STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 11 Computer Science
I am a final year student of the four year Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) program in Computer Science & Engineering at the ****, one of the nation’s premier institutes. My long-term career objective is to pursue a research career, either as a faculty in a university or a researcher in Industry and Graduate Study at your department would be the first step towards this Goal.
Since childhood I have had a strong inclination towards science. My excellent performance in academics inspired me to take up science as a career. I therefore, took the Joint Entrance Examination for admission to the **** and qualified in the top 0.12% of about 150,000 who took the test.
The excellent course structure coupled with high academic standard further stimulated my interest in scientific pursuit. My approach towards courses was to grasp the basic concepts so as to develop a ‘feel’ for the subject. My grades reflect my attitude towards courses. As a part of curriculum I actively participated in many innovative projects. As a result I have developed a keen interest and have a sufficient aptitude for research and therefore I believe that I shall be capable of meeting the best standards in research.
Interest
Over the past two years in the Computer Science department, I have developed a keen interest in Programming Languages and Distributed & Parallel Systems. I have taken many courses related to this field and have done consistently well in them. Courses such as Programming Languages, Language Processors (Compilers), Operating Systems have given me considerable exposure to this field. I am taking a Graduate level Course on Parallel Algorithms next semester.
Currently I am involved in my B.Tech. Project on “Program Restructuring for GENSAT” under the guidance of Dr. yyy. Details of the project are given in my resume. Presently I am implementing an algorithm by Zahira Ammargulleat. I have proposed a few changes in her algorithm and have proved that the new algorithm would do better than the one proposed by her, in all the cases.
A good deal of teaching experience, as seen in my resume, makes me confident of my ability to communicate as a teacher.
University
Computer Science at UIUC is one of the best programs to pursue research in the field of
Systems. From the information brochure, web pages and as advised by my guide, Dr. Dhamdhere, I have gathered that a considerable amount of research is being done in Systems in UIUC. A number of renowned faculty members of UIUC are working on the research frontiers of computer science. It would be my privilege to work with such renowned researchers, and contribute something useful to Computer Science.
Conclusion
I look forward to join UIUC as a Graduate student at your esteemed department.
Friday, August 7, 2009
computer science sample sop
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 10 computer science
In this era of information technology I feel a sense of pride in being so closely associated with the field of computer science. The desire to forge ahead in this field by doing cutting edge research has motivated me to pursue graduate studies.
Academic Background
I hail from a small industrial town where education is given a very high priority. My father is an educator himself. This background inculcated in me a deep inclination for academics from the very beginning. The subjects that attracted me most were Mathematics and Physics. In order to pursue a career in science and engineering, I appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination for admission to ****. Securing an {All India Rank of $162$} amongst $100,000$ candidates ($99.8$ percentile), I joined ****, one of the best institutes for engineering education in India. The growing involvement of computers in various fields of science and technology encouraged me to choose computer science as my branch of study in undergraduate studies.
Undergraduate Studies
After coming to ****, I was introduced to the true expanse of computer science. The core courses gave me an in–depth knowledge in each field. The lab courses and projects gave me the programming skills (for details of the projects please refer resume). Most of these projects were done in groups of two to four students. This gave me the opportunity to learn to work in a group — both as a leader or otherwise.
Areas of Interest
My main objective during my undergraduate studies was to get an overview of various fields in computer science and identify a field of interest in which I could pursue my research career. Because of their vast applications, computer systems, in general, have attracted me. In particular, I am interested in databases, distributed systems and parallel processing. My junior thesis was on (database mining}, which I completed under the guidance of Dr. yyy am currently doing work in {parallelizing compilers} as part of my Senior thesis under Dr. S. Biswas. I have also registered for a course on “models of parallel computation”, intended to deal with fundamentals of parallel algorithms and parallel architectures, in the forthcoming semester.
Career Objectives
Within a decade or so, I visualize myself as a full-fledged research professional in an organization or a faculty member at one of the leading Universities. I see PhD as a first step in achieving this career objective. I am willing to do MS as an intermediate step.
Strengths
There are a few things whose value I realized during my undergraduate studies and now I strongly believe in them. These are {hard work} — Necessity to produce results,
(discipline} — Necessity to finish task before deadlines and {persistence} — Necessity to sail through unproductive periods. My attempt throughout has been to inculcate these qualities in myself in which, I believe, I have been fairly successful.
Weaknesses
A major weakness of mine has been my speed. I always try to attack a problem in depth, which invariably requires some amount of time. As a result, I have not been able to perform very well in “three hour” exams. This weakness has been reflected in my grades. However, given sufficient time I have always been able to show good results, reflected by the good grades (AA or AB) in lab courses involving projects.
Reasons for selecting Ohio State University
My advisors recommended me of your university on the basis of faculty interests and the research work currently in progress. After going through the brochure, I realized that there also exists a vast gamut of opportunities, especially excellent computing facilities, in your department. In addition, from the communication I had with Dr yyy, I have to come to conclusion that the graduate program at your department would suit my interests extremely well.
Conclusion
I am fully aware that a research career requires a constant, well—directed and whole–hearted effort. I am confident that I would meet all the above demands. Hence I appeal to the Graduate Admissions Committee to consider me for admission, and financial aid.
In this era of information technology I feel a sense of pride in being so closely associated with the field of computer science. The desire to forge ahead in this field by doing cutting edge research has motivated me to pursue graduate studies.
Academic Background
I hail from a small industrial town where education is given a very high priority. My father is an educator himself. This background inculcated in me a deep inclination for academics from the very beginning. The subjects that attracted me most were Mathematics and Physics. In order to pursue a career in science and engineering, I appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination for admission to ****. Securing an {All India Rank of $162$} amongst $100,000$ candidates ($99.8$ percentile), I joined ****, one of the best institutes for engineering education in India. The growing involvement of computers in various fields of science and technology encouraged me to choose computer science as my branch of study in undergraduate studies.
Undergraduate Studies
After coming to ****, I was introduced to the true expanse of computer science. The core courses gave me an in–depth knowledge in each field. The lab courses and projects gave me the programming skills (for details of the projects please refer resume). Most of these projects were done in groups of two to four students. This gave me the opportunity to learn to work in a group — both as a leader or otherwise.
Areas of Interest
My main objective during my undergraduate studies was to get an overview of various fields in computer science and identify a field of interest in which I could pursue my research career. Because of their vast applications, computer systems, in general, have attracted me. In particular, I am interested in databases, distributed systems and parallel processing. My junior thesis was on (database mining}, which I completed under the guidance of Dr. yyy am currently doing work in {parallelizing compilers} as part of my Senior thesis under Dr. S. Biswas. I have also registered for a course on “models of parallel computation”, intended to deal with fundamentals of parallel algorithms and parallel architectures, in the forthcoming semester.
Career Objectives
Within a decade or so, I visualize myself as a full-fledged research professional in an organization or a faculty member at one of the leading Universities. I see PhD as a first step in achieving this career objective. I am willing to do MS as an intermediate step.
Strengths
There are a few things whose value I realized during my undergraduate studies and now I strongly believe in them. These are {hard work} — Necessity to produce results,
(discipline} — Necessity to finish task before deadlines and {persistence} — Necessity to sail through unproductive periods. My attempt throughout has been to inculcate these qualities in myself in which, I believe, I have been fairly successful.
Weaknesses
A major weakness of mine has been my speed. I always try to attack a problem in depth, which invariably requires some amount of time. As a result, I have not been able to perform very well in “three hour” exams. This weakness has been reflected in my grades. However, given sufficient time I have always been able to show good results, reflected by the good grades (AA or AB) in lab courses involving projects.
Reasons for selecting Ohio State University
My advisors recommended me of your university on the basis of faculty interests and the research work currently in progress. After going through the brochure, I realized that there also exists a vast gamut of opportunities, especially excellent computing facilities, in your department. In addition, from the communication I had with Dr yyy, I have to come to conclusion that the graduate program at your department would suit my interests extremely well.
Conclusion
I am fully aware that a research career requires a constant, well—directed and whole–hearted effort. I am confident that I would meet all the above demands. Hence I appeal to the Graduate Admissions Committee to consider me for admission, and financial aid.
Computer Science sop sample
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 9 Computer Science
My early fascination for computers (since high school), combined with a strong liking for analytical subjects inspired me to seek admission to one of the best and most competitive Computer Science undergraduate programs in India — the B.Tech program in ***. I was successful in this endeavor, being ranked 113th among around 100,000 students in the entrance exams to the ***. In ***, a very strong curriculum, introduced me to a wide range of subjects in Computer Science, with a strong emphasis on theoretical fundamentals. I have always believed that a subject is understood better when one actually sees an abstract theory being realized by a practical system. The various demanding laboratory courses and projects in the B.Tech program at *** have provided me with a better understanding of Computer Science. This belief has led to my growing interest in computer systems, and I have consistently performed well in my laboratory courses. I have also, as part of a campus wide systems support group, been involved in compiling and installing various software and systems.
Given these practical interests, my theoretical background, my aptitude and academic potential for graduate study (indicated by my GRE General score of (V 700, Q 790, A 780) and Computer Science Subject score in the 98th percentile), I feel that pursuing a PhDDegree in Computer Science is a step in the right direction towards my long-term career goals.
Thirty years from now, I want to be able to look back at the accomplishments of my life and feel a sense of satisfaction. Satisfaction, because my work made a significant impact in my field. And if I can achieve this goal I will consider my career a success. Over the past four years, I have become absolutely convinced that the path towards this goal will involve leveraging my current skills and abilities to make significant contributions to improve the understanding of systems and concepts in the field of Computer Science. Six or seven years from now, I see myself as part of a leading research group, contributing my bit to the field of Computer Science. A PhD in Computer Science is therefore a natural first step towards this goal.
I plan to work towards a PhD in the field of {Distributed Systems and Networking}. I have become interested in this area during the course of my undergraduate studies at *** through a series of research and project experiences.
In my junior year, I presented a home paper on “Wormhole Routing in Interconnection Networks.” Currently, I am in the midst of my yearlong B.Tech thesis, titled “Distribution Strategies for the Satisfiability Problem,” guided by Prof. yyy (PhD, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign). For this thesis, I am writing a distributed solution for the satisfiability problem, on a network of workstations. My work will involve studying various distributed computing techniques and writing a distributed version of existing sequential solutions to satisfiability. Moreover, this Semester I have undertaken as an Operating Systems course project, a study of implementation issues in “Group Communication in the {Amoeba} Distributed Operating System” and will be crediting a Postgraduate elective — “Foundations of Parallel Computation” in my final (next) semester.
In my opinion, the effective communication of ideas is an important part of any research career. During my undergraduate years in ***, I have been fortunate to have some experience in teaching basic Computer Science. In my junior year, I was a teaching assistant for an institute level introductory course in programming, “CS 101: Computer Programming and Utilization,” for freshmen. The work involved conducting tutorials, grading assignments, and providing assistance during practical sessions.
In my junior and senior years, I have been the Technical Coordinator, and subsequently General Secretary of the Computer Science and Engineering Association, ****. In this capacity, I have been actively involved in planning, organizing and lecturing at; various workshops on UNIX aimed at both technical and lay audiences. These experiences have been extremely rewarding, and I am sure they will help me in any teaching duties as a graduate student, and later on in my career.
I am confident that my strong motivation, my undergraduate experiences and my analytical aptitude will help me to measure up to the rigors of graduate study. I am looking forward to make my contributions to the research going on at Dartmouth.
