Statement of purpose

Step 2 Determine the contents of your statement

2007-07-06T01:49:00.000-07:00

Prepare an outline by selecting the main topics you want to cover (here I give you the sample list of main topics, needs will vary according to the area you're applying for) and listing supporting material under each topic (here this step is represented by questions which you need to answer)

Remember, that while information on your past work is important, it is most relevant in explaining how it led you to focus on the problems that currently interest you. The admission committees are primarily concerned with learning about your current and future research interests.

Personal background
List personal reasons for your interest in the area, for example, difficulties overcome, great extracurricular achievements, etc.
Have your parents or unusual life situations influenced your aspirations?

Professional objectives
Why do you want to be a physicist/mathematician/historian/...?
When did you know you wanted to be a physicist/mathematician/historian/...? What life experiences contributed to this?
What do your plan to do with your degree in physics/math/history/...? (Discuss your future educational and professional goals)
What area of physics/math/history/... do you want to get into?
Why do you want to attend X University? (You can discuss academic environment, geographic location, etc.)
Why will you make a good candidate for X University? (You might want to discuss your past triumphs, your commitment to academics)

Educational background
(summarize what you did as an undergraduate and in rare cases as a high school student)
List important classes you took or specific projects for a class which enhanced your interest in the field and stimulated your desire for graduate study.
List specific skills you have acquired and projects you have worked on, stress the ones which might be useful in your graduate work.

Related research and work experience
Research you might have done, indicate with whom, the title of the project, what your responsibilities were, and the outcome. Write technically, professors are the people who read these statements.
Work experience, especially if you had any kind of responsibility related to your professional interests (for example: testing, designing, or researching a product or apparatus).
Work done with or that displays knowledge of top people in the field--summarize key points of your actual experience
Recognition of and interest in work of individuals in the department to which you are applying

Outstanding achievements
Have you been a winner of regional, state, international, undergraduate Olympiads?
Have you received any special fellowships such as Soros, Eximer, etc.?
Have you got any special awards or nominations?

Step 1 Determine the purpose in writing the statement

2007-07-06T01:48:00.000-07:00

Usually the purpose is to persuade the admissions committee that you are an applicant they should choose. You may want to show that you have the ability and motivation to succeed in your field, or you may want to show the committee that, on the basis of your experience, you are the kind of candidate who will do well in the field. Whatever the purpose, it must be explicit to give coherence to the whole statement.Pay attention to the purpose throughout the statement so that extraneous material is left out. Pay attention to the audience (committee) throughout the statement. Remember, your audience is made up of faculty members who are experts in their field. They want to know that you can think as much as what you think.

Statement of Purpose Advice

2007-07-04T14:19:00.000-07:00

Statement of Purpose Advice

I've read many applications to our graduate program, and I've seen a lot of statements of purpose that, frankly, aren't very good.

Here are some thoughts and comments that will hopefully help you write a better statement of purpose. These are merely my own thoughts and should not be construed as official guidelines of any sort.

What the statement of purpose is not

Many students (particularly foreign students) think that the statement of purpose is about character. While honesty, sincerety, conscientiousness, etc. are important attributes, I assume students with good academic records applying to graduate school have these traits.
Many students think that the statement of purpose should be an autobiographical sketch. Believe me, the story of your first computer when you were 10 years old and how it inspired you to devote your life to Computer Science does not make particularly interesting reading, nor does it tell me the things I want to know.

Questions that your statement of purpose should answer

When I read a statement of purpose (which I think is one of the most important parts of a graduate application), I have the following questions in mind.

Don't structure your statement with these questions! (I can just see the applications pouring in now with my questions used as section headings.)

Your statement of purpose should be a cohesive piece of prose. (Some use of section headings is OK, but not with my questions.) It should present yourself to the reader. One way you can think of your statement is as an extended (and somewhat more formal) answer to the interview question, “Tell me about yourself...”

While some of my questions below can (and should) be answered directly, the rest should be addressed by relating relevant experiences and accomplishments.

Why do you want to get a PhD (or MS)?
What are your research interests?
Be as specific as possible, but keep in mind who will be reading your application.
In the Rensselaer CS department, research groups read applications — the one(s) you specify on your application. At other schools, a department committee may read all applications and decide upon admissions on behalf of the whole department.
For the Rensselaer CS department, unless you are an exceptional student with a broad range of experience/accomplishments, you should target your application to just one research group — a student who specifies interest in robotics and networking, for example, may not be taken seriously by either group.
Multiple faculty within a research group will read your application.
Why are you interested in these research topics?
Don't write an autobiography!
Do you have the motivation/perseverence to complete a PhD?
If you have an undergraduate degree in something other than Computer Science or Computer Engineering, then another question is: do you have the background to pass the PhD qualifiers?

The statement of purpose is also an opportunity to describe some of your accomplishments and their significance. The reader will not be familiar with the programs, competitions, examinations, etc. for all parts of the United States, not to mention other countries.

Other things to keep in mind

Format: Single spaced (or maybe even "one and a half" spacing, but definitely not double spaced) with at least a 10 point font and reasonable margins (at least 1 inch on all sides, preferrably more on the left and right with a 10 point font).
Length: Definitely not more than 2 pages! (Who has time to read more than that?)
When I was applying to graduate schools, I was advised to keep my statement of purpose to a single page. I now think that this was not good advice — one page tends to be too short if you're covering everything you should.
Don't try to "cram" more into your two pages using typographical tricks (line spacing, font size, margins, etc.) You're not fooling anyone. Inability to write a concise statement of purpose indicates a lack of critical thinking skills.
I should duly note that most undergraduate Computer Science students confuse "concise" with "short". "Concise" means that you have given thought to the composition of your statement to make it a clear and cohesive piece of prose (with a natural/logical flow) that covers all the necessary points and doesn't cover unnecessary points. "Short" pieces of writing are usually too short because they omit important points, aren't cohesive, etc.
Spell check it! Get someone else to proofread it!

http://www.cs.rpi.edu/~whuang/other/purposeadvice.html

This section helps you to writing your SOP in the minimum time.

2007-06-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

You do not need to think about appropriate sentences for implementing your ideas in your documents. You will use these sentences and just copy and paste them in your materials

Here are some Useful sentences in writing SOP. You may replace your information in these sentences and use them in yours.

ABC: Applicants' Major
XYZ: Applicants' Intended University
AAA: is used to refer different things such as conference name
(1) (2) or (3): Means that the indicated sentence can be used in the first, second or third part of SOP that is explained in Statement of Purpose section in

1. Since obtaining a PhD degree in ABC has always been my dream, I did my best to pass the courses in my major successfully and participate in several research projects including… (2)

2. I attained top scores for most of my main courses that placed me among the top X% in my department. (2)

3. Our research in this project resulted in a paper for AAA conference/journal. (2)

4. I believe that the XYZ has one of the best graduate programs in the US. (3)

5. I am confident that I will tremendously benefit from my education at XYZ through my future career. (3)

6. The distinguished faculty members and excellent experimental and facilities at the XYZ make it an ideal graduate program for me. (3)

And many more sentences that help you to writing your SOP as quick as possible. This section is free for ApplyAdvice's members. You can be an ApplyAdvice's member by purchasing the "complete SOP guideline" or any other guidelines.

