This blog post explores how to articulate personal experiences and academic interests that led to choosing the Department of Biotechnology within your academic plan, using concrete examples and goals to present a genuine motivation for applying.
Reasons for Pursuing This Major
My interest in the field of biotechnology was sparked by Dr. Hwang Woo-suk’s stem cell research, which was once a major topic of discussion in the media. I understand that Dr. Hwang’s human embryonic stem cells were later proven to be fraudulent, and the controversy surrounding this continues to this day. However, regardless of that controversy, the potential of stem cells that I learned about at that time was sufficiently compelling to me. As my interest grew, I also learned that South Korea suffers from a severe shortage of research personnel compared to developed nations. The reality that stem cell research had actually failed, coupled with the lack of researchers, actually sparked my competitive spirit. Upon exploring biotechnology further, I discovered it ranks among the top ten critical advanced technologies for the 21st century and is also identified as a crucial field in South Korea’s future science and technology projections. Thus, the more I learned about biotechnology, the more I realized its importance and felt it was worth challenging myself in this field.
Academic Plan and Goals
To make the most of my college experience, systematic planning and firm resolve are essential. During my first and second years, I plan to focus diligently on the foundational curriculum. A solid foundation is crucial to ensure I can tackle my major studies ahead without difficulty. Starting in my third year, I plan to fully dedicate myself to my major studies, specializing in genetic engineering. Beyond my major, I intend to read widely across various fields to build the humanities foundation that engineers often neglect. I believe that only by integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines can we conduct better research.
Furthermore, since English is fundamental to conducting research, I intend to dedicate myself to improving my English skills. Proficiency in English is crucial for reading diverse materials, so I will enhance my language abilities to ensure there are no obstacles in my research. Currently, I plan to attend a language study program after completing my sophomore year to build my English skills.
Beyond academics, I aim to gain diverse experiences through social service activities. My mother volunteers three times a week at a rehabilitation center and a free meal center. As a student preparing for exams, I was unable to participate much due to my studies. Therefore, once I become a university student, I will strive to volunteer with my mother whenever possible and gain extensive experience through other activities that allow me to engage with society.
Plans After Graduation
After graduating from university, I will enter the Graduate School of Biotechnology at ○○○ University. I intend to dedicate myself fully to research, completing my master’s and doctoral degrees with internationally competitive research achievements. Upon finishing my PhD, I aim to pursue opportunities at foreign universities to exchange diverse research experiences with international biotechnology researchers. While I recognize this won’t be easy, I am determined to make it happen. Biotechnology is not just a key industry for Korea but a global challenge, so interacting with many researchers will greatly benefit my development.
Once I have accumulated substantial research experience, I aspire to contribute to society and nurture the next generation as a university professor for the rest of my life. I am aware that my goals are not easy. That is precisely why I know I must dedicate myself to my studies and give my utmost effort. Though challenging, I believe having such grand ambitions is what will bring me one step closer to my dreams.
Self-Introduction (Life Philosophy, Values)
During my school days, I often thought: the smarter a person is, the kinder they should be. It might sound a bit silly, but I remember worrying back then – what if someone is intelligent but evil? Observing classmates, I saw very kind friends who weren’t academically strong, and others with good grades who didn’t seem particularly kind. These experiences fueled such thoughts.
Perhaps because others shared this concern, the notion that intellectuals bear a responsibility emerged.
As you know, if scientists misuse scientific knowledge, it can cause immense harm to humanity. This is likely why scientists often appear among the villains in novels or comics. Therefore, I believe scientists must possess an altruistic heart. I think this should be a fundamental quality for those pursuing science. No matter how outstanding one’s technical skills or intellectual abilities may be, they are useless if not applied correctly. This is why the same knife makes a difference depending on whether it’s held by a doctor’s hand or a robber’s hand. I am aware that the field of study I pursue must be applied particularly well. Therefore, I will always reflect on myself, constantly remind myself of my responsibilities as a scientist, and study accordingly. If I can thereby contribute even a small part to our society, I believe that is sufficient justification for my pursuit of scholarship.