My early fascination for computers (since high school), combined with a strong liking for analytical subjects inspired me to seek admission to one of the best and most competitive Computer Science undergraduate programs in India — the B.Tech program in ***. I was successful in this endeavor, being ranked 113th among around 100,000 students in the entrance exams to the ***. In ***, a very strong curriculum, introduced me to a wide range of subjects in Computer Science, with a strong emphasis on theoretical fundamentals. I have always believed that a subject is understood better when one actually sees an abstract theory being realized by a practical system. The various demanding laboratory courses and projects in the B.Tech program at *** have provided me with a better understanding of Computer Science. This belief has led to my growing interest in computer systems, and I have consistently performed well in my laboratory courses. I have also, as part of a campus wide systems support group, been involved in compiling and installing various software and systems.
Given these practical interests, my theoretical background, my aptitude and academic potential for graduate study (indicated by my GRE General score of (V 700, Q 790, A 780) and Computer Science Subject score in the 98th percentile), I feel that pursuing a PhDDegree in Computer Science is a step in the right direction towards my long-term career goals.
Thirty years from now, I want to be able to look back at the accomplishments of my life and feel a sense of satisfaction. Satisfaction, because my work made a significant impact in my field. And if I can achieve this goal I will consider my career a success. Over the past four years, I have become absolutely convinced that the path towards this goal will involve leveraging my current skills and abilities to make significant contributions to improve the understanding of systems and concepts in the field of Computer Science. Six or seven years from now, I see myself as part of a leading research group, contributing my bit to the field of Computer Science. A PhD in Computer Science is therefore a natural first step towards this goal.
I plan to work towards a PhD in the field of {Distributed Systems and Networking}. I have become interested in this area during the course of my undergraduate studies at *** through a series of research and project experiences.
In my junior year, I presented a home paper on “Wormhole Routing in Interconnection Networks.” Currently, I am in the midst of my yearlong B.Tech thesis, titled “Distribution Strategies for the Satisfiability Problem,” guided by Prof. yyy (PhD, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign). For this thesis, I am writing a distributed solution for the satisfiability problem, on a network of workstations. My work will involve studying various distributed computing techniques and writing a distributed version of existing sequential solutions to satisfiability. Moreover, this Semester I have undertaken as an Operating Systems course project, a study of implementation issues in “Group Communication in the {Amoeba} Distributed Operating System” and will be crediting a Postgraduate elective — “Foundations of Parallel Computation” in my final (next) semester.
In my opinion, the effective communication of ideas is an important part of any research career. During my undergraduate years in ***, I have been fortunate to have some experience in teaching basic Computer Science. In my junior year, I was a teaching assistant for an institute level introductory course in programming, “CS 101: Computer Programming and Utilization,” for freshmen. The work involved conducting tutorials, grading assignments, and providing assistance during practical sessions.
In my junior and senior years, I have been the Technical Coordinator, and subsequently General Secretary of the Computer Science and Engineering Association, ****. In this capacity, I have been actively involved in planning, organizing and lecturing at; various workshops on UNIX aimed at both technical and lay audiences. These experiences have been extremely rewarding, and I am sure they will help me in any teaching duties as a graduate student, and later on in my career.
I am confident that my strong motivation, my undergraduate experiences and my analytical aptitude will help me to measure up to the rigors of graduate study. I am looking forward to make my contributions to the research going on at Dartmouth.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Computer Science sample
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 8 Computer Science
My goals
I am applying to the PhD program in Computer Science at Brown University. After considering my aptitude and the type of work that I enjoy most, I am convinced that I want to take up a career in research in Computer Science. A PhD is just one step towards realizing this goal.
My preparation for the same
My formal introduction to Computer Science began at ***. Under its excellent faculty, I got exposed to the entire spectrum of Computer Science. In an environment that is intensely competitive, and where research goes hand-in-hand with learning, I also got a lot of drill in both theoretical research work and implementation, thus laying a sound foundation for graduate study.
My academic and co-curricular record has been consistently good. Throughout school as well as now, I have been at or near the top of my class. I have listed some of my achievements, on the attached resume. What I would like to stress most however is the fact that I have been consistent in all academic or co-curricular (and even Extracurricular) tasks that I have undertaken.
My primary interests
I have always loved problems that involve plenty of visualization. At ***, this resulted in an inclination towards Computer Graphics and Computational Geometry, and also Algorithms. These are the subjects that I want to pursue in my graduate study.
I chose the elective Computer Graphics and a graduate level course Algorithms and Complexity this semester, in line with these interests. My B.Tech. Project (home paper), under Dr. yyy, is on Visible Surface Determination (hidden surface removal), a very popular topic in Computational Geometry.
Why Brown University?
It would be a cliché to say that all fields in Computer Science are highly interlinked. I have experienced this myself, since frequently, while working on a problem in one field, I have (through abstraction/ reduction/analogy) landed up looking at another problem, that one would normally put under a different field altogether.
Hence, two criteria that I considered while selecting a university for my Ph.D. were the university must be very strong in Computational Geometry and/or Computer Graphics my primary interests, and it must be fairly good, if not exceptional, in other fields of Computer Science too (especially, algorithms and combinatory).
Brown University more than satisfies these criteria. My B.Tech. Project guide, Dr. yyy also strongly recommended it. An added attraction is its participation in the Science and Technology Center for Computer Graphics and Scientific Visualization.
There is one more and the most compelling reason. In my B.Tech. Project, my guide and I are concentrating on developing better methods for the moving/ multiple viewpoint case of hidden surface removal. The preliminary ideas that have emerged out of this effort use a result on Dynamic planar point location by Prof. yyy. The line sweep technique is the other major component in these ideas, and it was from Prof. Yyy book on Computational Geometry, that I first learnt it. The fact that both are from Brown University convinced me that Brown University is the natural choice in realizing my graduate goals. Subsequently I corresponded with Prof. yyy, and his encouraging reply reinforced my decision to apply to Brown.
It would be a pleasure to continue my current research focus at Brown under their supervision. At the same time, I am sure that many other problems, which the Brown CS department is currently focusing on, would be equally interesting to work on.
What I plan to do at Brown
I plan to carry on advanced study of Computer Graphics and Computational Geometry, as well as related fields (e.g. algorithms); not only through coursework but also by {participating in one of the several ongoing projects}. This will also give me the opportunity to contribute my bit to the understanding of the fields, which interest me so much.
I am keen that the output of my PhD (and in fact any PhD) be well worth the time and effort spent on it. For the reasons mentioned above, I am sure that Brown University Will provides me the right environment for this.
Financial Aid
I would be fully dependent on aid to finance my graduate studies. If I were granted an assistantship, then given my long-term goals, a research assistantship would be an ideal experience for me. I also have some experience as a teaching assistant. Not only have I enjoyed it, but the students have also appreciated it. This makes me confident that I will be a good teacher also.
In conclusion…
I am aware that Brown University expects very high standards from its students. On my part, I can assure you of hard work. I believe that my enthusiasm will enable me to meet those expectations. My consistency in all previous academic and co-curricular activities is what gives me confidence when I say this.
Eagerly looking forward to a long and mutually profitable association with the Computer Science Department of Brown University.
My goals
I am applying to the PhD program in Computer Science at Brown University. After considering my aptitude and the type of work that I enjoy most, I am convinced that I want to take up a career in research in Computer Science. A PhD is just one step towards realizing this goal.
My preparation for the same
My formal introduction to Computer Science began at ***. Under its excellent faculty, I got exposed to the entire spectrum of Computer Science. In an environment that is intensely competitive, and where research goes hand-in-hand with learning, I also got a lot of drill in both theoretical research work and implementation, thus laying a sound foundation for graduate study.
My academic and co-curricular record has been consistently good. Throughout school as well as now, I have been at or near the top of my class. I have listed some of my achievements, on the attached resume. What I would like to stress most however is the fact that I have been consistent in all academic or co-curricular (and even Extracurricular) tasks that I have undertaken.
My primary interests
I have always loved problems that involve plenty of visualization. At ***, this resulted in an inclination towards Computer Graphics and Computational Geometry, and also Algorithms. These are the subjects that I want to pursue in my graduate study.
I chose the elective Computer Graphics and a graduate level course Algorithms and Complexity this semester, in line with these interests. My B.Tech. Project (home paper), under Dr. yyy, is on Visible Surface Determination (hidden surface removal), a very popular topic in Computational Geometry.
Why Brown University?
It would be a cliché to say that all fields in Computer Science are highly interlinked. I have experienced this myself, since frequently, while working on a problem in one field, I have (through abstraction/ reduction/analogy) landed up looking at another problem, that one would normally put under a different field altogether.
Hence, two criteria that I considered while selecting a university for my Ph.D. were the university must be very strong in Computational Geometry and/or Computer Graphics my primary interests, and it must be fairly good, if not exceptional, in other fields of Computer Science too (especially, algorithms and combinatory).
Brown University more than satisfies these criteria. My B.Tech. Project guide, Dr. yyy also strongly recommended it. An added attraction is its participation in the Science and Technology Center for Computer Graphics and Scientific Visualization.
There is one more and the most compelling reason. In my B.Tech. Project, my guide and I are concentrating on developing better methods for the moving/ multiple viewpoint case of hidden surface removal. The preliminary ideas that have emerged out of this effort use a result on Dynamic planar point location by Prof. yyy. The line sweep technique is the other major component in these ideas, and it was from Prof. Yyy book on Computational Geometry, that I first learnt it. The fact that both are from Brown University convinced me that Brown University is the natural choice in realizing my graduate goals. Subsequently I corresponded with Prof. yyy, and his encouraging reply reinforced my decision to apply to Brown.
It would be a pleasure to continue my current research focus at Brown under their supervision. At the same time, I am sure that many other problems, which the Brown CS department is currently focusing on, would be equally interesting to work on.
What I plan to do at Brown
I plan to carry on advanced study of Computer Graphics and Computational Geometry, as well as related fields (e.g. algorithms); not only through coursework but also by {participating in one of the several ongoing projects}. This will also give me the opportunity to contribute my bit to the understanding of the fields, which interest me so much.
I am keen that the output of my PhD (and in fact any PhD) be well worth the time and effort spent on it. For the reasons mentioned above, I am sure that Brown University Will provides me the right environment for this.
Financial Aid
I would be fully dependent on aid to finance my graduate studies. If I were granted an assistantship, then given my long-term goals, a research assistantship would be an ideal experience for me. I also have some experience as a teaching assistant. Not only have I enjoyed it, but the students have also appreciated it. This makes me confident that I will be a good teacher also.
In conclusion…
I am aware that Brown University expects very high standards from its students. On my part, I can assure you of hard work. I believe that my enthusiasm will enable me to meet those expectations. My consistency in all previous academic and co-curricular activities is what gives me confidence when I say this.
Eagerly looking forward to a long and mutually profitable association with the Computer Science Department of Brown University.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Computer Science sample
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 7 Computer Science
I, am a senior student of the Bachelor of Technology program in Computer Science and Engineering at the ****. I am applying for graduate studies in Computer Science leading to a Ph.D. I see this as a first step towards achieving my career objective of research in an academic environment.
Academic Background
I have excelled in academics right from my school days. In school, I consistently used to secure one of the top positions in the class. In my twelth standard examinations, I was placed in the merit position at an All India level. I have always been attracted towards subjects that draw upon one’s analytical abilities. Thus, Mathematics and Physics were my favorite subjects. I was placed among the top 1% of the candidates who appeared for the National Search Examination in Physics all over India. Later, I secured the 97th position among the 80,000 candidates who appeared throughout India for the Joint Entrance Examination. This examination is conducted by the *** the premier engineering institutions of India, for selecting the best of Indian talent.
Computer Science Background
The undergraduate program at *** aims to strike a balance between the theoretical as well as the practical aspects of Computer Science. This has given me a sound understanding of the fundamentals at both the theoretical as well as practical levels.
