Lots of students from our country apply to different foreign universities and they need to write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) to the admission committee of their intended universities. SOP is also known as a motivation letter or admission essay where a prospective student describes himself, his background, experience, and why he wants to study a certain discipline. A well-written SOP keeps a dramatic role in convincing the admission committee and so, students need to give much effort to prepare a perfect SOP.
While writing an SOP, you need to follow some effective strategies and techniques so that it becomes unique. Some strategies are given here which might help you to a great extent.
Be clear about what you are saying
Always be very specific about whatever you are mentioning in your statement of purpose. Explain in detail why you are interested in the course, the factors that made you choose the field you are pursuing, and what kind of skills you have and your intent to further develop. Also, remember to keep it crisp and simple.
Mention your ECA
Extra-curricular activities are something that the admission committee evaluates a lot. Describe how your ECA activities suit the program you are applying for.
Customize your SOP
A lot of students have a common practice of using the same template while writing their statement of purpose. They just change the essential details while sending it to different colleges. But what you should rather do is, tailor your statement of purpose keeping in mind the culture and values of the university you are applying to.
Relate your research interest with your previous project work or courses
Your area of interest should be specific and you need to describe why you are interested to conduct research in a particular field. Give proper evidence that you have adequate knowledge and background to conduct research on the field you are speaking about.
Make sure your SOP not too plain
Imagine coming across a line saying “I would like to change the world and make a difference using my skills.” Even though it is noble and respectable, it is a phrase that you have come across many times. This is considered to be plain and basic, something which almost every other student mentions in his/her statement of purpose. Instead of this, you should make your statement of purpose more authentic and real. Mention your experiences and how they have helped you grow.
Address any issue openly
If you have faced any kind of bumps along the way, for instance, low grades in one semester or any gap, then address it with honesty. Often students just cover them up. But I suggest that you should mention them along with the reason or the cause. You usually come across as an honest and determined individual when you mention your setbacks, and how you worked towards overcoming them.
A G M Alamgir Tipu,
Intern, YSSE
