UF Essay
Though my interests in technology were solidified around the age of 10 when I started exploring computers more in-depth, it took years to find a channel to quench my thirst for technology. In school, I was taught basic math and science, but rarely any application. By high school, I was given the opportunity to cumulatively apply skills in science, math, and technology in robotics, which further aided me in solidifying my interests. After a year participating on the robotics team, I was positive that I wanted to study Mechanical Engineering, leading to a career in the field, and by this point, I was ready to take proactive steps in preparing for my career. I recalled discovering Carnegie Mellon’s SAMS program on the Internet the summer previous, and after my experiences with robotics, I was sure that I wanted to pursue this interest. The SAMS program seemed perfect for me, offering the opportunity to hone science and math skills while being exposed to research labs and the college environment – all while in high school! Most importantly, it was free and rivaled many of the more expensive programs offered by universities that I couldn’t have attended due to financial restraints. The only catch was being accepted. Fortunately, and much to my surprise, I was accepted.
After exchanging goodbyes with my mother on an early June morning at Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and walking down the jet way on to the plane, for the first time in my life I was on my own, and I would be for the following six weeks. I experienced quite a shock upon arrival in Pittsburgh, from minor issues like transportation, living with strangers, and finding food, to major, daunting issues like shipping my laptop out to be repaired from a non-home location. Though sharing similar elements, SAMS was not just like school or a summer camp, it was a unique experience. Aside from gaining textbook and applicable, hands-on knowledge, I blossomed and became more social and independent. I met amazing people and made great connections. I learned to deal with problems on my own, to work with others, to be a better student, to think differently; I significantly developed as a person over those short six weeks.
Because I matured and learned so much over that single summer, my experiences at SAMS will probably aid in any future endeavors. I will be able to apply the social skills obtained almost anywhere in life. Since I have been briefly exposed to the college life, I will not face as great of a shock during my freshman year and I will be able to focus more on my studies rather than getting accustomed to independent or group living.
Attending the Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University in the summer of 2007 was not only an unforgettable educational experience, but also a life-changing social and personal experience.
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