Looking back what I have done so far, I tried lots of things following where my enthusiasm headed for at the moment - researching in information retrieval on a new type of a web crawler, developing an intelligent information, developing intelligent mobile applications for cell phones, and finally improving an existing system that optically inspects and repairs TFT-LCD panels. These were probably a desperate attempt to look for what I really want to do, because I always believed that it would be the single best way I could be truly successful in my life. Unfortunately, I simply could not find the very thing even after years of searching.
Only very recently, however, did I realize that I found it. It was even more amazing when I also found that all my diverse experiences, skills, and knowledge I have obtained during my undergraduate years made me a perfect Ph.D. student for research and development in the College of Information Sciences and Technology at the Pennsylvania State University where I will be able to apply my strengths to.
I wanted to do for my life and what my next step should be. It did not take a long time for me to decide that I wanted to become a researcher. Judging from my innate curiosity and passion for creating something useful, I simply could not find a better job. It was rather like I was destined to become one. It followed that the Laboratory for Intelligent Agents became my choice for further research. As for research interests, since I have always thought that the degree to which we find and keep knowledge and information has a lot to improve, I want to work on the research by which I can bridge the gap between the information technology and the information needs of people.
After my graduate study, I will stay wherever I can pursue my research interests further and deliver the results of research to other people. The first consideration will be staying in the academia where I can focus on building theoretical foundations and experimental systems, while having impacts upon students and the community. Also, I am excited at the opportunities to teach and advise students in learning new things, finding what they want. Especially, based on my own experience, I will support students in difficulty with extra care so that they can stretch and achieve their dream.
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