chemistry phd statement of purpose example

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SOP for Ph.D. in Chemistry

What is SOP
SOP Writing Tips
Statement of Purpose for Masters
SOP for MBA
Statement of Purpose for Phd

Updated on 27 March, 2024

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. content editor.

A Ph.D. in Chemistry is a research degree ideal for those who wish to carry out independent research in an area of Chemistry.

This article will cover crucial information students must write in their SOP for Ph.D. in Chemistry, including the format, tips, and a sample for easier understanding.

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Tips for writing effective sop for ph.d. chemistry, first paragraph: introduction and academic goals, second paragraph: reason for choosing the program, third paragraph: what makes you qualified, fourth paragraph: conclusion, final words.

A Statement of Purpose for a Ph.D. is written to a university’s admission panel to highlight a student’s purpose for applying to a specific course. It is an integral part of the application as it gives the student a chance to introduce themself convincingly. It should also highlight the candidate’s research aptitude, efficiency, and time management skills.

Key pointers for writing an effective SOP for Ph.D. Chemistry:

Do thorough research about the university and program.
Mention your genuine interest in studying the subject and customize the SOP for a specific university.
Follow the structure.
Ensure that the SOP is concise.
Proofread the SOP several times to check for errors.

How to Draft an SOP for Ph.D. in Chemistry? Format to Follow

Following this format will make writing the SOP for applying for a Ph.D. in Chemistry simple.

Students must introduce themselves and mention how they realized they wanted to be professional researchers.

They must also mention what goals they want to achieve by doing this course.

The student must prove why “University XYZ” is the ideal place to achieve their goals. Flow from “these are my goals” to “University XYZ is the perfect place to pursue it because …”

The student must explain how they are ready to become a professional researcher. They should mention research skills they developed from other research projects. Also, they can mention unique accomplishments like co-authored papers or awards from academic organizations.

End the SOP by briefly mentioning points from the introduction and paragraphs two and three. Also, mention the career aspirations after completing the Ph.D.

Sample Statement of Purpose Sample for Ph.D. in Chemistry

I have always been fascinated with Chemistry. After attending high school in India, my love for the subject grew, and I pursued my Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in this field. Throughout my education, I took up every opportunity to conduct research, and this helped me realize I was passionate about it and wanted a future as a professional researcher. At “University XYZ,” I will have the opportunity to research on <research topics>. I am keen on hearing more about Dr. ABC’s research on <research topic>. My sincere interest in this topic will allow me to learn from his work. Having done research during the last few years, I believe I have the skills and tools to succeed as a graduate student at “University XYZ.” Currently, I lead the research subdivision at X Labs, and we are conducting a study on < research topic>. Additionally, I obtained a 4.0 GPA for research during my Master’s degree. Today, I am looking forward to beginning a new journey at “University XYZ” and facing new intellectual challenges. I am sure I will discover new passions and curiosities as I prepare for a career in academia.

In conclusion, writing a unique Statement of Purpose is essential to get into a good university for a Ph.D. Though the key pointers are listed above, the student must also refer to the university’s requirements. They generally vary from place to place, which makes it essential to recheck the guidelines.

Which Countries are Considered the Best to Pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry?

Some of the best countries to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry include The UK, Germany, Australia, and Ireland.

What are the career options for a Ph.D. in Chemistry?

Generally, students who pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry work at top corporations and government agencies in positions like Environmental Chemist, Consultant, and Toxicologist.

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!

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Understanding the Prompt

A prompt's comprehensive nature offers you the chance to provide a holistic view of your journey, motivations, and aspirations. Be sure to check the websites of any programs you’re applying to, as they often have additional information or suggested frameworks to get you started.

Stanford Master’s Degree

If you are applying to a Stanford master’s degree program , the recommended maximum length for your SOP is 1,000 words and the prompt for the statement of purpose emphasizes several key elements:

Reasons for applying
Preparation for the field of study
Research interests
Future career plans
Relevant aspects of your background

Stanford Graduate Certificate

If you are applying to take individual graduate courses or pursue a graduate certificate through Stanford Online, the prompt contains less elements than for the master’s program. This statement of purpose should be brief, as you’re limited to 4000 characters. You should summarize:

Specific course work on your transcript that meets the course and or certificate prerequisites
Relevant aspects of your professional experience

Tips for Writing your Statement of Purpose

After you fully understand the prompt for the program you’re applying to, use these tips to guide your writing:

Be Concise and Focused Most institutions have maximum lengths for words or characters. With limited space, it's important to be concise and focused. Use each word purposefully to convey your message. Ensure that every paragraph adds value and contributes to your overall narrative.
Start Strong Your opening should be attention-grabbing. Consider sharing a personal anecdote, a relevant quote, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for your SOP. Engaging the reader from the beginning can make your statement more memorable.
Address the Prompt Thoroughly Cover each aspect of the prompt thoroughly, addressing your reasons for applying, your background preparation, your research interests, and your future career plans. Use specific examples to illustrate your points. For instance, if you're applying to a computer science program, discuss projects, coursework, or experiences that highlight your passion and readiness for further study in this field.
Showcase Fit with the Program Demonstrate a clear understanding of the program you're applying to and explain why it's an ideal fit for your academic and career goals. Highlight specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or unique features of the program that attracted you. This showcases your commitment to the program and demonstrates that you've done your research. You may consider including reasons your presence will benefit the program as your uniqueness may help set you apart from other applicants.
Highlight Research Interests Discuss your research interests in detail. Explain how your past experiences have shaped your interests and how the program's resources can help you further develop them. Share any relevant research projects you've been a part of and explain their impact on your academic journey. If your program includes a capstone, you may want to include more actionable, compelling examples.
Connect to Your Future Career Articulate your future career plans and explain how the program will prepare you for success. Whether you plan to pursue academia, industry, or another path, convey how the skills and knowledge gained from the program will contribute to your career trajectory.
Weave in Personal Background Share aspects of your personal background that are relevant to your journey. This could include challenges you've overcome, experiences that have shaped your perspective, or unique qualities that set you apart. Ensure that these details contribute to your overall narrative and that adding them showcases your qualifications.
Edit and Proofread After writing your SOP, review it meticulously for grammar, punctuation, and clarity. Typos and errors can detract from the impact of your statement. Consider seeking feedback from mentors, professors, or peers to ensure your SOP effectively conveys your message.
Tailor for Specific Programs If you're applying to multiple programs, make sure to customize each SOP to align with the specific program's offerings and requirements. Avoid using a generic SOP for all applications, this tends to be very noticeable to admissions.
Seek Inspiration from Examples If you’re applying to a Stanford Master’s program, the Stanford Graduate Admissions website provides specific guidance on the statement of purpose. Review your program’s recommendations and, if available, consider reading sample SOPs from successful applicants to gather inspiration and insights.

Writing a compelling statement of purpose for graduate school requires thoughtful reflection, careful planning, and clear communication. By addressing the prompt comprehensively, showcasing your fit with the program, and demonstrating your passion and readiness, you can craft an SOP that stands out and may even increase your chances of admission to your desired program. Although it’s far from the only criteria that will be considered in the admissions process, your SOP is your chance to tell your unique story and show why you are a perfect candidate for graduate study. We hope you find this guide useful as you write your statement of purpose, please know that following this guide does not guarantee your admission to any program.

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Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

Criteria for success.

qualified for their program, and
a good fit for their program’s focus and goals.
You show a select group of skills and experiences that concisely convey your scientific accomplishments and interests.
Your experiences are concrete and quantitative .
Your personal statement is no more than 2 pages (less if you can, or if it is required by the school).

Structure Diagram

The graduate school Personal Statement (≈ Statement of Purpose ≈ Statement of Intent) is a document that complements your resume and application form, describing your profile in a narrative way and convincing the admission committee that you would be a good match for a particular department or program. Take into account that matching goes both ways: they should be interested in you, and you should be interested in them. Your personal statement should make this match clear.

Analyze Your Audience

Your personal statement will be read by a graduate committee – a handful of faculty from the program. They’re trying to determine if you will be a successful graduate student in their department and a successful scientist after you graduate. They are interested in your qualifications as a researcher, your career goals, and how your personality matches their labs and department.

The graduate committee probably reads hundreds of applications every year. To make it easy for them to figure out that you are a good fit, keep in mind the following suggestions:

Make direct, concrete statements about your accomplishments and qualifications.
Create a narrative that serves as a personal brand and helps them remember you.
Give them some unique examples that describe you and make you stand out, and which will make them remember you as “that candidate that was so passionate about…” or “who has a lot of experience in…”, although they might not remember your name.
Align your academic goals and motivations with specific research projects or research directions of the target department.