I have performed reasonably well in my undergraduate courses at ***, but since *** admits only the best students throughout the country, I believe, in view of the competitive atmosphere, that the grades secured should not be considered in an absolute sense.
During the course of the B.Tech. program I have developed a keen interest in the fields of Computer Graphics, Algorithms and Operating Systems. At present I am working under the guidance of Dr.yyy on my home paper titled {Physically Based Modeling}. As a junior, I had presented a seminar on {Associative–Commutative Matching and Unification}. I have included a brief summary of both these separately
Purpose of Doctoral Study and Career Goals
During the course of my education at ***, I have realized and felt convinced that my true liking and aptitude lies in research and teaching. Research and teaching go hand in hand. Teaching gives one a sense of constructive participation in the education Process. Research enables a person to stay in touch with the latest advances, while making one’s own contributions to the field. I have also had a good deal of teaching experience as an undergraduate teaching assistant during my junior year for the freshman course
{Computer Programming and Utilization}. I have included a brief description of this and relevant certificates to substantiate my claim.
I believe that graduate education is not merely a continuation of college studies. I think that graduate education is process, in which the student learns how to do independent research.
My decision to apply to UNIV is based on a careful examination of the department bulletin and the research interests of the faculty members. I have contacted PROF, who has encouraged me to apply. I would really love working under his guidance for my PhD’s believe that graduate education at your University will enhance my knowledge, give me wide exposure and develop my abilities to do independent research. I consider myself an enthusiastic and hardworking person, and I am sure that my stay your university will be a very fruitful one.
I, am a senior student of the Bachelor of Technology program in Computer Science and Engineering at the ****. I am applying for graduate studies in Computer Science leading to a Ph.D. I see this as a first step towards achieving my career objective of research in an academic environment.
Academic Background
I have excelled in academics right from my school days. In school, I consistently used to secure one of the top positions in the class. In my twelth standard examinations, I was placed in the merit position at an All India level. I have always been attracted towards subjects that draw upon one’s analytical abilities. Thus, Mathematics and Physics were my favorite subjects. I was placed among the top 1% of the candidates who appeared for the National Search Examination in Physics all over India. Later, I secured the 97th position among the 80,000 candidates who appeared throughout India for the Joint Entrance Examination. This examination is conducted by the *** the premier engineering institutions of India, for selecting the best of Indian talent.
Computer Science Background
The undergraduate program at *** aims to strike a balance between the theoretical as well as the practical aspects of Computer Science. This has given me a sound understanding of the fundamentals at both the theoretical as well as practical levels.
I have performed reasonably well in my undergraduate courses at ***, but since *** admits only the best students throughout the country, I believe, in view of the competitive atmosphere, that the grades secured should not be considered in an absolute sense.
During the course of the B.Tech. program I have developed a keen interest in the fields of Computer Graphics, Algorithms and Operating Systems. At present I am working under the guidance of Dr.yyy on my home paper titled {Physically Based Modeling}. As a junior, I had presented a seminar on {Associative–Commutative Matching and Unification}. I have included a brief summary of both these separately
Purpose of Doctoral Study and Career Goals
During the course of my education at ***, I have realized and felt convinced that my true liking and aptitude lies in research and teaching. Research and teaching go hand in hand. Teaching gives one a sense of constructive participation in the education Process. Research enables a person to stay in touch with the latest advances, while making one’s own contributions to the field. I have also had a good deal of teaching experience as an undergraduate teaching assistant during my junior year for the freshman course
{Computer Programming and Utilization}. I have included a brief description of this and relevant certificates to substantiate my claim.
I believe that graduate education is not merely a continuation of college studies. I think that graduate education is process, in which the student learns how to do independent research.
My decision to apply to UNIV is based on a careful examination of the department bulletin and the research interests of the faculty members. I have contacted PROF, who has encouraged me to apply. I would really love working under his guidance for my PhD’s believe that graduate education at your University will enhance my knowledge, give me wide exposure and develop my abilities to do independent research. I consider myself an enthusiastic and hardworking person, and I am sure that my stay your university will be a very fruitful one.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 6 Computer Science
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 6 Computer Science
Long Term Goals
My undergraduate training in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the **** has exposed me to a stimulating academic environment where learning and research go hand–in–hand. Through the many opportunities I have had here, I have found that I have a deep interest in research work and a strong aptitude for the type of problem solving and problem discovery that it involves. I have, therefore, decided to pursue active research in Computer Science as a career.
Areas of Interest
Of the many fields in the Computer Science spectrum, I am especially interested in Computer Systems. Within this field, I am interested in computer networks, distributed systems, operating systems and distributed operating systems. My junior seminar work, my practical training and my courses have given me plenty of exposure to these areas and I feel that I have sufficient motivation and aptitude to work in this field.
I am also interested in Programming Language design and Programming Systems. I have worked in these areas in my summer project at TIFR and in my ongoing B. Tech. project. I would like to continue to learn about these areas in my graduate program.
Immediate Goals
I plan to work towards a Ph. D. program with a focus on Distributed and Parallel operating Systems. I would also like to follow up my interests in Computer Networks, Distributed Systems, Operating Systems and Programming Languages through my course work. I feel that this should be my next step on my road to a research career in Computer Science.
Why Duke?
I have selected Duke as the place for me to continue with my education because I found that the Graduate Program in Computer Science suited my needs perfectly. I have found the Duke Computer Science Department faculty and the research being carried out in Computer Systems, especially in Distributed Operating Systems, to be very impressive. I feel that to be associated with this group for the many years of my Ph. D. would stand me in good stead for my research career. I have also been impressed by the computing facilities available at Duke for research and education. These are much superior to those available to a graduate student in India. Taking all these factors into account, I feel that Duke is the perfect place for my graduate studies and I am confident that I will make a positive contribution to the ongoing research work at Duke.
Am I Prepared?
My undergraduate preparation at the Computer Science and Engineering Department of the **** has given me a very substantial knowledge of the basic areas of Computer Science. Through my junior seminar work, I have acquired a good knowledge of distributed operating systems and the problems they entail. It also exposed me to the broad fields of computer networks, distributed systems and operating systems. I have also been exposed to practical computer networks and network programming in the course of my practical training at the State Bank of India, Head Office. My course projects have given me plenty of experience in programming using various programming languages, software packages and operating systems. I have selected {Introduction to Computer Networks} as an elective course in the seventh semester so as to broaden my knowledge in this area. Therefore, I feel confident that I have acquired both a broad base in Computer Science and a strong foundation in Computer Systems.
Summing Up
I am aware of the hard work and perseverance necessary for research work and I know that it is not always as exciting as the published results seem to indicate. Nevertheless, I am sure that my aptitude and drive will see me through the challenge. I hope to have a long and mutually profitable association with Duke.
Long Term Goals
My undergraduate training in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the **** has exposed me to a stimulating academic environment where learning and research go hand–in–hand. Through the many opportunities I have had here, I have found that I have a deep interest in research work and a strong aptitude for the type of problem solving and problem discovery that it involves. I have, therefore, decided to pursue active research in Computer Science as a career.
Areas of Interest
Of the many fields in the Computer Science spectrum, I am especially interested in Computer Systems. Within this field, I am interested in computer networks, distributed systems, operating systems and distributed operating systems. My junior seminar work, my practical training and my courses have given me plenty of exposure to these areas and I feel that I have sufficient motivation and aptitude to work in this field.
I am also interested in Programming Language design and Programming Systems. I have worked in these areas in my summer project at TIFR and in my ongoing B. Tech. project. I would like to continue to learn about these areas in my graduate program.
Immediate Goals
I plan to work towards a Ph. D. program with a focus on Distributed and Parallel operating Systems. I would also like to follow up my interests in Computer Networks, Distributed Systems, Operating Systems and Programming Languages through my course work. I feel that this should be my next step on my road to a research career in Computer Science.
Why Duke?
I have selected Duke as the place for me to continue with my education because I found that the Graduate Program in Computer Science suited my needs perfectly. I have found the Duke Computer Science Department faculty and the research being carried out in Computer Systems, especially in Distributed Operating Systems, to be very impressive. I feel that to be associated with this group for the many years of my Ph. D. would stand me in good stead for my research career. I have also been impressed by the computing facilities available at Duke for research and education. These are much superior to those available to a graduate student in India. Taking all these factors into account, I feel that Duke is the perfect place for my graduate studies and I am confident that I will make a positive contribution to the ongoing research work at Duke.
Am I Prepared?
My undergraduate preparation at the Computer Science and Engineering Department of the **** has given me a very substantial knowledge of the basic areas of Computer Science. Through my junior seminar work, I have acquired a good knowledge of distributed operating systems and the problems they entail. It also exposed me to the broad fields of computer networks, distributed systems and operating systems. I have also been exposed to practical computer networks and network programming in the course of my practical training at the State Bank of India, Head Office. My course projects have given me plenty of experience in programming using various programming languages, software packages and operating systems. I have selected {Introduction to Computer Networks} as an elective course in the seventh semester so as to broaden my knowledge in this area. Therefore, I feel confident that I have acquired both a broad base in Computer Science and a strong foundation in Computer Systems.
Summing Up
I am aware of the hard work and perseverance necessary for research work and I know that it is not always as exciting as the published results seem to indicate. Nevertheless, I am sure that my aptitude and drive will see me through the challenge. I hope to have a long and mutually profitable association with Duke.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 5 Computer Science
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 5 Computer Science
It is after a good deal of self-evaluation that I have decided to pursue graduate studies in Computer Science leading to a doctorate. This decision followed naturally after carefully considering my academic background, the areas of my interest, and my ultimate professional ambition, which is to pursue a research career, either as a teaching faculty member, or in an R & D department of the industry.
My undergraduate education at *** has provided me with a strong and comprehensive background in Computer Science. The curriculum included all the basic courses such as Data Structures and Algorithms, Discrete Structures, Computer Organization and Design, Systems Programming, Theory of Computation, etc.
I had always been fascinated by the field of Artificial Intelligence, which is why I chose the topic of “Human and Artificial Intelligence” for my junior thesis. The literature survey that this entailed exposed me to the fundamental concepts, as also the research work in progress, in the various domains of Artificial Intelligence I concentrated on issues involved in Natural Language Processing and Knowledge Representation.
My B. Tech. project (senior thesis) is “Word Recognition, Spell Checking and Correction using ART-based neural networks”. We are investigating the use of neural networks, configured under the Adaptive Resonance Theory paradigm, for the task of detecting spelling mistakes in English text and generating good suggestions for incorrectly spelled words. This guided independent work has given me a good understanding of the theoretical, experimental and computational skills required in Computer Science.
I have been a teaching assistant for the introductory course “Computer Programming and Utilization” conducted by Prof. yyy of the Computer Science department. I have also helped in organizing, and given a lecture on the “VI” editor, during the UNIX workshop conducted by the Computer Science and Engineering Association of our Department.
There are two reasons why I believe that graduate study in a reputed department, such as yours, is important for a person aspiring for a research career. Firstly, working for a thesis under the guidance of an expert whose work can serve as a model is the most effective method of transforming a student into a largely independent researcher making significant original contributions. Secondly, the emphasis of graduate study on intensive and independent study of a specialized area is an ideal way of making a student capable of reaching the frontiers of knowledge in a subfield quickly and keeping abreast of the latest developments.
I feel that with its comprehensive facilities and competent faculty doing quality research work in the field of Artificial Intelligence will be the ideal place for me to pursue graduate studies. The working atmosphere of a vigorously active department will be helpful in motivating me towards excellence.
