How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose Student Success Series Workshop

Dr. Marquita Gammage Associate Professor PhD from Temple University Your Facilitator Dr. Marquita Gammage Associate Professor PhD from Temple University

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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