powerful desire to pursue Electrical Engineering as a life-long career. I simply love the field, and UC Berkeley offers the best in instruction and research, giving me a tremendous opportunity to learn and grow.

Prompt 2: Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishm ent, contribution or experience that is impo rtant to you. What about this quality or accomp lishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are? In my second semester physics class the instructor assigned a project to design and construct an operational “rail gun” with a group of classmates. My experience with the rail-gun design, I feel, exemplifies many of the personal qualities and talents which make me the person I am today. The rail gun was no trivial task. It involved many characteristics of what I have learned might be expected in a professional working environment as a practicing engineer. Having a strong passion for anything that involves electricity and engineering, I was more than ready and excited to accept this challenge. Having the opportunity to use science in a physical and applicable sense powerfully attracts me to this major. After forming working-groups, I soon found myself in the role as leader, and head electrical systems engineer. My team was comprised brilliant and creative student colleagues. The design/build proces soon became one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences I have ever encountered. Taking on the role as a leader in this group posed many challenges for me. Through hard and consistent effort I overcame the challenges and ultimately grew stronger as an individual. A large part of what made this task so demanding included the realization of the importance of comprehensive and precise communication. I found that communication is not just a means by which people share information, but is in fact far more. Communication requires the ability to listen, stop talking, and show respect and empathy for the person who speaking, while maintaining a professional demeanor in order to focus on the ideas and facts offered by team mates.. There were a few times during this experience where, after countless hours of rail-gun design and/or build work, I felt that frustration impacting my decision making. When other students in the group offered input, or differed in areas in which I felt more knowledgeable, I © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 6

had struggled to stay open-minded and flexible. I would consciously take a step back and truly listen to what my teammates had to say. This allowed me to objectively assess the real value that their ideas brought to this project. This process helped me grow as a leader, and more so as an individual. Technical Project leadership taught me the ability to communicate well with others in all aspects of my life. When a leader treats others with respect and worth, then there is no limit to what a team with a common goal can accomplish. I am proud of our group’s accomplishment, and my contribution to the success of the project. In the same way the rail-gun project posed obstacles to overcome, it also afforded me the opportunity to demonstrate two qualities that exemplify who I am: determination and perseverance. Many times during this project my group and I felt as though a specific task was beyond the scope of our understanding or expertise. During these times I found myself working well into the night researching and analyzing various solutions to the problem(s). I tried to do “whatever it took” for my group to design and build a fully operational rail gun. In the course of this experience I have learned so much about the meaning of leadership, and the amazing satisfaction it can bring. Through the effort and capabilities of my group members, along with my leadership, perseverance, and determination, we accomplished MUCH more than I could ever imagine. This intense five week project proved tremendously rewarding. The effort brought out many of my characteristics and qualities that make me proud of the person I am today. I hope to continue both my technical and leadership growth at UC Berkeley where the best of both these aspects of an Engineer’s life are developed.

Example 3 Prompt #1 What is your intended major? Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field-such as volunteer work, internships and employment, participation in student organizations and activities –and what you have gained from your involvement.

I intended to major in MECHANICAL ENGINEERING. From a very young age, I aspired to become an engineer because I wanted to design flight systems that would improve the speed and handling of aircraft. My goals for these designs include: improved engine efficiency, accident prevention, and (potentially) automatic aircraft repair. With these improvements air travel could become even faster and safer than it is today. The great inventor Thomas Edison inspired me to pursue my dream of mechanical design. Edison’s 1093 patents helped to form the basis of modern technology. His work still inspires inventors and engineers all over the world. Edison’s accomplishments in face of many difficulties motivate to stand behind my ideas and make them come true. I hope that my designs become, as did Edison’s, become major milestones in the advance of technology. By the eighth grade my uncle, an aeronautical engineer in Hong Kong, had taught me a great deal about airplanes. He was a great teacher, and I was an eager student; I had an intense desire to learn how airplanes worked. My uncle liked to take me to his workplace where I watched him repair airplanes. Soon afterwards, I became a serious aircraft enthusiast and tried to memorize all the parts of the airplane such as wings, jet engine, cockpit, and horizontal/vertical stabilizer even though I not fully understand the function of these © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 7