In short, I believe that a good graduate program is an essential step for realizing my professional ambition of becoming a competent researcher. I also believe that I possess the motivation, intellectual ability and preparation to do justice to a demanding graduate program. My excellent undergraduate record and my high GRE scores are testimony to that.
I, therefore, look forward to joining your department as a graduate student
It is after a good deal of self-evaluation that I have decided to pursue graduate studies in Computer Science leading to a doctorate. This decision followed naturally after carefully considering my academic background, the areas of my interest, and my ultimate professional ambition, which is to pursue a research career, either as a teaching faculty member, or in an R & D department of the industry.
My undergraduate education at *** has provided me with a strong and comprehensive background in Computer Science. The curriculum included all the basic courses such as Data Structures and Algorithms, Discrete Structures, Computer Organization and Design, Systems Programming, Theory of Computation, etc.
I had always been fascinated by the field of Artificial Intelligence, which is why I chose the topic of “Human and Artificial Intelligence” for my junior thesis. The literature survey that this entailed exposed me to the fundamental concepts, as also the research work in progress, in the various domains of Artificial Intelligence I concentrated on issues involved in Natural Language Processing and Knowledge Representation.
My B. Tech. project (senior thesis) is “Word Recognition, Spell Checking and Correction using ART-based neural networks”. We are investigating the use of neural networks, configured under the Adaptive Resonance Theory paradigm, for the task of detecting spelling mistakes in English text and generating good suggestions for incorrectly spelled words. This guided independent work has given me a good understanding of the theoretical, experimental and computational skills required in Computer Science.
I have been a teaching assistant for the introductory course “Computer Programming and Utilization” conducted by Prof. yyy of the Computer Science department. I have also helped in organizing, and given a lecture on the “VI” editor, during the UNIX workshop conducted by the Computer Science and Engineering Association of our Department.
There are two reasons why I believe that graduate study in a reputed department, such as yours, is important for a person aspiring for a research career. Firstly, working for a thesis under the guidance of an expert whose work can serve as a model is the most effective method of transforming a student into a largely independent researcher making significant original contributions. Secondly, the emphasis of graduate study on intensive and independent study of a specialized area is an ideal way of making a student capable of reaching the frontiers of knowledge in a subfield quickly and keeping abreast of the latest developments.
I feel that with its comprehensive facilities and competent faculty doing quality research work in the field of Artificial Intelligence will be the ideal place for me to pursue graduate studies. The working atmosphere of a vigorously active department will be helpful in motivating me towards excellence.
In short, I believe that a good graduate program is an essential step for realizing my professional ambition of becoming a competent researcher. I also believe that I possess the motivation, intellectual ability and preparation to do justice to a demanding graduate program. My excellent undergraduate record and my high GRE scores are testimony to that.
I, therefore, look forward to joining your department as a graduate student
Statement of Purpose 4 Computer Graphics
Statement of Purpose 4 Computer Graphics
Statement of long-term goals
After carefully considering my aptitude, interests, the nature of my training and my ultimate professional ambition, I have decided to pursue a {Doctoral degree} in Computer Science, in my fields of interest {Computer Graphics} and {Computational Geometry}, ultimately leading to a career in teaching and research. As a Statement of purpose of my graduate study, I describe here my academic background, research interests and career goals.
Academic achievements
I have excelled in academics at every stage of my education. In the twelve years of my schooling, I have always been ranked first or second in my class. I stood $111th out of 100,000 candidates in the highly competitive examination for admission to the undergraduate program at the ****. In the Regional Mathematics Olympiad 1990, I was ranked 6th in my home state of Maharashtra.
Brief description of field of study
The excellent undergraduate program at the *** not only provided me with a strong foundation of Computer Science fundamentals, but also exposed me to various fields of Computer Science. I have always been interested in problems involving visualization. At ***, this led to an inclination towards Computer Graphics and Computational Geometry. I substantiated my knowledge in these areas by choosing graduate level electives in Advanced Computer Graphics and Geometric Algorithms. I am currently working on my yearlong B.Tech Project (senior thesis) titled { Triangulations in 3 Dimensions}, under the guidance of Dr. yyy. In this thesis we are looking at decompositions of polyhedral into surplices with an emphasis on obtaining well shaped tetrahedral.
Seminar
I am also interested in Multimedia technology. In my third year, I presented a home paper titled {Multimedia Databases} under the guidance of Dr. yyy. In this paper, our study was focused on issues involved in the storage and real time retrieval of multimedia objects in a multi-user environment.
Teaching and work experience
My years at **** have given me substantial teaching experience. I have delivered lectures at Workshops on Unix conducted by the department and have been a teaching assistant for an introductory course in programming. This has built in me a lot of
Confidence that is required to excel as a teacher.
Experience in field of study
Though my experiences in **** have provided me with a strong foundation in my fields of interest, a good graduate program is necessary not only to increase my knowledge in these fields but also to mould me into a good researcher. I am fully aware of the hard work and perseverance required for a successful career in research and I believe that I have the aptitude and drive to meet the challenge.
University paragraph
The Graduate program at SUNY, Stony Brook is fully suited to my goals. Graphics and Computational Geometry are strong areas of research at Stony Brook. I have found the faculty and the research work to be quite impressive. I feel that to be associated with this group would stand me in good stead throughout my research career. I have also been impressed by the computing facilities available at Stony Brook for research and education. My B.Tech Project advisor has also strongly encouraged me to apply to your program. I am confident that given the opportunity, I will be able to make significant
Contributions to the on going research at Stony Brook.
I corresponded with Prof.yyy whose encouraging reply reinforced my decision to apply to Stony Brook.
I look forward to joining SUNY, Stony Brook as a graduate student at your esteemed department.
Statement of long-term goals
After carefully considering my aptitude, interests, the nature of my training and my ultimate professional ambition, I have decided to pursue a {Doctoral degree} in Computer Science, in my fields of interest {Computer Graphics} and {Computational Geometry}, ultimately leading to a career in teaching and research. As a Statement of purpose of my graduate study, I describe here my academic background, research interests and career goals.
Academic achievements
I have excelled in academics at every stage of my education. In the twelve years of my schooling, I have always been ranked first or second in my class. I stood $111th out of 100,000 candidates in the highly competitive examination for admission to the undergraduate program at the ****. In the Regional Mathematics Olympiad 1990, I was ranked 6th in my home state of Maharashtra.
Brief description of field of study
The excellent undergraduate program at the *** not only provided me with a strong foundation of Computer Science fundamentals, but also exposed me to various fields of Computer Science. I have always been interested in problems involving visualization. At ***, this led to an inclination towards Computer Graphics and Computational Geometry. I substantiated my knowledge in these areas by choosing graduate level electives in Advanced Computer Graphics and Geometric Algorithms. I am currently working on my yearlong B.Tech Project (senior thesis) titled { Triangulations in 3 Dimensions}, under the guidance of Dr. yyy. In this thesis we are looking at decompositions of polyhedral into surplices with an emphasis on obtaining well shaped tetrahedral.
Seminar
I am also interested in Multimedia technology. In my third year, I presented a home paper titled {Multimedia Databases} under the guidance of Dr. yyy. In this paper, our study was focused on issues involved in the storage and real time retrieval of multimedia objects in a multi-user environment.
Teaching and work experience
My years at **** have given me substantial teaching experience. I have delivered lectures at Workshops on Unix conducted by the department and have been a teaching assistant for an introductory course in programming. This has built in me a lot of
Confidence that is required to excel as a teacher.
Experience in field of study
Though my experiences in **** have provided me with a strong foundation in my fields of interest, a good graduate program is necessary not only to increase my knowledge in these fields but also to mould me into a good researcher. I am fully aware of the hard work and perseverance required for a successful career in research and I believe that I have the aptitude and drive to meet the challenge.
University paragraph
The Graduate program at SUNY, Stony Brook is fully suited to my goals. Graphics and Computational Geometry are strong areas of research at Stony Brook. I have found the faculty and the research work to be quite impressive. I feel that to be associated with this group would stand me in good stead throughout my research career. I have also been impressed by the computing facilities available at Stony Brook for research and education. My B.Tech Project advisor has also strongly encouraged me to apply to your program. I am confident that given the opportunity, I will be able to make significant
Contributions to the on going research at Stony Brook.
I corresponded with Prof.yyy whose encouraging reply reinforced my decision to apply to Stony Brook.
I look forward to joining SUNY, Stony Brook as a graduate student at your esteemed department.
Statement of Purpose 3 Computer Science sample
Statement of Purpose 3 Computer Science
GOALS
I am applying to Princeton University for admission to the Ph.D. program in (Computer Science}. My research interests lie in the field of Theoretical Computer Science. More specifically, I am interested in the Design and Analysis of Algebraic, Combinatorial and Number Theoretic Algorithms as well as their applications. Other areas that interest me are Theory of Computation, Complexity Theory and Geometric Algorithms.
My long-term goal is to be actively involved with research and teaching in an area that I love. I look forward to such an involvement as a faculty member at a reputed university. A Ph.D. in one of the aforementioned areas would be the crucial first step towards this goal.
PERSONAL-BACKGROUND
Both my parents have done their Ph.D.’s in Mathematics and my father is an active researcher in Applied Mathematics. This had inculcated in me a love for Mathematics right from my school days. On the other hand, I entered school in the same year in which the “personal computer revolution” began in India; therefore I have, in some sense, “grown up with computers”. My interest in Theoretical Computer Science is the combined result of these two influences.
MATHS-BACKGROUND
While in high school, I was involved with the Mathematical Olympiad program and this culminated in my being awarded a silver medal at the 34th International Mathematical Olympiad. As a result of this involvement, I was exposed to basic Combinatory, Graph Theory and Number Theory at an early age. Moreover, the intensive training-cum-selection program I underwent has honed my skills and bolstered my confidence in problem solving. It has also whetted my appetite for problem solving and made me a regular reader of the Problem sections of periodicals like American Mathematical Monthly and Mathematics Magazine.
I was chosen, by the National Board of Higher Mathematics, as one of 18 undergraduates all over India to participate in their nurture program, in parallel with my formal undergraduate training. The resulting three-year-long interaction with the School of Mathematics of the prestigious Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), has given me a substantial background in advanced mathematics (including Group, Ring and Field Theory, Linear Algebra, Real and Complex Analysis, Measure Theory and Topology). As part of this year’s program, I am studying Commutative Algebra, Algebraic Number Theory and Functional Analysis.
I hope to put my mathematical background to good use in my research work.
CS-BACKGROUND
I am currently a senior undergraduate student of the **** majoring in Computer Science and Engineering. I had chosen this department for its academically stimulating atmosphere, excellent faculty and broad spectrum of courses, many of which have a strong mathematical flavor.
Now, having acquired a firm foundation in the various areas of Computer Science, I am sure that my forte is Theoretical Computer Science. I find that my motivation, as well as my aptitude, is the strongest in this field: I have secured the highest possible grade (AA) in all the five theory courses that I have taken at **** namely, Discrete Structures, Data Structures and Algorithms, Design and Analysis of Algorithms, Theory of Computation} and Operations Research.
I have further enhanced my Theory background by opting for theoretical topics in my
{Seminar} (junior thesis) and my {B.Tech.\Project} (senior thesis). The former involved studies in Commutative Algebra and Computational Algebra, while the latter has involved Combinatorial Algorithms, Graph Theory and Randomized Algorithms and will soon involve Approximation Algorithms and applications of graph partitioning to VLSI design.
RESEARCH-PLANS
I find Algorithms and Complexity theory the most appealing areas of Computer Science because of their many beautiful results together with their numerous applications to real-life problems in Databases, Operating Systems, Graphics, Compilers and so on. I am fascinated with the enormous potential for research in these areas which has been revealed to me in my {Seminar} and {B.Tech\project} and that is what I envisage myself doing a decade from now.
