What matters to you and why?
I'd love your opinions on this, as I am not sure whether this answers the questions. Also, I am above the limit by about 80 characters. Perhaps you could suggest which parts are unnecessary.
Thanks!
For the past few years I have been searching for the field of study that would capture me the most. First it was science - I was fascinated by the intricate world of Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Soon, however, I turned to engineering. I realized that science studies the natural world around us, what already exists and can be observed. Engineering on the other hand uses that knowledge and applies it to create something new, something that may have been previously unimaginable. After further research I discovered a field of bio-inspiration.
One book that particularly inspired me was "The Gecko's Foot" by Peter Forbes. I learnt how only recently, with our ability to look into the nano scale, we have begun to realize the complexity and ingenuity of nature in many aspects. Moreover, we have the chance to study some of nature's technologies, such as the self-assembling properties of certain organisms, and design our own technologies adapted to humans, such as self-assembling circuits guided by artificial proteins. What fascinates me the most, however, is the brain. The complexity of the brain that allows us to learn, think and feel intrigues me, and I believe this in itself should serve as an inspiration for future engineering.
Studying these phenomena would be a pleasure, but what really matters to me is the impact that my research could make on the world around me. That is why I turn back to engineering. I would love to see my work, dedication and imagination make a difference to the lives of those around me, whether it is the knowledge of a gecko's astonishing foot clinging to the walls by sheer Van der Waals forces or intelligent systems which would help improve the quality of our lives, regardless of whether the implications are as grand as tackling Global Warming issues or as specific as a local irrigation system.
After years of searching I am still unsure of what exactly I want to dedicate myself to. I am certain that the environment in Stanford will be a source of infinite inspiration and will guide me to what I will truly love.
I had a lot of trouble with this one too...I wrote about perseverance. I think it is pretty good, but does it overlap with your intellectual development essay? As long as it isn't too redundant, I think this is a good topic!
