A Personal Inspiration

As I approached the end of high school, I found myself fascinated by the workings of the human brain and the ways it enables us to think, feel, and interact with the world around us. Eager to explore this field, I began to research universities that offered programs in cognitive and neural systems, and I was quickly drawn to Boston University. With its outstanding faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and vibrant campus community, BU seemed like the perfect place for me to pursue my interests and goals.

However, while I was intrigued by the idea of studying the brain, I had yet to experience the transformative power of this field firsthand. That all changed when I met my friend Lily, who would go on to become my inspiration and mentor. Lily and I had known each other since childhood, but it wasn't until high school that we became close friends. As we navigated the challenges and opportunities of adolescence, Lily began to confide in me about her struggles with anxiety and depression. I did my best to be a supportive friend, but I often felt helpless in the face of her pain and confusion.

One day, Lily told me about a cognitive-behavioral therapy program that she had started attending, and how it was helping her to manage her symptoms and gain a deeper understanding of her own mind. Intrigued, I began to research this type of therapy, and I was amazed to learn about the many ways in which it draws on principles of cognitive and neural science to promote mental health and well-being.

Over the next few months, Lily and I discussed her experiences in therapy, and I was struck by the power and complexity of the human brain, and the many ways in which it can be shaped and transformed through learning, practice, and reflection. I began to devour books and articles about cognitive and neural systems, and I found myself drawn to the challenges and opportunities of this field. With Lily's encouragement and guidance, I started to explore the many dimensions of cognitive and neural science, from artificial intelligence and machine learning to cognitive neuroscience and cognitive psychology. I was fascinated by the ways in which researchers were using cutting-edge tools and technologies to unravel the mysteries of the brain, and I was eager to join this community of explorers and innovators.

Now, as I look ahead to my college career, I am excited to bring my passion and curiosity to Boston University's program in cognitive and neural systems. I am eager to learn from the outstanding faculty, engage in cutting-edge research, and collaborate with like-minded peers who share my interests and goals. I am confident that BU's supportive and dynamic community will provide me with the resources and opportunities I need to achieve my dreams, and I look forward to contributing to this vibrant and innovative community in my own unique way.