Since problem solving is the most enjoyable and rewarding experience I have ever known, and since it is an integral part of a career in research and teaching in Theoretical Computer Science, I am convinced that such a career is the right choice for me. I am eager to contribute something to a subject that has given me so much joy. I am also enthusiastic about being involved in its teaching, as teaching a subject enhances one’s own understanding of it.
WHY-THIS-UNIV
Princeton University has one of the world’s very best Theoretical Computer Science groups. An opportunity to interact with this group would be a golden one for any budding theoretician.
From a careful study of the department’s brochures and the advice of the faculty at ****, I have realized that Princeton can provide me with a perfect environment for directing my mental resources towards independent research. I am confident of meeting the high standards of Princeton; my active involvement and enthusiasm in my undergraduate studies, which is amply reflected in my being ranked {first in the institute}, should serve as proof of my possessing the necessary qualities.
CONCLUDING
Keeping in mind my long-term goals, my immediate objective is to work towards a Ph.D. in Computer Science. I am aware of the kind of dedication, perseverance and resolve I need to have for a fruitful career in research and teaching. I believe my background has not only qualified me technically but also given me the right mind-set for such a career.
I look forward to joining as a graduate student in your department and having a long and mutually profitable association with Princeton University.
GOALS
I am applying to Princeton University for admission to the Ph.D. program in (Computer Science}. My research interests lie in the field of Theoretical Computer Science. More specifically, I am interested in the Design and Analysis of Algebraic, Combinatorial and Number Theoretic Algorithms as well as their applications. Other areas that interest me are Theory of Computation, Complexity Theory and Geometric Algorithms.
My long-term goal is to be actively involved with research and teaching in an area that I love. I look forward to such an involvement as a faculty member at a reputed university. A Ph.D. in one of the aforementioned areas would be the crucial first step towards this goal.
PERSONAL-BACKGROUND
Both my parents have done their Ph.D.’s in Mathematics and my father is an active researcher in Applied Mathematics. This had inculcated in me a love for Mathematics right from my school days. On the other hand, I entered school in the same year in which the “personal computer revolution” began in India; therefore I have, in some sense, “grown up with computers”. My interest in Theoretical Computer Science is the combined result of these two influences.
MATHS-BACKGROUND
While in high school, I was involved with the Mathematical Olympiad program and this culminated in my being awarded a silver medal at the 34th International Mathematical Olympiad. As a result of this involvement, I was exposed to basic Combinatory, Graph Theory and Number Theory at an early age. Moreover, the intensive training-cum-selection program I underwent has honed my skills and bolstered my confidence in problem solving. It has also whetted my appetite for problem solving and made me a regular reader of the Problem sections of periodicals like American Mathematical Monthly and Mathematics Magazine.
I was chosen, by the National Board of Higher Mathematics, as one of 18 undergraduates all over India to participate in their nurture program, in parallel with my formal undergraduate training. The resulting three-year-long interaction with the School of Mathematics of the prestigious Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), has given me a substantial background in advanced mathematics (including Group, Ring and Field Theory, Linear Algebra, Real and Complex Analysis, Measure Theory and Topology). As part of this year’s program, I am studying Commutative Algebra, Algebraic Number Theory and Functional Analysis.
I hope to put my mathematical background to good use in my research work.
CS-BACKGROUND
I am currently a senior undergraduate student of the **** majoring in Computer Science and Engineering. I had chosen this department for its academically stimulating atmosphere, excellent faculty and broad spectrum of courses, many of which have a strong mathematical flavor.
Now, having acquired a firm foundation in the various areas of Computer Science, I am sure that my forte is Theoretical Computer Science. I find that my motivation, as well as my aptitude, is the strongest in this field: I have secured the highest possible grade (AA) in all the five theory courses that I have taken at **** namely, Discrete Structures, Data Structures and Algorithms, Design and Analysis of Algorithms, Theory of Computation} and Operations Research.
I have further enhanced my Theory background by opting for theoretical topics in my
{Seminar} (junior thesis) and my {B.Tech.\Project} (senior thesis). The former involved studies in Commutative Algebra and Computational Algebra, while the latter has involved Combinatorial Algorithms, Graph Theory and Randomized Algorithms and will soon involve Approximation Algorithms and applications of graph partitioning to VLSI design.
RESEARCH-PLANS
I find Algorithms and Complexity theory the most appealing areas of Computer Science because of their many beautiful results together with their numerous applications to real-life problems in Databases, Operating Systems, Graphics, Compilers and so on. I am fascinated with the enormous potential for research in these areas which has been revealed to me in my {Seminar} and {B.Tech\project} and that is what I envisage myself doing a decade from now.
Since problem solving is the most enjoyable and rewarding experience I have ever known, and since it is an integral part of a career in research and teaching in Theoretical Computer Science, I am convinced that such a career is the right choice for me. I am eager to contribute something to a subject that has given me so much joy. I am also enthusiastic about being involved in its teaching, as teaching a subject enhances one’s own understanding of it.
WHY-THIS-UNIV
Princeton University has one of the world’s very best Theoretical Computer Science groups. An opportunity to interact with this group would be a golden one for any budding theoretician.
From a careful study of the department’s brochures and the advice of the faculty at ****, I have realized that Princeton can provide me with a perfect environment for directing my mental resources towards independent research. I am confident of meeting the high standards of Princeton; my active involvement and enthusiasm in my undergraduate studies, which is amply reflected in my being ranked {first in the institute}, should serve as proof of my possessing the necessary qualities.
CONCLUDING
Keeping in mind my long-term goals, my immediate objective is to work towards a Ph.D. in Computer Science. I am aware of the kind of dedication, perseverance and resolve I need to have for a fruitful career in research and teaching. I believe my background has not only qualified me technically but also given me the right mind-set for such a career.
I look forward to joining as a graduate student in your department and having a long and mutually profitable association with Princeton University.
Computer Science statement o purpose sample
Computer Science statement o purpose
My objective for graduate studies in Computer Science is to prepare myself for the long-term goal of pursuing a career of teaching and research. I have nurtured a strong passion to become a scientist and pursue research. In the pursuit of Knowledge, I have always adopted a rigorous approach in order to attain an in-depth understanding of the subject at hand. This has amply reflected in my consistently brilliant career, always topping the class and having received numerous national level awards. With a GPA of 9.72, I am ranked first at the *** among nearly 350 students.
I have been involved in research in parallel and distributed computing systems. I studied various problems in distributed systems and distributed databases including deadlock detection and resolution, termination detection, distributed snapshots and consistency. I have been attracted towards the field of correctness of parallel programs. I published a Technical Report reporting errors in two published deadlock detection algorithms and highlight their underlying deficiencies with respect to the distributed nature of computation. I am also involved in the development of an optimizer generator, which would automate the process of writing optimizers based on the specifications of the optimizations. I am currently engaged in writing a paper on an efficient algorithm for performing global data-flow analysis. The new algorithm that I have developed utilizes the notion of backward information flow to perform propagation using work-lists in an efficient manner. I have been in correspondence with Prof. yyyy about my algorithm and other aspects of the problem.
I have chosen to pursue graduate studies at Stanford University because by working under the guidance of the distinguished researchers I am confident of making an original contribution in the field of Computer Science. My interest in research has burgeoned during my undergraduate studies at ***. I have excelled in our well-rounded and exacting undergraduate program and have developed a solid background to take up research in Computer Science.
I have decided to go in for graduate studies which calls for a personal commitment to the fulfilling craft of independent research and that involves willingly making personal sacrifices of time, leisure and immediate reward. In turn I shall get intellectual satisfaction and the gratification of becoming a contributor to knowledge through research and the greater personal rewards of learning and discovery. I believe that I possess the motivation, intellectual ability and preparation to set out on this exhilarating and arduous path and to make significant original contributions to your on-going research work.
I look forward to joining Stanford University as a graduate student at your esteemed department.
My objective for graduate studies in Computer Science is to prepare myself for the long-term goal of pursuing a career of teaching and research. I have nurtured a strong passion to become a scientist and pursue research. In the pursuit of Knowledge, I have always adopted a rigorous approach in order to attain an in-depth understanding of the subject at hand. This has amply reflected in my consistently brilliant career, always topping the class and having received numerous national level awards. With a GPA of 9.72, I am ranked first at the *** among nearly 350 students.
I have been involved in research in parallel and distributed computing systems. I studied various problems in distributed systems and distributed databases including deadlock detection and resolution, termination detection, distributed snapshots and consistency. I have been attracted towards the field of correctness of parallel programs. I published a Technical Report reporting errors in two published deadlock detection algorithms and highlight their underlying deficiencies with respect to the distributed nature of computation. I am also involved in the development of an optimizer generator, which would automate the process of writing optimizers based on the specifications of the optimizations. I am currently engaged in writing a paper on an efficient algorithm for performing global data-flow analysis. The new algorithm that I have developed utilizes the notion of backward information flow to perform propagation using work-lists in an efficient manner. I have been in correspondence with Prof. yyyy about my algorithm and other aspects of the problem.
I have chosen to pursue graduate studies at Stanford University because by working under the guidance of the distinguished researchers I am confident of making an original contribution in the field of Computer Science. My interest in research has burgeoned during my undergraduate studies at ***. I have excelled in our well-rounded and exacting undergraduate program and have developed a solid background to take up research in Computer Science.
I have decided to go in for graduate studies which calls for a personal commitment to the fulfilling craft of independent research and that involves willingly making personal sacrifices of time, leisure and immediate reward. In turn I shall get intellectual satisfaction and the gratification of becoming a contributor to knowledge through research and the greater personal rewards of learning and discovery. I believe that I possess the motivation, intellectual ability and preparation to set out on this exhilarating and arduous path and to make significant original contributions to your on-going research work.
I look forward to joining Stanford University as a graduate student at your esteemed department.
Statement of Purpose - 1 Computer Science sample
Statement of Purpose - 1 Computer Science
I am applying to Stanford for admission to the Ph.D. program in Computer Science. I am interested in Theoretical Computer Science, particularly in the Design and Analysis of Approximation Algorithms, Combinatory and Complexity Theory.
My interest in Mathematics goes back to the time I was at school. This interest has only grown through my years in school and high school, as I have learnt more and more about the subject. Having represented India at the International Mathematical Olympiads on two occasions, I have been exposed to elements of Discrete Mathematics, particularly Combinatory and Graph Theory, outside the regular school curriculum at an early stage. The intensive training programs we were put through for the Olympiads have given me a lot of confidence in dealing with abstract mathematical problems.
My exposure to Computer Science began after I entered the ****. The excellent facilities, courses and faculty have given me a firm background of the fundamentals in Computer Science. Having been exposed to the various facets of Computer Science in the course of my undergraduate studies, I have found Theoretical Computer Science most intellectually satisfying and stimulating. Courses like `Discrete Structures’, `Data Structures and Algorithms’, Theory of Computation’ and Algorithms and Complexity’ have been my firm favorites. I find the problems in Theoretical Computer Science particularly appealing because of the flavor of abstract mathematics that I love so much. At the same time, the problems in this field have a concrete basis, originating from practical problems in Computer Science. This adds to their appeal.
Recently, a lot of exciting developments have taken place in the field of approximation algorithms. The Markov chain approach and the primal/dual approach have emerged as powerful techniques for the development of approximation algorithms. More recently, semi-definite programming has been used to obtain approximation algorithms for Optimization problems. An interesting connection with results in Interactive Proof Systems has yielded lower bounds on the approximability of various problems. I believe that these methods have a lot of potential. Members of the faculty at Stanford have done a lot of the pioneering work in these areas. Prof.YYY has been involved in the work on Interactive Proof Systems and semi-definite programming. I have read about these results in the course of my seminar (Junior Thesis), my summer training at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Bombay, and my B.Tech. Project (Senior Thesis). I find them very fascinating and intend to work with problems of a similar flavor.