components. I loved every second of watching my uncle make repairs to such magnificent machinery. When my parents decided to immigrate to the United States, I knew this gave me the opportunity to pursue my dream as the United States is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world with many great Engineering Universities. When started college, I knew that in order to continue to pursue my dream of aircraft design that would need to build my hardware skills and knowledge. I thus chose to work in an auto repair shop. There I learned how to increase a car engine’s horsepower to make the car run faster and more efficiently. I found that changing the software contained in a ROM chip in the engine control unit would improve engine output. The more I understood about engine design, the more sure I became that Mechanical Engineering is my best career choice. My work at the auto shop strongly influenced my decision to study Mechanical Engineering, where I intend to specialize in aircraft engine design. I now feel I am on the path to achieve my dream of improving the speed, safety, and efficiency of airplanes. Recently I realized that a successful Engineer needs skills beyond sound technical ability; including communication, management, and leadership. Besides becoming more focused on my academic and future career goals, I learned the importance communication through my work at the auto shop. When I first began working my inexperience sometimes lead to unproductive miscommunication. After working closely with my fellow employees for a few months, I realized that I needed to better communicate with them to improve our understanding of the many tasks we needed perform during engine repair. I began to ask the more experienced Mechanics for help and advice. Through this process of their teaching and my learning we developed a mutual respect which lead them to accept me into their group. As time went on I learned even more, With improved communication we finished complicated repair jobs more quickly than before. A few times, I was even placed in charge of some important work orders where I had the responsibility for managing a group of people to finish the repair. Through this experience I think that I developed valuable management and leadership abilities. Working in an auto shop was an eye-opening experience during my time at Chabot community college. While I learned a great deal in class, and through my participation in an engineering club at college, working at the auto shop was gave the chance to greatly expand my hands-on, communication, project-management, and leadership talents. This experience with sophisticated mechanical devices (engines) became the greatest influence on my decision to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. My time at the auto shop helped me find my passion for building and designing engines; giving me the focus for my academic and future professional career.

Example 4 What is your intended major? Discuss h ow your interest in the subject developed and describe any experience you have had in the field — suc h as volun teer wor k, internships and employment, particip ation in stu dent organizations and activities — and what you have gained from your in volvement .

At Chabot College, one instructor in particular, influenced me to pursue engineering. This professor won my respect and admiration due to the fact that he was knowledgeable yet humble, well-educated and yet able break down complex concepts in a way that students © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 8

could comprehend. This professor recommended that I read a brochure describing mechanical engineering. The information in the brochure sparked my interest in the field of mechanical engineering, I knew since childhood that I wanted to become an engineer. The brochure described in detail with various facets of engineering, such as building and design. The brochure further explained how innovation and research play a critical role in the technological development of many important industries including automotive. Cars have always fascinated me, and I hope to make my career as a design engineer within the automotive industry. I believe that engineering, in general, is a foundation of the modern world in that technical innovation and progress crucial for industrial development. Engineers are at the cutting-edge of technology, I want to join the profession to assist, as best I can, with continued technical and human progress. Throughout my childhood, engineering grew to become my passion in life. As a child I recall spending hours assembling and taking apart countless devices, such as model cars, air rifles, and bicycles. I wanted to learn how these products truly worked; exactly how did the air-rifle launch the projectile? Through my own exploration and research of such devices I was able to derive my own conclusions about fundamental function. In high school I had the opportunity to work on two interesting projects: the building of a catapult and model bridge. Working through these projects I came away with a broader perspective on how physics, mathematics, and engineering-creativity intertwine to produce a desired result. For instance, the goal in the catapult project was to launch a tennis ball as far as possible. To achieve this result I had to consider the variables involved such as calculating the angle-of-release to maximize hang time, I also designed the spring system to impart to the projectile an increased initial velocity. My college courses greatly expanded by technical knowledge base. My Chabot College instructors were seasoned technical professionals and as a result, I became even more captivated by the potential offered by the study of engineering. I eventually realized that virtually all devices could be improved through simple modifications that would make them more useful and efficient. I also saw that the creative application of scientific principles could result in practical designs for NEW devices to perform tasks that had never been done before. On the non-academic side of my life it turned out that financing my education beyond high school proved to be quite challenging.. I began working fulltime at an office as a data processor while attending Chabot College part-time. During this time I took advantage of every opportunity to troubleshoot and repair printers and copiers, learning first-hand about how they functioned. However, I quickly realized that I wanted a job that would permit me to make better use of my time and allow me to apply the engineering knowledge that I obtained in school, and to accelerate my learning within engineering. I decided to pursue my education on a fulltime basis and also obtained a more technical position with a telemanagement company as a payphone technician; a job I continue to hold and enjoy. This position requires that I read and understand technical documentation, and that I develop significant hands-on technical skills.

Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are?


