My decision to pursue a master's program at the University of Texas at Dallas is driven by my aspiration to have a greater understanding of the field of computer science and an active research environment present there. A degree will help me strengthen my knowledge base and also broaden my career prospects. I chose computer science as a major for graduate studies to understand how software systems are built. In the 3rd semester I learned about object-oriented design. Using this programming paradigm, I was able to program better and faster. I also studied component-based development using JavaBeans and found it to be a new approach to rapid software development. My interest in software engineering, as a practical approach to software development, arose while studying it in my fourth semester. I became aware of the different software development methodologies and the various phases of software development. This interest blossomed further through the study of software project management and software testing. I have come to understand the needs of various leaders...