Task 1: University of Toronto – Master of Information [modify based on the Data Science piece, 500~750 words deliverable]
Information plays a significant role in the present age, as it provides insight on the business actions that the management need to take. This provision is applicable after exploring its breadth, depth and richness. My studies thus far have equipped me with the needed skills to analyze a wide variety of data using statistical methodologies and correctly interpret and explain results to both technical and non-technical audiences. As a result, I am very interested in how data analysis and model application can be better integrated with economics to be more relevant to the needs of society. This is why I want to pursue the Master of Information at University of Toronto. I want to use essential quantitative techniques and tools when applying big data analytics in strategic decision making for business and management.
My strong academic foundation and mathematical prowess is reflected in the variety of courses. I had the pleasure of taking quantitative and analytical courses that further piqued my interest in business analytics. In my Methods to Data Analysis course, using R, I analyzed data using regression and how to generate and compare regression models to determine which one is the best fit for the data and how to interpret the models. In another course, Applied Econometrics, which built on the knowledge from my data analysis course, I applied regressions to a wide variety of economic questions and data sources using statistical software such as STATA. In an individual class assignment for that course, I combined my knowledge in economics with my statistical skills by establishing a regression model and analyzing the relationship between commodity prices and quantities. These courses have enriched my understanding of analytical methods, how to apply analytical concepts to activities such as determining the prices of goods, and have helped me hone my data analysis skills.
I spent my summers gaining practical experience through internships in different industries. As an intern at the Investment Banking Department at Shandong Caijin Development Co in Jinan, I used my newly acquired statistical skills to ascertain the correlation between the price and location of demolition. In addition, I documented the analysis in reports, which were used to support the lead analyst’s work. I also strengthened my skills in data visualization by presenting research on compensation for demolition, analysis on segmentations of relocation households and the different categories of compensations as graphs that made it easier to detect patterns, trends and outliers in the data. I developed valuable professional skills such as communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills. Such skills would be transferrable and benefit in the Master of Information.
I also worked as an intern in the Financial Budgeting Department of the Ningbo Hongjin Investment Management Company in China. During the internship, I demonstrated a good grasp of financial analytical methods by performing tasks such as calculating key ratios such as solvency, profit margin, and turnover ratio. I analysed these ratios and their volatility to evaluate the financial health of the company. By combining my skills in analysis and writing, I presented detailed investment reports that included projected financial statements, costs, and IRR analysis. These experiences gave me a glimpse of how data companies generate and highlighted the importance of having the requisite analytical skills to be able to convert raw data into useful information that can be used in decision-making. My skills in dealing with large volume and complex datasets were also highly improved.
I believe such skills and experience would enable me to meet any potential challenges in this program.
When I join your University, I hope to conduct research on the area of human-centered data science, to explore ethical ways of data and information manipulation. I will gain more knowledge on policies available in dealing in huge pieces of information, and I envision myself beginning my career as a business analyst. After gaining enough experience, I aim to work as a strategist in a multinational firm. The faculty of information will allow me to achieve the aforementioned goals because it mandates completion of a thesis to gain experience in developing and executing a research project, to gain in-depth knowledge in information.
The University of Toronto is the ideal place for me to further my studies because of its stellar reputation as a university that not only teaches its students’ knowledge but also trains them to become responsible members of society. Upon graduation, I will provide insight from huge information collected in the market through information design, organization, storage, access and retrieval.
Task 2: UCL – MSc in Statistics [modify based on the Data Science piece, 500~750 words deliverable]
My interest in statistical analysis and its practical applications in everyday life led me double major in Economics and Statistics at the undergraduate level. My studies thus far have equipped me with the needed skills to analyze a wide variety of data using statistical methodologies and correctly interpret and explain results to both technical and non-technical audiences. As a result, I am very interested in how data analysis and model application can be better integrated with economics to be more relevant to the needs of society. This is why I want to pursue the MSc in Statistics programme at UCL. I want to use essential quantitative techniques and tools when applying big data analytics in strategic decision making for business and management.
My strong academic foundation and mathematical prowess is reflected in the variety of courses I had the pleasure of taking quantitative and analytical courses that further piqued my interest in business analytics. In my Methods to Data Analysis course, using R, I analyzed data using regression and how to generate and compare regression models to determine which one is the best fit for the data and how to interpret the models. In another course, Applied Econometrics, which built on the knowledge from my data analysis course, I applied regressions to a wide variety of economic questions and data sources using statistical software such as STATA. In an individual class assignment for that course, I evaluated the relationship between GPA, and the likelihood of a student playing the video games. I used R programming language to analyze the data from 399 students, and pooled the two sample t test, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey’ procedure to investigate whether or not there was a difference in the GPA between players and non-players. The exposure helped me to appreciate the role of statistical tools of analysis in making decisions. I can look at a dataset and thoroughly analyze it and present the results to both technical and non-technical audiences.