Assessing your match to the target program

A key point on writing your Personal Statement is to demonstrate that you have done previous research about the program to which you’re applying, that you understand its characteristics and objectives, and that you are really interested in joining it and willing to do your best to be successful in it. To do this:

Read the program’s website. Learn about its faculty members and the projects they are working on. Check what topics and high level goals the department is committed to. Identify the main research areas.
Get in contact with faculty and students in your target program. Browse recent publications and presentations but remember lab websites can be outdated and a publication may lag a few years behind the active research in a lab so pay attention to the motivation, direction, and methods of the faculty member over specific results. If you have had a positive discussion with someone at the department, you can include in your essay how those interactions confirmed that you would be a good match for the program.

Reflect before you start

To convince a graduate committee that you are ready for and excited about graduate school, first you need to be able to articulate this to yourself. Earnestly reflect on the following types of questions. A lack of authenticity is easy to detect.

Why do I want to go to graduate school?
How am I sure?
Why will I be successful in graduate school?
What can I do with the help of this degree that I couldn’t do before?
Where do I want to be in a few years?
How am I going to get there?

Create a personal narrative

Graduate programs invest in the professional and scientific growth of their students. Get the committee excited about investing in you by opening your essay with a brief portrait of what drives you as a scientist. What research directions are you passionate about, and why? What do you picture yourself doing in 10 years?

E.g. “Graduate study is the first step towards my goal: I want to improve my ability as a researcher and gain more technical depth and breadth to maximize my impact. In the long term, I hope graduate school will better position me to be a leader in shaping the conversation about what problems can be addressed by mechanical engineers.”

Close your essay with a 2-3 sentence discussion of your long-term career interests. No one will hold you to this; this just helps your committee visualize your potential trajectory.

E.g. “Above all else, a MIT PhD would help me achieve my long term career goal of becoming a professor, the position in which I can best see myself accomplishing my mission to show others the hidden beauty in everyday life through science.”

Connect your personal narrative to whichever degree you are applying to (be it research-based or course-work-based, or a Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or PhD). Especially in mechanical engineering, each of these degrees will enable different career trajectories and provide different educational opportunities. Articulate clearly why the degree you are applying for helps you achieve your goals. In the same vein, consider mutual benefit: what will you contribute to the academic community over your time at your target school? Remember, it all comes back to “qualified match” , no matter what level of degree you are applying for.

Describe your experiences

Experiences are the “what” of your essay. They are the most efficient and easiest way to prove your capabilities to the admissions committee.

What experiences led you to develop your skill set and passions ?
Where have you demonstrated accomplishment, leadership, and collaboration?
Show your depth with a range of experiences: research, teaching, relevant extracurriculars and leadership positions.
State concrete achievements and outcomes like awards, discoveries, or publications, or projects completed.

Achievements need not be limited to research projects or publications. Think about all the experiences that demonstrate your ability to conduct research and succeed within the structure of your target program. (Where have you demonstrated creativity? Self sufficiency? Perseverance? What open ended problems have you tackled? What enabled you to succeed at them?)

Quantify your experiences to show concrete impact. How many people were on your team? How many protocols did you develop? How many people were in competition for an award? As a TA, how often did you meet with your students?


As a senior, I received an A in a graduate-level Structure Mechanics course.	My interest in structural analysis led me to take advanced coursework to learn more about steel structures. At the graduate-level Structural Mechanics course, I learned about joints design which boosted my interest in…
During my third year, I worked on a project for my Hydrology class that made me get interested in numerical modelling.	During my third year, I had the chance to conduct a research-oriented class project about the hydrology of the Mississippi river and the impact of global warming in its regime. In this project, I ran a hydrological numerical model using the open source software … While working on this project, I was faced with the difficulty of getting updated topographic data of the study area. I managed to overcome this issue by…
I volunteered for the Campus Preview Weekend for the last three years. At this position, I demonstrated my leadership and management skills.	Committed to being a great ambassador of our residence hall, I volunteered for the Campus Preview Weekend for the last three years, scheduling events within our dorm, then welcoming the prospective students as they arrived and directing them and their parents around campus to the activities we had planned. This experience allowed me to gain training on dealing with time constraints and a large group of people. Last year, for example….

For each experience you include, focus on how the experience affected you. Describe your actions, and always direct the message to highlighting your performance and growth (not how important the company was or how well-known the professor you TAed for is). Remember, it is not an essay about science, it is a personal essay—about you and how you have positioned yourself to succeed in graduate school.

Explain the meaning of your experiences

Your goal in sharing your experiences is to demonstrate that you have the qualifications, qualities, and drive needed to succeed in graduate school. Therefore, you will need to not only choose experiences wisely but also state specifically what they mean within the context of your application.