How to write SOPs

2007-06-04T14:36:00.000-07:00

It is easy while writing such a “Statement of Purpose” to get carried away by the need to impress the reader. I have tried to be objective about my achievements & career plans & career plans & at the same time to be honest with myself.

I decided to study my management course from us because the management courses & the quality of education in us is renowned worldwide. This would provide me opportunities to get best education in mnagement studies. I will also get the experience to education of different countries & to study & interact with a large number of students from different nations while remaining within on University system.

I had passed Intermediate the qualifying examination & would like to undergo for my Bachelor’s degree from your University & pursue graduate degree in Business Administration (B.B.A.) & THEREAFTER M.B.A. At present I am doing my W.A.P.(Web Application Programmer) from NIIT.

I hail from a renowned business family in India, Which has diversified interests in the National & International business scene. Due to the liberalized trade policies the world over including my country, the International trade scenario is changing fast & the markets are no more confined to one country.The globalisation of the markets has opened the vast avenue or our group of companies. I wish to take up the increasing responsibilities of the Financial division of our group of companies after my studies in your University so that they can compete in the world.

My father owns a Paper factory producing Kraft paper with the capacity of 60 T.P.D.Our paper is exported in U.K., Germany, China, Italy, etc. through our exclusive export firm Shayona International The compay is sponsoring me for B.B.A. & M.B.A. so that after completing my education, I look after financial management for the company.

I will be delighted to get educatied in the country pledging for Equity, Humanity & Democracy. I will be all the more delighted to serve my country with the knowledge that I acquire in us to turn my dream & my Dad’s dream into reality.

I assure your that I will not level any stone unturned in achieving the specific standards that I have set for my self in my career.

Statement of Purpose Advice

2007-06-04T11:48:00.001-07:00

I've read many applications to our graduate program, and I've seen a lot of statements of purpose that, frankly, aren't very good.

Here are some thoughts and comments that will hopefully help you write a better statement of purpose. These are merely my own thoughts and should not be construed as official guidelines of any sort.

What the statement of purpose is not

Many students (particularly foreign students) think that the statement of purpose is about character. While honesty, sincerety, conscientiousness, etc. are important attributes, I assume students with good academic records applying to graduate school have these traits.
Many students think that the statement of purpose should be an autobiographical sketch. Believe me, the story of your first computer when you were 10 years old and how it inspired you to devote your life to Computer Science does not make particularly interesting reading, nor does it tell me the things I want to know.

Questions that your statement of purpose should answer

When I read a statement of purpose (which I think is one of the most important parts of a graduate application), I have the following questions in mind.

Don't structure your statement with these questions! (I can just see the applications pouring in now with my questions used as section headings.)

While some of my questions below can (and should) be answered directly, the rest should be addressed by relating relevant experiences and accomplishments.

Why do you want to get a PhD (or MS)?
What are your research interests?
Be as specific as possible, but keep in mind who will be reading your application.
In the Rensselaer CS department, research groups read applications — the one(s) you specify on your application. At other schools, a department committee may read all applications and decide upon admissions on behalf of the whole department.
For the Rensselaer CS department, unless you are an exceptional student with a broad range of experience/accomplishments, you should target your application to just one research group — a student who specifies interest in robotics and networking, for example, may not be taken seriously by either group.
Multiple faculty within a research group will read your application.
Why are you interested in these research topics?
Don't write an autobiography!
Do you have the motivation/perseverence to complete a PhD?
If you have an undergraduate degree in something other than Computer Science or Computer Engineering, then another question is: do you have the background to pass the PhD qualifiers?

Other things to keep in mind

Format: Single spaced (or maybe even "one and a half" spacing, but definitely not double spaced) with at least a 10 point font and reasonable margins (at least 1 inch on all sides, preferrably more on the left and right with a 10 point font).
Length: Definitely not more than 2 pages! (Who has time to read more than that?)
When I was applying to graduate schools, I was advised to keep my statement of purpose to a single page. I now think that this was not good advice — one page tends to be too short if you're covering everything you should.
Don't try to "cram" more into your two pages using typographical tricks (line spacing, font size, margins, etc.) You're not fooling anyone. Inability to write a concise statement of purpose indicates a lack of critical thinking skills.
I should duly note that most undergraduate Computer Science students confuse "concise" with "short". "Concise" means that you have given thought to the composition of your statement to make it a clear and cohesive piece of prose (with a natural/logical flow) that covers all the necessary points and doesn't cover unnecessary points. "Short" pieces of writing are usually too short because they omit important points, aren't cohesive, etc.
Spell check it! Get someone else to proofread it!

http://www.cs.rpi.edu/~whuang/other/purposeadvice.html

SOP Worksheet

2006-08-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

1. List down three of your strengths
a. Analytical Thinking
b. Creative Inclination_________________________________
c. Wide field of experience. Worked as summer intern for the largest steel company in India, Single handedly managing the computer dept of an NGO, made dbase packages for Govt of India Research Lab.(Medicinal Plant Division) and other projects while in college.________________

2. List down three of your weaknesses
a. Not necessary___________________________
b. ________________________________________
c. ________________________________________

3. List down the ten most important events in your life in chronological order. Please state your reasons for choosing these.
a.

4. What department / degree are you applying for?
a. Masters in Computer Science______________

5. In what subject will you specialize in your degree program?
a. Computer Science___________________________
6. When did you first find this subject interesting? (it may be more than one event / person / project / lecture / book / etc.)

During my 1st year in college I was introduced to language C, though I had the initial knowledge of language BASIC, the versality of C left me enthralled.
Then I got my hands on a worn out book of Bjorn Stroussops( creator of C) on C which made me wanting more.
__________________________________________
_________________________________________
__________________________________________
__________________________________________

7. What projects (or technical papers) have you worked on in this area? Clarify which of them was a part of the curriculum.
Device Driver in C
dBase in Oracle for projects like inventory control & data handling for Regional Research Lab
dBase in C
Though I was exposed to the prog. Language BASIC in school, programming really caught my attention and when I was in my 1st yr of engg , and I was introduced to C. The versatility and facile nature of C made it even more interesting and really left me spellbound and enthralled. As the depth of study computers increased I was more and more interested in it. Subjects like Algorithms, Programming, OS & Adv OS, OR and internet really fascinated me.
______Seminar on Wireless Fidelity & its Implications in India

8. Any other notable projects or industry experience Explain the project or assign ment and your role in it.

_________________________

9. How do you think you will change after your MS?
I will be two years older.
I would be able to make myself more knowledgeable & technically advanced than my current peers. It would make me better suited to join industry or to take up entrepreneurial venture or maybe go in for research. The MS would make things clearer for me.
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________

10. What are your plans after an MS? (Hint: Pursue Ph.D. studies / Come back to India and apply the knowledge gained / Work in the industry to further your understanding of the subject / Start your own business, etc)

Work in industry or Comeback and start a software development firm or could go for PHD, MS will make the picture clearer.

