First Paragraph Sample from Kazakhstan

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Born in Seoul Korea, I share with President Obama the fact that I spent formative childhood years in Indonesia, 3-8 years old. I remember Indonesia very well and this has contributed to my sense of global or international identity as a citizen of the world. I am also fully Korean, however, because we returned to Korea where I continued to grow up from 9 to 15 years old, when me moved to Canada. Now twenty-three, I have spent the last 5 years in the USA and will be completing my BA in Political Science next spring. I have come to love full time study very much and I hope to continue to graduate school at the University of ____ because I am anxious to move forward on the graduate level right away. Your MSc in East Asian Development and Global Economy at the University of XXXX is the graduate program that covers all my areas of major interest in the most comprehensive and creative way.

The Relevance of Asian Studies

Over the last 30 years, I have paid especially close attention to relations between Taiwan and China, and all the implications of this tension for Taiwanese identity. As a published historian of the Cold War, I have also paid particularly close attention to the ever-simmering conflict on the Korean Peninsula. I am also very much attached to the profound spirituality to be found in Japan, especially at Shofukuji where I spent as much time as possible at this holy site where Zen Buddhism began developing in Japan almost 8 centuries ago. I am confident that my raised consciousness level concerning Asian issues will enable me to provide creative ideas for our statement that can help you to get accepted, even to highly competitive programs in Asian Studies.

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It is a special honor for me to help you; together, we are building tomorrow by helping you to get accepted, based on an eloquent explanation of your long-term plans concerning your contribution to Asia and Asian-Western relations.

Why East Asia Studies

In today's interconnected world, East Asia stands as a global powerhouse, a region that transcends its geographical boundaries to exert a profound influence on our contemporary society. It's not just a regional player; it's a global player with unparalleled significance. From its economic might, cultural richness, and pivotal role in diplomacy to its influence on industrial, environmental, and demographic transformations, East Asia is undeniably pivotal. Let's explore why understanding East Asia is crucial in our increasingly globalized world.

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East Asia boasts economies that are second in size only to the United States. It's home to over 20% of the world's population, making it a demographic giant. Its cultural traditions are among the oldest and richest on the planet. Today, East Asia serves as a central hub for global trade and cultural exchange. It's a linchpin in U.S. diplomacy and the epicenter of changes that ripple across the globe. In essence, East Asia isn't just a region; it's a key to understanding the world we live in.

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Traditionally, the study of East Asia focused on its history, culture, religion, and language. While these elements remain at the core of East Asian Studies, the discipline has evolved significantly. It now encompasses a wide spectrum of academic interests, encouraging interdisciplinary interactions. The goal is to inspire students to break free from the confines of a single discipline because those who do tend to produce more profound research. The center of this transformation is the meeting point where students explore and interact across various fields.

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What invigorates scholars and researchers in this field is the opportunity for collaboration. Systematic discussions and the sharing of information deepen understanding and enrich scholarly pursuits. Researchers at Stanford delve into various fields, from nanotechnology to bioengineering, synthetic biology, water studies, and environmental studies. They acknowledge that many of the challenges they're investigating have roots in Asia or are profoundly impacted by it. Asia is not merely a part of the problem; it's a vital part of the solution.

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In summary, the study of East Asia is far more than an academic pursuit. It's a key to comprehending the interconnectedness of our world. East Asia influences the global economy, culture, and international relations. It offers insights into the most pressing challenges of our time. To overlook its significance would be to miss a crucial piece of the puzzle in understanding our complex, interdependent world. As global citizens, we must recognize and appreciate East Asia's pivotal role in shaping our shared future.