I spent my summers gaining practical experience through internships in different industries. As an intern in the Investment Banking Department at Shandong Caijin Development Co in Jinan, I used my newly acquired statistical skills to ascertain the correlation between the price and location of demolition. In addition, I documented the analysis in reports, which were used to support the lead analyst’s work. I also strengthened my skills in data visualization by presenting research on compensation for demolition, analysis on segmentations of relocation households and the different categories of compensations as graphs that made it easier to detect patterns, trends and outliers in the data. I developed valuable professional skills such as communication, teamwork and interpersonal skills. Such skills would be transferrable and benefit in the MSc in Statistics programme at UCL.
I also worked as an intern in the Financial Budgeting Department of the Ningbo Hongjin Investment Management Company in China. During the internship, I demonstrated a good grasp of financial analytical methods by performing tasks such as calculating key ratios such as solvency, profit margin, and turnover ratio. I analysed these ratios and their volatility to evaluate the financial health of the company. By combining my skills in analysis and writing, I presented detailed investment reports that included projected financial statements, costs, and IRR analysis. These experiences gave me a glimpse of how data companies generate and highlighted the importance of having the requisite analytical skills to be able to convert raw data into useful information that can be used in decision-making.
One of the strengths of UCL Statistical Science is the breadth of expertise on offer; the research interests of staff span the full range from foundations to applications, and make important original contributions to the development of statistical science. The program attracts me because it covers modern ideas in statistics including applied Bayesian methods, generalised linear modelling and object-oriented statistical computing, together with a grounding in traditional statistical theory and methods, that will reinforce my immediate intention to work as a data analyst, and in future progress in a multinational company in the role of a consultant.
I am eager to fully devote myself to the courses and hone my skills in information, general and operations analytics. UCL is the ideal place for me to further my studies because London provides an excellent environment in which to study statistical science, being the home of the Royal Statistical Society as well as a base for a large community of statisticians, both academic and non-academic.
Task 3: UCL – MSc in Management [Finance Pathway] [modify based on FinEcon,
500~750 words deliverable]
Organisations need people who can motivate others and develop strategies in a dynamic and competitive environment. Managerial issues streaming from problems with staff or suppliers, technical failures, and material shortages have negative impact on the operations of a business, which demands for management skills in various facets of the business. I started applying the basic principles of management when I launched my online shopping platform in 2014. In order to provide the most sought-after items to my fellow international students, I conducted market research to determine consumer preferences, products in high demand, and set reasonable and competitive prices. This little business venture was enough to arouse my interest in studying Economics at the undergraduate level at University of Toronto. Economics has enabled me to explore the macroeconomic and microeconomics aspects of the market, and I want to integrate the management part for effective decision making.
I know by heart that one day, all my short-term career decisions will lead me to owning my owning business, and knowing management become the crucial fundamental skills for any entrepreneur. This ultimate vision has compelled me to achieve a solid academic foundation in Economics during my undergraduate studies. My business venture, on the other hand, gave me a glimpse of corporate governance; therefore, I want to gain a deeper understanding of how to apply management theories and models to markets and firms in order to predict the outcomes of different financially sustainable strategies. I have learnt from my undergraduate studies that in contrast to the shareholders of public corporations, entrepreneurs typically hold large and undiversified equity stakes in their own businesses. As a result, debt financing can influence the choices of a future entrepreneur like me through its effect on the allocation of risk. I am looking forward to learning how to apply and use empirically investigated management models such as Lewin’s Change Management Model, and Bridges’ Transition Model, and be equipped to modify, test and adapt these models in new market environments and corporate behaviour. I am also confident that I would not only have a better understanding but would also have honed my critical-thinking and problem-solving skills in the area of Management after graduating at UCL.
My internship experiences provided me with hands-on experience, as well as the opportunity to put into practice the theories and concepts that were taught in my classes. Working in the Financial Budgeting Department of the Ningbo Hongjin Investment Management Company in China, I gained a good grasp of analytical methods by calculating key ratios such as solvency, profit margin, and turnover ratios. Using these ratios, I evaluated the financial health of the company to determine its stability. By comparing the company’s performance to other investment companies in the region, I developed detailed reports on the company’s current and projected financial status on top of the macro-economic situation. The insights I gained from this internship has provided me with a wider scope of how economics at a market level and be incorporated with finance at a corporate level to assess a corporation’s wellbeing. These experiences not only confirmed my decision to pursue the MSc in Management, but have also given me the rudimentary management skills to thrive as a graduate student.