11. What is your greatest dream in life?
To make a commendable contribution to the computing world either by staring an innovative venture or doing research which would change the dimensions of future computing and the way we perceive the computers. My role model is Bill Gates and the way he turned his innovative ideas to the revolution in the field of computing.
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
12. What extra-curricular activities did you pursue in college? Any notable achievements in any of them?

a. 1st in Univ. Badminton championship
b. NGO work
c. Made a dbase for Govt Lab RRL
d. Essential member of the university volleyball team( under the Sports Authority of India)
e. ________________________________

SPORTING ACTIVITIES : (Starting with the most active)
Sports / Games Played.....Level (University / College / School) Position Played
Badminton Univ 1st
Volleyball Univ Participation

SOP for MA in Anthropology

2006-07-16T03:28:00.000-07:00

I am applying for admission to the graduate program in anthropology for the Fall semester of 1985. An application has already been submitted to the Graduate School, together with transcripts and other pertinent materials. The following is a description of my background and interests in Anthropology, goals for graduate study, and career goals.

My academic training, in anthropology comprises courses in archaeology and cultural anthropology, but physical anthropology has been emphasized. I have also tried to obtain a background in geology, biology, advanced math, and statistics by taking courses in those departments.

As for practical experience, I have been Dr. R. Dale McCall's paid laboratory assistant since the 1982/83 academic year. My duties have been to assist him in the osteological analysis of several pre-Columbian Algonquin ossuary samples (from eastern North Carolina) comprising more than 100 individuals. I have also worked with Dr. David S. Phelps (East Carolina University) for two field seasons in the excavation of several sites along the Chowan River. My duties were to aid in the survey, excavation, processing, cataloging and general project logistics and maintenance in the testing and large scale excavations at these sites. In addition to these projects, I have worked with Dr. Phelps in the salvage of the Burial 7 ossuary at the Baum Site, worked for Dr. Thomas Loftfield (University of North Carolina at Wilmington) on several contract test excavations and have worked as a volunteer for the North Carolina Division of Archives and History on excavations at the Flynt Site in coastal North Carolina.

As a graduate student, I would like to pursue the study of the manifestation and prevalence of disease in Amerindian skeletal populations of the southeastern United States. Also I would like to study the role that diet plays in dental attrition and disease in these populations. I am intensely interested in both of these areas and have some background in them, but would very much like to have the opportunity to study other skeletal populations from different geographical areas and time periods.

In keeping with my interests, my goals as a graduate student include gaining familiarity with the skeletal biology of Amerindians other than the Algonquians of eastern North Carolina, thereby strengthening my ability to identify pathological conditions in bone and increasing my knowledge of the use of multivariate and other statistical methods in the study of skeletal populations.

With these goals in mind, my career objectives at present are to prepare myself for a career in research and teaching in Physical Anthropology, particularly in human osteology. Understanding that anthropology is a diverse field, I have tried to make my experience in anthropology as diverse as possible, preparing myself through academic, field and laboratory experiences for advanced study. I would be pleased to receive consideration for admission as a graduate student at the University of Tennessee.

Sincerely yours,

Two Formulas for Application Success

2006-07-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

A question first: Why do you suppose that the school should admit you? Is it because you are a top student ever since elementary school, or because you've received many prizes in college, or because you have extremely high GRE and TOEFL scores? Is your logic in application similar to this: I'm a well-qualified applicant so that you must accept me? If this is the case, I'm sorry, that's totally wrong. You're actually doing a blind date.

Formula 1: I am good >> so you should take me in

I learned this lesson from the failure in getting into my dream school. I was a strong candidate and was lucky enough to have an interview with a highly competitive school. When asked why I chose it, I made a big mistake that I didn't realize at the time: I admitted that I hadn't decided my research field yet, so I chose their combined program because I didn't have to choose a specific department at that time. The director responded immediately that they surely hoped that students would have a decision soon, and the aim of the combined program was to provide more flexibility. Several days later, I was turned down. "We strive to find the best possible fit between the interests of each applicant and the expertise of our faculty," the refusal letter said. That's the point. Like Lock and Key. Rather than exaggerating that the key is a perfect one, made of gold or being long-lasting, it is more efficient to say that the key is the right one for the lock. It can open it with ease. So, in my opinion, we should change our application strategy into this: I believe I'm the right person you're looking for and here is some of the evidence.

Formula 2: I am the right one for you >> here is the evidence

As a non-medical student, I was admitted by a Medical Center, which has a nationally renowned hospital. The director of that program was surprised when she learned that I was currently doing some research on plants but not on animals for my undergraduate thesis. "So, what do you like to do, plants or mammalian? Or both?" She joked. Though my research background seemed a little irrelevant, they still gave me the offer. As they said, they believe I have the "potential". Here is the evidence to show my potential: I knew what their faculties were doing; I had my own view on their research even though I didn't have any hands-on experience in those areas; I was interested in their program and I believed I would be a great student in their department...So, in short, my passion for and knowledge about their program plus my good academic record won them over.

See the difference? Don't waste time persuading every lock how perfect a key you are, try to find the lock of a suitable type, then it would be an easy job to unlock it.

SOP Sample: Computer Science and Electrical Engineering

2006-07-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

“Conceiving ideas and developing systems that deliver that promise” is a personal goal that I have set for myself. When translated into actions this goal has reinforced my belief in leadership through creativity.

As a student in high school I had the idea of a drip irrigation system by a windmill. Using some old hose pipes, plastic tubes and a pulley arrangement I developed the model. This model won the gold medal at the prestigious Indian National science congress. While still in the third year of undergraduate program in Engineering I became the Technical consultant for a start up company. My technical idea won the first prize at Eureka 50K, India’s first Business Plan competition. For the past two and a half years I have been working in XXX corporation. The will to learn and the ability to spend long hours of cerebration on trouble shooting have made me a dependable team player.

Today as a 24-year-old individual I perceive that life for me has been a process of conscious evolution. The most integral part of this growth is the value system imbibed in me by my parents, teachers and my mentors and an intrigued liking for science. This played a vital role in my decision making for the future. As I finished high school I was selected for the Indian Naval Academy with merit ranking in the Top 25 in the country. However my liking for science guided me into pursuing a Bachelor degree in Electrical Electronics and Power (EEP) Engineering. This decision gave me ample opportunity to consolidate my creative energies and harness my technical aptitude.

