Motivation letter... have a look, please :)

Hello everyone in English Forums!!
After reviewing plenty of the letters given here (which helped a lot!) I finally finished my own motivation letter for a bachelor degree.
I would appreciate it very much if you could have a look and tell me your honest opinion.
Any suggestions and comments are more than welcome!
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Avans University of Applied Sciences,
April 28, 2012

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to express my great interest in applying for the bachelor programme of Environmental Science for Sustainable Energy and Technology (ESSET) at your university for the upcoming academic year of 2012-2013.

I started high school as part of a demanding programme that combines academic studies with the regular high school curriculum, all to be able to graduate with a BA degree in parallel to completing a secondary school diploma. Although I did not finish the programme as planned, it forced me to adapt myself to the busy and content-laden schedule, along with maintaining a high GPA. This allowed me to improve and refine my learning capabilities, expend my horizons and to become a quicker and better learner.

My first exposure to Environmental science and its importance was in elementary school during a lesson on the alarming ecological issues in Israel, which influenced me tremendously. I remember realizing the fact that each of us has the ability to improve and contribute to the current global status, by investing a minimal effort in our day to day lives.
And so, the desire to provide environmental solutions for future generations was inculcated in me since childhood. Following my interests I donated my time in several group activities such as cleaning squads, neighborhood recycling projects and animal welfare organizations.

After my graduation, I served two obligatory years in the IDF (Israeli defense force) as a telecommunication instructor and commander, supervising a small soldiers division. I was responsible for not only my teaching area, but also distributing project assignments, time managing and governing interpersonal relationships. My experiences during that period groomed me as a team player and taught me to function at a peak level while operating in a stressed environment.

My love for nature and adventures took me all the way to Australia and New Zealand, and in retrospect became one of my most formative experiences.
Out of the year and a half I stayed there, I devoted several months volunteering in organic farms as part of a worldwide organization called WWOOF (world wide opportunities on organic farms). I truly believe that living on a daily basis with people driven by principles similar to mine, has given me inspiration and motivated me to pursue high education in this field. Moreover, the fact that I have met many amazing people from different cultures made me realize how much I want to integrate an international environment with my studies.

After reviewing other universities I found that Avans University is offering me the best of all worlds. The combination between abundant curriculum, great location and lively environment, all wrapped in the excitement of an imminent challenge, will bring out the best of my abilities and lead to a productive study.

I am certain about exceeding all your expectations and adding diversity to your programme.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your acceptance.

Sincerely yours,