How to write a statement of purpose

Photo and essay by Carlos Montero

Thinking about giving a good impression at the first moment can increase the pressure while you are starting the application process as a graduate for a master program in a prestigious university, regardless of which program you are trying to get into. The statement of purpose is probably a common requirement but it is the most important in a checklist of documents to submit, because it is your presentation card to the admission department and it is always best to have a powerful essay to describe yourself.

The first step to start writing is that key word we learned in composition class, brainstorm. You have to start thinking about your past and how you developed an interest in this program. Also, think about those experiences that are most related to this area and make you feel confident. Remember this is just the brainstorming stage, but try to be accurate with those words you are writing down so you don’t get confused in the composition phase. Your career goals are a fundamental part of your statement of purpose; so do not forget to express the big ideas going through your mind. Questions like “Why do I need this degree?” and “What skills do you have?” are very helpful to squeeze your brain and make you feel able to cover every detail of your history.

Immediately after you have gathered all the ideas about your academic and personal life, organize them chronologically and start reading carefully to clean up all the little details. You are the author of your own story so feel free to make every change you consider necessary.

Complete the previous part talking about the university you chose and do research about it showing them you are really interested in this program. Characteristics of the school you may love and how this specific program will help you to achieve your goals are topics you can develop to write a powerful essay.

Last but not least, take your time to review your entire essay and go through every sentence you wrote to state your ideas. Make sure all the sentences are related in order to form a brief but satisfying essay about you and your goals to catch people’s attention and above all to be capable of standing out from the rest.

The best advice to write a statement of purpose is just be yourself and organize your ideas. If you follow these steps, you will have a great presentation card.