Personal statement

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to inform you of my interest in the M.S in Sustainable Design Program at Jefferson University and would like to express my desire to be considered for admission into the program.

My name is Ngo Tan Dung, I graduated from an advanced program in Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture, a top-tier institution in Vietnam, with a Bachelor Degree in Urban Design, so I had opportunities to learn various subjects related to Society, Planning, as well as Architecture, and Sustainable Design was one of topics mentioned regularly in these aspects. However, I did not pay much attention to it until I became involved in charity work and other social activities, particularly Earth Hour. By taking part in this campaign, I had understood deeply, not only about environmental issues, and the green movement but also eco-friendly materials such as Green Roof, which is made out of recycled mix milk bottles and plastic waste, or bricks sun dried. These experiences inspired me to research more into the relationship between Architecture and the Environment. As a result, Sustainable Design was the theme I was looking for.

After more than 4 years of working as an architect, along with attaining more knowledge in architecture and construction, I had also significantly developed my strength, critical thinking. And I gradually realize that in Vietnam, a developing country, people‘s awareness of sustainability is out of their depth because its definition and benefits seem to be vague to them. Thus, they are unable to comprehend that it plays a crucial role in adapting to and coping with climate change issues which will directly affect to their lives in the long run. Additionally, specified knowledge that I discovered by my self is quite limited, so it is insufficient to develop my ability to the fullest and express my opinions persuadably to local people or communities when I want to raise my voice about Sustainable Design. So these are my motivations for continuing my tertiary education and pursue my passion in this field.

Looking at a wide range of M.S in Sustainable Design programs around the world, I have considered studying the full-time campus-based program at Jefferson University as my first choice for some certain reasons. Firstly, it is difficult to find a specific major like this in other universities which can meet my expectation in this field. In addition, the curriculum offers an abundance of professional modules that help learners have a good grasp of Sustainable Design. For example, beside basic principles and practices, students can also focus on Green Building Operations, including some criteria like Resource Efficiency, Indoor Environment Air Quality. Secondly, East Falls Campus is situated in one of the greenest cities in America, Philadelphia, therefore, it is an ideal environment for academic research or extra-curricular activities relating to Sustainable Design. Additionally, since students from around the world are all welcome, I can study and work in group with them to strengthen my skills in communication and gain valuable experience that will widen my perspective.

Obviously, attaining a Master’s Degree from your distinguished faculty would benefit me in crucial ways. On completion of my study, I firmly believe that it would be of great help to prosperity to my future career and allow me to make greater contributions when I return to my country. As a specialist in Sustainable Design, apart from my official work in green architecture company, I will also take part in non-profit organizations to propagandize about the value of Sustainability in architectural design and other development.

I hope that I will have an opportunity to prove my abilities in the Master’s program of your university. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future regarding the success of my application. For your convenience, I have enclosed my resume. Thank you for your consideration.

Yours faithfully,

Sean