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Let's discuss the MBA Statement of Purpose (SOP)


Posted Feb 15, 2011 12:51

Hello Everyone!

Since more and more people (including me) seem to be having loads of questions about the SOP or Personal Statement for MBA courses, let's dedicate a thread to answering all these questions.

As per my information and opinion,

Some universities require a complete essay where as some ask you to answer specific questions on the application form.

The SOP is the candidate's chance to describe to the admissions coincil of the university:

His/her motivation and reason for taking up the course.

Why is it needed at this point in his/her career?

The academic and professional background of the applicant

Significant career achievements

How can he/she contribute to the MBA course at the University? How can he/she contribute to the study group (since MBA course is mostly based on case studies)..

Why the particular university? (although I am not sure about this one)

Any distinctive qualities, achievements and interests?

Apart from those, there are other aspects of the SOP as well like demonstrating one's competence in explaining to the admissions team "why he/she should be selected?"

I am sure other members will also have something to share on this topic. All views and opinions are welcome!

Asif
Hello Everyone!

Since more and more people (including me) seem to be having loads of questions about the SOP or Personal Statement for MBA courses, let's dedicate a thread to answering all these questions.

As per my information and opinion,

Some universities require a complete essay where as some ask you to answer specific questions on the application form.

The SOP is the candidate's chance to describe to the admissions coincil of the university:

His/her motivation and reason for taking up the course.

Why is it needed at this point in his/her career?

The academic and professional background of the applicant

Significant career achievements

How can he/she contribute to the MBA course at the University? How can he/she contribute to the study group (since MBA course is mostly based on case studies)..

Why the particular university? (although I am not sure about this one)

Any distinctive qualities, achievements and interests?

Apart from those, there are other aspects of the SOP as well like demonstrating one's competence in explaining to the admissions team "why he/she should be selected?"

I am sure other members will also have something to share on this topic. All views and opinions are welcome!

Asif
quote

Posted Feb 15, 2011 15:56

C'mon people! These are just the basic pointers.

Who has got the killer ideas? How about sharing SOP FAQs?
C'mon people! These are just the basic pointers.

Who has got the killer ideas? How about sharing SOP FAQs?

quote

Posted Feb 16, 2011 16:00

Some VERY BASIC pointers I've heard:
- Telling a well-crafted (but honest) story is important. Describing that moment when you realized you needed/wanted to get an MBA.
- It shouldn't be a written-out version of your resume.
- It should be less "I'm bound for glory" or "I'm gonna kick some serious ass in my managerial accounting class," and more about really making a convincing case about how your life/career goals, your training needs, and the school you are applying to all make a good fit.
- Write it yourself. If there's too huge a gap between the quality of your essay and your verbal skills in the interview, admissions people will start to wonder.
Some VERY BASIC pointers I've heard:
- Telling a well-crafted (but honest) story is important. Describing that moment when you realized you needed/wanted to get an MBA.
- It shouldn't be a written-out version of your resume.
- It should be less "I'm bound for glory" or "I'm gonna kick some serious ass in my managerial accounting class," and more about really making a convincing case about how your life/career goals, your training needs, and the school you are applying to all make a good fit.
- Write it yourself. If there's too huge a gap between the quality of your essay and your verbal skills in the interview, admissions people will start to wonder.
quote

Posted May 17, 2017 15:11

Great tips, guys!
I'd like to also remind that it is very important to follow requirements of the school you're applying to and not forget about the deadlines.
For example, if you're applying to HKU you need to indicate your reasons for applying to the University, the chosen curricula, extra-curricular activities, etc. in the space provided.

It also helps to read your personal statement out loud to spot mistakes and gaps in your writing.

[Edited by gingerbread on May 17, 2017]

Great tips, guys!
I'd like to also remind that it is very important to follow requirements of the school you're applying to and not forget about the deadlines.
For example, if you're applying to HKU you need to indicate your reasons for applying to the University, the chosen curricula, extra-curricular activities, etc. in the space provided.

It also helps to read your personal statement out loud to spot mistakes and gaps in your writing.
quote

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