I was born to a Mexican father and Mexican-American mother in a family that did not strongly emphasize education. Fortunately I realized at an early age that a college education was critical to succeeding in the area of my choosing - engineering. Further, the experience of having grown up in a quite tough Oakland, CA neighborhood motivated me to do my best to escape this difficult environment. For instance, many of my friends dropped out of high school because, in my opinion, they did not believe they could succeed; they did not believe that education was a path to success, I’m thankful that, despite the harsh environment in which I grew up, I have always recognized that it was up to me to pursue my dream of becoming an engineer. I also appreciate the experiences that I had growing up since they propelled me to find my way toward realizing my dream of becoming an Engineer. One positive experience in particular changed my life. At the age of 18 years the youth group of my church elected me as leader for the Royal Rangers youth program. This position entailed leading and mentoring a group of troubled 8-12 year olds. The ultimate goal was to raise their self esteem through activities and open discussions that focused on the problems and issues they faced everyday. At the conclusion of the program I came away with a great sense of accomplishment after receiving great feedback from many parents regarding the improvement in a child’s attitude and behavior. One mother in particular thanked me personally for strengthening her son’s moral character. This experience benefited me in that it required that I step out of my comfort zone, I was an extremely shy person and working with the young people and their parents help be to “break out my shell”.. In addition I also gained valuable interpersonal skills upon which I rely to this day. At Chabot, one of my calculus instructors recommended that I become a math tutor. I took this suggestion as I felt that I could improve both my verbal technical skills while assisting struggling students. I did this for a semester and I’m glad I did. I think that I helped a number of students succeed in all levels of mathematics. In the end, I found it flattering that many of my tutoring clients were very thankful grateful for my assistance. Some clients even requested private tutorials which I accommodated whenever I could.. Throughout my life I have taken pride in having become an accomplished musician. I play the guitar, bass, drums, and saxophone. As a praise musician I use these talents to serve my church. Learning these instruments took years of hard work and dedication. My music experience caused me to realize that diligence pays off in all of life’s endeavors. I know that dedication and diligence will serve me well in my journey to become a mechanical engineer.

Example 5 Question 1: What is your intended major? Discuss how you interest in the field developed and describe any experience you have had in this field – such as volunteer work, internships, and employment, participation in student organizations and activities – and what you have gained from your involvement. (less than 600 words) I intend to major in Mechanical Engineering (ME). My interest in ME developed during my employment with a Silicon Valley technology firm. My awareness of engineering as a career took shape after a new optical-fiber communication company, Avanex Co., offered me a job. © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 10

Looking back, I was not only lucky to secure a well-compensated position, but more importantly, I also took my first steps toward understanding engineering. The experiences and knowledge I gained from this job played a vital role in influencing and initiating my decision to pursue engineering as an academic and professional career. Avanex hired me as a technician during formation of the firm. I was the eighteenth employee of the company. At the beginning, an optical engineer trained me for my job. The training engineer instructed me in the use machines, equipment and instruments. I learned how to operate a number of sophisticated instruments, including: optical spectrum analyzers, power meters for measuring decibel loss, and the laser source systems. During my training, I also assembled the many intricate parts required by the device as designed by the optical engineer. In a sense, my duties were similar to those of an engineer’s assistant. Although he did not explain the principles behind his inventions, I could follow and understand the processes of how an engineer conceives and develops a product as I transformed his thoughts into finished products. When I encountered a problem, such as the assembled device showing an unexpected loss in light power, the engineer would review my work with me to determine the source of the difficulty. From these invaluable experiences, I not only became familiar with engineering design and problem-solving, but also I learned how engineers optimize their working efficiency through teamwork and attentive analyses. These experiences all combined to ground very firmly my decision to become an engineer. The specific problem that moved me toward mechanical engineering can be traced back to the biggest issue we encountered in developing the above-mentioned device. Temperature changes degraded device performance, and this problem had not been solved even after production of the device had commenced. Thermal expansion and contraction, caused a changes in the positions of the device lens and filter assembly. Even though the change was small, it has a significant effect on the angle of the light beam as it entered the filter, which was µm (micrometer) in scale. Under these conditions the beam alignment failed, resulting in an out-of-range scrapping of the device. Several engineers put considerable effort into solving this problem, without being able to eliminate it. It turned that the same problem plagued other products. During my three years at Avanex, I encountered the thermal expansion problem each time I participated new-product development. As I observed the repetition of this problem my interest in mechanical engineering intensified. Now I know that I want to become the mechanical engineer who creates a solution this long-standing problem. I promised myself that I will one day use my mechanical expertise to invent a better optical component that will be able to split many channels into separate wavelengths while minimizing the thermal expansion effect.