In college, I always enjoyed long hours in the labs. It gave me the opportunity to correlate theory to practical phenomena. This in turn gave me a better understanding of the subject and newer lines of thinking. The course in EEP covered a wide panorama of subjects. Besides the core Electrical Engineering subjects I also studied major electronics subjects like electronic devices and circuits, Linear Integrated Circuits and Pulse and Digital switching circuits. I learnt programming in ANSI C and by the time I was in final year I developed a fair amount of expertise writing complex pieces of code.

In the third year of my engineering studies I was introduced to the subject of Control Systems. The first session in the labs was devoted to developing simple programs for a Simatic PLC. A combination of AND, OR blocks generating a complete control circuit for a motor fascinated me. I took up an internship in the Controls Lab and got to interact with Prof. A, a professor of great repute in the field of Automation and Controls. He introduced me to the synergies of Information technology and Automation systems. Under his guidance I completed the thesis in PC based Load Flow Analysis and also worked with the Mechanical Dept for PC based control of Robotic Arm.

Working on the projects gave me a sound technical base. But the greatest advantage of involving myself in these activities was that I developed the ability to multi-task effectively. Besides the college academics I was actively involved in the extra-curricular activities. I represented my college at state level Table Tennis and Debate competitions. I wanted to self-finance my education and worked part-time. I was also an active amateur environmentalist. The driving force behind all this was my aim to develop all the facets of my personality. In this process I could not achieve the grades I wanted to in the first and second year. But soon I garnered the skill of judicious allocation of time and energy. I did well in the third year and final year of Engineering. Moreover I do not feel that the marks I scored are the sole indicators of my understanding of the subject. A cogent reason to augment my belief is the final year of my engineering.

XX ( my present employer) visited the college campus and offered me a job in the area of Process Automation and MES. I was among the twenty candidates selected from the best institutes across the country. I passed the six rounds of technical and personal interviews and I was the only student to be selected from the college. I decided to take up the job. For me it meant a chance to apply the knowledge gained so far in Controls and Automation systems and gain some industrial exposure. Besides this the job can help finance some part of my future education.

Unlike the milieu of the college, the corporate environment was very much different. The concept of learning on the job, accountability for the work at hand, conformance to in- housework flow standards gave me a greater focus. The most challenging aspect however was the rate of the learning, which was immense. In one year I developed competence in Real - time Energy management solutions. As part of my first project I developed software for Energy Management in a Cement Plant. The concept was based on the collection of Real-time Data from the DCS (Digital Control System) and populating a Database. With a certain degree of intelligence built into the software energy saving in the Cement unit was as high as 5%. This was a solution implemented for the first time by XX corporation in a Cement Plant. In recognition of my work I was selected as a team member for the deployment of the XX Industrial IT platform solutions.

I deployed solutions in the field of Statistical Process control and Asset Optimization in Metals and Cement Industries. During these projects I got to interact with the R&D teams in XX and I also went through some research papers in my leisure time. The experience gained in the deployment of solutions and interaction with the technical teams of customers gave me a new insight. I realized that the business process decision making and the technical processes are not integrated in Real time. Although solutions like ERP aim to achieve this goal, information still exists in islands. In order to seamlessly integrate these areas a new architecture that links Automation systems and MES solutions needs to be developed. However this calls for comprehensive research. I cannot pursue this idea while still in a job. Besides an academic program under the guidance of able professors would help me identify my specific research interests. Hence I have decided to pursue my Master degree in a research-focused environment.

The Center for Intelligent Machines Industrial Automation Lab at YY offers the best courses in this domain. The application driven research and development carried out in this lab coheres to my liking. I would like to carry out my research under the guidance of Prof. B. I believe that under his supervision I can proactively contribute to the work done in the Lab. His areas of work are of great interest to me and I believe that I can prove to be an effective and reliable team member in carrying out cutting edge research in this domain.

SOP sample: Electronic and Communication Engineering.

2006-07-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

I am very thankful for providing me this opportunity and it is with sincere sense of gratification that I pen my brief statement of purpose. Pursuit of knowledge has always been my obsession and the propelling force behind all my achievements. My decision to pursue graduate study blends harmoniously with my eventual objective of taking up research-oriented career in Electronic and Communication Engineering.

My strengths in quantitative and analytical abilities instilled in me a special interest towards mathematics and physics. I have opted for the same in the (10+2) course and got through it in the first division with distinction in optional. Admission to undergraduate course is through a screening test. I was ranked in the top5% of the candidates who took the test. My outstanding performance her has provided me with a privilege of choice. The multidisciplinary facet of Electronics and Communication Engineering, its broad scope and wide applications made me opt it as my major in the undergraduate course.

The days of my undergraduate study helped me to get sound knowledge and a firm grasps over the principles underlying the course of Electronics and Communication Engineering and has equipped me with the necessary prerequisites for a formal graduate course. Take stock of the fluidity and the fast rate of obsolescence of the developments in this field, I have always strive hard to keep myself abreast of the latest trends by going through the journals of American Society for Electrical Engineering.

As it is absolutely necessary for everyone to be acquainted with computers, I have la earn ‘C’ and ‘C++’ My interest lies in DIGITAL COMMUNICATION, COMPUTER COMMUNICATION AND COMMUNICATION SWITCHING SYSTEMS. Though right now I am applying for Masters Degree, I would definitely continue my study in this field to attain my goal, a doctorate degree and envisage a research-oriented career at an esteemed university like yours.

I see learning and teaching at two sides of the same coin of intellectual growth. I recognize the fact that at your university, with its commitment to foster intellectual excellence is a remarkably strong and an attractive place to embark up on an academic career. Being oriented in this direction for a long period, I am confident of contributing my might towards the same.

Although my study at your university does not thing on getting finical aid, it would be of great help if I get some financial aid, at least in part. I will be able efficiently assist your graduate both its research nod teaching activities and some from of financial aid would be immense help, in a way of reducing burden on my parents.

Give a chance, I am confident that my potential will be reflected in my graduate or and I wall be able to contribute significantly to the research you University and live up to high standards of your graduate program.

SOP Sample: MBA Career Plans

2006-06-02T23:33:00.001-07:00

Let’s face it. The term “globalism” has become overused, and often misused. In fact, we might say that it has actually been devalued to the level of the everyday language of buzzword-brandishing marketing pundits. Such freewheeling usage has perhaps prompted many a CEO (or future CEO) to launch into a global plan or strategy without proper consideration of the demands and dynamics of the international marketplace. Many would-be globetrotters neglect the acquisition of language skills, knowledge of foreign trade and tax laws, accounting standards, etc., all of which are necessary to effectively “go global.” Superficial knowledge only leads to failure.

This has, indeed, happened, and while there is no doubt that neglecting to capture the gains achievable in overseas markets is equally suicidal, misguided attempts at competing globally (along with rapidly developing opportunities in the global marketplace) have placed a dramatic premium on individuals who take the time to properly train themselves in international business. For me, the Columbia MBA is a significant component of this training.

