Graduate school application letter for regional planning studies

Pratt

In the Middle East, comprehensive and regional planning are not as developed as needed within the 21st century paradigm. Globalism has brought change to the world, and this will require a new way of thinking about precious resources and use of materials that will contribute both to environmental sustainability and the increasing cooperation between regions. I have certainly realized that the moral action in the contemporary world is to pursue a career that allows the capacity to influence others in managing the impact that the environment has on all of us. To that end, I would like to present my application and credentials for a Master's in City and Regional Planning at the Pratt Institute. I am particularly interested in your programs because of the extensive research and reputation of the department, and the focus not only on a holistic framework, but the ability to collaborate with colleagues and businesses in the area as well as internationally. I believe that your program is a on the cutting edge of the needs for organizations, particularly in my home country of Saudi Arabia. As globalization continues to evolve here in the Middle East, it is important that we contribute to the sustainable and ethical movement that may still be lacking in many of the Arab states. By focusing on sustainability and entrepreneurship in a more holistic manner, I believe my degree from the Pratt Institute will allow me to pursue a meaningful career in which I can "pay it forward" and help my region move forward with more ecocentric and sustainable practices. I am particularly in helping improve my home city, Jeddah, in terms of functionality and appropriate levels of modernization. In my country, women do not have the opportunity yet for graduate educations, so not only would I be focusing my time and energy on the ways I can contribute to Arab society, I would also be acting as a leader and potential role-model for others in my culture.

Even prior to my studies I knew that I was interested in the manner in which many modern disciplines overlapped each other. Indeed, when thinking about human ecology, it is necessary to also understand a bit more about sociology, anthropology, and even political science. Currently, I am involved in a family architecture and engineering business that desperately requires an upgrade in expertise and expansion in span of control. Last year, one of our employees resigned and because of that, we lost several contracts because we were without needed expertise. By working with the faculty and students at the Pratt Institute, I will be able to provide the knowledge needed to proactively affect our business, as well as lead using new paradigms that may contribute to more acceptance of sustainable options within the region.

I am particularly attracted to Pratt because of my interest in multidisciplinary studies that allow a core subject area to be augmented with other subjects. I realize that to adequately create change within my region, I will need to understand more about international economics, ecology, some of the social sciences, and even architectural philosophy.