Prompt UIUC Supplemental
Describe your personal and/or career goals after graduating from UIUC and how your selected first-choice major will help you achieve them. (150 words)
Essay
When I studied antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at Tufts in 2023, I detected resistant bacteria everywhere–in a shed, a barn, a field–and discovered the severity of the problem. As a chemical engineer, I hope to develop innovative solutions that address the root of challenges like AMR. At UIUC, I’d like to join Professor Christopher Rao’s lab, where I will use engineering methods like multiscale modeling to “reprogram” populations of bacteria and prevent them from evading antibiotics. Courses such as Biotransport with Professor Hyunjoon Kong will further equip me with the skills to do this. With the knowledge I gain from my experience in the Rao Lab and my time exploring courses like Biotransport, I will be well-prepared for a career in chemical engineering where I will not only combat resistant bacteria, but prevent them from acquiring resistance in the first place. This will provide much-needed relief to communities around the world.
Tips for Writing
- Use an anecdote to show your goals/motivation
- Cite specific courses and opportunities at the school, but make sure you also explain why you like them (don’t just randomly list things)
- Don’t worry if your first draft is bad–just write and edit later
- Don’t worry too much about the word count (as long as you’re somewhere close). You can cut off the extra words when you’re done editing.