I am convinced that I should pursue a career in research and teaching. For me, problem solving is an exhilarating experience, unequaled by anything else. It would be immensely gratifying for me to be able to contribute something to the understanding of a subject that has given me so much pleasure and joy. It would also be wonderful to have the opportunity to share with others that feeling of pleasure and joy, through teaching. My few experiences with teaching, as a tutor for an undergraduate course and as a lecturer in student workshops, have evoked favorable responses and have been thoroughly enjoyable. I believe that I have the capacity to make the commitment and accept the challenges that a career in research involves. I am confident that I have the requisite aptitude, exposure and motivation to make a meaningful contribution to my chosen field.
My summer training at TIFR has given me the experience of working in an organization oriented towards research. In the course of the two months I spent there, my interaction with the Theoretical Computer Science group has taught me a lot of things and also whets my appetite for more knowledge. I realize how important it is, as a researcher, to interact with other people working in the same field, and at the same time, am able to work individually.
A good research career can only be built above the firm foundation of a good education. With my long-term goal in mind, my immediate objective is to work towards a Ph.D. in Computer Science. Having done my undergraduate studies at undoubtedly one of the best undergraduate institutions in India, I would consider it my privilege to be able to pursue my doctoral studies at Stanford and avail of the excellent infrastructure facilities and research opportunities it has to offer. I am sure that the stimulating academic environment and interaction with the distinguished faculty at Stanford will prove immensely fruitful and facilitate my development as an individual Researcher in my field. I feel that Stanford has a lot to offer me, and at the same time, I am confident that I would be able to make a positive contribution to on going research work at Stanford University.
Having decided that I will engage in the pursuit of a career in research, I am fully aware of the implications. I am aware of the kind of dedication, resilience and resolve that it calls for. I feel that I am adequately prepared, both in having the technical qualifications, and in having the right mind-set for doctoral level Research work. I look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Stanford University
I am applying to Stanford for admission to the Ph.D. program in Computer Science. I am interested in Theoretical Computer Science, particularly in the Design and Analysis of Approximation Algorithms, Combinatory and Complexity Theory.
My interest in Mathematics goes back to the time I was at school. This interest has only grown through my years in school and high school, as I have learnt more and more about the subject. Having represented India at the International Mathematical Olympiads on two occasions, I have been exposed to elements of Discrete Mathematics, particularly Combinatory and Graph Theory, outside the regular school curriculum at an early stage. The intensive training programs we were put through for the Olympiads have given me a lot of confidence in dealing with abstract mathematical problems.
My exposure to Computer Science began after I entered the ****. The excellent facilities, courses and faculty have given me a firm background of the fundamentals in Computer Science. Having been exposed to the various facets of Computer Science in the course of my undergraduate studies, I have found Theoretical Computer Science most intellectually satisfying and stimulating. Courses like `Discrete Structures’, `Data Structures and Algorithms’, Theory of Computation’ and Algorithms and Complexity’ have been my firm favorites. I find the problems in Theoretical Computer Science particularly appealing because of the flavor of abstract mathematics that I love so much. At the same time, the problems in this field have a concrete basis, originating from practical problems in Computer Science. This adds to their appeal.
Recently, a lot of exciting developments have taken place in the field of approximation algorithms. The Markov chain approach and the primal/dual approach have emerged as powerful techniques for the development of approximation algorithms. More recently, semi-definite programming has been used to obtain approximation algorithms for Optimization problems. An interesting connection with results in Interactive Proof Systems has yielded lower bounds on the approximability of various problems. I believe that these methods have a lot of potential. Members of the faculty at Stanford have done a lot of the pioneering work in these areas. Prof.YYY has been involved in the work on Interactive Proof Systems and semi-definite programming. I have read about these results in the course of my seminar (Junior Thesis), my summer training at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Bombay, and my B.Tech. Project (Senior Thesis). I find them very fascinating and intend to work with problems of a similar flavor.
I am convinced that I should pursue a career in research and teaching. For me, problem solving is an exhilarating experience, unequaled by anything else. It would be immensely gratifying for me to be able to contribute something to the understanding of a subject that has given me so much pleasure and joy. It would also be wonderful to have the opportunity to share with others that feeling of pleasure and joy, through teaching. My few experiences with teaching, as a tutor for an undergraduate course and as a lecturer in student workshops, have evoked favorable responses and have been thoroughly enjoyable. I believe that I have the capacity to make the commitment and accept the challenges that a career in research involves. I am confident that I have the requisite aptitude, exposure and motivation to make a meaningful contribution to my chosen field.
My summer training at TIFR has given me the experience of working in an organization oriented towards research. In the course of the two months I spent there, my interaction with the Theoretical Computer Science group has taught me a lot of things and also whets my appetite for more knowledge. I realize how important it is, as a researcher, to interact with other people working in the same field, and at the same time, am able to work individually.
A good research career can only be built above the firm foundation of a good education. With my long-term goal in mind, my immediate objective is to work towards a Ph.D. in Computer Science. Having done my undergraduate studies at undoubtedly one of the best undergraduate institutions in India, I would consider it my privilege to be able to pursue my doctoral studies at Stanford and avail of the excellent infrastructure facilities and research opportunities it has to offer. I am sure that the stimulating academic environment and interaction with the distinguished faculty at Stanford will prove immensely fruitful and facilitate my development as an individual Researcher in my field. I feel that Stanford has a lot to offer me, and at the same time, I am confident that I would be able to make a positive contribution to on going research work at Stanford University.
Having decided that I will engage in the pursuit of a career in research, I am fully aware of the implications. I am aware of the kind of dedication, resilience and resolve that it calls for. I feel that I am adequately prepared, both in having the technical qualifications, and in having the right mind-set for doctoral level Research work. I look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Stanford University
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE research eletronics
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE An enormous number of challenges, thrown out by rapid development in science and technology, have made me choose engineering profession. I take this opportunity to describe my educational background and career objectives that motivated me to pursue a research career in mechanical engineering. I completed my higher secondary examination scoring 96% in basic sciences. My undergraduate education has provided a thorough exposure to the various specialties available in Mechanical Engineering, thus stimulating interest in advanced research. In my undergraduate years, I've acquired a strong background in the fundamentals of the basic mechanical engineering subjects like Thermodynamics, Heat and Mass transfer, Solid Mechanics, Fluid mechanics, CAD/CAM, Mechanics of Machines, Design of machine elements etc. I have also had an introduction to specialized areas like Finite Element Techniques and Operations Research. Thermal and Fluid Sciences has captivated my interest during my undergraduate study and in relation to that I had also completed a project namely " Coal Water Slurry as an auxiliary fuel for oil " in boilers at Bharath Heavy Electrical Limited (B.H.E.L.) in collaboration with National Thermal Power Corporation, Central Fuel Research Institute & I.I.T.-Madras. I would like to pursue graduate studies in specialized Thermal fields like Combustion, Heat and Mass Transfer, Computational Fluid Dynamics in a committed manner and I am confident of contributing considerably to the growth of this field. A coin has two faces. Similarly in my view, I feel that extra curricular activities are as important as studies in estimating a person's overall capacity. As a chess player and volleyball player representing the university, I am in a position that many athletes would covet. Another exciting and learning phase at the university had been my experience as an executing member of mechanical Engineers (Tirumala University). I am the Vice President of the LEO club of Tirumala University. I feel that I have evolved into a dynamic person due to my commitment to many extra-curricular activities at the highest level. Browsing through the information brochure and the University's home page I feel that the Graduate Study at the Western Michigan holds a lot of promise to me. The breadth and depth of the courses coupled with a stimulating research environment seem to me the right mix for seminal work and pioneering research. I sincerely hope to have a mutually beneficial association with your University to contribute my best towards making a successful research endeavor. Keeping this in mind, joining your University seems to me as an excellent first step. Thanks for your consideration.
Statement of Purpose Management mba
Statement of Purpose Management
I Amit Desai graduated in July 1996 with a degree in Civil Engineering from Institute of Technology, Bombay. Many of my courses and research activities in the final year were in the field of Structural Engineering and Damping Techniques with a strong focus on strength of material. 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 characterized 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, modeling, 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.
Amit Desai
I Amit Desai graduated in July 1996 with a degree in Civil Engineering from Institute of Technology, Bombay. Many of my courses and research activities in the final year were in the field of Structural Engineering and Damping Techniques with a strong focus on strength of material. 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 characterized 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, modeling, 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.
Amit Desai
Sample Statement of Purpose: MBA
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Sample Statement of Purpose: MBA
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.
One particular 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 (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
2
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...
Statement of Purpose: Ph.D. (Economics)
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
3
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.
Statement of Purpose: Civil Engineering
In 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 acquainted 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
4
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.
http://www.infozee.com/application-issues/essays-sop.htm
Writing a Statement of Purpose
Determine your purpose in writing the statement. 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.
Determine the content of your statement. Be sure to answer any direct questions fully. Analyze the
questions or guidance statements for the essay completely and answer all parts. For example: "What are the
strengths and weaknesses in setting and achieving goals and working through people?" In this question there
are actually six parts to be answered 1) strengths in setting goals, 2) strengths in achieving goals, 3) strengths
in working through people, 4) weaknesses in setting goals, 5) weaknesses in achieving goals and 6) weaknesses
in working through people. Pay attention to small words. Notice: This example question says through people not
with people, if it says with people, answer that way.
Usually graduate and professional schools are interested in the following: (1) Your purpose in graduate
study. This means you must have thought this through before you try to answer the question. (2) The area of
study in which you wish to specialize. This requires that you know the field well enough to make such decision.
(3) Your future use of your graduate study. This will include your career goals and plans for your future. (4)
Your special preparation and fitness for study in the field. This is the opportunity to relate your academic
background with your extracurricular experience to show how they unite to make you a special candidate. (5)
Any problems or inconsistencies in your records or scores such as a bad semester. Be sure to explain in a
positive manner and justify the explanation. Since this is a rebuttal argument, it should be followed by a positive
statement of your abilities. (6) Any special conditions that are not revealed elsewhere in the application such
as a large (35 hour a week) work load outside of school. This too should be followed with a positive statement
about yourself and your future. (7) You may be asked, "Why do you wish to attend this school?" This requires
that you have done your research about the school and know what its special appeal is to you. (8) Above all
5
this, the statement is to contain information about you as a person. They know nothing about you that you don’t
tell them. You are the subject of the statement.
Determine your approach and the style of the statement. There is no such thing as "the perfect way
to write a statement." There is only the one that is best for you and fits your circumstances.
There are some things the statement should not be: Avoid the "what I did with my life" approach. This was
fine for grade school essays on "what I did last summer." It is not good for a personal statement. Equally
elementary is the approach "I’ve always wanted to be a ____." This is only appropriate if it also reflects your
current career goals. Also avoid a statement that indicates your interest in psychology is because of your own
personal psychotherapy or a family member’s psychological disturbance. While this may have motivated many
of us to go on to graduate study in psychology, this is not what your audience is necessarily looking for in your
statement.
These are some things the statement should do: It should be objective yet self-revelatory. Write directly and
in a straightforward manner that tells about your experience and what it means to you. Do not use "academese"
or jargon. It should form conclusions that explain the value and meaning of your experiences such as: (1) what
you learned about yourself; (2) about your field; (3) about your future goals; and (4) about your career
concerns. It should be specific. Document your conclusions with specific instances or draw your conclusions
as the result of individual experience. See the list of general Words to Avoid Using without Explanation listed
below. It should be an example of careful persuasive writing.