I foresee my own career moving in the direction of European/American business, initially from an advisory perspective (i.e. investment banking or consulting) and ultimately from a leadership role within a manufacturing entity, preferably a start-up venture. This prophecy, in part, has evolved from my past experiences in western and eastern Europe which, in turn, have formed my opinions about certain opportunities that should emerge in the future: there should be, with a good degree of certainty, immense windfall gains and comparative advantages for US-trained/thinking business leaders and managers in the European markets in the coming years. This foresight along with my personal entrepreneurial bent and an affinity for finance will play a large role in the evolution of my career.

There is a theory that states that students who travel and study overseas return greatly transformed in outlook and perspective. I am no different, and it is easy to imagine how witnessing first-hand the revolutions in Eastern Europe (while studying in Budapest in the fall of 1989) would impact my future plans. The overall ramifications of the fall of the “Red Empire” were at that time to me quite apparent (i.e. the end of the bi-polar global political structure, etc.), and it was quite obvious that lacking any kind of international capabilities (languages, experience, etc.) would greatly hinder anyone’s career in the long run. Therefore, since graduating in 1991, I have tried to maintain a balance of technical knowledge accumulation and international work experience. Thus far, I think I have been quite successful.

My year at Kidder, Peabody had its compulsory eighty-hour weeks which, indeed, provided a solid technical foundation in corporate finance and capital markets. However, the scope of the company was somewhat limited internationally, hence my job change to Deutsche Girozentrale -Deutsche Kommunalbank- (street name, “DGZ”) in Frankfurt, Germany. This was a career shift that was a bit off the beaten path but was international and provided excellent exposure to the European capital markets and to the internal management/corporate culture of a staunch and traditional German institution. The job was also naturally conducive to achieving full-fluency in German. My current position has allowed for a continuum of international corporate finance exposure (about 90% of Vereinsbank’s clients are central or eastern European) as well as solid technical and quantitative training in corporate finance.

Over the course of my experiences both in the US and Europe I have made a discovery that, while nothing new, creates a macro rationale for my career plans. As most of us know, there exists today a seemingly unalterable persistence of bureaucracy, risk-aversion and time consuming decision making procedures amongst European enterprises, a fundamental difference to their aggressive American counterparts. For any American-trained business leader, this represents an opportunity. The now-ending world recession in tandem with rapidly increasing global competition (both of which, incidentally, have prompted a restructuring of US industry) has forced European governments to strongly consider more open markets. That’s also nothing new. However, it seems that the recession was not long enough to force a concurrent inward reflection amongst European business leaders. As a result, many European private sector entities have maintained their bureaucratic habits, but ultimately face increased competition in their own domestic markets. Unfortunately for them, they are losing and should continue to lose (the recent utter domination of US investment banks in Germany over the long-standing domestic “superbanks” as a result of the recent liberation of the financial markets is a case in point).

This is, obviously, an opportunity. As more and more Europeans continue their tradition of bureaucracy management, there will be an ever-increasing demand for US-trained business operators (who, by the way, traditionally perform well in laizes fairre market environments) as more and more international companies (US and non-US) move into Europe. My objective is to capitalize on this opportunity.

However, just from simple observation, I have discovered that an MBA provides a distinct advantage over those without. There is an analytical nature inherent to MBA’s which I believe is duplicable only by committing two years to the academic study of business. And, in light of my international bent, there is no doubting that Columbia is quite appropriate for my purposes.

My father once told me, “life, like baseball, is a game of inches. So practice, practice, practice before stepping onto the field, life included.” I guess he meant prepare before embarking upon the real thing. The MBA, for me, would be a source of “practice, practice, practice,” and based on my observations of Columbia MBAs in action and on the reputation of the school internationally, a Columbia MBA would be perfect “spring training,” so to speak...

SOP Sample: PhD Economics

2006-06-02T23:33:00.000-07:00

When introduced to economics in high school I realized that it interestingly qualified as a subject of both Arts and Science. It was an area defined by precise rules, principles and axioms and yet there was tremendous scope for self-expression in the form of interpretation and analysis. This facet of economics intrigued me very much and I decided to pursue further studies in Economics.

During my Master's program I equipped myself as best as I could, with various tools used in economic analysis. I obtained rigorous training in mathematics, econometrics and game theory. After completing the Master's program, I joined National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, as I was very eager to see

how one might use economics to tackle real life problems, where simplified models, and assuming away of problems may offer no respite. I did some very interesting work here, which is described in my resume. I want to delve deeper into the subject to be able to carry out independent research and analysis, hence my decision to join the Ph.D. program at UCLA.

International Economics is an area I would really like to explore. I am fascinated by game theoretic modeling of issues pertaining to International Economics. I believe that game theoretic models can be effectively used in international economics as many policy issues such as negotiations over mutual reductions in tariffs, formation and preservation of customs unions, establishment of cartels in the case of internationally traded goods, all have some game theoretic character.

The current "Regionalism versus Multilateralism" debate holds its own attraction. It should be interesting to analyze the trade diversion effects of Preferential Trading Agreements and also their impact on multilateral institutions like GATT. The strategic trading that takes place in foreign exchange markets and the variety of auction like mechanisms that have been used for foreign exchange trade, especially in developing countries, are intriguing.

During my graduate studies I aim to equip myself with some advanced tools and develop my analytical and research capabilities. I want to get an excellent command over econometrics to be able to confront stochastic statistical data with exact models of economic theories and also for empirical verification of other models, which might otherwise be set in a partial equilibrium framework. I expect to emerge as an economic engineer and an expert in model building.Econometrics per se, also interests me as a subject of economics and I might like to research in econometric methodology. I want to be an academic economist. I have cleared the National Eligibility test conducted by the University Grants Commission of India, which makes me eligible to teach an undergraduate course in economics in any Indian university.

I want to study at UCLA, as it emphasizes on the rigor and analytical tools that are necessary for academic research. I have well-developed analytical and mathematical skills and I want to exploit these skills to the greatest extent. I feel the help and guidance that can be provided to me by the distinguished faculty of your university will be invaluable. I am sure if I am given the opportunity to study at your university that attracts some of the best students from all over the world, it will provide an environment competitive enough to bring out the best in me.

Sample SOP: Computer Engineering

2006-06-02T23:32:00.000-07:00

Purpose of Study & Professional Plans

The boundless possibility of trying out and the instant knowledge of the outcome that stimulates one for further analysis of a rationale in question, is what I find most appealing about Computer Science. Keeping up an inquisitive and explorative attitude, I believe, leads to a constant learning process. This approach adds to the already immense potential for innovation that exists in this field.

As a student in the final year of undergraduate study for a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Computer Science & Engineering, I look to graduate study to refine my knowledge and skills in my areas of interest. I believe it will also serve to give direction to my goal of a career as a research professional at an academic or commercial, research-oriented organisation. I intend to pursue an MS degree in order to reach that goal.

