PhD in Civil Engineering 2016 Statement of Purpose Applicant: Asim Farooq
The desire for an education seems to be embedded in most of my family members. Growing up in an education-oriented family has made a huge impact on my views, where I have come to realize the importance of education and its benefits to society, especially in countries with a low literacy rate such as Pakistan.
It is with great enthusiasm that I am writing to apply for the PhD position in Civil Engineering. I have completed my Masters studies in Transportation Engineering (Road, Rail and Airfield) from Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany, with a focus on Road and Highway Engineering. I gained a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in 2012 from CECOS, with a focus on Structure, Transportation planning, environment and Mangement.
During my master thesis the task was to study effect of changing support conditions by erosive attacks in jointed plain concrete pavements for German highways using simulation-based software called ANSYS. It was a joint project between Autobahndirektion Südbayern & TUM, Germany. During my master studies I was a part of project called „Urban development and reconstruction of the Bayernkaserne area in Munich, Germany“. It was a research project in partnership with BMW, the Munich Municipality and TUM Germany. I was also an active participant of different research work like studying the reasons for mobility in Pakistan, and a research survey on Peshawar’s (Pakistan) transport strategy and organization. I was also part of an effort during master studies to reduce CO2 emissions in Pakistan. I was also part of ITS and traffic control system of Munich, Germany, to study the technical measure and benefits. I was also a part of project to investigate failure reasons of pavement of a NATO road in Peshawar (Paksitan).
After my bachelor degree I was trained as an intern in the area of Solid Waste Management and Water. During my studies, I have gained experience in structure,Sureying and bridge planning and construction phases.
South Asia, especially Pakistan, has been a victim of the a lack of modern transportation infrastructure. This crisis has not only negatively affected the economy but has also destroyed the social infrastructure as well. Uneployment, poverty, separation effects, safety, high level of emission that I believe are due to the inefficient transportation system. Pakistan has ample resources but limited expertise in Transportation Engineering. I believe that a lack of professionals is a major handicap in solving the Problem and make better world for the next generation.
A PhD in Civil Engineering will give me formal education in the areas of my interest but will also provide me with fundamental concepts in the areas of Pavement, Highways, Rail and civil engineering which are at the moment outside the spectrum of my knowledge.
As my main field of interest is in Civil engineering, obtaining a PhD degree would also be ideal for my future plans. I can contribute my expertise and learning for the creation of cost-effective, safe and environmentally friendly Transportation System. that are made available to the masses. To achieve this I would like to gain exposure to the latest practices adopted in the Civil Engineering. China is growing at a rapid rate in all fields of development, and I have a great opportunity to learn from them and implement it in my Country. I believe that Chinese University is a hub of excellence in China from the fact that it is one of the top University's having a fine record of academic excellence and is backed by expert faculty and research facilities.
Hard work, dedication and passion towards my goal are a few of the traits upon which I wish to build a successful career. Having an excellent academic record from my primary, secondary and bachelor studies. These achievements have never been a hurdle for me in participating in extra-curricular activities. I have always believed it a moral obligation to give back to society. During my studies, I joined a social welfare society called “EHG TUM“ to help students in getting jobs, accommodation and guide people how to adjust in German culture and society. During my bachelor studies I was a group leader of 41 students, and awarded with the highest grade and a medal.
I want to apply for this program as I am confident that it will provide me with an excellent opportunity to rise on the learning curve, and at the same time it provides the kind of exposure needed to widen the horizon of my thoughts. This program is a confluence of people from every nationality, religion and race. This would not only help me to develop my overall personality and character but would help me to broaden my concepts from the narrower confines of nationalism to internationalism.
I believe that my educational background and work experience have instilled in me the qualities required to meet the rigor of this demanding course. I am fully aware that your curriculum requires that I summon all my resources and that I have the necessary commitment, intelligence and stamina and look forward to do it all. I am convinced that my study in this program would be a meaningful and rewarding experience.