Common English Mistakes in Transfer Essays by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Transfer Essay in English.

Mistake Example #1

Using overly formal or direct language

I am writing to express mystrong desire to transfer to your esteemed university. The academic environment at your institution is highly regarded, and I am confident that it will provide me with superiorxcellent opportunities for intellectual growth. I believe that my current university does not offer the same level of academic rigor, and thus, I am compelled to seek a more challenging and prestigious academic setting.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"This was already very well-written – I just made a few minor changes to make it sound a bit less direct :)"

I am writing to express my desire to transfer to your esteemed university. The academic environment at your institution is highly regarded, and I am confident that it will provide me with excellent opportunities for intellectual growth. I believe that my current university does not offer the same level of academic rigor, and thus I am compelled to seek a more challenging and prestigious academic setting.

I am writing to express my strong desire to transfer to your esteemed university. The academic environment at your institution is highly regarded, and I am confident that it will provide me with superior opportunities for intellectual growth. I believe that my current university does not offer the same level of academic rigor, and thus, I am compelled to seek a more challenging and prestigious academic setting.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

I am excited to apply fora transfer to your university because there are muchany opportunityies for growth and learningthere. InAt my current school, there isare a manyultitude of resources, but I believe your institution offers more diverse programs that align with my academic goals. I hope to contribute to the community and learn from the numanyerous experiences available at your university.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to correct singular/plural nouns, among other changes."

I am excited to apply for a transfer to your university because there are many opportunities for growth and learning there. At my current school, there are a multitude of resources, but I believe your institution offers more diverse programs that align with my academic goals. I hope to contribute to the community and learn from the numerous experiences available at your university.

I am excited to apply for transfer to your university because there are much opportunity for growth and learning. In my current school, there is many resources, but I believe your institution offers more diverse program that align with my academic goals. I hope to contribute to the community and learn from the many experience available at your university.

Mistake Example #3

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

Studying abroad has always been adream for me. It isan opportunity to experience different cultures and improve mylanguage skills. WI want to transfer to your university becauseit offers excellent programs in my field of interest.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to add missing articles ("the," "an," etc.)."

Studying abroad has always been a dream for me. It is an opportunity to experience different cultures and improve my language skills. I want to transfer to your university because it offers excellent programs in my field of interest.

Studying abroad has always been dream for me. Is opportunity to experience different cultures and improve language skills. Want to transfer to your university because offers excellent programs in my field of interest.