Academic Background & Research Interests

In my undergraduate studies, I have benefited from the breadth of Shivaji University’s syllabi content that has given me a comprehensive exposure to the core areas of Computer Science and a strong conceptual understanding of the same. In these three and half years of study, I have strived to maintain an approach of expending independent effort in all my endeavors. Learning by myself and sharing my knowledge with others has been most worthwhile, when comprehending a concept.

Over the past two years, I have developed an interest in the areas of Compiler Construction and Information Retrieval. The Compiler Construction lab sessions last semester required the design of a compiler for C++ programs that were restricted to For loops, Switch case statements and simple input and output. The work involved in this, as well as the courses, Formal Systems and Automata and Compiler Construction, have lead me to appreciate the intricacies involved in this field. However, for my MS degree, I remain open to other topics as well.

For my B.E project, I have decided to concentrate on my other area of interest viz. Information Retrieval. I’m attempting to evolve a technique that, when employed in a search engine, will maximize the comprehensiveness and precision of the query listings. The ongoing work has introduced me to a vast body of pertinent research, such as the University of Washington’s Dynamic Reference Sifting technique for locating an individual’s homepage, among others. This has served to sharpen my inclination to engage in active research within this area.

(Please see attached Resume’ for the Academic and Co-curricular distinctions)

One person’s life influences the lives of an unbelievable number of people, one of the most important lessons I learned, being the Head of the Apex Body at senior secondary level (11th and 12th standard). Hence the need of responsible actions. Becoming the youngest Head of the Apex Body ever and the only one to have served for a period of two years eventually turned out to be a confidence booster. It taught me that the basis for good work is self-reliance and very importantly, time management. Not all of my entire two years were devoid of shortcomings. I learned to accept both criticism and praise with a positive frame of mind. My work involved organising various events, that brought with them the opportunity to work and interact with various kinds of people. This was a distinctively gratifying experience for me, which I feel would stand in good stead in the future, especially in lieu of any teaching experience.

In conclusion, I would like to add that the essence of University education lies in the synergetic relationship between the student and his department. I feel that graduate study at your University will be the most logical extension of my academic pursuits and a major step towards achieving my objectives. I would be grateful to you if I’m accorded the opportunity to pursue my graduate studies with financial assistance at your institution and am able to justify your faith in me.

(For a listing of all final year courses, i.e. courses not listed in transcripts please see attached Resume’)

Sample SOP: Civil Engineering

2006-06-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

n this essay I outline my academic and extra-curricular accomplishments. Also discussed are my career objectives and the motivation to pursue the graduate program in Civil Engineering at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

The undergraduate curriculum in Chemical Engineering at IIT, Kharagpur, introduced me to a wide gamut of subjects, both in and outside the field. Various courses like Mass Transfer, Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics and Transport Phenomena have provided me with a strong footing in the theoretical concepts of Chemical Engineering.

It was the field of Environmental Technology which particularly captured my interest. The desire to delve deeper into this subject persuaded me to take elective courses in Industrial (Air) Pollution Control, Non-conventional Energy Engineering and Environmental Earth Sciences. While offering both depth and breadth across this field, these courses put into perspective the importance and relevance of Chemical Engineering and the application of its fundamentals to environment related problems. I came to realize that although traditionally Environmental Studies has been under the domain of Civil Engineering, the increasing complexity and magnitude of Environmental problems have resulted in a growing need for the services of disciplines other than Civil Engineering.

During the eight week Summer Training at the Development Consultants Ltd.,I was assigned to the Cement Cell, where I received a detailed knowledge of the cement manufacturing processes. As an Industrial Intern, I was assigned a project on Cement Plant Design (1800 TPD), which encompassed Raw-Mix Design and Capacity Calculations for various equipment. Here, I got aquainted with the Pollution and Energy Conservation problems faced by the Cement Industry and devoted a significant portion of my project to the pollution abatement methods.

My final year dissertation was on the Manufacture of Phosphoric acid from rock phosphate using Sulfuric acid (Design of 100 tpd Plant). This covered the design of Reactor, Extractor (for acid purification) and Evaporator (for acid concentration). As a natural outcome of my interest in Pollution control, adequate emphasis was provided to waste gases and waste water treatment which involved off-gas scrubbing (venturi design) and discharge method details, gypsum disposal methods, disposal of fluosilicic acid as waste material and the incorporation of all these in the Plant Layout/flow-sheet.

At IIT, Kharagpur, I have received the best possible undergraduate education in Chemical Engineering in India. Throughout, my scholastic records and achievements have been outstanding. I have consistently ranked in the top 2% of the students of my class, in school, and consider the high point of my achievements as being ranked in the top 1% of more than one lakh students who wrote the Joint Entrance Examination for admission to one of the six Indian Institutes of Technology.

Throughout my school and undergraduate education, I have been a keen participant in extra-curricular activities. Getting elected as the School Pupil Leader ( Head Girl) helped me hone my organizational and interpersonal skills. At IIT, I have been involved in the Annual cultural Fest as Head of the Control Tent Team. I have also taken active part in dramatics and made my contribution to the Technology Dramatics Society (English chapter) at IIT, as its member and later as the Governor. I was also the member of the NSS at IIT where I had the opportunity to be involved in it's Literacy and Health & Nutrition Programs. I continue to be a member of the Helpage Society of India, which provides palliative care to the terminally ill cancer patients.

The years of undergraduate education have been an enriching experience - both academically and otherwise, and I am determined to maintain the high levels of excellence throughout my career.

My immediate degree objective is an M.S in environmental engineering – a rapidly evolving field with an immense potential for research. I wish to follow it up with a Ph.D, to pursue a career in research and experience the excitement and satisfaction of being at the forefront of this vast expanding field.

An extremely distinguished faculty, a milieu replete with academic activity, and a graduate program which blends high quality course work and research facilities at the cutting edge of every sub-field are the factors which have motivated me to choose the University of Massachusetts, Amherst for graduate studies. I believe the program offered will help me acquire the versatility needed to reach my full potential as an engineer.

It would, therefore, be a privilege to be able to secure admission to pursue graduate studies, with adequate financial assistance at U.Massachusetts, Amherst. I am confident that I will match the high standards set by your university.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE - PhD (MANAGEMENT)

2006-06-02T23:29:00.000-07:00

I have completed my four year Bachelor of Technology program at the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. I graduated in July 1998 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Many of my courses and research activities in the final year were in the field of Industrial Engineering and Operations Research with a strong focus on production and operations management. I am presently working in Tata Technologies India Ltd., an information technology firm that is involved in the areas of enterprise integration and CAD/CAM. I am applying for admission and financial aid to the Ph.D. program in Operations Management at the Krannert Graduate School of Management, Purdue University. Detailed information about my academic record and my research and other experience is attached to this statement.

I was introduced to mathematics and the physical sciences while at school and it was in high school that I considered a career in this area. The desire to study the applied physical sciences and mathematics prompted me to take the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology. I was ranked in the top 0.25 % of the nearly 1,00,000 students who took the examination.