Why was this experience important to your growth as a scientist?
What did you gain from or demonstrate during that experience?
How will this make you a better grad student?

Even if it feels obvious to you, you need to explicitly answer these questions to your audience. Here are some examples experiences that have been expanded to contain meaning:


“As a senior, I received an A in a graduate-level CFD course.”	“My advanced coursework demonstrates my ability to thrive in a challenging academic environment. A graduate-level computational fluid dynamics course challenged me to…”
“I independently developed a digital data acquisition software for gamma spectroscopy.”	“My research experiences have developed my problem-solving abilities. When the commercial software was insufficient for my gamma spectroscopy project, I … This has given me the confidence and software skills to attack open-ended research problems.”

Contemplate how disparate activities can be unified into a common narrative about your motivations and achievements. Articulate this clearly to make your statement cohesive.

Demonstrate your match to the target program

Using the research you did to assess your chosen programs, clearly articulate why you are a match . Consider both directions of the match: not only why you want to go to the school, but also why you would fit in well and contribute to the program.

State which professors in the program you would be interested in working with. Demonstrate that you have done your homework regarding the program. Show how their research areas align with your background and your goals. If you have had conversations with students or professors in the program, be sure to include that as well.

Common Pitfalls

Write about you , not your role models. One of the most common pitfalls we see in the Comm Lab is students writing touching Personal Statements about family members or role models who have inspired them. There is nothing wrong with including personal stories about people who have helped you understand yourself better, or positioned you to succeed in graduate school, but it is important to tread very carefully. Don’t leave the reader wondering why they are reading about someone else in a document that is meant to be about you. If you take time to talk about someone who positively affected you, make sure to be very clear about how that experience with that person molded you into a strong graduate school candidate.

Be judicious with childhood stories. A brief mention of some childhood experience that shaped your interests in STEM is probably okay, but if you talk about it at length (more than ~2 sentences), you are taking up space that should probably be used to talk about who you are today, not who you were over a decade ago.

Don’t simply restate your resume. Your Personal Statement should be a technical document (having evidence, numbers, and supporting facts) with personal outcomes (talking about your motivations, ambitions, and ability to succeed as a graduate student). Of course, you will reiterate parts of your resume in your Personal Statement , but what uniquely makes it a “Personal Statement” is the discussion of how those professional experiences affected you , as a researcher and person well-suited to the graduate program at X University.

Insufficient quantification of your experiences. We are all scientists and engineers; our line of work is inherently quantitative. Quantification is a quick and easy way to add context, lend credence to your experiences, and impress the reader. Even little quantifications can help: “I spent two semesters working on a project about…” is much better than “I spent some time working on a project about…”. See more examples in the section on Experiences, above.

Being a great student and having an impressive resume is only half the battle when it comes to graduate school applications. You need to be able to communicate and convince the committee that your personality and particular set of skills and experiences are well-suited to the graduate program you are applying for. This extends beyond graduate school applications: as scientists and engineers, we write papers and technical reports to communicate with our peers and convince them that our work is meaningful.

By reading this article, you have recognized the value of communication and are well on your way to crafting an effective and powerful Personal Statement. This is your opportunity to make yourself shine among all the other candidates, so make it count! You can do it!

Acknowledgements : This content was adapted from the NSE and CEE Communication Labs’ CommKits for graduate applications.

Resources and Annotated Examples

Annotated example 1, annotated example 2.

FindAMasters
Chemistry Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Jennifer Bevan

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Chemistry. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

Chemistry is fundamental to our lives and without our ever-increasing understanding of Chemistry many of the much-loved products of today would not have been developed. The wide applications of Chemistry were what initially drew me to study the subject and after studying it for over 5 years from A-level to undergraduate level, my interest became more focused on polymers. A Masters in Chemistry is a perfect opportunity to develop a more thorough understanding of polymers before pursuing a career in polymer development, whether for clothing, building, nutrition or medication.

During my undergraduate degree in Chemistry, I developed an excellent understanding of the subject through studying modules in organic, inorganic, and synthetic Chemistry. Each module involved time in the laboratory and therefore, I became proficient with a range of laboratory techniques including distillation, thin layer chromatography (TLC), and titration. Similarly, I was trained to carry out mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.

