I am applying for a phD degree. I am supposed to submit a Statement of purpose along with the application. There are no instructions or guidelines to it and it's my first time writing one. Would you please review it and let me know what you think? what I am missing? what I should re-formulate. Any help is appreciated. Thank you!
My interest in aerospace engineering dates since my high-school years. Upon graduating from french high-school in Lebanon, the opportunity of pursuing university studies in Montreal was presented to me and I immediately applied to the Mechanical Engineering program at XXX0 University. During the first semester, I had to adapt quickly to studying math and physics in English. I excelled in mechanics and dynamics, and proud of my achievement, I knew that I could complete the program and get closer to a career in Aerospace engineering. My first mechanical design class had a tremendous impact on my way of dealing with daily problems. It was my very first experience of building an efficient mechanism according to physics laws, purchasing materials, and having a professional relationship with the rest of my team.
At graduation, I was not completely satisfied of the knowledge I had acquired to pursue a career in aerospace and I hadn't had any experience in an industrial environment yet. I also believed that I had to refine my knowledge and skills in aerodynamics and propulsion. After thorough speculations and discussions with friends and peers, I decided to apply to a Masters degree in Aerospace Engineering at XXX1. Today I am very happy with the decision I made at that time. I targeted specific classes in aerodynamics and propulsion.
I was very lucky to be accepted in a one-year internship program in Turbine Aerodynamics at XXX2, my first real experience in an industrial environment. At the end of my internship, I was hired as a full-time employee in the Turbine Aerodynamics department. And after only one year of full-time employment, I have had the opportunity to work independently on preliminary design of blades. I completed myself the design of a de-swirling vane for a gas generator test from start to end, my proudest achievement to date. My short term stay in this very competitive environment has given me invaluable practical experience and has demonstrated that I am a fast learner and that I cope well with pressure and specific deadlines.
During my work at XXX2, I was also given the opportunity to complete a research project I started during my internship program. I was personally committed to completing the project that dealt with high-lift blade design which is currently state of the art technology in blade design. Under supervision of senior management, I conducted detailed research and meticulous analysis. The methodical preparations, the combination of theory and practice and the tangible results appealed to my disciplined and inquisitive nature.
As my employment at XXX2 came to an end, I thought carefully of my career options. I discussed thoroughly with friends and colleagues and opened up to my manager about my idea of pursuing PhD studies in the same field. He encouraged me greatly and he referred me to Dr. YYY at XXX3 University.
I've already expressed my desire to pursue a PhD study in field of turbine aerodynamics to Dr. YYY. He has presented to me a snapshot of a research project combining both the aerodynamic aspect of turbine design and the heat transfer aspect of it. As challenging as it is, the subject appeals to me greatly. I am well aware of the considerable dedication, commitment and focus required to earn a doctorate degree. However, I care significantly about the discipline I've chosen and I know that I am consistent and am able to commit to a difficult task for a long time.
I bring along a grasp of fundamentals in Mechanical Engineering and Turbine Aerodynamics. I have a passion for challenge and an enthusiastic desire to learn all that I can. My long term goal is to have a career in research and teaching. I hope that my background and qualifications are found suitable for a PhD program in Mechanical Engineering at XXX3 University. I look forward to a rewarding association with XXX3 University.
This is very strong and does include the rudiments of a statement of purpose. I'd like to see you pare down the narrative (they don't really need to know about the conversation with your friend, by the way) and add a little more about what you hope to do in future. You say teaching and research, but if you have any particular research interests, you should say them. Also, if you would like to be part of that study you mentioned, you should say so directly.
DEar
I personally feel, it has all the necessary thing wat SOP need to have, congratulation for all your achievements!!
As EF_Simone said, better to add up what could be your ultimate goal and in what you could improve the industries by any action (only if u have it or any plan for future or any project)
One more question,
Should the SOP be in a letter format with date address and subject?
I don't think so. It is just a general statement, like any other document that is written for an employment portfolio. Also it is more formal than a letter would be.
