1. Explain your interest in the major you selected. You may describe a related experience you’ve had to that area of study and/or your future career goals. If you are applying to the Division of General Studies, explain your academic interests and strengths or your future career goals. You may include any majors or areas of study you are currently considering. Please limit your response to approximately 300 words. (Word Count: 290)
When I was six years old, my mum (who works in a bank) began teaching me how to manage money. Although I was young, I learned to buy equity funds and stock, and soon after, my allowance quadrupled. I did not realize it then, but my interest in finance would benefit myself and others later.
The summer after I arrived in the US, I heard news from China that girls in rural villages near my parent’s home were being kidnapped and molested. Due to Confucianism, many Chinese schools lack child safety education, and I felt I should do something to help. I returned to China, and gathered 7 friends to help teach lessons in a very poor village this past summer.
While we went to a few schools, our limited funds made it impossible for us to teach at more schools. Later that summer, I got an opportunity to participate in a finance summer camp, held by China Construction Bank. During this summer camp, I learned more efficient ways to manage my allowance. I sold stocks and put all my money to more low-risk funds and some short-term financial products. Four months later, I have earned enough money to buy books for more rural school students, and to continue my lessons in more schools next summer.
For me, finance is more than just a way of making extra money, it is a tool to support my volunteer goals, which are important to me. Because of this, no matter what major I choose, I know I will minor in finance and business related courses. Although my previous experiences with banking and investing seem small, finance is helping me impact people’s lives, even in the smallest villages.