Purpose and Audience

Your aim should be a clear, succinct statement showing that you have a definite sense of what you want to do and that you are enthusiastic about the field of study you have chosen. Your essay should reflect your writing abilities while showcasing the clarity, the focus, and the depth of your knowledge about your chosen field of study.

Before writing anything, stop and consider what your reader might be looking for; the general directions or other parts of the application may give you an indication of this. Additionally, you should research the school, department and faculty to which you are applying.

Admissions committees may be trying to evaluate a number of things from your statement, including the following things about you:

• Motivation and commitment to a field of study
  
• Expectations with regard to the program and career opportunities
  
• Writing ability
  
• Major areas of interest
  
• Research and/or work experience
  
• Educational background
  
• Immediate and long-term goals
  
• Reasons for deciding to pursue graduate education in a particular field and at a particular institution
  
• Maturity
  
• Personal uniqueness--what you would add to the diversity of the entering class