Example 6 Prompt 1 –

I hope to study mechanical engineering in order to enhance my understanding of the function and purpose of mechanical devices. A degree in mechanical engineering will give me more insight into the principles of mechanical, fluid, and thermal system design.. I often analyze the design of mechanical devices that I encounter in daily life. Many times I see that the design could be significantly improved with a few simple changes. On the other hand, many times I © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 11

am fascinated by well-engineered equipment, which incorporates functionality and an organic integration with the surroundings in which it was designed to operate. My interest in engineering began when I was a child. I spent hours playing with Technic Legos. Simply following the instructions to build the Lego set quickly became routine and uninteresting. I then began creating my own designs for gear boxes, cranes, cars, locks, and other mechanical structures. I became addicted to taking apart things such as alarms, printers and remote controlled cars in an effort to satisfy my curiosity about how they worked. This was my first introduction to engineering design. In high school I worked with my father who runs a business repairing high speed dental drills and other dental equipment. As a service technician I assisted with the repair and rebuilding of these high-speed precision drills. My service work exposed me to engineering design at a much higher level. Small, high-speed compressed air turbines provide power to the dental drill bit. Encountering a turbine that I had never repaired before was especially exciting. I would draw my own assembly diagrams as I took apart the instrument to enhance my understanding of the design. This increased understanding allow me to improvise and use parts from other models to complete a difficult repair. I became increasingly interested in working with my hands, and to understand the underlying concepts that made these machines work. By servicing complex mechanical devices I gained valuable work experience. More importantly during this hands-on repair process I learned how to creatively solve real world engineering/technical problems. During my time in college I had two instructors who had private-sector engineering design experience. These Professors won my respect and admiration instantly. Both professors were knowledgeable yet humble, well-educated yet down to earth. One of these instructors, Mr. Mayer, had been awarded four patents and had won and industry “Product of the Year” design award. These professors became role models for me as an aspiring engineer and as a person. Mr. Mayer is also a UC Berkeley Mechanical Engineering graduate. He helped me to understand the tremendous opportunity afforded by the study of Mechanical engineering at Cal. I will do my absolute best to make the most of this opportunity

Prompt 2 – I consider myself fortunate to have lived and grown up among many different languages, cultures and ethnicities. My Father is an American and my mother a German. My parents were underground missionaries in Nicaragua during the revolutionary era in the 1980’s. Our family then moved to Russia, a short time after it opened to the west. Instead of attending an international school, I became immersed in Russian culture as I went to the local public school. After living in Russia for three years our family relocated again, this time to the island of Jamaica.

In high school I experienced several situations that really changed my life. First, while in Jamica, I was nominated and elected for student body president, or Head Boy as it is called in there. I was very shy, and a part of a racial minority. This made it very challenging for me to run for the post. I had to overcome serious skepticism and ridicule from my peers as a student,


and also as Head Boy. This responsibility gave me the opportunity to go beyond my comfort zone and interact with many people in many different circumstances.. In an attempt to bring my Jamaican high school to a new level of academic excellence. The Principal asked me to help to create a team the “Schools Challenge Quiz” competition . This nationally televised quiz show is the highlight of Jamaica’s school year. I decided to take on this challenge and be a part of the team representing our school. Membership on this team turned out to be one of the best decisions I made during high school. As the captain of the team I had to lead by example. I worked-harder and studied more than my team mates in my effort to inspire them. Our team renewed and enhance our school’s reputation by advancing to the third round of the competition. During this team-effort I won over several peers that had skeptical of my non-Jamican background. More importantly my service as Team Captain taught me the importance of humility, hard work and teamwork. After my high school graduation I made an important decision in NOT immediately applying for college. Instead I decided to take a break from academics and pursue some experiential education. I moved to the USA for two years of volunteer work as a member of the Special Task Force, a youth program organized by my church. This program focuses on character education and leadership training. My communication skills improved greatly as I worked with and assisted literally thousands of people in thirty states from almost every walk of life. My the program supervisor eventually appointed my as Team Leader of other young people my age. As Team Leader I did my best to guide my team mates through community service, outreach, fundraisers, and moral education activities. By living most of my life in several differenct countries I became keenly aware of the diverse cultures that exist in the world today. The vast differences in cultures is something that, I think, cannot be easily grasped by someone growing up in a developed country. These experiences helped me to become adaptable to many circumstances and have enabled me to relate to people of all cultural backgrounds. Probably my most important lesson-learned during my international time was that I placed on myself many self-imposed limitations; perhaps too many. I found that if I go beyond these artificial limitations I can accomplish more than I thought possible. This self-discovery helped me persevere through many challenges in college, work, and my personal life. My life experiences have given me a well rounded understanding of the world in which we live. Growing-up, and working-in different continents has given me the ability to easily adapt to any circumstance. I also love to learn, both in the classroom and in life. My worldly experiences, and strong desire to learn, make me confident that I will succeed in my field of Mechanical Engineering. I am sure that I will make strong contribution to the University of California. I look forward to attending a UC College of Engineering, and I will do my best to bring credit to this fine university.