I studied modules in biological and physical Chemistry, which allowed me to develop an understanding of the interconnection of the sciences. This highlighted some of the uses of Chemistry, particularly in Biology and inspired me to select a final year project in which I synthesised copolymers for biomaterials to repair bone. The aim of my project was to polymerise poly(propylene fumarate) with a series of different monomers to form a copolymer with more favourable characteristics for bone repair. The specific skills and knowledge I gained from this project would provide an excellent base for a Masters in polymer Chemistry.

While at university, I worked part-time at a supermarket. My role involved picking online orders, restocking shelves, and helping customers. I developed excellent time management as orders were time-sensitive and gained valuable experience working as part of a team. During my free time, I was the treasurer of the squash society and was responsible for keeping track of the incoming and outgoing money. I kept the society under budget when organising events and had frequent meetings with the other members of the society to discuss where the money would best be spent. After graduating with a 2:1 earlier this year, I have been working as a science writer. This role has allowed me to significantly improve the quality of my written work, which will be valuable when writing my Masters dissertation.

I was drawn to your course because of the opportunity to learn and research the real-world applications of polymers under the supervision of both experts from academia and industry. I believe my prior experience with many of the laboratory skills covered in this course will help me to complete a Masters successfully. Your modules in polymer synthesis, advanced colloid materials and physical properties of polymers and nanocomposites would provide me with the essential skills I need to either undertake a PhD or begin an industry career in polymer synthesis.

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Academic Statement of Purpose and Personal Statement

The Academic Statement of Purpose and the Personal Statement are intended to be your opportunity to tell us more about yourself.

The Academic Statement of Purpose should include information about your academic interests, research interests, research experience, relevant work experience, publications, reasons for pursuing graduate studies, and professional goals. What are your plans for graduate studies and a professional career? You could also tell us if there are any specific faculty members whose research interests you and why.

The Personal Statement should include information about other important areas of your life, outside of academics. Are you involved in any extracurricular activities, like sports, student organizations, mentoring, etc? Additionally, are there any other clubs, groups or organizations in which you are an active member?

We do not ask that you answer any program specific questions. Please contact the Graduate Admissions Office if you have any further questions.

Chemistry Graduate Admissions

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How to Write a Statement of Purpose for PhD Admission

Grad-student-writing-a-statement-of-purpose

The dreaded doctoral statement of purpose — every PhD program asks for it, but why is it so difficult to write? Writing a strong statement of purpose is essential to getting into your top PhD programs. A PhD statement of purpose gives admissions committees an introduction to your research interests and why their specific program is of interest to you.

Like a cover letter for a job application, a great statement of purpose allows you to highlight your strengths, interests and experience. If you need statement of purpose advice, keep reading for guidance on how to write a successful statement of purpose that will make your PhD application stand out.

Statement of purpose vs. personal statement

Though the two may sound similar, they’re not necessarily interchangeable. A personal statement gives insight into who you are, while a statement of purpose is meant to showcase what you want to do. Rarely will you be asked to write a personal statement for a PhD program.

As you go through the PhD application process, you will likely see schools requesting either a statement of purpose or a research statement. In most cases, they're both looking for the same thing. Admissions committees want to know about your academic background, your research goals and what you hope to accomplish as a candidate in a PhD program.

Your research goals should align with faculty research

Being admitted to a PhD program is a great feeling, but if you enroll in a program that doesn’t match your research interests or help support your career goals, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment later down the road.

Applying for admission to a program is all about fit. Faculty reviewers are looking for students who best represent the department’s mission and will help them obtain their research objectives.

By the time you apply, you should have a solid understanding of what the department’s primary research and content areas are, as well as which faculty members you’d like to work with more closely. This might mean finding information about what their labs do and reading published articles related to their work.

Be sure to include how your interests and past experiences align with the work that they do and how you would be an active contributor to those endeavors. This approach shows that you took the time to look into their program, so the committee will be more willing to invest theirs in reviewing your application.

Don’t be afraid to address your weaknesses

Many people assume they should avoid listing their shortcomings in their essays. The whole point of applying to a program is to impress the reviewers, right? But constructively addressing your weaknesses can be a great way to demonstrate how this program can help you achieve your academic goals.

Look at the catalog and read through the courses that are part of the program. If there is a particular class that fascinates you, talk about how it could help you obtain a new skill or a better understanding of a concept that you’ve struggled with before.

This demonstrates that you are actively seeking programs to help you better your education. It also exhibits that you’re mindful of what areas of your knowledge need some improvement, which shows maturity and the ability to self-assess.

