Knowledge Makes You Great: College Admission Essay Sample (northeastern)

“Learning gives creativity, creativity leads to thinking, thinking provides knowledge. Knowledge makes you great.” – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

The most inspiring scientist that I have looked up to, not just for his knowledge but also for his humility and humbleness and I cannot yet describe the awe-inspiring moments of meeting him in person. These are the very words he shared in an hour long lecture, way back in 2012. Over these years, I have made my best effort to imbibe the above qualities not just through academics but also in making myself useful by disseminating the knowledge that I have acquired through several student clubs and volunteering roles. It is a personal goal and a dream that I too can create a significant impact with my work in the life of the common man. The decision to pursue MS in Mechanical Engineering at Northeastern University is one such important step that will take me closer to achieving this goal.

I earned admissions into Mechanical engineering program in Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM) which is one of the most reputable universities in southern India. Though I remained a topper throughout schooling, with college came the opportunity to apply my learning practically, one that I have done with gusto. Starting as a member and volunteer, I slowly and steadily made my way to leadership positions in the major technical clubs. Most interestingly, “Mechanical Engineering Association” and “Robotics and Innovation Club” allowed me to experiment within the student community, teaching and mentoring juniors at practically applying the classroom learning, especially in the areas of self-balancing bots and Android applications. So, it was indeed a proud moment when my paper on ‘Zero Gravity Arm’ won the 1st prize from over 180+ presentations as part of Synapse, department’s college level technical symposium.

During my fourth semester, I have been offered to work with Advanced Systems Laboratories in Indian Defense Research and Development Organization. The position was being offered to only 25 students out of 5000+ Applicants from all over India, it was truly an eye-opening opportunity as I got to learn from the country’s best engineers and scientists. During my internship, I was part of Department of advanced composites (DOAC). Here I have worked on various fabrication and manufacturing techniques applied to some high-end technology applications using Composites. I was also part of a scientist team which was responsible for designing and fabricating pressurized missile containers used by Indian Navy. This led me to learn more about design and manufacturing procedures which were used to develop durable and robust machinery.While working with leading scientists in real time scenario I also got to witness the interdisciplinary application of Electronics, Computers science in avionics. The experience and conversations intrigued me to explore the field further.

Later on, I started working on my course projects which required advanced study in Finite element analysis. I got to implement all the knowledge acquired during my undergraduate course work and various internships. These led me to my first academic project titled “Design and Analysis of Girder Suspension System.” Which made me lead a team of 4 wherein developed a Girder suspension design by incorporating trusses which in overall improved strength and handling. My second Major project was to solve a problem and came up with an idea to avoid heavy vehicle toppling on hilly terrains in India and executed project titled ‘Design and Analysis of Double Wishbone Suspension System for Off-road Heavy Vehicle’. This was achieved by replacing already existing bus’s leaf springs with Double wishbone Suspension with emphasis on off-roading to provide maximum ground contact and better handling. These made me realize that design and manufacturing are two sides of the same coin.

Later, I’ve been fortunate to get a job at Satyam Ventures (SATVEN) which is one of the top leading automotive Engineering service industry. As a CAE Analyst there for almost three years, I've been responsible for testing various Automobile Components for their safety and durability. I used CAE tools like Abaqus, Hyperworks, DesignLife Ncode extensively and developed Professional Proficiency in working with linear as well as Non-linear problems. Some of my team’s clients include ZF-TRW, BCS-AIS, FORD, Audi, GM and VW. During my tenure at SATVEN, I have been exposed to the gold standards of design, manufacturing and testing assemblies pertaining to some of the best automobile companies in the world.

After 33 months of solid work experience in the above areas, I feel that now is the time to go higher in the academic ladder. I strongly believe that my professional experience combined with advanced study will help me make the world a better place by being a better engineer.

As the technological landscape changes, to keep abreast with the latest advancements in Mechanical industry and my experiences have consolidated my vision to pursue the MS in Mechanical Engineering with specialization in Mechatronics.

My short term Goal after my MS is to work in one of the leading Engineering based Fortune 500 Company as a Lead Engineer. And in Long term my goal is to become an entrepreneur in the field of Technology. I would like to build advanced equipment’s for farmers at an affordable cost with all the knowledge I gather through my Professional Experience and my Masters.

My search for the right school led me to Northeastern University. There is not a single student in the Mechanical Engineering field in the college who wouldn’t know the school or have it on the top of their list of dream universities, given the school’s high reputation to create leaders in their field of study. There cannot be a better place for me to improve and expand my knowledge professionally, personally by experimental learning and also gain access to network of alumni and join the list of alumni who have created a name for themselves, the field they work for and the university for having paved the way to accomplish great fetes.

I know I am still at the start line and there is still a long way to go. I will come to you with an open mind and willingness to challenge my capabilities and motivation to make a difference with my work. With the expertise and learning that Northeastern University affords, I am confident of achieving my goals and further unlock my potential. I am looking forward to such an experience and eagerly wait to hear your decision on my candidature.