SOP: Statement of Purpose
Your self-discovery starts here...
When I applied for my MBA in 2009 at California State University, I had a daunting task in front of me - to submit my SOP, the statement of purpose.
At that time, little did I know about crafting and telling my story to the admissions committee in a meaningful way. Now, after a decade and helping mentees with their SOP, I am sharing my templates and structure to help you put your best foot forward for the next graduate application. Now, I also see companies ask for an SOP at your job interview.
Let’s get started with the fundamentals of SOP design and structure. Whether you are applying for your Masters or PhD or next job, these steps will help with your application.
It’s a humbling experience to see how far I have come from the girl who paved her path in the United States and a good reminder that dreams do come true.
Structure
Keep the SOP within 2-3 pages.
[Opening statement - inspirational quote]
This is your chance to grab the admission reviewer’s attention. And to share your dreams and aspirations. This is your hook to help the committee understand why they should read the rest of the application. Share your favorite motivational quote. This helps set the right tone and level set expectations.
My dream is to ….
Here is an example opening with an inspirational quote from my 2009 SOP.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams".
- Eleanor RooseveltMy dream is to pioneer a business which solves the “information overload” problem. I aspire to create a web based software product that will help people find information quickly and efficiently. This goal can be attained through recommendation systems, which have led to the emergence of successful businesses like Amazon and Netflix.[long term goal -> how my education had got me to this point -> short term goals]
In the second paragraph, take the time to help them understand your long term goal and how your current education has set you up for success. Then share your short term goals, aka your plan for next 3-5 years to pave the path for your long term vision.
Example: 2009 SOPIn pursuit of my long term goal, I specialized in Cyber Security & Information Systems during my graduate study, thus exposing myself to the nuances of computing in this field. This, coupled with the knowledge gained executing technical endeavors; has instilled the ability to choose the best fit technology.
A comprehensive course in business management is a must to cultivate the business acumen and leadership skills required to secure the market. With this in mind, I have chosen to pursue an MBA program that is a blend of both technology and management. My short-term goal is to work as a Product Manager in a technology company. I believe that the marketing exposure gained can be leveraged when I move on to achieving my long term goal.[why this school and program]
It’s important to do your research and learn about the school and the program that you are applying to. This shows your genuine interest and why you are a good fit for the program. Learn about the work by different professors and highlight ones that are of interest.
Example: 2009 SOPCollege of Business and Economics in the California State University - East Bay, Hayward is a reputed school with a good MBA program in Information Technology Management. Furthermore, the College of Business and Economics has related business centers like Center for Entrepreneurship and Masters of Business Administration Association which will help me develop strong networking and entrepreneurial skills.
In particular, I am interested in the research work of Prof. Hongwei Du on Information Management. His research on “eCollaboration and Its Effects on Business Communications” is very much aligned to my research interest. Additionally, the College of Business and Economics has a large alumni network with eminent advisers.[problem solver – self starter --- how I turned a weakness into strength]
Bring your true authentic self into the application. No one is perfect and sharing your ability to seek opportunities amidst the challenges is a key skill.
Example: 2009 SOPPerseverance and hard work has always been the recipe for my success. I recollect those high school days when I performed well in every subject, except Mathematics. After several below par performances, I devoted more time to understanding the fundamentals.
My effort paid when I rose to the top 5% of the class in the senior year. Subsequently, my performance in academics consistently soared high. I was the first- rank holder in the department in my undergraduate program and came second in my master’s program.[map to skills, interests or hobbies in Resume -- extra curricular activities]
It’s promising to read a well rounded application. This section allows you to showcase your extra curricular activities - your interests and passions outside of academics.
Example: 2009 SOPMy strong performance during the undergraduate coursework in Information Technology at AWH Engineering College, Calicut is testimony to my outstanding analytical and problem solving skills. Alongside academics, I participated in extracurricular activities with full zeal and fervor.
I founded the IT Association of the college and conducted various events such as seminars and programming contests. I was an Executive Committee Member of the Radio Club of the college and took the initiative to organize and participate in various events, including performing in the English radio show. My interest in community services motivated me to actively contribute in the National Service Scheme activities. I was blessed to teach two orphan students and also helped them clear their high school exams.[relevant educational/research/work experience to the candidate/job application]
Every Masters or PhD program is seeking strong researchers into their program. This is your session to share your research and work experience that would position you as a strong research candidate.
Example: 2009 SOPDuring my graduate study at Amrita University, Coimbatore, I co-founded the Cyber Security Research Forum, a platform to share computer security related information.
…
Even with my compelling academic schedule, I took the onus of organizing the National Workshop on Cryptology, 6-8 September 2007, wherein I presented a paper on “Study of Identity Management Systems”.
For my master’s thesis, I worked as a Security Intern in Corporate R&D at Sasken Communication Technologies, Bangalore. It was an independent project and I worked in tandem with my supervisor and peers in related technologies.
…
While I have been instrumental in launching various initiatives and executing them through fruition in the past, this practical industry experience furthered my confidence in my abilities to take on challenges and function as a team player.[Closing statement - why should I get the opportunity to pursue higher studies - anything to share that could affect the application]
Example: 2009 SOPDue to my continuous involvement in numerous research projects, I did not receive a high GMAT score. Even though my verbal score reduced the overall percentile, my AWA score reflects a good command over English. My successes thus far speak for my ability to take on any challenge.
I am confident that given an opportunity, I will not only be able to achieve my goals but also make my professors and peers proud. I look forward to bringing diversity, commitment and energy to your program and am confident that the program in turn will not just mold me into a top notch entrepreneur, but will pave my way to becoming a successful, innovative and influential leader.
Here is the SOP example for your reference - Div.
Final Notes
Keep in mind the language differences - American vs British English depending on where you apply. Simple things like color vs colour can be a big deal. It shows attention to detail.
Have a peer or mentor review and provide guidance and feedback. It can help shape the best compelling story narrative for you. A fresh perspective can help you dive in a little deeper than you could by yourself.
And include strong references/recommendations with your application. Reach out to folks who have worked with you or your university professor who know you well and can give a stellar recommendation. This can help strengthen your application and bring zeal into your expertise and personality. This adds as a vote of confidence and validation to boost your application.
Recommendation or Reference Letter
NAME
Email | Phone
Date
To Whom It May Concern: <University Name>
I am writing this reference at the request of <Applicant Name> who is applying for <Program Name, University>. I have known <Applicant Name> for a number of years in my capacity as her <ROLE> at <Organization Name>.
…. (see google document for recommendation letter template)
All the very best!