Below you can read my personal statement for Columbia University...if you notice any spelling mistakes or grammar mistakes....don't tell me....I've already turned it in. haha
Standing in the shadows of our Nation’s capitol that day on April 25, 2004 I could hardly fight back my tears. I was surrounded by a sea of one million people who were standing up for women’s rights: the right to equal health care, to equal access, and to make their own reproductive choices. I was touched not only by the turnout, but also by my right to march freely without fear of harm. The ability to actively participate in my government humbled me. As I marched around the Washington Mall, I felt a sisterhood that I had never felt before and it was there that I realized I was enjoying a privilege many women in the world are not allowed. At this moment, I was inspired to aid in the spread of this women’s movement to the rest of the world.
Sadly, women in many parts of the world are objects of violence and lack the basic rights that I enjoy. My greatest desire is to become a diplomat for the United States of America with a focus on women’s rights as I believe women can strongly contribute to their nation’s development. Furthermore, the world is desperate for more women to join the leadership ranks domestically as well as internationally. In 2007, the United States Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, spoke to the United Nations about the importance of involving women in the diplomatic process world-wide.
As a diplomat for the United States of America, I want to work with women of developing nations to create new opportunities for them. I have always been taught that the key to success is proper and superior education. Through my studies I have improved my life, and have created the hope inside of me that I might help enrich the lives of others.
I want to work hands on in with women in developing nations in Africa to teach them to read and to teach them that there is hope for their lives. These women will become the leaders of the future, not only in their own homes and communities but leaders of their nations. My goal is simple, my resolve is firm, and I want to pass on the blessings that I have received. The former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto once said, “Life is a constant struggle… it is important to work hard, have faith, patience and persevere in overcoming odds. It is important to build relationships on the principles of love, loyalty and honor”. Bhutto’s words have become my motto as I consider my objectives for the future. Nothing could be more important to me than to be part of the positive change that I want to see in the world.
An education from the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) at Columbia University would not only provide me with the tools I need to make a difference, but the connections and guidance necessary to point me in the right direction. In all of my research of Graduate schools, I feel that the SIPA is the perfect match for me. In particular I would like to work with Lisa Anderson and learn more about how social science can affect public policy; the courses offered in Social Policy and Human Rights interest me. I am also impressed with the intensity and the comparative resources and guest lecturers that have spoken at SIPA in the past. I will take advantage of the world-class faculty and the location of the school which will give me access to The United Nations and many other organizations that will ensure that I am able to further my horizons. It is through my education and experience that I have gained a passion for diplomacy. It is my hope and desire that this dream may be realized and that I may have the opportunity to become a diplomat and continue my country’s mission and outreach in developing nations.