Example 7 #1 My intended major is civil engineering. © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 13

The interest and passion I have toward the civil engineering field struck me just after a powerful earthquake known as the Wenchuan Earthquake. This terrible natural disaster took place in Southern China on May 12, 2008. I was terrifyed to witness the face of a mother who died as she protected her infant child from the effects of the earthquake. I can almost hear victims crying inconsolably upon losing their homes and even the lives of some family and friends. Nearly 68,000 people died during this earthquake that also left almost five million survivors homeless. With many sorrowful stories, my attention was drawn toward the fallen buildings which appeared sturdy before the earthquake, but crumbled during the shaking. Every time I thought of the fallen buildings, my desire to become a civil engineer grew more intense. I want to learn how to design strong buildings and houses, allowing people to work and live in safety. Another earthquake of the Wenchuan magnitude may happen again and I want to help create building to withstand it. I began researching and collecting information about structures built to resist earthquakes, especially for a worst case scenario such as the Wenchuan Earthquake. I started with internet searches, and watching many documentary videos regarding structures and buildings. As I learned about structural engineering I became more curious and hungered for greater knowledge. Even with many hours and devotion to self-studying engineering, I knew that only a university experience could formalize my knowledge. I did well in early college classes due to my strong desire to earn a Civil engineering degree. My interest in the field makes it easier comprehend specific details and concepts related to engineering. When I encounter situations that I do not completely understand, my curiosity drives me to study and learn more about it so I can apply this knowledge. Several teachers recognized my technical talent and nominated me to represent the school in a Mathematical Olympiad Match. In the Mathematical Olympiad Match, I learned many interesting problem-solving methods, as well as special study skills that helped me very much in my engineering classes. I hope use some of the thinking strategies to design new and better structural components. Many of my teachers also recommended me to for math and physics tutoring. My tutor duties allowed me to share my desires with others as I mentored them and inspired them to become sience/engineering heroes as well. Tutoring is such a wonderful experience because students share their challenging questions. We then struggle and learn together. Even though I am the tutor, the students often teach me something new, or share a unique perspective that helps me in my studies. I am ready to pursue my ambition, use my skills, to work with other engineers who will fulfill my dream of providing for the world by creating a structurally safe environment.

#2 Perseverance is one of the greatest strengths that defines my character. I believe in my personal qualities and I am very proud of the obstacles and challenges I have overcome to reach my academic goals. In order to become a great engineer, I work intensely to learn all I can about engineering. I make a stong effort to understand every detail. When difficult times arise, I know that hardships often lead to good ends. Shortly after my family had moved to the USA, an unexpected disaster happened in 2010: My father was twice victimized by a stroke which caused him Hemiparalysis and many other symptoms that powerfully impaired our family’s way of life. Due to my father’s fragile © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 14

health and his inability to work, I helped the family by working more hours to contribute to the family finances. I also assist my mother who does not speak English. Along with employment, school, and many other responsibilities to fulfill each day, I must communicate with the hospital to ensure my father's good care, contact agents of the insurance company, and drive my mom to visit my dad daily. These challenges do not and will not defeat my good spirit because of the fierce desire I have, dreaming to become a great engineer; this will always burn in my heart. I study until midnight every single day, even on the weekends. I study after work to make sure I will stay ahead of the classes and be the best student; I love what I learn. Besides collecting valuable knowledge applicable to my engineering path and maintaining a 4.0 GPA, I also need to support my family. This challenge is even more difficult because my dad does not qualify for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefit, and my family lost its main income from my father’s employment. Due to the increased hours on the job to earn money, I have lost additional study time, personal time, and family time. As a resolution to this problem, I continue to focus on the goal; my dream of earning a civil engineering degree. I know that this obstacle will not prevent me from making my dreams come true. To help pursue my goal, I participate in many clubs at Chabot College, such as the Engineering Club, International Club, and Alpha Gamma Sigma club. The Engineering Club gives me insight into the engineering field, and raised my level of interest in engineering. We share ideas and participate in fun activities such as building a model-sized wind turbine which creates mechanical energy from the wind, We also discuss current technological developments, and their effect on peoples’ lives. Outside of Chabot College, I am also a member of the Aspire Program, EOPS Program, and the Bridge to Engineering Program which helped me become a more dedicated engineering student. To pursue my goal, I will never say “impossible” to myself because I believe that as long as I continue to give a 110% effort, then my engineering dream will eventually be realized. The scholarships I received from the Aspire Program and Tung Goon Bo On Association are indications of my motivation and personal qualities. I am confident that my perseverance and personal qualities will always keep me strong enough to overcome every challenge I meet in the future and to eventually become an outstanding engineer.