Keep it succinct

If your program of interest does not specify a page word or word limit, it’s best to assume that your statement should not exceed two pages total. It should be enough to give them a glimpse of who you are and what you have to offer but not share your life story.

The aim is to communicate how and why this particular program will help you meet your academic and career goals. Limited space means you must prioritize what you include in your statement.

Create an outline before you start writing to ensure you are including points that are relevant to your application and the program to which you are applying. Your statement is also an example of how well you can write. By framing your essay before you write it, you can avoid stream-of-consciousness writing that can often come across as undefined and incoherent.

Proofread! And read it over and over

When you think you have a finished product, read your essay out loud. This makes it easier to catch typos, poor grammar, and oddly worded sentences. If you have a friend who is also applying to grad school, help each other out by editing each other’s essays.

Having someone else read your statement and ask questions can help you clarify your points and make it more compelling. Your statement is your one chance to present yourself professionally in your own words. The occasional mistake is excusable, but messy writing will make them think you lack attention to detail.

Before you hit submit on that application, be sure that you have attached the correct document for the right institution. It can be very embarrassing if your statement mentions the wrong faculty member’s name or refers to another school’s library! It could also cause the reviewers to think you are not as serious about their program.

You’ve spent a good amount of time perfecting your application, so take your time to review everything before you submit it so you can rest easy knowing you’ve presented your best.

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Flawless Statement Of Purpose For PhD: Samples & Tips

As an aspiring PhD student, you’ve probably heard it time and time again – your statement of purpose (SOP) is one of the most important elements of your application. In just a few short pages, the admissions committee needs to understand your research interests, fit for the program, and long-term career goals. It’s no small feat to efficiently and powerfully convey all this within the character limit restrictions. That’s why we are here to walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect SOP and bolster your chances of admissions success. In this post, we’ll unpack the anatomy of a compelling SOP, including essential components and structure. We’ll also share statement of purpose for PhD samples from both real and fictional but effective essays to give you a sense of the different styles and tones you can take.Finally, we’ll provide my top writing and editing tips to help you put your best foot forward and craft the type of polished, punchy statement that makes admissions officers eager to admit you into their program. Let’s dive in and get started on building your application’s most pivotal piece.

Understand the purpose

A statement of purpose for a PhD program is more than just a formal requirement for the application process; it is a critical component that helps the admission committee understand your academic journey, your research interests, and your fit into the program. The SOP serves a dual purpose- it demonstrates your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and concisely, reflecting your communication skills, and it outlines your intellectual curiosity and dedication to your field of study. The committee uses the SOP to gauge whether your research interests align with those of the faculty, whether you have the potential to contribute significantly to the field, and whether you have the resilience and dedication to withstand the rigors of a PhD program. Essentially, the SOP is your opportunity to convince the committee that you are a compatible candidate for the program and that you have the ambition, curiosity, and academic prowess to succeed.

What your statement of purpose should not do

While your statement of purpose should provide a comprehensive picture of your academic journey, it should not merely rehash what can already be found on your resume or CV. The resume primarily lists your qualifications, the courses you’ve taken, the projects you’ve completed, and the positions you’ve held. Simply repeating these details in your statement does not add any value to your application and can be redundant.

As demonstrated in the statement of purpose for PhD samples below, the aim of the essay is to provide context, explain the motivations behind your academic and professional decisions, and to outline your future research goals and aspirations. Rehashing your resume wastes valuable space that could be used to highlight your research interests, demonstrate your analytical thinking, and elucidate your understanding of the academic field. Moreover, it reflects a lack of creativity and an inability to think critically, traits that are extremely important for a successful PhD candidate. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your SOP goes beyond your resume, offering a deeper insight into your intellectual journey and your commitment to your chosen field of study.

Here is an illustration of how your statement of purpose can provide a comprehensive account of your academic journey without simply echoing your resume or CV:

“As an undergraduate, I was drawn to the complexities and intricacies of molecular biology, a fascination that was kindled during my sophomore year project on DNA replication. This wasn’t simply a course requirement for me, but a thrilling dive into the minuscule yet mighty world of cells and DNA. The project led me to identify my research interest and, subsequently, to choose an internship in a lab specializing in gene editing techniques. This experience allowed me to work with renowned professionals and gain hands-on experience, igniting a desire to contribute meaningfully to this field. My decision to apply for a PhD program in molecular biology stems from this inquisitiveness and the profound desire to delve deeper into the mysteries of genetic codes. If granted the opportunity, my aim is to focus on gene therapy research to combat genetic disorders, a pursuit that I believe can change countless lives. This is not merely an academic endeavor for me; it is my commitment to contribute to a field that holds immense potential for human health.”

girl working on her statement of purpose for PhD

Know your audience

Understanding your audience is central to crafting a compelling statement of purpose for a PhD program. When preparing your SOP, consider the specifics of the program and department you’re applying to — what are their research focus areas, what methodologies do they frequently employ, who are the key faculty members, and what are their contributions to the field? Incorporating these details into your SOP will demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and that you’re genuinely interested in the program.

