Help your youngster write the perfect SOP

When it comes to applying for universities abroad, the first step is compiling a strong application. It can be a tedious process, but it is crucial to prepare an application that helps bring out a candidate’s strengths to prove that he or she has the potential for a given course. For an application to be impressive, one of the most important documents that needs to be submitted is the statement of purpose which is also called a statement of intent.  

A statement of purpose, as the name suggests, is an essay-type document through which an applicant states her reasons for applying for a course, her experience (both academic and extra-curricular), elaborates about her personality, how she will contribute to the course and university, future plans, etc. It helps the university understand the applicant better. It is an opportunity for the applicant to impress the admission committee and convince them that she will be an ideal student for the preferred course. Here are some tips to help your youngster write the perfect SOP- 

Help your youngster introspect 
This is the first step towards writing a good SOP. Since this document is reflective of the applicant’s personality, he must know their motivation, aspirations, interests, values, strengths and weaknesses. Based on this personal information, help him articulate it in a way which is an honest reflection of his personality. 

Remind them to keep a formal tone  
The tone of the SOP should be formal. However, it must also be conversational. It should be persuasive without being self-indulgent. Also, ensure that it is not negative in nature. 

Proofread the SOP 
Grammatical errors in an SOP convey a sense of laziness. Therefore, proofread your youngster’s SOP and point out the errors if any. Also, have a few more people read through it. A fresh set of eyes can always provide a new perspective. 

Encourage your youngster to share their career goals 
A big part of the SOP is to communicate one’s future plans and goals. Encourage your youngster to reflect on this, and articulate that candidly in the SOP. 

Ask them to consider a research topic 
A large number of courses abroad require students to write a research paper/ thesis as their final, and most important assignment. For the same, they must express their research interests. Discuss and guide them through possible research topics which are reflective of their career goals.