Emerging Scholars Personal Statement

Ever since reading The Science of Evil by Simon Baron-Cohen, I have been fascinated by psychological disorders and their neurological bases. This passionate curiosity has driven me to delve into the scientific literature pertaining to the subject of abnormal psychology and its origins in the brain. Admission to the Emerging Scholars program would afford me the opportunity to expand my knowledge of the subject and gain useful research experience. The chance to participate in undergraduate research is one that is not offered to many students, especially freshmen and sophomores. Acceptance into the Emerging Scholars Program would give me the coveted opportunity to participate in such research, thereby expanding my horizons. Through this program I would be able to …show more content…
I understand that this opportunity is rarely given to first and second year students. However, by doing research in the field of psychology, I would be able to see first hand the origin of the theories every student has read about. This wonderful opportunity would be an invaluable addition to my education here at the University of Alabama. I look forward to participating in research through the Emerging Scholars Program, which would be of incalculable significance. There is no better way to learn than by doing, and through this research and with the guidance of my advisors I would strengthen the concepts I have learned thus far and learn valuable research methods. The experience I would gain from this opportunity will prepare me for graduate school. I plan on pursuing my Ph.D. in cognitive psychology after graduation, and the research performed during my undergraduate education would help to prepare me for the intensive work required by a doctoral program. Admission to a Ph.D. program is highly competitive and undergraduate research would allow me to become a stronger