State your intentions for entering grad school.
When applying to graduate school, you need to include a letter of intent, also known as a personal or goal statement. This is a short paper, usually one to two pages, that outlines your educational career thus far and your future goals and aspirations. It is important to understand aspects of the letter writing process to ensure a well-developed statement.
Letter Concepts
A letter of intent is the part of your graduate school application that introduces you to the department and admissions officer. You must sell yourself and your ideas to the university. Along with helping determine how well you will fit into the program, the letter of intent also assesses your writing abilities. Therefore, developing a well-written, clear and creative letter is imperative to the application process.
Program Guidelines
Although most, if not all, graduate schools require perspective applicants to submit a letter of intent, the criteria guidelines are not necessarily the same. Some universities simply state the need for a personal statement; they expect a letter containing ambitions but are very nonspecific as to what that entails. Other universities have stringent standards, providing guidelines regarding letter length, font size and margins and content. When applying to a program, researching the requirements is vital to a successful letter.
General Format
The first part of the letter is your introduction to the admissions officer. Include your educational achievements -- such as current college, grade-point average and awards. Highlight areas of strength, and be sure to connect past experience with graduate school objectives. Including explicit examples is helpful.
The second part of your letter is where you reflect upon why you are interested in the program and school. Tell why you would be a great addition to the department. Touch on future career goals and aspirations. Conclude your letter with an optimistic statement expressing your enthusiasm to meet with the faculty and discuss further details.
Writing Tips
While writing a letter of intent, apply certain tips to help customize your letter. Research your prospective school to be familiar with the curriculum, faculty and requirements. Make an outline before writing to help organize your topics. Be sure to be confident, honest and enthusiastic, but don't boast. Add examples to your letter to make it more personable. Be specific and to the point. Emphasize your determination. Above all, remember to proofread. It may be helpful to have someone else read your letter to check for mistakes.
Tags: your letter, graduate school, letter intent, admissions officer, goals aspirations