My undergraduate education at IIT Bombay has not only given me a certain set of skills but has also helped me understand my fields of interest and my academic strengths and weaknesses. This understanding has made me realize that though the applied physical sciences appeal to me, my strengths lie in applied mathematics and in abstractions of reality. In particular, I am interested in the managerial aspects of industrial and technological systems. This interest developed during my junior year seminar titled ‘Productivity Management’ in which I explored the relationship between manufacturing strategy and productivity improvement. I continued further research in this area through my senior year project titled ‘Decision Support System for Quality Control’ which sought to investigate various decision making mechanisms in the quality function and provide corresponding computer support. The project also enabled me to appreciate the interaction between manufacturing and the other functions of the firm especially information systems. The reading of certain outstanding books during the course of my research such as Skinner’s ‘Manufacturing in the Corporate Strategy’, Deming’s ‘Out of the Crisis’ and Goldratt’s ‘The Goal’ finally convinced me to pursue a Ph.D. in operations management and an academic career thereafter.

My past work in the area of industrial engineering and operations research was characterised by a dichotomy of approaches. The courses that I took in this area dealt with various operational and tactical issues. The basic aim was to understand a specific problem, model the problem appropriately and find an optimal or reasonably optimal solution using the techniques of operations research. This has given me a good background in issues related to methodology, modelling, and heuristic solutions. On the other hand, my research has been oriented towards strategic issues. The basic thrust of my junior year seminar and senior year project has been ‘integrative’. Through my future research efforts I would like to understand this dichotomy better. Initially, I want to study rigorous model-based methods and do research on operational and tactical topics. After gaining a thorough grounding in these topics, I am interested in applying the same methodologies and techniques to strategic topics in operations management.

I believe that I have the qualities to be a good researcher and teacher. I am a creative person and often think in a contemplative way about various issues of practical importance. Being able to identify patterns and relationships that are not obvious to others is perhaps my greatest strength. This will prove very valuable because an integral part of being a researcher and teacher is to perceive the balance between theory and practice, analytical rigor and intuition. My communication skills are good and I like expressing ideas and concepts both in oral and written form - an ideal platform for the dissemination of knowledge in my chosen field of specialization.

The Krannert Graduate School of Management is one of the best schools of management in the world with a strong orientation towards research. The diversity of research interests in the operations management group is of particular interest to me. The eminent faculty and the individualized nature of the doctoral program will definitely bring out the best in me. I would like to reiterate that I possess the background, the ability and the motivation to make a significant contribution to Operations Management. I hope you will take a favorable decision regarding my admission to the Ph.D. program and I look forward to joining the Krannert Graduate School of Management and Purdue University.

Yujie Wei, Solid Mechanics, MIT

2006-05-23T18:38:00.000-07:00

Personal Statement

I am a graduate student of Chinese Academy of Sciences, under the direction of professor Y.L. Bai. My recent work involves fracture and mechanical behavior of inhomogeneous materials.

Although the rapid progress in science and technology has been freeing the human beings from traditional bandage to nature greatly, a basic fact has astonished me for a long time. According to a 1983 study by the U.S.A Department of Commerce, materials failure costs Americans roughly 4% of the gross national product. Such case may be more severe in developing countries. Out of question, mechanics plays a key role in this field. So, mechanical engineering was my first choice when I entered Peking University. In Peking University, I got scholarship every year, including the "Climber of Mechanics" award in 1997. Just two outstanding undergraduate students got this honor in Peking University every year. In 1997, I received my B.S. degree and was admitted into the master's program of Mechanical Engineering in Chinese Academy of Sciences.

While pursuing my degree, I have been participating in the National Fundamental Research Project "Nonlinear Science" and the key project of National Natural Science Foundation of China in the 9th "5 Year": "Macro-micro Mechanical Behavior of materials and Their Design for Strength and Toughness" (No. 19891180). I have finished 9 papers and 6 of them have been published. I became the only one who got the first class of Yonghuai Kuo Award among over 100 competitors in the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in year 2000.

My current work is about mechanical behavior and nonlinear physical properties of inhomogeneous materials. Mechanical behavior of materials in multi-scale (under different conditions) is my next interest. With the development of technology, the smaller the units, the more important the surface effect. To evaluate the mechanical behavior of materials in small scale, especially in nano-scale, is the focus for the society of material, mechanics. How do the cracks propagate in materials with microscopic impurities and dislocations in their crystal structure before a crack cleaves the material clearly? What is the best structure for a concrete material under given conditions? Mechanical Engineering has so many challenges in the new century!

I hope to become a successful teacher or a researcher in this arduous but exhilarating field. The significant progress achieved in mechanical engineering in MIT, combined with the extraordinary cultural and intellectual sources in your university, has attracted me greatly. With the study in Peking University and the research experience in the best scientific organization in China, I am sure that I am qualified and would be an outstanding Ph.D. student at MIT. With the advanced courses, balanced program and distinguished faculty of your department, I would get a solid background for my future academic career.

Lu Liu, Mathematics, Johns Hopkins University

2006-05-23T18:37:00.000-07:00

Purpose of Study

All my life I have been nurtured in and exposed to the wonders of the world of mathematics. Because my father was the deputy director of the Institute of Quantitative and Technical Economics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, during my childhood I was often surrounded by mathematical data, formulas and charts. As I grew older, I began to realize that by collecting and analyzing data and building mathematical models according to the data, my father had the power to forecast such grand concepts as the growth rate of the GDP (Gross Domestic Product). I was astonished by the power of mathematics and my curiosity drove me to read as many books as I could in the related field. Gradually, I found that I had stepped into another world, a world of intelligence and aesthetics. I felt that it might be my destiny to probe this world.

With self-confidence and my father's encouragement, I chose applied mathematics as my major in college. Thanks to the excellent faculty who guided me on my pilgrimage across the mathematical universe, my love for mathematics continued to bloom. In my analysis courses, I first met the continuous function under the definition of Cauchy. Then, my vision broadened to the Riemann integrable function space, which is composed of "almost" continuous functions. With the advent of the set theory, my vision again expanded to the measurable function under the theory of the Lebesgue Integral. In my algebra courses, I was equipped with a powerful tool-- the matrix. The more I learned, the more useful I found this tool, especially in numerical analysis and optimization. When I moved into the real abstruse world of abstract algebra, I came to realize that mathematical symbols did not have to stand for numbers; for instance, they may represent matrices, quaternion, or transformations. In fact, it was not necessary that they stand for anything at all! My strength of purpose allowed me to consume this knowledge with delight.

I hold a particular interest in applied mathematics courses and have distinguished myself from my classmates. As you can see from my transcript, in such courses as numerical analysis, ODE, PDE and optimization, my scores were all in the ninetieth percentile. I attribute this ~o my perseverance and resilience in facing any problem. No matter how formidable the computational process, I never gave up until the right solution was obtained.

