范文一

　　Advances in Computer and Information Technology over the past few decades have brought about revolution in science, medicine, education, business, and entertainment. I wish to be part of the future revolution and that is why I want to study Computer Science. The idea of studying Computer Science came to me as soon as I started considering my career options: I have been around computers from an early age and have absorbed myself in them ever since. I am particularly interested in the integration of computing in music production (which I have a passion for), research into breakthrough technologies such as “Direct Note Access” has shown me the amazing possibilities that could be achieved with the right ideas and knowledge behind them. My interest in Computer Science comes from my view of it as a challenging and creative subject, I am particularly eager to study software engineering and computer graphics.

　　Studying ICT has enhanced both my knowledge and experience in the uses and applications of computer systems. For my AS coursework project I successfully developed an order processing system for a local business which gave me good experience in system analysis and development, including use of complex formulae, creation of macros and use of VBScript. I am currently leading the project to revamp my school’s website which has given me the opportunity to show off my self-taught web design skills and has also given me the chance to gain further experience working to an end user’s criteria and to develop leadership skills.

　　Mathematics has been my strongest subject for as long as I can remember. Due to my quick grasp of concepts within the subject I have been in advanced classes since primary school, continuing up to my A levels which has allowed me to have already passed 5 out of my 6 modules with a grade A in each. I have always found the subject interesting as it demands pure logic. My natural ability for logical thinking and problem solving has been strengthened through the study of this subject and the constant challenge of applying new methods and concepts.

　　Physics is yet another subject that demands logical thinking, while at the same time demands evidence and theory to back it up, providing application of maths aspects of the real world. My coursework investigating the deformation of solids enabled me to combine both my mathematical and research skills to help produce detailed analysis and evaluation to prove that the concept of Hooke’s Law was valid. I was particularly fascinated with the Waves Properties module as the theories on stationary waves and superposition explain a lot about how sound works.

　　My work experience with Futuretrend Technologies gave me a good insight on how IT based organisations work and the importance of IT within the business world. My employment with Blockbuster Inc. and volunteer work with Cancer Research have both given me the opportunity to interact with customers to provide a helpful service as part of a team, reinforcing both my communication and team working skills.

　　Being brought up in a household with a father of East-African Islamic culture and Christian-raised English mother, as well as living in multi-cultural areas and attending multi-cultural schools, I have had the pleasure of experiencing many different cultures and religions allowing me to develop a wide understanding and acceptance of lifestyle and belief of others which has also given me insight into global politics and history. I have various hobbies such as basketball, cycling and music. I enjoy listening to music, but even more I enjoy composing music, playing the piano and am currently teaching myself how to play the acoustic guitar.

　　Taking a persistent approach to all my work, I always strive for the best results and never turn away from a worthy challenge. I believe that my endless curiosity, infectious self motivation, and ability to work effectively as part of team would make me an ideal candidate for Computer Science.

　　范文二

　　In connection with my application for acceptance into your Ph.D. program, I am enclosing the following statement concerning my life, professional activities, and tentative future plans.

　　I was born in Xiamen, Fujian Province in China on November 8, 1969. Later, my family moved to Beijing where I grew up. I am from a family of academics. My father is a professor of linguistics and Chief of the University Journal Agency of Beijing Language and Culture University (formerly Beijing Language Institute). My mother is a professor at the same university and teaches Chinese as a foreign language. From 1991 to 1993, my mother taught Chinese at Wittenberg University, Ohio and Indiana University at Bloomington. She encouraged me to apply for admission to advanced programs in the U.S.

　　I graduated from high school in 1988, and received the highest scores in my school at the National Entrance Examination for Universities. This made me an “Honor Student” at the national level. Upon acceptance to Beijing Language and Culture University, my major became English, with minors in linguistics, French and computer science. I was awarded consecutive scholarships for all four years in college. During my college years, I became more and more interested in linguistics. My senior year was largely devoted to topics in linguistics, and my required thesis work focused on the influence of cultural and educational factors upon the Chinese and English languages.

　　After college, Beijing Science & Technology University employed me. For the first year and a half I was assigned to a project aimed at creating improved computer program for idiomatic English-Chinese & Chinese-English translations. This project proved me with considerable experience linguistics, and further improved my understanding of the subtleties of both English and Chinese.

　　Since the project completion, I have been teaching intensive English courses at Beijing Science and Technology University. Since July of 1993, I have taught English listening comprehension at Beijing Language and Culture University. The latter classes are part of a program that provides adult Chinese professionals with opportunity to improve their English.

　　My interest in linguistics is initially based on my desire to better comprehend the English language, and, in the process, learn more about my own language. China is now opening and engaging in ever expanding cultural and financial relations with the English-speaking countries of the West. It has struck me, as it may have occurred to many of my compatriots that negotiations to bring about these new and improved relations sometimes break down because of mutual ignorance about each other’s languages. I am aware that this has been a popular problem for study, among Americans engaging in business and other fields, but I am not aware of any serious attempt to research this problem from a Chinese point of view.

　　Through my work in the U.S., I would hope to contribute to a better understanding of the problems inherent in the deep differences between the two languages.

　　I recognize that a thesis project in most graduate schools is chosen after on has studied in various programs in a department and after extensive discussion with one’s professors. Nevertheless, I would hope that investigating socio-cultural differences between English and Chinese might be considered a suitable topic. Such a study would focus on the cultural, historical, traditional and educational factors, which influence the two languages, and significantly contribute to possible misinterpretations.

　　My long-term plan is to continue working on comparative aspects of English and Chinese linguistics. I strongly desire to work in an academic environment combining teaching, research and writing.

　　I heard that your English/Linguistics Department has a reputation for academic excellence. I am applying to your program because I desire the best education possible for my professional career.