Portland State University Personal Statement

After climbing through the financial aid and admissions process, I am proud to confidently say that I will be attending Portland State University (PSU) in Fall 2017. Being a first generation student, this promise of a better future is an accomplishment not only for me, but for my parents. Being accepted in the TRIO-SSS program will help me climb over the battles yet to come. I hope that this program will assist me with guidance in my major, test strategies, and information for available opportunities.
I chose my degree based on my experiences living in a multicultural household (Slavic/American), completing various career classes, and visiting multiple countries. My goal is to participate in the Russian Flagship program and learn a third language--Arabic. I plan to apply these languages to my degree; my educational aspirations include obtaining a bachelor's degree in business with an emphasis in international studies. This aspiration feeds off of my desire for travel. The struggle comes in figuring out if this is really what I would like to do. Other subjects that I have a keen interest in include: graphic design, architecture, neuroscience, music, etc. I hope that I will receive a mentor that can guide me in the right direction. Additionally, I aspire to
I love the challenge of rigorous course work and the chance to expand my knowledge. Hence, I have taken multiple advanced and AP courses. Although I do fairly well in the course work, my shortcoming occurs on the AP tests. Out of the five AP tests I have gotten, I have not received anything higher than a 2, no matter how hard I try. Similarly, my SAT lower than anticipated. This is very discouraging to receive because I believe that these test do not accurately reflect who I am as a student. It is important to receive instruction on test taking strategies that will help me succeed. I am willing to commit myself to any measure necessary to achieve the success I