In this blog post, I will summarize and share my experiences and goals through my motivations for pursuing environmental engineering, my academic plan, my post-graduation plans, and a self-introduction.
Motivation for Pursuing Environmental Engineering
After entering high school, I studied four subjects—physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science—and found it fascinating to see how results were derived based on cause-and-effect relationships. I also enjoyed the process of analyzing the causes and phenomena when results differed from my expectations. By taking earth science as an elective, I learned about various mysterious phenomena on Earth, which deepened my interest in the planet and heightened my concern for the global environment.
Last [Month], I won the Gold Award at the Youth Invention Idea Competition for a method to recycle spent foundry sand using carbon dioxide. What began as a small curiosity grew beyond control, and I accomplished many tasks on my own, from filing a patent application to securing patent registration. I did not simply strive to win an award; I spent months pulling all-nighters researching to lay the groundwork for achieving my future dreams.
Although this technology or product has not yet seen the light of day in the market, I believe the pride I feel from having accomplished this on my own is sufficient. I wish to continue this passion for environmental engineering at your university. If admitted, I aim to develop eco-friendly technologies that can enhance national competitiveness.
Academic Plan and Goals
Once I enter university, I intend to focus wholeheartedly on my major studies. I will invest significant effort into building the foundational skills necessary to become an environmental engineering researcher. As I have a strong interest in waste-to-energy technology, I will cultivate an integrated and analytical perspective on environmental engineering through in-depth academic research.
Additionally, during my first and second years, I plan to study English diligently, as it serves as the foundation for all academic disciplines. I will also actively participate in current affairs and reading study groups to broaden my intellectual horizons by exchanging ideas and engaging in discussions with diverse individuals.
Starting in my third year, I intend to pursue more systematic and in-depth major studies to prepare for graduate school, and I will study hard to obtain the certifications required of a professional manager. Believing that mastering solid foundational theory in a rapidly changing environment fosters the ability to adapt without being swayed by external factors, I will strive to build a strong foundation. Jack Welch, former CEO of GE, said that the greatest characteristic of a successful person is passion. With this passion, I am determined to complete my college years without regret.
Post-Graduation Plans
After graduation, I would like to work at the National Institute of Environmental Research, focusing on waste-related tasks. I wish to conduct research on treatment methods for non-biodegradable wastewater, such as developing new wastewater treatment processes that apply innovative technologies to difficult-to-degrade wastewater, including livestock wastewater.
The Wright brothers, who invented the airplane, and Bell, who invented the telephone, were both ridiculed and mocked by many people at the time. However, they never gave up; instead, they dedicated themselves to their work with a spirit of challenge and creativity until the very end. As a result, they are now revered as great inventors. I, too, want to create excellent technologies that protect the environment.
Therefore, I want to develop new environmental technologies that can recycle what was once considered mere waste into resources, establish a technologically advanced environmental company, and help create a clean Republic of Korea.
Self-Introduction
I have one personal motto: “As a young person, do not fear failure; take on challenges.” I believe that what truly makes a student a student is a heart filled with passion for life and a spirit of challenge. In keeping with the spirit of a student, I have used my passion to take on challenges that, at first glance, seemed beyond my capabilities.
I have failed many times. However, I believed that if I gave up and let failure defeat me, I would never progress further. So, I kept trying, and in many cases, I eventually achieved my goals.
The Youth Invention Idea Contest I mentioned earlier was another major challenge for me.
At times, it felt as though my abilities were insufficient for the task. However, I recalled my personal motto and took on the challenge, and to my surprise, I had the honor of being selected as a winner. This experience reaffirmed my belief that one can learn and grow immensely by living a life of passionate challenge.
Moving forward, whenever I embark on a new endeavor, I will strive to maintain a challenging attitude, guided by the conviction to “have confidence in myself.”
