In this personal statement, I would like to explain why I qualify to be accepted into the Slavic languages and literature program at Stanford University. To begin with, I understand that there are several factors that impact an applicant’s chances of being admitted to the M.A. program, including their skills, interests, and desire to learn. The previous years that I spent as a student were rather beneficial and rich, and I managed to gain the experience and knowledge that were rather useful for me. However, my thirst for new information is not yet satisfied, and I am eager to enrich my knowledge in Slavic Literature. Thus, I will be honored and happy to be enrolled in the program I have selected.
Overall, there are numerous reasons that motivate me for a graduate study program at Stanford University. My great-grandmother was Russian, and from an early age, I was fond of Slavic literature. From about the age of ten, I dreamed of studying at precisely this educational institution. Its mission and values are very close to me and are highly significant for my worldview. For example, I find it great that Stanford university appreciates and encourages diversity, transparency in science, mutual respect, collaboration, and a culture of inclusion (“Core values and policy,” n.d.). In my opinion, it is these values that make our world better and more welcoming, and I want to be a part of such a team.
Therefore, I am excited to apply to Stanford because this has been my lifetime goal. I am determined to achieve my objectives and strive to continue to gain new knowledge and experiences in the program I chose. Thus, being accepted to Stanford will be a new level for me and a great step further. Additionally, I consider myself a suitable candidate as I have all skills and characteristics that are necessary for a student who wants to study successfully. For instance, my critical thinking is well-developed, and I always filter and evaluate new information rationally and not without some skepticism. I am disciplined and focused, and nothing can distract me from my studies, which is why I am always ready for the lessons and complete my tasks on time. What is more, I am good at doing academic research, which is a highly valuable skill for professionals in the field of Slavic literature and languages.
One may ask about my choice to study the Slavic languages and literature program in the USA and not in Russia. I have several reasons for this, the first one being the impossibility to move due to COVID-19 restrictions. In addition, it is interesting for me to study the culture of my ancestors through the prism of U.S. culture so that I could compare and contrast the approaches. I am quite interested to perceive Slavic languages, interpret texts’ metaphors and find out how close they are to the topics touched upon by Russian authors of classical literature. Since I am open to new views and opinions, studying this program will be an invaluable experience for me. Another reason is my desire to develop as a writer. Since I have already written my book, which will be published this year, I am considering continuing on the path of being a writer. I think that studying at Stanford University will help me with this, and the knowledge received through the program will be useful for me in writing other books.
Reference
Core values and policy. (n.d.). Stanford University.