Considerations about form: Keep to the page limit! Reviewers have to read hundreds of these
applications, don’t overburden them with extra pages. Do not leave in typographical errors. You don’t want to
be taken less seriously due to a typo, rite? (laugh)
Words to avoid using without explanation:
appealing to me
appealing aspect
appreciate
challenging
enjoy
enjoyable
exciting
excited
fascinating
feel good
gratifying
helpful
helping people
I can contribute
I like it
I like to help
incredible
interesting
invaluable
it’s important
meaningful
meant a lot to me
people
remarkable
rewarding
satisfaction
satisfying
significant
stimulating
useful
valuable
Getting Started. Recalling and analyzing experience - write short paragraphs on the following:
• Pick a memorable accomplishment in your life. What did you do? How did you accomplish it?
• What sort of important activities have you engaged in? With whom? what role did you play?
• What work experiences have you had? What was your job? responsibility? How did you carry it out? Now
look over your paragraphs. What skills and qualities do you see that you possess? For example, consider
working with others. Were you a leader? important "team" player? Looking at what you have found, you can
now look for skills and qualities that will help you in graduate school. What factors stand out? (NOTE: You will
undoubtedly have more material than you can use. This is good, but you need to make strategic choices.)
Your career goals:
• What career have you chosen? What factors formed this decision?
• What evidence shows that this is a correct choice? That is, how can you show that this choice is realistic?
(Personal experience in the field is a good place to begin.)
Don't:
• Criticize, state opinions that could be offensive, make political statements or raise religious issues
• Be flippant or "cute." Be careful about using humor
• Write a laundry list or catalog of achievements
• Tell them what they already know about their program or profession
6
• Say you "always" wanted to be a… • Write something overly sentimental
• Fake it or have someone else write it • Overly self-promote; understatement is good
Things to Keep in Mind: What they read between the lines: motivation, competence, potential as a graduate
student. Emphasize everything from a positive perspective and write in an active, not a passive voice.
Demonstrate everything by example; don't say directly, for example, that you're a persistent person, you must
demonstrate it. You don't want to make excuses, but you can talk about the mistakes you've made as a learning
experience. If there is something important that happened (poverty, illness, excessive work, etc. ), which
affected your grades go ahead and state it, but write it affirmatively, that is, in a way that shows your
perseverance. Make sure everything is linked with continuity and focus.
The Introduction. This is where you tell them what you want to study. For example, I wish to pursue a MS
degree in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis in controls.
Part 2: Summarize what you did as an undergraduate Important class or classes you took which stimulated your
desire for graduate study, such as a specific project for a class. 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 for
testing, designing, or researching a product or apparatus.
Part 3: If you graduated and worked for a while and are returning to grad school, indicate what you've been
doing while working: company, work/design team, responsibilities, what you learned. You can also indicate here
how this helped you focus your graduate studies.
Part 4: Here you indicate what you want to study in graduate school in greater detail. This is a greater
elaboration of your opening paragraph. Indicate area of interest, then state questions you might have which
are associated with the topic, i.e. what you might be interested in studying. You should have an area of
emphasis selected before you write the statement. Call the department or look on the web for information about
the professors and their research. Are there professors whose interest's match yours'? If so, indicate this, as
it shows a sign that you have done your homework and are highly motivated. (Be sincere, however, don't make
up something bogus just to impress people.)
End your statement in a positive and confident manner with a readiness for the challenges of graduate study.
Questions to address in an SOP: What experiences and/or education have made you want to pursue this
degree program? When did you first become interested in this field of study? How have you been pursuing your
interest (e.g., education, volunteer work, professional experience)? What most appeals to you about this
program -- in general (i.e., the field of study) and more specifically (i.e., the particular department or school's
program)? What makes you and your interests a good fit? What do you plan to do with the education you hope
to receive? What do you think is the most interesting or notable thing about you? How do you think it might
relate to the program that you want to pursue? How could you use it as a jumping off point or organizational
device for your essay? Describe how your experience, education, goals, and anticipated experience in a
graduate program connect to the idea (perhaps using the questions above as a guide). Generate a list of things
you might want to include in your essay, using the questions above to guide you if necessary. For any general
items, jot down specific details: Which items overlap? Do you notice any themes or patterns that might help
to unify your essay? Try grouping items that seem to go together. What do you think they illustrate about you
and your educational goals?
Writing a draft: From outline to essay. Now that you have a sense of what you want to write about,
draft your essay. Make an outline. What will the main theme be? What points do you want to be sure to
include? If you already have a draft written, use this space to jot down the organization of your essay based on
what you've already written.
Develop your body paragraphs with example and explanation Try developing examples and explanations
for one statement that you'd like to make about your experience or interest in this program. Be on the lookout
7
for those cut-and-pastable sentences and replace them with details that show, rather than tell.
Introductions matter. Once you have a good sense of your essay's focus, try writing an introduction that will
engage your reader and suggest the direction in which your essay will go. Not every essay has to have a clever
or original introduction. One which is straightforward and to the point can also be effective and may, in some
cases, be what a particular program wants to see. Most important is its effectiveness in setting a tone and
direction for what follows. Take a look at these sample introductions.
condensed from:
Sample Statement of Purpose: MBA
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.
One particular 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 (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
2
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...
Statement of Purpose: Ph.D. (Economics)
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
3
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.
Statement of Purpose: Civil Engineering
In 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 acquainted 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
4
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.
http://www.infozee.com/application-issues/essays-sop.htm
Writing a Statement of Purpose
Determine your purpose in writing the statement. 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.
Determine the content of your statement. Be sure to answer any direct questions fully. Analyze the
questions or guidance statements for the essay completely and answer all parts. For example: "What are the
strengths and weaknesses in setting and achieving goals and working through people?" In this question there
are actually six parts to be answered 1) strengths in setting goals, 2) strengths in achieving goals, 3) strengths
in working through people, 4) weaknesses in setting goals, 5) weaknesses in achieving goals and 6) weaknesses
in working through people. Pay attention to small words. Notice: This example question says through people not
with people, if it says with people, answer that way.
Usually graduate and professional schools are interested in the following: (1) Your purpose in graduate
study. This means you must have thought this through before you try to answer the question. (2) The area of
study in which you wish to specialize. This requires that you know the field well enough to make such decision.
(3) Your future use of your graduate study. This will include your career goals and plans for your future. (4)
Your special preparation and fitness for study in the field. This is the opportunity to relate your academic
background with your extracurricular experience to show how they unite to make you a special candidate. (5)
Any problems or inconsistencies in your records or scores such as a bad semester. Be sure to explain in a
positive manner and justify the explanation. Since this is a rebuttal argument, it should be followed by a positive
statement of your abilities. (6) Any special conditions that are not revealed elsewhere in the application such
as a large (35 hour a week) work load outside of school. This too should be followed with a positive statement
about yourself and your future. (7) You may be asked, "Why do you wish to attend this school?" This requires
that you have done your research about the school and know what its special appeal is to you. (8) Above all
5
this, the statement is to contain information about you as a person. They know nothing about you that you don’t
tell them. You are the subject of the statement.
Determine your approach and the style of the statement. There is no such thing as "the perfect way
to write a statement." There is only the one that is best for you and fits your circumstances.
There are some things the statement should not be: Avoid the "what I did with my life" approach. This was
fine for grade school essays on "what I did last summer." It is not good for a personal statement. Equally
elementary is the approach "I’ve always wanted to be a ____." This is only appropriate if it also reflects your
current career goals. Also avoid a statement that indicates your interest in psychology is because of your own
personal psychotherapy or a family member’s psychological disturbance. While this may have motivated many
of us to go on to graduate study in psychology, this is not what your audience is necessarily looking for in your
statement.
These are some things the statement should do: It should be objective yet self-revelatory. Write directly and
in a straightforward manner that tells about your experience and what it means to you. Do not use "academese"
or jargon. It should form conclusions that explain the value and meaning of your experiences such as: (1) what
you learned about yourself; (2) about your field; (3) about your future goals; and (4) about your career
concerns. It should be specific. Document your conclusions with specific instances or draw your conclusions
as the result of individual experience. See the list of general Words to Avoid Using without Explanation listed
below. It should be an example of careful persuasive writing.
Considerations about form: Keep to the page limit! Reviewers have to read hundreds of these
applications, don’t overburden them with extra pages. Do not leave in typographical errors. You don’t want to
be taken less seriously due to a typo, rite? (laugh)
Words to avoid using without explanation:
appealing to me
appealing aspect
appreciate
challenging
enjoy
enjoyable
exciting
excited
fascinating
feel good
gratifying
helpful
helping people
I can contribute
I like it
I like to help
incredible
interesting
invaluable
it’s important
meaningful
meant a lot to me
people
remarkable
rewarding
satisfaction
satisfying
significant
stimulating
useful
valuable
Getting Started. Recalling and analyzing experience - write short paragraphs on the following:
• Pick a memorable accomplishment in your life. What did you do? How did you accomplish it?
• What sort of important activities have you engaged in? With whom? what role did you play?
• What work experiences have you had? What was your job? responsibility? How did you carry it out? Now
look over your paragraphs. What skills and qualities do you see that you possess? For example, consider
working with others. Were you a leader? important "team" player? Looking at what you have found, you can
now look for skills and qualities that will help you in graduate school. What factors stand out? (NOTE: You will
undoubtedly have more material than you can use. This is good, but you need to make strategic choices.)
Your career goals:
• What career have you chosen? What factors formed this decision?
• What evidence shows that this is a correct choice? That is, how can you show that this choice is realistic?
(Personal experience in the field is a good place to begin.)
Don't:
• Criticize, state opinions that could be offensive, make political statements or raise religious issues
• Be flippant or "cute." Be careful about using humor
• Write a laundry list or catalog of achievements
• Tell them what they already know about their program or profession
6
• Say you "always" wanted to be a… • Write something overly sentimental
• Fake it or have someone else write it • Overly self-promote; understatement is good
Things to Keep in Mind: What they read between the lines: motivation, competence, potential as a graduate
student. Emphasize everything from a positive perspective and write in an active, not a passive voice.
Demonstrate everything by example; don't say directly, for example, that you're a persistent person, you must
demonstrate it. You don't want to make excuses, but you can talk about the mistakes you've made as a learning
experience. If there is something important that happened (poverty, illness, excessive work, etc. ), which
affected your grades go ahead and state it, but write it affirmatively, that is, in a way that shows your
perseverance. Make sure everything is linked with continuity and focus.
The Introduction. This is where you tell them what you want to study. For example, I wish to pursue a MS
degree in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis in controls.
Part 2: Summarize what you did as an undergraduate Important class or classes you took which stimulated your
desire for graduate study, such as a specific project for a class. 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 for
testing, designing, or researching a product or apparatus.
Part 3: If you graduated and worked for a while and are returning to grad school, indicate what you've been
doing while working: company, work/design team, responsibilities, what you learned. You can also indicate here
how this helped you focus your graduate studies.
Part 4: Here you indicate what you want to study in graduate school in greater detail. This is a greater
elaboration of your opening paragraph. Indicate area of interest, then state questions you might have which
are associated with the topic, i.e. what you might be interested in studying. You should have an area of
emphasis selected before you write the statement. Call the department or look on the web for information about
the professors and their research. Are there professors whose interest's match yours'? If so, indicate this, as
it shows a sign that you have done your homework and are highly motivated. (Be sincere, however, don't make
up something bogus just to impress people.)
End your statement in a positive and confident manner with a readiness for the challenges of graduate study.
