Statement of Purpose. Please help!

[Moontiger]

Hello ENA,

 

 

I am applying to be a part-time student in a graduate program. The way it is set up is you can take several classes without being fully enrolled in the program. This way you can see of the program is right for you or not.

 

I have to write a one-page statement of purpose. The problem I am having is, what I get nervous I think everything I write is total (will be censored so I won't put it). I was hoping someone here could give me some feed back.

 

I have taken out some information since this is the internet I would like to keep my identity to myself. Here is what they ask:

 

Please enclose a one-page statement explaining why you have chosen to apply to the (name of program) as a Non-Matriculated student, and how participation in the program might aid you in reaching your goals.

 

Here is what I have so far, it is just under a page long double spaced:

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There are three reasons I have chosen to enroll in the (name of program) as a non-matriculated student. Each of these I will explain in detail. By enrolling as this kind of student I will be able to: maintain a fulltime job, evaluate the program in relations to my career goals, and continue with certain family responsibilities and obligations.

The first reason, the schedule of a non-matriculated student is ideal for maintaining a fulltime job. Both going to school and working are very important to me and to be able to do both at the same time is ideal. It will also allow me to use the information and skills I gain through class work in the field. This will be very beneficial in the long run. When I choose to finish my degree and enroll fulltime I will have a significant amount of background knowledge built up.

The second reason I am enrolling as a non-matriculated student is the exposure I will have to the graduate program. I will be able to experience (name of school and program) program and measure whether it is the correct fit for my career goals. Choosing a graduate program is significant task, to be able to experience a program before fully enrolling is very beneficial.

The third reason is my family. I currently help a close family member with childcare several times a week. Being enrolled as a fulltime graduate student at this point is simple not possible with my responsibility to my family. Thus, by being a part-time non-matriculated student I will still be able to fulfill my duty to my family.

In short, being a non-matriculated student will allow me the freedom the work, ensure I am in the right program, and continue my family obligations. This program will make all of this possible for me.

[Blue Skittles]

I just had to write one of these a month ago. Same idea (part-time studies).

 

I think you need to include some more background information about yourself (work experience, previous university studies).

You should also include some information about why you want to take the program and how you will use it in the future.

[Moontiger]

Thanks for the advice Blue! Have you heard yet if you got into your program?

[Ariel85]

I think it speaks to why you want to go into the program in the present and how it serves your lifestyle in the hear and now, but it doesn't talk about how you are going to reach any of your goals, which is the question you are being asked.

[wlh22]

I agree with Blue Skittles. Make it more of a 'story about your life and where you see it going through this program and why they should choose you'. I did a general web search and here is a good link with examples I found. link removed

 

Good luck.

[Moontiger]

Ariel- I see what you are saying, I'll keep that in mind as I revise

 

Wlh22- Thank you for the link!

[MissIndigo]

Are there any faculty you want to work with, or specifics about the department that attracted you to the program? Those should be included as well, and will show you're targeting this program for those specific reasons. Also, if you have spoken with anyone in particular do not hesitate to mention you did so, and how the info that person gave you helped you decide this is the program for you.

[Blue Skittles]

Yes, I did get into the program. I am actually very grateful for your thread, as I had forgotten to get my transcripts sent, and this reminded me! Must call the university tomorrow!!

[Firiel]

I think that usually statements of purpose for grad programs are supposed to be more personal than like a cover letter. Usually they really do want to get to know you as opposed to just hearing a business-like description of experience and goals. I actually started mine out with a short personal narrative about the moment I realized I needed to go to grad school. So I would recommend loosening yours up a bit and making it more personal...