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% statement of purpose submitted to the department of electrical
% engineering at cmu.  fall 1988.
%
\centerline{\bf Statement of Purpose}
\bigskip
%
% primary purpose, goals - why graduate school is necessary
%
My primary career objective is to do research in computer systems.  I would
initially like to obtain a fundamental understanding of the principles
of software and hardware organization with an emphasis on 
multiprocessor architectures and
resilience.  My goal is then to apply this knowledge in a specific area such
as the design of signal and image processing equipment to be used in harsh
environments.
\vskip 10pt

\parindent=.4truein\noindent
However, there are other fields in which I have an interest:
\item{$\bullet$} Computer modeling.  My only experience 
thus far being the use of Monte Carlo simulations in determining performance
characteristics of networks using CSMA and CSMA-CD.  A particularly 
challenging area is the modeling of distributed systems.
\item{$\bullet$} Design and verification of algorithms.  
I have had no formal courses in this area but have been exposed 
to it in two graduate courses on data networks.  My particular interests
concern distributed algorithms and network maintenance algorithms (routing
and updating of networks).
\item{$\bullet$} Graph theory and analysis.  A better knowledge of these
two areas of mathematics would be beneficial regardless of the area I
entered.
\vskip 10pt\parindent=0pt

Because of 
both the diversity and excellence of its programs, CMU would allow me the 
chance to study these areas in greater depth.  I present below my relevent
academic and work experience.  Additionally, a resume is provided 
giving specific
details of my academic and employment background as well as 
listing academic honors and awards.

%
% past academic work
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\bigskip
In December 1984, I completed a Bachelor of Science in Electrical 
Engineering at Texas A\&M
University.  My primary interest at the undergraduate level was in digital
design, with a heavy concentration in Computer Science.  After working for
a short time with
Boeing Computer Services, I returned to A\&M to work on my
Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering.   
Having completed all necessary coursework, I will be finishing the other
requirements for the
degree in the Spring of 1988.  My thesis topic involves
the use of closure assumptions in the transient analysis of data networks.

%
% past work experience
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\bigskip
Currently, I am acting as a consultant to our departmental computing
facility.  I have also managed one of the departmental VAX machines and
am familiar with the VMS operating system.  This VAX was primarily used
for research in image and speech processing, whereby I obtained my 
interest in signal processing
applications.
Prior to my return to graduate school, I was
employed by Boeing as a specialist in artificial intelligence.  
However, as the group had just recently been formed, my responsibilities
there consisted primarily of becoming familiar with the equipment and
software that was available.  Additionally, I was on a proposal team 
working on the Pilot's Associate  -- a project whose purpose is to deploy
AI in tactical aircraft.
%
% conclusion
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\bigskip
I am applying to the Ph.D.\ program at CMU because of the research 
environment it offers.  I would welcome the opportunity to become a productive
member of such a facility.
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