Linguistics PHD Personal Purpose Statement Korean

South Korean Linguistics PHD Personal Purpose Statement for Graduate School Samples

I was born and raised in South Korea and moved to the US in 2010. Currently, I am in my final year of a bachelor's degree program in English Language and Literature. My aim is to join a challenging yet supportive program that will allow me to research the impact of culture on language and become a skilled translator between Korean and English. I aspire to provide linguistics and translation training to both undergraduate and graduate students.

The Korean and English languages originate from different roots, presenting fascinating contrasts and surprisingly many similarities, which have intrigued me. I am particularly interested in concepts common to all languages and wish to explore this within a formal, structured program. Throughout my studies, I have realized that translators often provide only an approximation of the intended meaning, and a lack of understanding of idioms and cultural perspectives can lead to humorous or potentially dangerous mistranslations and misunderstandings.

While an approximation suffices for many purposes, there are instances where accurately conveying an author's intended meaning is crucial. This is particularly true for manuals related to medical equipment or pharmaceutical usage, as well as in artistic contexts like translating poetry or dramatic works, where inaccuracies due to cultural misunderstandings can distort the author's purpose or message.

I volunteered at an orphanage in South Korea, which sparked my interest in the power and use of language. Observing the young learning to communicate their feelings and needs contrasted with the challenges faced by the elderly, who might lose their language skills and rely on non-verbal communication, highlighted an issue that will become increasingly important as populations age.

I recognize that linguistics has many applications beyond those I have mentioned, such as psychological and social aspects, and tracking changes in language and their causes. The potential of language for both positive and negative impacts is vast, and this fascinates me. I wish to help harness the power of words for the benefit of humanity. All aspects of this subject captivate me, and I am confident that my passion will thrive in the Ph.D. program, to which I am committed to applying myself fully and enthusiastically.

I believe my academic achievements demonstrate my capability to benefit from the program and conduct valuable research in this field.

Thank you for considering my application.

South Korean Linguistics PHD Personal Purpose Statement