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#Written by David Tam                  #
#davidkftam@netscape.net Copyright 1999#
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  Participating in the mentorship program is the most important activity to
me.  I assist Professor Janet Salaff in the research and analyzation of data
on telecommuting.  I also assist in many other aspects of the project, such as
solving technical computer problems, preparing mini-seminars, and  being a
tutor during a few seminars.  This activity is the most important to me
because the research topic is an area of personal interest, I have an
important role in the research team, I have gained insight into how research
is conducted at the university, and it has given me a taste of university life.

  Engineering is a challenge I am ready to accept despite the stories I have
heard from my cousins and brother who study engineering.  In particular,
computer engineering is the program I wish to pursue because of my fascination
with computers and technology, as well as my aptitude and interests in
mathematics and science.  I have discovered that engineering is a very
powerful discipline that has many applications in the real world.  Engineers
are not trained for one specific job.  Instead, they are given the tools to
design solutions and handle any set of problems presented.

  The idea of studying engineering was first introduced to me because of my
participation in the U of T's Computing Insights Program in 1993.  At the
time, I was not fully convinced of  pursuing an engineering career.
Fortunately, this idea was solidified when I attended the UBC Shad Valley
Program in the summer of 1994. From this experience, I have learned a few
engineering aspects.  The mandate of our group projects required the design of
a product within a given time period of four weeks.  During that time period,
basic first year engineering concepts were presented in the form of lectures
to assist in our development of a product.  Because of my exposure to these
interesting concepts, my desire to acquire this discipline has grown stronger.

  Engineering is a very difficult discipline and I am prepared to accept the
challenge.  I believe I am well qualified for the program based on my academic
record, past experiences, determination, and interests.  It is my hope that
this challenge will allow me to build a satisfying career.