It’s not about pandering to the department; rather, it’s about showing that you’ve taken the time to understand their objectives and that you see a genuine alignment between their work and your research interests. For instance, if the department is known for its focus on quantitative methods, you might want to highlight your experience with these methods and how you plan to utilize them in your research. Similarly, if a faculty member in the department is doing groundbreaking work in your area of interest, mentioning this work and how it aligns with your research goals could work in your favor.

Remember, the SOP is not just about selling your skills and achievements; it’s about weaving a narrative that shows a deep understanding of the program, a clear vision of your research journey, and a firm belief in your compatibility with the department’s goals and values. Among the statement of purpose for PhD samples provided in this blog post, the following one demonstrates how to do just that:

“As an aspiring PhD candidate, I am drawn to the University of XYZ’s Department of Neuroscience due to its renowned focus on neurodegenerative diseases. I have a particular interest in the methodologies that Dr. Jane Doe employs in her groundbreaking research on Parkinson’s disease. Having utilized quantitative methods extensively during my master’s thesis, I plan to further refine these skills to contribute to this field’s evolving discourse. I am particularly impressed by the department’s innovative approach to integrating molecular biology and computational modeling . This aligns closely with my own vision of utilizing a multi-disciplinary approach to understand the complexities of neurodegenerative disorders. My past research endeavors along with my desire to delve deeper into this particular field have equipped me with a unique perspective and a steadfast determination. I firmly believe that the application of my skills and the alignment of our research interests will significantly contribute to the department’s ongoing projects and overarching goals.”

Focus on your research experience

In your statement of purpose, the articulation of past experiences forms a pivotal part. It lays a foundational layer that demonstrates your abilities, commitment, and growth. Each experience that you narrate should be a reflection of your intellectual curiosity, research acumen, and dedication to your chosen field.

This does not mean that you just sequentially list your experiences. Instead, it is essential to focus on those that had a significant impact on your academic journey or shaped your research interests. Discuss your learnings, illustrate how challenges were addressed and remember to underline your contribution to each experience shared.

The idea is to paint a picture of your capabilities, showcasing not just your technical skills, but also your problem-solving ability, perseverance, and team spirit. When an admissions committee member reads your SOP, they should not only grasp your past experiences but also see your potential to effect meaningful change in the future.

As such, your SOP should be a blend of your present and future – a snapshot of who you have been, who you are, and who you aspire to become. Therefore, invest the time to reflect, compose, and meticulously proofread your SOP, as it serves as a powerful tool that can impress the admissions committee, setting you apart from other candidates.

“During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to be a part of a research team working on nano-sensor technology. This experience ignited my passion for nanotechnology and sensor systems, as I found the potential of these technologies in addressing some of the pressing environmental issues remarkable. I contributed to this project by identifying a novel approach for enhancing the sensor’s sensitivity, which was an outcome of my methodical problem-solving approach and rigorous testing. This experience was not without its challenges, and it was during these trying times that my perseverance shone through. There were instances when our team hit roadblocks, but we resolved them collaboratively, highlighting my ability to work effectively in a team. The knowledge and skills that I gained from this experience have significantly influenced my academic path and future aspirations. Now, I aim to delve deeper into this domain in my graduate studies, with the ultimate goal of developing innovative solutions for environmental challenges. I believe that my dedication, combined with my problem-solving skills and team spirit, will enable me to contribute significantly to the ongoing projects at your esteemed institution.”

Girl looking up statement of purpose for PhD samples on her computer

Highlight your research interests

As shown in the statement of purpose for PhD samples below, general statements about being interested in a broad field, such as ‘molecular biology’ or ‘international relations,’ will not make you stand out. Instead, delve into the intricate aspects of your area of interest, demonstrating your profound understanding and passion for the subject.

For instance, if your research interest lies in the domain of molecular biology, you might specify that you are particularly intrigued by the role of microRNAs in gene regulation and its implications for cancer treatment. If international relations is your field, you might express a keen interest in the interplay of economic sanctions and nuclear disarmament, using specific case studies such as North Korea or Iran.

