When I studied physics as my major in my undergraduate degree, I have deeply thought to pursue graduate studies in order to strengthen my specialized knowledge; I would like to learn more about applied physics. Because I want to have different experiences during the education period, I made up my mind to go the United States for advanced studies after I obtained my bachelor degree in order to broaden my horizons. My undergraduate program was taught partly in English, so I tried to become accustomed to studying in English after class time. It was a good strategy for me to develop my English ability. However, there are some differences between the western and eastern learning experiences. Through the INTO Mason program and the university learning background, it inspired my interest in a master’s program. Moreover, I am confident that I will appropriately adjust to the environment in George Mason University. Now, I am even more interested in applying the Master of Applied and Engineering Physics program at George Mason University.
I took courses in General Physics, General Chemistry, Applied Mathematics, different experiments of physics and foreign languages during university, which provided me with a solid foundation in physics, as well as enabled me to have clear theoretical logic and simple experimental ability. In addition, because of my interest is applied physics, I also took lots of applied physical classes such as Applied Optics and Nano-Technology. Thus, these curriculums helped me develop the different perspective of physics and hone my English ability. Among these courses, the professors brought the professional knowledge which caused me to develop a powerful interest in this area. After one year of studying in INTO Mason Pathway program, EAP courses that provide the academic writing and reading skill of western educational learning and PROV courses which develop the personal speaking and presentation ability.
Furthermore, I try to enhance my background experiences, so I joined in Natural Science Research Society in my undergraduate university. During the member’s period, I heard a lot of information in physics field from different scholars and how to build my interpersonal relationships. After becoming a leader of Natural Science Research Society, I began to organize activities such as visit the museum and invite scholars to have speech. For instance, I held an activity to visit the planetarium, because it not only makes the members become close but also could understand the knowledge of astronomy. It is a good experience for me because I could increase my social ability.
After examining the program at George Mason University, I realized that I am fascinated by various Applied Physics courses. For example, Modern Instrumentation which is one of required courses will develop me to operate specialized instrumentation systems for various areas of applied physics. It is an essential ability for people who want to work in physics and science areas. Furthermore, Solid State Physics and Applications is a course I will take in the future semester. Although already took Solid State Physics in my undergraduate, I still want to improve this section about applications. Though those classes at George Mason University, professors give me numerous professional knowledge and strengthen the field of contacts. Moreover, classmates make me understand the interaction with people in the United States. Because of discussions, I learn to utilize polite way to communicate, but I can clearly express my opinion. Listening their experiences improve me to have different ideas when I encounter some situation. Learning and Developing those skills is helpful to get into the workplace.
After graduation, I expect to work in the physics field by taking an Internship course to first obtain several opportunities in the engineering company or the research department of a large corporation. When I have enhanced my work experience, I plan to work in an international firm which is related to physics area and to rise to senior supervisor. As an international student, working in foreign place is not an easy opportunity. While going back to my home country Taiwan is an option, the long-term goal is to possess the expertise and management ability to raise the professional quality and ethical standards by relying on the training. In the future, I hope that I can become a partner in the company or have my own business.
Yu-Hsun Portfolio 