UCL’s MSc Management is a highly competitive international programme providing students with a solid understanding of practical managerial issues, as well as a strong foundation in current theoretical debates, equipping ambitious students with the knowledge and skills to work for leading organisations around the world. Throughout the journey at UCL, students will be learning from academics who are at the forefront of their fields, as well as being a part of London’s Global University, working closely with a diverse and vibrant group of likeminded students who bring a vast range of business knowledge from across the globe.
After having gained a highly marketable set of skills from the MSc course, before my grand vision of owning my own company, my short-term goal is to work as a management consultant where I can use my skills and knowledge to help companies make sound business decisions by analysing financial data, market trends, and predicted outcomes. I will take time to cover in-depth subjects provided for in Management program, and leverage on diversity of expertise in the faculty to understand what it takes to run a business.
I have developed a strong foundation in economics and finance, and I look forward to integrate managerial aspect by taking Msc. Management at UCL.
Task 4: ICL – Economics, and Strategy for Business [500~750 words]
Today’s rapidly changing economic environment is contributed to by several elements, among them being technology and politics. Their impacts touch even lower-level businesses, which are the key drivers of economic growth. Tracking the changes in the market, therefore, is instrumental in avoiding the unforeseen risks, and enhance channeling of resources in the areas where maximum return would be expected. The growth of any business is guaranteed by the employment of effective strategies, such as the use of innovative digital technologies, which is a critical factor in competitiveness. For example, artificial intelligence is one of the most pervasive innovation that is driving a shift of human labor from repetitive, formalized tasks, to more complex and high-touch tasks. Such, it brings more concern about its social impacts, such as loss of jobs, making it paramount to integrate strategic analysis with contemporary economics, a concept I want to study in Masters of Economics and Strategy for Business at Imperial College London.
Cognizant of the changes that happen in any contemporary economy, I purposed to understand the cyclicality of the economy, by taking a specialization in Economics and Statistics. The combination enabled me to numerically explain why some phenomena, such as inflation, happens by the use of economic indicators such as consumer price index, employment indicators, Gross Domestic Product, among others. One of the subjects that enabled me to understand the various trends is Econometrics, an application of statistical methods to economic data to give empirical content to commercial relationships. The subject exposed me to the use of a linear regression model to relate GDP growth to the unemployment rate. It allowed me to extract useful information about important economic policy issues from the available data. Still in the University, I did a project to examine the quantity of eco-labeled apples a family buys from given data. I used STATA to create a linear model of relating the two. By use of ordinary least square, I could tell the probability of which family would buy ecolabeled apples, thus learning how to combine economic knowledge with statistical knowledge.
Gaining experience is part of the learning outside the regular classwork. To amass enough awareness in regards to how the ideal market operates, I worked as a finance and credit intern at the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China. I analyzed available financial and credit information and compared it to the projected and historical data by setting up models in the Excel spreadsheets and provided credit recommendations to credit analysts, improving my analytical ability. Among the data that assisted me to project the future performance of the bank included the customers’ information and financial data of the competitors, that I extracted from the financial database. Also, DCF models, merger models, LBO models supported in the simulation of variables like the changes in interest rates hence allowing the bank know its course of action in various situations. Correspondingly, my data management skills improved by working as a Financial Budgeting intern at Ningbo Hongjin Investment Management Company, by compiling the financial reports using financial models including projected financial statements, costs, and IRR analysis. This role was instrumental in divulging to me how financial accountancy and management dictated the direction of the economy. It was clear that control of financial risks improved the predictability of future performance, which excites me to take further education in MSc. Economics and Strategy for Business.
While academic and working experiences have equipped me with the analytical skills to understand the various scenarios in the economy, my career plan is to gain more strategic analysis and management skills. Thus, I seek to start my career as an economist and later work as a consultant in banking and finance or information technology sectors. To achieve these, I will leverage on ICL’s balance of teaching and learning, individual work, and group work, as well as regular seminars by external speakers to strengthen my conceptual, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Having worked in a bank and investment companies, I have a deeper understanding of the impacts of proper strategic decisions, in regards to economic growth. Accurate interpretation of the market data provides the management with the right information on where to invest, and at what time of the year. Therefore, taking the time to study Economics and Strategy for Innovation, Analytics for Applied Economics and Business, among others, will enhance my business acumen. Such, I am confident that I have what it takes to join a program in Economics and Strategy for Business at Imperial College London.
Personal Statement | Statement of purpose
Stream: Master of Environmental Management [word count: 600]
I was born and nurtured in China, where fast industrial development poses serious threats to our natural environment. The proliferation of manufacturing sectors, as well as the dense population of cities, have overstretched available resources, contaminating the environment in equal measure. To date, the air around big cities is filled with toxins, and the streets are clogged with a large number of people, exacerbating the problems of pollution. In such circumstances, governments and non-governmental organizations are turning to contemporary technologies to protect the environment. According to a Verdantix poll, 42% of EHS directors aim to increase their technology spending in the next years. Mobile apps for audit and incident management, reporting and analytics, and the Internet of Things are among the top strategies of interest (IoT). My goal in pursuing a Master of Environmental Management degree is to understand how to use energy, water, and food in a more sustainable manner in order to reduce pollution.
