Why I Apply for the MBA Program at the University of Central Florida (UCF)

I the UCF application essay I will describe what motivate me either professionally or personally to pursue a master’s degree at this university. My well-rounded background is characterized by immersing myself in a culture very different from my own, completing academic training in the United States and residing as a main contributor to a growing start-up company. Each of these experiences has lent a direct hand in my overall development and current decision to commence the MBA program at the University of Central Florida.

Leaving my native China eight and a half years ago was a decision that was never questioned. One of the defining moments in my life occurred when completing graduate studies of Industrial Design at Savannah College of Art and Design. As a sophomore, I visited Disney World and observed that people were happy, essentially receiving a sense of pure enjoyment from each and every attraction. Although there are many theme parks in China, they lack this unique environment. After contemplating how this feat was accomplished, I realized that my aim in life was to provide people with similar experiences. Therefore, I changed my major to Themed Entertainment Design and am proud to be one of the first graduates from this program. It could be said that this decision transformed my life in ways never imagined. After graduating, I worked as a show designer, creating attractions and live shows at ITEC Entertainment. This post was perfectly suited to my background and the job was truly rewarding.

Then I got a job offer from Dynamic Attractions, as a show designer, I design attractions and coordinate with Chinese clients. During working in Dynamic Attractions, one of our business partners want to start an office in Orlando. Meanwhile, Dynamic Attractions change its business strategy focus on ride vender instead of design and build ride. Dynamic Attractions would like to help this partner to build an office and help them take over design work.

When this partner presented his idea to establish a design studio that offered family-centered entertainment experiences, I knew this was an opportunity that could not be overlooked. Therefore, I started to help this partner to build a studio-- Eaglevision Entertainment Studios in the United States.

Without any direct knowledge of entrepreneurship, nor management experience, I found the means to get an EIN number, rent an office, open bank accounts, hire employees and eventually attend the company’s first expo. One year later, the company has 15 full time employees and many ongoing projects. Serving as the VP of Operations has been instrumental in the success we have achieved thus far. Nevertheless, after considering the growth that we are currently experiencing, completing an MBA would assist greatly in allowing Eaglevision Entertainment to reach its fullest potential. This is the motivating factor for my application and it is with high hopes that I will gain acceptance to your esteemed program. The range of courses offered and guidance provided by your faculty members will ensure continual success throughout my future endeavors.

Now I will describe the steps I took to select UCF and this program. As the VP of Operations, I play a key role in the business liaisons between our Chinese and American teams. This post requires directing and coordinating operations in accordance with Eaglevision Entertainment’s strategic growth plans. I have driven blue sky concept development and 3D visual development with my proficiency in various computer software programs. I have also developed large-scale projects in Chinese and English. As a result, I now comprehend how strategic business operations facilitate the growth and prosperity of an organization.

At the onset of my career, there have been project successes and failures. Hence, after realizing that there were specific situations that could have been handled differently, I began contemplating how graduate studies could extend my business administration awareness. Irrespective of the role played in a company, being equipped with a keen insight of business trends allows for well-informed decisions to be made. Given that your program is tailored for working professionals, offers a range of courses and allows students to demonstrate what they have learned through the capstone course, I find the University of Central Florida’s MBA program perfectly suited to my needs. In addition, after researching my options, the proximity of your campus to my home makes it the ideal institution to for me to attend. With the education offered by your esteemed faculty members, I will be able to view and address future projects from a new perspective, while also guiding my employees in the most appropriate manner.

Having gained extensive experience in the entertainment industry, the next step for me is to pursue the MBA program at the University of Central Florida. While completing the requirements of your program, I look forward to attending courses, such as Organizational Behavior and Development, International Business Analysis and Applied Strategy and Business Policy. My specific aim is to procure an expertise for implementing the latest business strategies, a proactive approach to analyzing complex business situations and the capability to lead teams internationally. After graduating, I will utilize my newfound skill-set by transforming into an individual who can manage employees in the United States and China, while also directing the growth of our company. I will additionally be capable of assessing all sides of an issue by relying upon the logical reasoning abilities necessary in this competitive entertainment industry.

As the VP of Operations, it is my responsibility to reside as a respected professional who oversees operations and ensures that the best service possible is provided to our clients. Your program will supply me with these capabilities and I therefore hope to join you in the near future.