Letter of Motivation for a Career Mentoring Program
Below you'll find a letter of motivation that I wrote for a career mentoring program at Tongji University.
Hereby I would like to apply to the ‘Career Mentoring Program’
‘Sōnghè Gōngyuán’ is a midsized public park that neighbours the Tongji-University dormitory complex at Zhangwu road. It was during a recent morning walk to the corner-store, when I first discovered its prominent front entrance. Clusters of people practicing Tai-Chi, elderly rehearsing long-sword choreographies, mah-jong tournaments, outdoor gymnasts and trumpet players gave the place its subtle charm.
The harmony of people interacting both freely and selflessly spread a strong communal spirit across the slender paths of the park. Being surrounded in western culture for most of my life made the scene of apparent strangers talking, dancing and practicing together feel unfamiliar. In spite of my initial insecurity, I have developed an affinity for spending time at the park and talking to its visitors. Having been in Shanghai for two months, I realize, that an open mind is the only path to cultural awareness.
Adapting to the different cultural setting has been an intuitively rewarding task. Finding new friends, overcoming bureaucratic hurdles and adapting to the fast progression at university often require a fundamentally new – sometimes counter-intuitive – approach. The continuous process of attempting to find the ‘right way’ has improved my understanding of the Shanghainese mentality. Moreover, I believe that my patience tied to learning ‘hànzì’ and numerous attempts in bridging cultural differences have shaped my self-discipline and confidence. These characteristics alongside a network of new friends will have a lasting impact on my professional route.
The ‘Sino-German School for Postgraduate Studies’ itself was central to my choice of university. I think the large variety of courses, diverse community and academic rigour provide a productive and open learning atmosphere. Regularly, guest lectures, workshops and networking events are organised, these give me the opportunity to meet likeminded individuals that are equally enthused by the opportunities that China has to offer. Initially, there was a certain degree of irony tied to the idea of going abroad and remaining at a German institution. Meanwhile, I have begun to appreciate the occasional comfort of the familiar surrounding it provides.
My motivation to apply to the mentorship program is twofold. First, the prospect of unveiling internship opportunities across a wide range of industries and understanding the possible limitations. Second, the chance to reflect critically on a career based in China – on a personal and professional level. Being the first member in my family to attend university, participating at the German national water-polo championships for six consecutive years, supporting refugees through my voluntary work and studying two degrees simultaneously were all decisions closely tied to the scrutiny of people that I look-up to. During my time in Shanghai I will face equally difficult decisions.
Overall, I believe that my background in industrial engineering, pro-bono consulting and reflective nature may provide a valuable perspective during the mentorship meetings. Moreover, the program would resonate well with my current learning endeavours. Therefore the program would be an interesting adventure that I would appreciate taking part in.
Yours sincerely,
Maximilian H. Rohowsky