Example 8 #1

I intend to major in the wonderful field of Mechanical Engineering as I aspire to become a machine-design engineer. I want to practice mechanical/machine design engineering because I have always been fascinated with HOW machines do their work. As a child, I often took apart my electric powered toys to learn how these “machines” transferred power from the motor to the moving parts, Often I would modify the transmission parts to change how the toy operated. For example I once made a power and steering system for a RC boat using the components from my RC airplane. As I grew older, my interest shifted to larger machines such as my mountain bike. I was fascinated by complexity of the components of machinery with moving parts. I © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 15

always tried to understand how the machine converted electrical, pneumatic, heat, or human power into useful motion. This intense curiosity leads naturally to my choice of the Mechanical Engineering major. For many year father worked in building construction. On several occasions I had the opportunity to visit his construction. I immediately noticed some of the difficulties of construction process. For much of the day the workers completed tasks that required a great deal prolonged-standing, bending and stooping. Frequently the worker had to lift and carry heavy objects. Watching this activity, I thought how I might improve this working environment by designing robotic systems that. I instinctively new that Engineering Design could improve the lives of construction workers such as Dad. . Some my inspiration for robotic-system design comes from the computer game Star Craft. In There “SCV” portion of the game a human wearing a robotic exoskeleton that collects resources and constructs buildings. I dream of bringing this robotic suit life. My concept is that four limbs and a main-body would form the basic suit. The main body would include sensors to detect nerve-signals and limb-motion. Computer software would then “learn” from the sensor inputs, allowing the robotic limbs to copy our movements. The robotic suit basically acts as a strength and stamina amplifier, allowing an operator to finish difficult physical tasks without the risk of injury. My design could be easily adapted to enable people with extremity disabilities to perform tasks without assistance, giving the person much greater independence. Creation of such a robotic suit requires sophisticated Mechanical Engineering. Such a system would include the integrations of computers, sensors, motors, servos, power sources, precision mechanical parts, strong and light materials, an intuitive user interface, and operating software. Design and production of such an assistive suit presents many technical challenges. Earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering would prepare me to overcome these engineering design obstacles to ultimate create a product that would help countless people. Fortunately for me my uncle owns an automobile repair business. I often visit my uncle’s auto shop to help him with diagnosis and repair work. This has been a tremendous learning experience. I gained hands-on skills by operating repair machinery and disassembly/reassembly of automotive systems. I think that these experiences would definitely be an asset as I learn the art and science of machine-design engineering. I also joined the student engineering organization here at Chabot College. Joining the club gave me the chance to apply the knowledge gained from my coursework. Currently our club is working on the design and construction of a 3D printer. By participating in this project, I now understand the importance of teamwork. The success of the project requires that EVERY team member contribute to the effort. I’ve also learned the value of planning and communication. The project plan guides the efforts of team members, and effective communication keeps the project on-track. I’m very excited about continuing my Engineering Education, and I would work very hard to take advantage of the learning opportunities that are a natural part of earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering. I hope you will look with favor on my application for admission to this fine program.


