The personal History Statement is expected to focus on your

The personal History Statement is expected to focus on your personal bac The personal History Statement is expected to focus on your personal background while the Statement of Purpose is expected to focus on your academic/research background and interests. We recommend that you complete the essay in another program (i.e. Word, Google docs, etc) and copy it in the text box below.

(850 to 1200 words) Challenges and/or obligations you have had to address in order to achieve your educational goals and how you addressed them (60% of the whole passage) Employment while an undergraduate (40 % of the whole passage)

Paper For Above instruction My name is Jianchao Sun, I am from China, and I am currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in Computer Science at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. My journey into this field has been marked by significant challenges and personal growth, which have shaped my academic pursuits and professional aspirations.

Initially, I enrolled as a civil engineering major, influenced by my interest in infrastructure and technology.

However, I soon realized that my true passion lay elsewhere, particularly in the realm of computer science.

This realization was sparked by my fascination with artificial intelligence and the groundbreaking victory of AlphaGo against Lee Sedol. As a three-dan Go player, I was deeply inspired by this event, which exemplified the incredible potential of computational algorithms. It became evident to me that computer science is pivotal to shaping future innovations, and I was determined to transition into this field.

The transition was not without difficulties. My first year in computer science was daunting; I had limited prior exposure to computer programming and struggled with foundational tasks. For instance, I remember spending hours trying to locate a text file on my Windows laptop while learning I/O operations. Writing even basic binary search algorithms was challenging and time-consuming, which initially impacted my grades. I received Bs in my first three quarters, causing my GPA to drop from 3.8 to 3.2, which was a source of doubt about my abilities and choice of major. At times, I questioned whether I could succeed in computer science, especially when I compared myself to classmates who grasped concepts more quickly.

Despite these setbacks, I persevered. I dedicated myself to mastering programming by studying additional textbooks and practicing coding daily on platforms like LeetCode and HackerRank. I resolved to improve

and set tangible targets. By the end of my first year, I had completed over 300 algorithm problems, which significantly enhanced my problem-solving skills. This effort paid off; by my second year, I could analyze problems and develop solutions rapidly. My understanding of algorithms and data structures became solid, enabling me to excel in subsequent coursework.

My academic improvement culminated in a pivotal moment when I scored a B+ in my algorithms and data structures course, which was the last B I received in my undergraduate studies. Over time, I developed a robust programming foundation, which allowed me to undertake complex projects and contribute confidently to coursework and team assignments. These experiences strengthened my technical proficiency and underscored the importance of perseverance and disciplined practice in overcoming initial difficulties.

Beyond academics, I recognized the importance of teamwork in real-world software development. As a socially reserved individual, I initially found collaborative projects intimidating. To prepare for a future career in software engineering, I sought practical experience through an internship at Overwatch Safety Solution, a startup specializing in software for safety management. During the summer of 2019, I worked closely with colleagues on cloud-based software, utilizing APIs and participating in Scrum meetings. My responsibilities included integrating APIs, debugging code, and contributing to planning sessions. Initially, I was unprepared and struggled to communicate effectively during meetings. I often relied solely on documentation and tutorials, which limited my contributions. However, after feedback from colleagues and reflection, I learned the importance of proactive communication and thorough preparation for team collaborations.

This experience taught me valuable lessons about teamwork, including the necessity of clear communication, accountability, and understanding team goals. I understood that software development is a collective effort, requiring coordination and shared responsibility to create impactful solutions. These lessons extended beyond the workplace, influencing my approach to academic group projects and personal development.

Throughout my journey, I have faced various challenges—academic setbacks, adapting to new learning paradigms, and developing soft skills essential for teamwork. Each obstacle strengthened my resilience and refocused my dedication. My experiences have instilled a profound appreciation for perseverance, continuous learning, and collaboration—qualities vital for a successful career in technology. I believe that my background and determination uniquely position me to contribute meaningfully to the field of

computer science and to leverage technology to address societal needs.

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