Why is Pitt a good choice for you?
I have no doubt the University of Pittsburgh is a great option for me; Pitt strikes me as an excellent institution to learn the skills required for my intended career, participate in high quality research and endless opportunities.
The Biological Studies major will allow me to pursue my interest in genetic diseases and their cures. The biological studies major will allow me to select classes that provide the skills necessary for a career in genetics. I am intrigued by Pitt. Professor Karen Arndt’s research because it focuses specifically on gene expression. Understanding gene expression will be crucial to me if I am to study genetic diseases and potentially remedy them. Arndt’s research focuses specifically on the mechanisms that regulate transcription in yeast. Yeast is a model organism and many of the mechanisms studied in yeast cells can be found in humans. I am interested in researching these mechanisms because many disorders in humans can be traced to mutations in cellular transcription. Out of all the research opportunities I looked into, this project at Pitt matched my interest the most; it is the option that I am most eager to pursue. The specific learning opportunities offered at Pitt makes it a great choice for me.
The University Honors College is yet another reason that Pitt is a superb choice for me. I am looking forward to the chance of writing a thesis while pursuing a Bachelor of Philosophy degree. Writing a thesis will require me to put in more effort than I ever have and exert myself to the fullest. A paper as long and rigorous as a thesis will prepare me for the writing which I will do in my career. A completed thesis will demonstrate my dedication to potential employers. I will use the opportunity of writing a thesis to become familiar with primary literature. Reading lab reports is a large part of being a scientist so it will be helpful to do this as an undergraduate. Doing so will teach me how to analyze and make use of raw data. In addition, the high academic standards involved in graduating from the Honors College like the 3.5 cumulative GPA will motivate me to work harder to succeed. Overall the Honors College is a great fit for my academic pursuit.
Furthermore, the Undergraduate Teaching Assistant Program would be a tremendous opportunity for me to hone my skills. I am no stranger to helping others; I would love to share my knowledge with other students because doing so will increase my confidence as well. In the past, I have tutoring classmates as part of the National Honor Society and I would love to continue this effort at Pitt.
I am very confident that Pitt will be a suitable fit for me. The University offers me the chance to pursue my area of interest, especially genetics. The opportunities at Pitt align with my future goals and aspirations; I believe that I can contribute to the fight against genetic disorders with the knowledge I obtain from Pitt.