How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose

1. How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose AGE Conference Workshop

2. Your Facilitator Dr. Marquita Gammage FullProfessor PhD from Temple University

3. Objectives • Learn How to Compose a Statement of Purpose • Learn What Graduate Schools Look for in Personal Statements • Learn How to Promote Your Assets • Learn to Explain Your Challenges

4. How to Compose a Statement of Purpose Proven 7 Step Process • Briefly Share Your Personal Story • Discuss Current/Most Recent Educational Experience • Discuss Undergraduate Research • Discuss Relevant Work and Leadership Experiences • Detail Reasons for Pursuing the Graduate Degree • State Why You Chose Their Particular School and Program • Briefly State Future Goals Beyond the Graduate Degree

5. Briefly Share Your Personal Story Step 1 • Begin your first paragraph with a captivating statement. • Use this opportunity to draw in the review committee! • Example: “As the students exited one by one, I found myself sitting in the classroom alone and confused by what had just happened.” • Then briefly explain the scenario. • Share who you are. • Background information • Only share background information that is relevant to the degree program • Discuss what lead you to develop an interest and commitment to the field you are applying for.

6. Discuss your Current/Most Recent Educational Experience Step 2 • Discuss Major/Minor and what you have gained from your degree program. • Detail Student Leadership Experience • Challenges and Triumphs • Example: You started in one major and found that it was not a good fit for you, which was reflected in your grades. But once you switched majors your GPA skyrocketed. • Awards and Honors

7. Discuss Undergraduate Research Step 3 • Discuss your involvement in major research projects, especially those that have led to a publication. • Remember if you don’t have research outside of class projects, then discuss your research papers from your classes as well as class presentations. • Discuss Publications • Discuss Conference Presentations • Discuss any work in a research lab or with a faculty member.

8. Discuss Relevant Work and Leadership Experiences Step 4 • Not every job is worth discussing. Be selective. (i.e. research assistant, non for profit work, teaching aid, etc.) • Discuss your contributions to the job and what you have gained that have prepared you for the graduate program. 3. BUT I ONLY WORKED AT MCDONALDS! • Discuss relevant skills gained • Discuss Civic Engagement, Filed Work Classes and Volunteer Experiences

9. Detail Reasons for Pursuing the Graduate Degree Step 5 • Discuss the knowledge and technical skills that you will gain from the graduate degree. • BE PERSONAL IN THIS RESPONSE

10. State Why You Chose the Particular School & Program Step 6 • Explain why the program is a GREAT fit for you. • Discuss how you will benefit and what you will bring to the table. • Discuss your interest in current programs such as study abroad, language options, civic engagement, etc. • Discuss your interest in current faculty research and how your research agenda parallels the faculty research areas.

11. Briefly State Future Goals Beyond the Graduate Degree Step 7 • How do you plan on using the degree? • If you are applying to a master’s program, but later intend to pursue a doctorate, state your plans. • Remember to explain how the master’s degree will prepare you for the PhD. • You may also consider stating your ultimate career goals, if relevant.

12. ? Questions and Answers Section