After witnessing my country’s dismal situation for so long, I grew interested in learning more about the environment. The harmful emissions into the air, as well as the degradation of aesthetic value, are sufficient proof that air quality will deteriorate dramatically in the next years. As a result, I began my work by taking an environmental science course. This served as an introduction to environmental principles such as the polluter pays principle (PPP), the user pays principle (UPP) (or resource pricing principle), and the precautionary principle (PP). These principles are used to understand policies and influence decision-making by local governments. I took use of the field trip while at university to learn more about the natural environment, including water, soil, rock, ecology, climate change, and so on. I studied real field skills such as rock identification and land surveying, which qualifies me for a Master of Environmental Management degree.
Environmental assessment was one of my undergraduate courses, and I did a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) for a subject property in a brownfield, as required by Ontario 153/04. The task’s major goal was to learn about the property’s history and modifications so that the probable source of toxins linked with the property and its surroundings could be identified. The assessment’s outcome was to assist us in determining if there were any impediments to moving the land ahead, enhancing my analytical and research skills. The research focused on the property’s physical upgrades, making it an important step in the planning process. In a similar line, I worked on a remote sensing project that involved analyzing the difference in land cover in Las Vegas Wash and Detrital Wash using several image classification approaches. Using the ISO Cluster Unsupervised Classification software, I developed acute problem-solving skills for this assignment. Using the aforementioned image classification tool, I identified twenty distinct types of land, providing a clear picture of the impact of environmental damage in diverse locations.
The Master of Environmental Science/Management program offers me fascinating and inspiring study experiences while also assisting me in my pursuit of becoming an Environmental Assessor. After having sufficient expertise, work as a Sustainability Manager for an environmental group. Your university’s excellent liberal arts tradition and multidisciplinary approach to educate students to think beyond one subject of ecological science appeals to me. The world-class education I will acquire from your university will help me become a leader in environmental management. MAX: 600 WORDS University of Toronto, Master of Urban Innovation
Crowding, housing, transportation, and pollution are all issues that major cities face around the world. Intelligent street lamps that use the Internet of Things are one of the inventive concepts for making cities more livable. After visiting a conference in China about Geo-Spatial Big Data and the concept of Smart City, this thought struck me. GIS experts now have a bigger platform to design more tools than ever before, thanks to the rapid expansion in the availability of geospatial data and APIs for platforms like Google Maps, as well as the integration into the Internet of Things. Large-scale challenges like city planning and traffic control can be addressed using the new technology. Aside from technology, I’m interested in learning more about politics, economics, strategy-making, and managerial abilities through the Urban Innovation program.
After analyzing the evolution of the world’s biggest cities, I discovered that the concept of urban planning and innovation was a hot topic. According to the research, one of the major issues is limiting large populations in areas where resources are scarce. While expansion is seen as one of the solutions to the problem, land space for development is limited, necessitating the implementation of effective rules to manage resource consumption. I completed Urban Innovation-related Economics and Geography courses during my undergraduate studies. The design of the Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT) system was one of my in-class projects. I used my analytical skills to research the background, benefits, costs, and potential impediments to constructing a new LRT system in Hamilton. I did so by performing multiple rounds of field study and rudimentary map-making before settling on a two-way path and a number of potential light rail station locations. This project provided me with specific managerial and critical thinking abilities, both of which are essential in a Master of Urban Innovation program.
In addition, I am a member of a team in the Faculty of Engineering’s co-curricular program MacChangers, which focuses on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in order to create a more resilient and sustainable Hamilton community. Our main goal is to provide practical answers to some of society’s problems, such as housing and pollution, while also honing my research skills. The design of robust infrastructure was our topic for this project. We concentrated on Hamilton’s chronic homelessness, which is a complex huge challenge. The concept was inspired by the reality that housing demand in Hamilton is increasing, necessitating the development of a long-term solution to the problem. The study discovered that the main issue is a lack of money from higher levels of government, and that the most disadvantaged populations should be prioritized. Making a judgment on who should benefit from social housing and maintaining an equitable share of the few housing developments is a professional decision, which is what pushes me to study Urban Innovation.
In the future, I want to work for the government as a transportation/green area city planner or as a sustainability manager for an environmental group. To address diverse difficulties, I aim to combine scientific ideas with the concept of sustainability. Later on, I could wish to create my own company and become an entrepreneur. The University of Toronto will assist me in achieving my objectives since it provides internship and co-op options that will allow me to get real work experience in a related sector prior to graduation. This is an excellent opportunity for me to broaden my knowledge of urban innovation.
