Dear Career Advisor:

I have decided to make a career leap of faith and I’m interested in applying to a Master’s programme overseas. One of the requirements of the application is a statement of intent, but I am not a fan of essay writing. Can you offer any guidance about how to write a winning statement of intent?

Regards,

Raynne J

Dear Raynne J:

Writing a statement of intent (also known as a statement of purpose or interest) for graduate school can be unnerving for some, but we are glad you consulted us for assistance.

The statement is an essay that gives the reviewers an opportunity to know more about the applicant, his or her intentions, and whether he or she is a suitable candidate for the field of study. Often, many other applicants will hold similar academic profiles and therefore it is the statement of interest that gives you the opportunity to stand out above the rest.

Follow Instructions

Each university will give specific guidelines for the statement of intent. These instructions may include a word or character limit, a list of points to be included, and/or a theme on which to write. If your university of choice gives you these pointers it is imperative that you do as it requests. It shows it that you are able to follow instructions.

Pay Attention to Detail

It is important that the essay reflects who you are, and is appropriate for the purpose it is being written. Here are a few points you need to observe.

• Try to convey your motivations without telling your entire life story.

• Avoid clichéd statements.

•Avoid grammatical errors, slangs, and acronyms. Use formal language and expressions.

• Write concisely and only include relevant information.

• Write truthfully and positively.

Show that you belong

Generally, the university will advertise its overall goals as well as those specific to the programme. Determine how those goals are linked to your short- and long-term goals. Not only will the university be interested in how they will serve you but how you, as a student and later as an alumnus, intend to contribute to its brand.

Advertise yourself

Put your best foot forward. Include your academic qualifications, professional experience and skills, especially those that can be deemed useful to the programme you wish to pursue. However, avoid listing and giving too many examples. Ensure that the reader is able to easily follow the sequence of your essay. Many people use time as a factor of reference while others find other creative ways. Find what works for you and stick to it.

Review and Edit

Review your writing before you submit. When editing, read through each statement made and ask yourself if it improves your essay. In other words, if you were to remove it, would the essence be the same? Will it provide the reader with a better appreciation of you and your intentions?

Once you have completed a final draft, it is always useful to get a second opinion.

All the best,

Career Advisor

Carolyn Marie Smith is associate vice-president of Student Services at Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Manchester. Submit your questions to her at careeradvisor@ncu.edu.jm