Example 9 #1 I plan to major in the wonderful field of Chemical Engineering. In my opinion, innovative Chemical Engineering will solve many environmental and health problems humans must overcome in 21st century. For example, air and water pollution in my hometown of Guangzhou, China, produced major health concerns. On some days during my childhood, I the thick smog would obscure the sun in the sky. I also learned that Guangzhou rain water often reached acidic levels with a pH as low as 5.6. Many people living near factories suffered from exposure to industrial toxins. My first-hand observation of the destructive power of a degraded environment motivates me to lessen impact of useful industrial activities. I hope to use the knowledge and skills gained through the study of Chemical Engineering to improve the lives of the people in Guangzhou and other areas that encounter similar situations. I know that Chemical Engineers can design improved industrial and manufacturing processes that would generate greatly reduced levels of undesirable byproducts that might degrade the air and water. Chemical engineers could employ advanced materials, new catalysts, networked sensors/actuators, and sophisticated real-time control algorithms to produce useful products with a greatly reduced environmental footprint. The opportunity to APPLY my strong interest in the science of chemistry also lead me to my chosen career of Chemical Engineering. When I learn a new topic in chemistry, I’m very excited with the new knowledge. I feel as though my whole world has become much more broad and rich. For example, when I learned the basic atomic structure, I was amazed by phenomena which I never knew existed such as the process by which an electron dropping to its ground state from an excited state releases energy in the form of light. This is why a hot iron rod glows red, and why certain electronic diodes (LEDs) produce light to efficiently. I find Engineering, in general, fascinating as I really enjoy solving problems. When I was a boy, I would feel happy and excited when I solved a complicated jigsaw puzzle, or worked through a difficult mathematics problem. This experience still influences me. Solving science and engineering problems reminds me of playing with puzzles; when I get stuck on some point, I try to imagine different ways to solve it. At Chabot College I’m currently enrolled in a Computational Methods course where students use software tools such as MATLAB and SimuLink to solve calculus-based engineering problems. I learned in this course that technical problems can be solved in a number of different ways as well. I find the entire process of using chemistry and technology to solve real-world problems extremely exciting. I also like to help my fellow students with their studies. I think that sharing my knowledge with other students helps me to learn the subject as well. As a chemistry tutor, I met many students struggling with complex topics. As I assisted these students I found my own knowledge refreshed and reinforced when I explained the chemistry concepts to the student. Along with tutoring in chemistry, I also hold the position of President of the Chemistry Club at Chabot College. From my experience leading this club, I've gained organizational skills such as meeting management and event planning/preparation. Most importantly, I've had the opportunity to share the wonder of chemistry with other students, brining more and more students into fields of chemistry and engineering. I think these experiences are the most precious in my life. When I become a UC Chemical Engineering student, I would love to tutor chemistry and chemical engineering students as this will help them and me to learn the course material. © Bruce Mayer, PE • Chabot College • Personal Statement • Page 17

As I study chemistry and engineering at my community college, my desire to be a chemical engineer grows ever stronger. A career in Chemical Engineering will give me the opportunity to design solutions to important and difficult “puzzles” such as the reduction of harmful industrial pollution. I look forward to completing by baccalaureate degree in Chemical Engineering which will enable me to help solve these “puzzles” and to improve the lives of so many people. I look forward to joining your fine Chemical Engineering Program.

#2 I emigrated from China to the U.S with my parents in 2008, just after I graduated from high school in China. Since the tuition for out-of-state students was so high, I went to adult school for free English study. During those few months, my parents could not find any jobs and had great financial difficulty. As a result, one day, my parents told me that we needed to go back to China. But I told them that I had decided to remain here to study because I could then pursue my dream in the U.S. My mother ended up going back to China, while my father stayed with me. At that time, I studied hard to improve my English skills. I borrowed some textbooks such as college-level chemistry and calculus from my cousin and studied them at home by myself. As time went by, my English skills improved very much. Later on, I took an assessment test in Chabot and, surprisingly, I received a high score in English and math. The first English course I took in college was tough for me because it was about critical thinking and writing. The major problem I encountered was that I didn't know how to write longer essays which involved critical thinking. At that time I really needed some help in the course, but my parents couldn't help me because they only had a little bit high school education. Taking the instructor's suggestion, I went to the tutoring for English writing every day. I trusted her advice that a good foundation of English skills I built up would certainly help me in future studies. At last, I got an A in that English course and my English improved tremendously. More importantly, I not only improved my critical thinking skills, but became truly confident in studying in college. A while ago, my grandmother became seriously ill and my father had to go back to my country to take care of her. I understood that the situation was hard for my family and that I needed to be strong to overcome this circumstance. Living by myself, I have had to manage money and take good care of myself. I also need to manage my time and balance the time between work and study. When other students are playing video games, I'm concentrating on my study because I don't want to waste the money I paid for tuition and the valuable time. Despite the busy schedule between home and school, I have done my best and received A's in my classes. The experience of living without parents not only builds up my skills for cooking and fiscal management, but also trains me to be a more responsible, independent, and a disciplined person. I'm proud of having these qualities.

