Pursuing a Career in Neuroscience Essay -- Personal Statement

Of all specialties of the Biomedical Sciences, I find Neuroscience very intriguing out of sheer fascination for the epitome of evolution – the brain. The brain directly or indirectly controls almost all functions necessary for survival, which compels me to investigate its complexity and functioning. Unexplored frontiers in Neuroscience - from the neuron to cognition, coupled with an urge to discover what makes us truly living compel me to pursue a career in Neuroscience. When I graduated from college in India, there was a scarcity of institutions offering graduate level courses in Neuroscience, and limitation of facilities and content in teaching, syllabus and research in this field. Hence, in order to obtain graduate level training, and since degrees obtained from American universities are internationally renowned for their academic excellence; I decided to apply to universities in the United States. While researching potential universities, what set Florida State University (FSU) apart was that besides academics, almost equal emphasis was placed on community service, leadership, and social or religious involvement. I really appreciated that students were recognized not merely for academic potential, but also for exemplary character demonstrated in selfless service rendered to the community, hospital or elders in retirement homes. The holistic approach that FSU had to offer during a student's college life, and quality of education in terms of coursework, research, seminars, conference, and specialty guest lecture series in Basic Neurosciences that graduate students were privileged to receive inspired me to apply to this university. My first visit to the United States was in Fall-2007 upon obtaining a scholarship ... ... rigorous academic schedule balancing a full load of course work, teaching, research, co-curricular, extra-curricular and social activities while consistently maintaining a high GPA. During the entire course of my graduate studies, I was awarded a scholarship that covered tuition and stipend. In addition, my academic excellence reached its zenith when I was inducted into the Golden Key International Honor Society in October 2008 which provided additional opportunities for personal and professional development. Unlike many international students keen in settling in the United States, I chose to return to my home country and apply the rich experience and training that I received to serve my own people. Hence, upon graduating with a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, I relocated to India, sought and gained admission into the topmost school for Neuroscience.