Questions to address in an SOP: What experiences and/or education have made you want to pursue this
degree program? When did you first become interested in this field of study? How have you been pursuing your
interest (e.g., education, volunteer work, professional experience)? What most appeals to you about this
program -- in general (i.e., the field of study) and more specifically (i.e., the particular department or school's
program)? What makes you and your interests a good fit? What do you plan to do with the education you hope
to receive? What do you think is the most interesting or notable thing about you? How do you think it might
relate to the program that you want to pursue? How could you use it as a jumping off point or organizational
device for your essay? Describe how your experience, education, goals, and anticipated experience in a
graduate program connect to the idea (perhaps using the questions above as a guide). Generate a list of things
you might want to include in your essay, using the questions above to guide you if necessary. For any general
items, jot down specific details: Which items overlap? Do you notice any themes or patterns that might help
to unify your essay? Try grouping items that seem to go together. What do you think they illustrate about you
and your educational goals?
Writing a draft: From outline to essay. Now that you have a sense of what you want to write about,
draft your essay. Make an outline. What will the main theme be? What points do you want to be sure to
include? If you already have a draft written, use this space to jot down the organization of your essay based on
what you've already written.
Develop your body paragraphs with example and explanation Try developing examples and explanations
for one statement that you'd like to make about your experience or interest in this program. Be on the lookout
7
for those cut-and-pastable sentences and replace them with details that show, rather than tell.
Introductions matter. Once you have a good sense of your essay's focus, try writing an introduction that will
engage your reader and suggest the direction in which your essay will go. Not every essay has to have a clever
or original introduction. One which is straightforward and to the point can also be effective and may, in some
cases, be what a particular program wants to see. Most important is its effectiveness in setting a tone and
direction for what follows. Take a look at these sample introductions.
condensed from:
Statement of Purpose Computer Science
Statement of Purpose
Computer Science
Like most young kids in computer science, my first interest was in computer graphics. I remember my interest in graphics led me to build a single player Tic-Tac-Toe game with some nice graphics and show it off to my friends. However, I soon realized that my Tic-Tac-Toe is actually quite “stupid” and almost always lost to my friends. I started working on it and made it more intelligent so that it never loses to anyone, and wins most of the times. I didn’t realize that I was working on Artificial Intelligence at that time, but that’s how my interest in AI started growing. Since then my exposures, associations with clubs, readings, and undergraduate work – all have served to push me into deciding to study, research, teach and discover different aspects of AI, particularly those that connect computer science with robotics, and logic-based planning under incomplete knowledge. I am now completely taken in by the challenge of solving complex problems, and making generalizations and relationships that concern writing programs which will make machines think, analyze and learn. AI excites me also because it’s becoming a potpourri of all kinds of knowledge’s. Apart from AI I have also developed a keen interest on Bioinformatics through my undergraduate research work during the last few months. Bioinformatics is an area I didn’t know much about. However, since I started my research on sequence analysis, I have got more and more interested on this area, particularly on processes by which a gene's information can be converted into the functions of a cell.
Life outside classes has been quite exciting for me and I am really enjoying my research work under Dr. Gurpur M. Prabhu. I am currently working on a project on sequence analysis of DNA and then predict functions of the resulting protein. The idea we are working on is to use Conway’s Look and Say Sequence and incorporate some of its properties in the DNA sequence. The first obvious difference between the two is that Conway’s sequence contains primarily three characters (1, 2, 3), whereas there are four characters (A, T, C, G) to deal with in the DNA sequence. I first tried to see whether it’s possible to generate characters other than those three, for example 0 or 4. I proved that it’s not possible for any other character to appear in the successors of the original string, unless it was present in the original string itself. Another interesting property of the Conway’s Sequence is its 92 audioactive elements, just like elements in the normal periodic table and the concept of compound that can be formed using these elements. I am currently working on a program which tests and verifies the similarity of the properties of these elements with the real world elements. Recently I found that though the compound MgCl cannot exist in the real world (only MgCl2 exists), this compound can be formed using Conway’s elements.
I am currently also working on a semester long research project for an AI course on developing artificial intelligence for the game Othello, also known as Reversi. I am particularly focusing on the evaluation function and the search techniques. I also discovered that the mobility of the opponent is crucial to the strategy. The idea is to make a move that will restrict the possible moves of the opponent. I am using alpha beta search for this problem. I discovered that finding the better move towards the beginning cuts off many moves and thus makes it faster. Currently I am working on this algorithm to order the moves so that the better moves come first. I also plan to make it learn inductively in the next step.
Another project I recently started under Dr. Prabhu is on a concept called negative-language. At times it is easier to define something by saying what it’s not than what it is. One such example is justice; it’s easier to say what justice isn’t than what it is. I am using Disjunctive logic programming to work on this problem using DLVk Java Wrapper. Often it’s easier to decide whether a particular solution is optimal or not, than to find the optimal solution. Our goal is to solve this kind of problems effectively.
Now I am also closing in on a yet another watershed decision in my life – of studying higher and deeper into the area of computer science and get into research in fields like AI, or Bioinformatics. Under the Ph.D. program I will get enough scope to translate my thinking and ideas to reality by application to the real problem. This will build up my self-confidence if I am successful. Otherwise, if I fail in a particular application I will get scope to find the reasons and modify it in the next step. Actually, I’m looking forward to an in-depth and challenging hands-on experience in my Ph.D. career. Being on a Ph.D. program will also provide me the opportunity to attend conferences and symposium on my chosen area and I will be able to listen to the experts in the area as well as have interactions with them. This will certainly enable me to enrich my knowledge and keep myself updated on the recent developments. Moreover, I believe that the Ph.D. program will help me to enhance my independent thinking and analysis of a problem. This will be of much importance to me in the next career step, when I aspire to take up my own problem and build up own group.
I believe, doing my Ph.D. in University of California, Santa Barbara will expose me to a deeper area of my chosen topic and will provide me a much optimized environment to expand my knowledge on the subject through associations and interactions with my supervisor and other faculty experts in the department. My reasons of choosing University of California, Santa Barbara are three. First, this university offers a wonderful Ph.D. program in Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence; two, it has an acclaimed network of closely working labs that engage in lots of sponsored research Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence. On my own, I am interested in doing something in areas like Active Logic, Metacognitive Computation, Simple Hierarchical Ordered Planning, and Sequence Analysis of DNA and all of these are very much there in University of California, Santa Barbara in some variant or other. And third, most importantly, presence of professors like Dr. Ambuj Singh, Dr. Tobias Hollerer, Dr. Terrence Smith, and Dr. Matthew Turk who have been passionately working in the field of Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence also influenced me a lot. The presence of these factors led to University of California, Santa Barbara being my preferred choice. If I do my Ph.D. from University of California, Santa Barbara, I will have the opportunity of interacting with them, and who knows, of even working with them on a path breaking idea.
Computer Science
Like most young kids in computer science, my first interest was in computer graphics. I remember my interest in graphics led me to build a single player Tic-Tac-Toe game with some nice graphics and show it off to my friends. However, I soon realized that my Tic-Tac-Toe is actually quite “stupid” and almost always lost to my friends. I started working on it and made it more intelligent so that it never loses to anyone, and wins most of the times. I didn’t realize that I was working on Artificial Intelligence at that time, but that’s how my interest in AI started growing. Since then my exposures, associations with clubs, readings, and undergraduate work – all have served to push me into deciding to study, research, teach and discover different aspects of AI, particularly those that connect computer science with robotics, and logic-based planning under incomplete knowledge. I am now completely taken in by the challenge of solving complex problems, and making generalizations and relationships that concern writing programs which will make machines think, analyze and learn. AI excites me also because it’s becoming a potpourri of all kinds of knowledge’s. Apart from AI I have also developed a keen interest on Bioinformatics through my undergraduate research work during the last few months. Bioinformatics is an area I didn’t know much about. However, since I started my research on sequence analysis, I have got more and more interested on this area, particularly on processes by which a gene's information can be converted into the functions of a cell.
Life outside classes has been quite exciting for me and I am really enjoying my research work under Dr. Gurpur M. Prabhu. I am currently working on a project on sequence analysis of DNA and then predict functions of the resulting protein. The idea we are working on is to use Conway’s Look and Say Sequence and incorporate some of its properties in the DNA sequence. The first obvious difference between the two is that Conway’s sequence contains primarily three characters (1, 2, 3), whereas there are four characters (A, T, C, G) to deal with in the DNA sequence. I first tried to see whether it’s possible to generate characters other than those three, for example 0 or 4. I proved that it’s not possible for any other character to appear in the successors of the original string, unless it was present in the original string itself. Another interesting property of the Conway’s Sequence is its 92 audioactive elements, just like elements in the normal periodic table and the concept of compound that can be formed using these elements. I am currently working on a program which tests and verifies the similarity of the properties of these elements with the real world elements. Recently I found that though the compound MgCl cannot exist in the real world (only MgCl2 exists), this compound can be formed using Conway’s elements.
I am currently also working on a semester long research project for an AI course on developing artificial intelligence for the game Othello, also known as Reversi. I am particularly focusing on the evaluation function and the search techniques. I also discovered that the mobility of the opponent is crucial to the strategy. The idea is to make a move that will restrict the possible moves of the opponent. I am using alpha beta search for this problem. I discovered that finding the better move towards the beginning cuts off many moves and thus makes it faster. Currently I am working on this algorithm to order the moves so that the better moves come first. I also plan to make it learn inductively in the next step.
Another project I recently started under Dr. Prabhu is on a concept called negative-language. At times it is easier to define something by saying what it’s not than what it is. One such example is justice; it’s easier to say what justice isn’t than what it is. I am using Disjunctive logic programming to work on this problem using DLVk Java Wrapper. Often it’s easier to decide whether a particular solution is optimal or not, than to find the optimal solution. Our goal is to solve this kind of problems effectively.
Now I am also closing in on a yet another watershed decision in my life – of studying higher and deeper into the area of computer science and get into research in fields like AI, or Bioinformatics. Under the Ph.D. program I will get enough scope to translate my thinking and ideas to reality by application to the real problem. This will build up my self-confidence if I am successful. Otherwise, if I fail in a particular application I will get scope to find the reasons and modify it in the next step. Actually, I’m looking forward to an in-depth and challenging hands-on experience in my Ph.D. career. Being on a Ph.D. program will also provide me the opportunity to attend conferences and symposium on my chosen area and I will be able to listen to the experts in the area as well as have interactions with them. This will certainly enable me to enrich my knowledge and keep myself updated on the recent developments. Moreover, I believe that the Ph.D. program will help me to enhance my independent thinking and analysis of a problem. This will be of much importance to me in the next career step, when I aspire to take up my own problem and build up own group.
I believe, doing my Ph.D. in University of California, Santa Barbara will expose me to a deeper area of my chosen topic and will provide me a much optimized environment to expand my knowledge on the subject through associations and interactions with my supervisor and other faculty experts in the department. My reasons of choosing University of California, Santa Barbara are three. First, this university offers a wonderful Ph.D. program in Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence; two, it has an acclaimed network of closely working labs that engage in lots of sponsored research Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence. On my own, I am interested in doing something in areas like Active Logic, Metacognitive Computation, Simple Hierarchical Ordered Planning, and Sequence Analysis of DNA and all of these are very much there in University of California, Santa Barbara in some variant or other. And third, most importantly, presence of professors like Dr. Ambuj Singh, Dr. Tobias Hollerer, Dr. Terrence Smith, and Dr. Matthew Turk who have been passionately working in the field of Bioinformatics and Artificial Intelligence also influenced me a lot. The presence of these factors led to University of California, Santa Barbara being my preferred choice. If I do my Ph.D. from University of California, Santa Barbara, I will have the opportunity of interacting with them, and who knows, of even working with them on a path breaking idea.
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