CM Scholarship 3

August 15, 2001

To the Class of 1979,

On behalf of myself and of the Cornell University College of Engineering, I would like to thank you for making it possible for me to receive the Class of 1979 Memorial Scholarship for this year. It is quite wonderful to know that I have received this award, as it will be of great assistance to me as I pursue my degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Ever since I was a young child, I always dreamed of some day attending Cornell. I came to respect its prestigious reputation, as well as the high quality of education it offers, and there are few other institutions where one can earn such an excellent education in such a beautiful, scenic place. My parents have taught me to always set my goals high, and I knew that Cornell would be an excellent place for me to continue challenging myself.
As I grew older, my interests turned to technology and science, and I also developed an intense enthusiasm for aviation and rocketry. It is because of these interests that I would like to be an aerospace engineer. My chosen major involves a rather rigorous course of study, with a concentration in physics, mathematics, and the study of the mechanics of the physical world. These subjects have always been my favorites, and I find my classes quite interesting and engaging.
After I earn my bachelor's degree at Cornell, I intend to remain there an additional year to earn my master's degree, which will better prepare me for my career. I hope to find work with a large defense contractor, such as Lockheed Martin or Boeing, designing tactical aircraft or perhaps spacecraft. I have always marveled at the abilities of modern tactical aircraft, and I am very excited at the possibility of participating in the design of the next generation of even more amazing aircraft. I would also enjoy working for NASA, helpint to deepen our knowledge of outer space. I have always been intrigued by space travel, and I find it quite exciting that I may some day have the opportunity to work in the same institution that has been served by such legendary figures as Wernher von Braun and Neil Armstrong. My family would also be quite proud knowing that I followed in the footsteps of my great uncle, who worked extensively on the Apollo program of the 1960's. A third career path I would be open to is working in the golf industry, which employs many aerospace and aeronautical engineers in the design of golf balls. This is a surprisingly scientific field, employing the latest in composite materials and aerodynamic research. This would certainly be an enjoyable career for me, considering my great love of golf.
Wherever my education leads me, I am sure that I will continue to challenge myself and strive to be the best I can be. It is, after all, this attitude which led me to Cornell and to which I attribute my past successes. Whatever I do with my life, I will approach it with passion and determination, and I will eagerly accept the challenge.
Your gift will certainly be of great aid to me as I pursue my goals, and I appreciate it very much. Thank you for helping to make my dream a reality.

Sincerely,
Robert M. Cannon