許多學生要我幫忙修改他們的讀書計劃 - 我發現他們通常犯了同樣的錯：除了常見的問題如文法錯誤和中式英文外，大部份的問題都是「內容不相干」及「令人困惑的組織結構」。
What do foreign Universities want to find out? 國外大學想知道的是什麼？
Before you start writing your SOP, ask yourself: 在您開始動筆寫讀書計劃前，問問自己下列問題：
What information does the department/university want from me?
What are they trying to find out?
What kind of student are they looking for?
Usually, university recruiters want to know that: 通常，大學的審查員想知道下列的事情：
- You can complete the course
- You are motivated and interested in their course/program
- You are organized and have a clear sense of purpose
- You are mature and can handle living overseas
If you are applying for a research degree, you also will need to provide a clear outline or study plan. Also, if you are applying for an MBA, you will need to demonstrate some additional qualities, this will be discussed in another post.
Avoid irrelevant and vague information 避免不相干、模擬兩可的資訊
DON'T use hundreds of words describing your background or your time or achievements in school. Only include information which directly supports your application. If you are unsure, ask yourself, Would the university be interested in this? Does this fact make them want to talk to me? Often, this kind of background information is not needed.
DON'T say vague stuff about how the university has a great reputation and other general statements like it has wonderful resources. This kind of thing can be said about any reasonable university. It is better to find something unique or interesting about the university that appeals to you. This also shows that you have tried to find out about the university. E.g. I'm really looking forward to studying at the X center for X studies. OR I particularly want to take X's course in Y subject.
Have a clear, easy to follow essay structure 使用清楚易懂的文章結構
Paragraph 1: Introduction 第一段：引言
Say why you want to go to X university and study Y course / program. Make this obvious. Don't put this point at the end of the paragraph. Try to identify unique aspects of the university or program. If you can't, it may mean you don't really want to go to this place.
Paragraph 2: Motivation 第二段：動機
Explain why the topic / program is particularly interesting. What / who has inspired you to get involved in this field? How long have you been interested in it? Was there a critical moment or time when you realized that this was what you wanted?
Paragraph 3: Key Achievements / Personal Highlights 第三段：個人傑出表現、成就
Try to select several features of your life/academic career/working career which demonstrate you have the abilities/knowledge/personal qualities or other points that are needed for the program. These will differ according to what you plan to do: BA/MBA/Masters/PhD and so on.
Paragraph 4: Future Goals 第四段：未來目標
Medium term - upon your return to your country
Long term - 5-10 years
Here, try to show how you will use what you have gained in order to benefit others.
Paragraph 5: Conclusion 第五段：結尾
A simple conclusion repeating your qualities, experience, determination, motivation etc so you will be an excellent candidate for the program. You could also add how you will make the department different, or how you will improve the university's image.
Example: In conclusion, I believe I have the qualities and motivation required to succeed in X program. not only am I a strong candidate, but I will bring ... to the department.
Have well-organized paragraphs 每段都需有良好組織
Make sure your points all support your topic sentence.
DON'T provide ideas and then make your point.
DO introduce your point first and then support it with ideas.
Tell the Truth! 說實話！
DON'T lie. You can exaggerate slightly but avoid lying. It isn't necessary to say what you are not to get into most courses. Remember, you are trying to show you are mature.
DON'T pretend you are a saint or perfect. No one is. Mistakes could be mentioned especially if they are followed by learning or improvement.
How much should I write? 要寫多少字？
It depends on the program you are applying for. But, generally try to keep your SOP to 1-2 pages.
- written by ben / translated by amber
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