In order to satisfy my thirst for more knowledge, I kept on reading books and articles on mathematics during my college years. Enlightened by the remark that "mathematics, like philosophy, is virtually inseparable from its history" (Harold M. Edwards, Read the Masters!), I read the distinguished book -- Mathematical Thought from Ancient to Modern Times (Morris Kline, Oxford University Press). It was this book that cleared up my misconception that mathematicians were such geniuses as they could go from theorem to theorem almost naturally. From this book, I understood that mathematicians must struggle with frustrations and travel a long arduous road to attain significant achievements. When aware of this, I derived great courage to pursue my own work tenaciously and was never dismayed by deficiencies or failures.

In recognition of my consistent academic excellence, I have been awarded various kinds of scholarships, among which are my department's scholarship, which I have received every term, and the "Information Project" Scholarship, one of the most prestigious scholarships granted by the Beijing Institute of Technology. Now having a solid theoretical foundation in both pure and applied mathematics, combined with intellectual vigor and determination, I believe that I am well prepared for any challenges I might face in my future study and research.

Professor Min-You Qi, a famous mathematician in our country, once said: "A culture without modern mathematics is destined to decline." Now in China, few people understand modern mathematics. What is even worse is that many people think mathematics is useless. Whenever I am faced with this situation, Professor Qi's words always make me, a mathematics major, feel that it is my responsibility to propagate modem mathematical knowledge. In my opinion, the optimal method is to show people how mathematics can successfully be used to solve real problems in the modern world. To achieve this goal, I think, having a wide range of knowledge in multi-disciplines is as important as having profound knowledge in a single discipline. Besides, the ability to combine disciplines and use them to tackle the real-world problems is vital to assure success. Therefore, I chose applied mathematics as my course of study in graduate school.

Without advanced knowledge, I would never fulfill myself or realize my potential. However, to decide which university to attend is one of the most important decisions in my life. Keeping this in mind, I consider (university name) as my First Choice. Sticking to Albert Gallatin's original intention that the university should provide a "rational and practical education for all", (university name) today is recognized both nationally and internationally as a leader in scholarship. I am very pleased to know that (university name)'s Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences offers balanced training in mathematics and its application in the broadest sense. That matches what I need perfectly. Thus, I do believe that my studying at your university will greatly help me accomplish my goal. The Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences is world-famous for its leading position in both pure and applied mathematics and plays a central role in the development of these disciplines. I can hardly imagine what could be more exciting for me than studying the heart of modern mathematics.

Among the sub areas of applied mathematics, I am particularly interested in partial differential equations, since I am fascinated by both the subject's theoretical foundations and its practical promise. The Courant Institute is prestigious for its special emphasis on partial differential equations and their applications. This should set a good stage for me to exercise my keen mental power and diligence.

Ideally, I would like to enter your Ph.D. program. Upon the completion of my study, I would devote myself to scientific research in China and turn my research achievements into practical use. My ultimate goal is to make Chinese culture into a culture that embraces modern mathematics. No matter how rigorous the path, I will persevere in my goal. The mathematical universe is a journey that will never end. It is my destiny.

Yan Xin, Biochemical Engineering, Ohio State University

2006-05-23T18:36:00.001-07:00

Statement of Purpose

When I entered Beijing Medical University (BMU, the best medical school in China) in 1994, I decided to major in Pharmacy because it is such an essential component of the health care delivery system. I hope my work in this area will move human beings a step closer to the moment when we can eventually solve any problem in human diseases with the aid of drugs.

During four undergraduate years, I equipped myself with a broad range of subjects related to pharmaceutical sciences and honed my lab skills in several areas, such as Pharmacokinetics, Drug Delivery, and Bioanalysis. With an overall GPA of 92.2 (on a 0-100 scale), I have won the most prestigious scholarships and awards every year in BMU, always ranking top 2% in my department.

The rich research experience I got in BMU provided me rigorous training in pharmaceutics and strengthened my interest in it. When I practiced in the group of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring at Tiantan Hospital, I mainly used Fluoresce Polarization Immunoassay to monitor the blood concentration of drugs for which concentration control is essential, such as Digitoxin and Lidocaine. This work ensured me how important pharmacokinetics is in effective thcrapy. In 1998, I began my diploma thesis work on Liposomal Amphotericin B (LAMB). My task was to incorporate Amphotericin B in small liposome to increase its efficacy and decrease the serious toxicity and side effects. After a half year of creative and diligent work, I successfully established a new technique of producing stable and effective LAmB and thoroughly studied its physical properties, efficacy, toxicity and pharmacokinetics.

I hold a belief that a drug is successfully developed only after it is made economically affordable, which demands pharmaceutical researchers have a good understanding of engineering as well as science. Therefore, I joined the graduate program of Biochemical Engineering at Tsinghua University (THU, the top engineering school in China) after graduation.

At THU, I attended two Key Projects of the Ninth Five-year National Program, both as a major researcher. One is the pilot plant test of producing poly-B-hydroxybutyrate (PHB, a kind of biodegradable plastic) by biofermentation, in which we successfully scaled up the fermentation of Alcaligenes eutrophus to yield PHB according to laboratory results. Another project is "I,argescale Culture of Hybridoma Cell to Produce Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibody," on which my graduate thesis focuses. By now, I have done work in several aspects: 1) the effect of traditional herbals on C50 growth, 2) serum-free medium design and 3) the metabolism of glutamin. The third one is my main interest because our final goal is to achieve high cell density and high product concentration in large-scale culture, which necessitates a fed-batch strategy and glutamine is the key nutriment ensuring the success of such a strategy. My research has progressed smoothly recently and I plan to optimize the condition of a large-scale culture in a 5-1itre fermentor in the following days. Experience in such projects dramatically improved my computer, mathematics and engineering skills, which undoubtedly will contribute to my future research.

Life at THU is a precious opportunity for me, more than research. The challenging and successful catching-up process in graduate study (due to deficiency in undergraduate engineering background) proves my capability again and gives me confidence to confront various difficulties in my future research. And communication with intelligent people from different backgrounds gready refreshes my mind.

Pharmacy is such a dynamic area that responding to the changing needs of society presents an exciting challenge to pharmacists. To be well equipped for such an obligation, I want to pursue more advanced training in this important field. The University of Tennessee is world known for its leading research in pharmaceutical sciences, therefore a perfect choice for me. Your broad research interests, established faculty and state-of-the-art facilities will provide me an unparalleled opportunity for my intellectual advancement. I believe my enthusiasm in pharmaceutics, independent research capability and strong and diverse background will pave the way for me to study at your university and contribute to your graduate program. I also believe that I will be a cooperative member once I am admitted to your group. My intended research fields include Pharmacokinetics & Biopharmaceutics, Pharmacodynamics Drug Delivery.

I plan to return to China after completing my Ph.D. program. It is likely that I will seek employment at a top university or institute. However, I do not want to be confined exclusively to academic work. I wish to become an important research fellow who has a great influence on the industry, too.