My interest in studying engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.: College Admission Essay Sample

I have two homes, and they could not be more different.

My life in futurism-crazed Dubai is punctuated by my summers, which are spent amid the feeble cleanliness systems and lack of robust infrastructure endemic to places like Kolkata. This experience highlighted how crippling the lack of infrastructure could be. Growing up, I constantly looked for novel ways in which the environment could be improved. I naturally gravitated towards Civil Engineering because it is the profession of problem solvers, who use their scientific knowledge and skills to shape and improve people’s environments.

While reading around this subject, I took two online courses to get further insights into advanced mechanics and materials science. I pursued my passion for engineering and sustainability outside of textbooks and articles. My introduction to current standards came first- I learned about LEED standards and methods engineers use to achieve certification at a contracting company. What really struck me was how holistic sustainable engineering could be; every single part of a building or machine could be optimized.To examine these separate parts in a different context, I later completed a lighting energy audit (see jetasrigupta.wordpress.com). Next, I focused on the engineering uses of BIM and chiller performance modeling technologies. While looking at all of these I was inspired by the advancements made, but I also saw how much more was needed- technologies needed to be smarter and more efficient, as well as economically viable. Moreover, a fundamental shift in the behavior of businesses, as well as residents was required.

Carnegie Mellon, I feel, is a college where I could explore my interests by receiving a rigorous engineering education and by using resources to further my interests in sustainability. Although Civil Engineering is my primary interest, I would also get a broad education, while taking a general education and Dietrich courses. I hope to specialize in the energy aspect of environmental engineering while completing the course requirements and would look forward to taking the Renewable Energy Engineering course in particular, as I hope to pursue a career in this field.

The college of engineering is also fully committed to research in energy, citing it as a strategic initiative, and provides extraordinary opportunities to observe and to be inspired by cutting-edge research. Moreover, it recognizes the holistic and interdisciplinary nature of sustainability. I’d look forward to exploring the exciting and relevant research carried out at CACES, CEINT, GDI and the Scott Institute, among others. I am also excited by the prospect of learning from the research and expertise of Professors Dzombak and Samaras to further my interests in infrastructure, energy solutions and their development. Undergraduate research is an integral part of the Carnegie Mellon experience, and I would take full opportunity to work alongside a faculty member.

I find it appealing that the university is situated in a vibrant city. I can imagine being a part of the CMU chapter of Engineers Without Borders to discuss and solve problems of developing infrastructure, as well as the Society of Women Engineers to serve their work and cause - it would be the next natural progression to my involvement with Women in STEM activities in Dubai. I would assist faculty in the various civic engagement activities carried out around Pittsburgh, using the information and resources provided by SLICE. Having explored the cornucopia of courses activities available at Carnegie Mellon, I’d hope to graduate as a problem solver - an individual committed and primed to tackle the infrastructure and sustainability needs of the day, with a robust skill set at my disposal.