Example 10 ***************prompt 1**************


I intend to major in the exciting field of Civil Engineering. At early age I became interested in engineering by working with my father at residential construction sites. My dad usually asked me to perform routine tasks such as sweeping or picking up loose nails, but I enjoyed this as I could watch the buildings take shape over time. As I swept I began to wonder exactly how these houses were held up by thin two-by-four wooden beams, why the ceiling did not cave in, how the building withstand the shaking of a strong earthquake, and most interestingly, HOW and WHO designed the building in the first place. My uncle, an environmental engineer, told me that civil engineers create building designs that produce strong and safe structures that withstand hurricane-winds and powerful-earthquakes. At that moment that I realized I wanted to become a civil engineer. My curiosity about building structures led me to civil engineering, and by choosing it as my major field of university study, I can, throughout my adult life, engage the same curiosity and to experience the same excitement about the building process that I felt at the age of ten. As I grew older, my interest in civil engineering intensified as I continued to work with my father in residential construction and as I worked under the guidance of my instructors at Chabot College. On one occasion, my father and I were remodeling a three story house built in the 1920s. We needed to erect a scaffold to reach a top story window, but the scaffold could not be secured to the house as the scaffold brackets might damage the original stucco on the exterior. To meet the customer’s needs of replacing windows without defacing the exterior, I designed and built a support system that braced the scaffold. This experience had a profound impact on me because it gave me an opportunity to logically solve a problem, implement a design from paper to reality, and meet a customer’s unexpected need. Engineers must perform these tasks on a regular basis, and it is experiences such as the scaffold-support design which helped me to develop the creative problem solving skills which I will use my entire Civil Engineering career. During my calculus-based Physics and Engineering-Mechanics classes, my instructors, Mr. Scott Hildreth and Mr. Bruce Mayer (both of whom have years of engineering-practice experience), provided me with the tools to answer some of those first questions about buildings that I had asked as a boy. In these courses, I studied Newton’s Laws of Mechanics where I learned how to use calculus and reasoning to solve real life problems. Mr. Hildreth and Mr. Mayer inspired me and informed me about the hard work, fulfillment, and opportunities offered by an engineering career. By attending one of the finest universities in the world, I can develop to a very high level my understanding of the field and have expert guidance along my path in engineering. Just as my instructors influenced and inspired me to achieve academic excellence, I have been afforded the opportunity to help others as a mathematics tutor at Chabot College. In that capacity, I refined thinking and analytical skills that will support my future work as a Civil Engineer. Not only has the tutoring experience solidified my understanding of higher levels of mathematics; it has required that I refine my communication skills so I can explain complex topics, clearly, concisely and effectively. Additionally, the tutoring experience gave me the chance to reach out and to help my local community by aiding my peers. Just as I strive to help my peers grasp algebra, geometry, and calculus, I as an engineer could contribute to the community by using the knowledge I gained at the university by contributing to technical advances to the benefit of our society. After earning undergraduate and graduate Civil Engineering degrees, I plan to work as a City or County engineer. By working in the public


sector I can engage my university training in civil engineering to directly contribute to the effective, efficient, and safe construction of municipal infrastruture

***************prompt 2************** My participation in year-round competitive USA Swimming from age eleven has had a profound impact on me. Swimming taught me life skills that I will carry with me well into my engineering career and throughout my entire life. Through participation on swim teams I realized the importance of hard work, commitment, teamwork, and time management. As a swimmer, I consistently arise at five in the morning for practice, swim for several hours twice a day, and devote many hours on weekends to formal competitions. At one particular swim meet in Long Beach, CA, I had a very rough first race. My team and coach became concerned about my ability to contribute to the team effort over the course of the weekend-long competition. Fortunately, all of the hard work and time I had put into my training gave me the confidence to recover from these difficulties. I eventually swam a personal-best time in the 200 yard freestyle race. This experience reinforced my view that hard work and commitment that brought me the success that I enjoyed in swimming and academics. Additionally, understanding the value of teamwork and unity, I routinely encouraged my teammates by helping them to refine the technical aspects of swim-starts and swim-turns. Without the ability to manage my time, I would have never been able to be simultaneously successful the classroom and swimming pool. Reaching my goals of earning an undergraduate degree in civil engineering, of continuing my education with a master’s degree, and of ultimately working in the public sector will require effective time management, communication, and disciplined commitment. There is no substitute for working hard as powerful personal effort gives one the best chance of meeting personal goals. I am proud of my swimming career not only because of my successes in the pool, but more importantly because of the crucial life skills learned during the process of training, preparation, and performance required by the sport.

Print Date/Time = 20-Jun-15/21:57


Personal Statement for Uni Students

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