Back your assertions with evidence of your knowledge and skills – refer to relevant research you’ve done, courses you’ve taken, or seminal literature you’ve read. Tying your research interests to current debates and pressing issues in the field will further underscore your commitment and preparedness for PhD-level work. You also need to mention potential research questions you wish to explore, thereby showcasing your ability to conceptualize and execute research.

Remember, your research interests are the cornerstone of your PhD journey, and the statement of purpose is an opportunity to demonstrate that these interests are informed, well-articulated, and aligned with the department’s expertise.

“My fascination with molecular biology is deeply rooted in the complex world of microRNAs and their potential in gene regulation. I am particularly captivated by the implications this has for cancer treatment, a connection I have explored in my undergraduate research examining the role of microRNA-155 in breast cancer progression. This research, coupled with my advanced coursework in cellular biology and genetics, has equipped me with a robust understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving disease. Furthermore, my keen interest extends to pressing debates in the field, as I am actively engaged in studying the potential of microRNAs as therapeutic targets. Looking forward, I wish to delve deeper into this area during my PhD, with an initial research question centered around understanding the differential expression patterns of microRNAs in various cancer types. I am confident that the department’s expertise in molecular biology, notably the groundbreaking work on microRNA-based therapies, aligns perfectly with my research interests, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to this pioneering field.”

Emphasize your motivation

Your motivation is the driving force behind your aspiration to pursue a PhD, and it is crucial to articulate this effectively in your statement of purpose . It is not enough to merely state that you are passionate about your subject; you need to demonstrate your commitment and dedication through tangible examples and anecdotes.

For instance, you might talk about a seminal moment or experience that sparked your interest in the field – perhaps a particular course you took or a paper you read that opened up a new perspective. You might recount how you pursued this interest, undertaking independent reading, engaging in research projects, or seeking out mentors in your field. You might discuss how these experiences fueled your passion further, inciting an insatiable curiosity and a determination to contribute to the field.

Convey how your subject has influenced your worldview, shaped your career goals, and ingrained a sense of purpose and direction in your life. This passion should seep into every facet of your statement of purpose, presenting a compelling narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. Ultimately, your motivation should underscore your willingness to embrace the rigors of a PhD program, your readiness to delve deeper into your field, and your ambition to make a profound impact on it.

“My fascination with neurobiology was truly sparked when I took an introductory course in my sophomore year of undergraduate studies. The intricate workings of the human brain and how it influences behavior captivated me. I sought to dive deeper into this subject, undertaking independent reading beyond the scope of my coursework. I also volunteered for a research project under the guidance of a respected professor in the field. This hands-on experience introduced me to the thrill of discovery and the satisfaction of contributing to scientific knowledge. These experiences reinforced my passion for neurobiology, instilling an insatiable curiosity and a determination to delve deeper. Today, this subject has evolved from merely an academic interest to a defining aspect of my life, shaping my career aspirations and directing my purpose. My motivation to pursue a PhD stems from this profound desire to deepen my understanding, participate in groundbreaking research, and ultimately contribute significantly to our understanding of the human brain.”

Hands from a femal writing her statement of purpose for phd

Discuss your qualifications

Your qualifications form a significant part of your application and should be highlighted effectively in your statement of purpose. Start by discussing your academic background, emphasizing the relevance of your degrees, courses, and thesis projects to your proposed area of study.

For example, if you’re applying for a PhD in psychology, you might mention your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the same field, the psychology courses you’ve mastered, and the dissertation you’ve completed on a related topic.

Next, delve into relevant work experiences, internships, or research projects you’ve partaken in, explaining the insights and skills you’ve gleaned from these opportunities. Be specific about your roles and responsibilities, the methodologies you’ve used, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the results you’ve achieved.

Remember, each aspect of your qualifications should align with your research interests and underscore your readiness for the PhD program.

Show how you can contribute

In the conclusion of your statement of purpose, it’s essential to clearly articulate how you can contribute to the PhD program and the broader academic community. This involves showing how your unique perspectives, experiences, skills, and aspirations can enrich the learning environment, push the boundaries of your field, and address pertinent societal issues.

For example, you might highlight how your innovative research methodology can fill existing gaps in knowledge, how your commitment to mentorship can foster a supportive academic culture, or how your interdisciplinary approach can facilitate collaborations and yield groundbreaking insights.

Be sure to also touch on your long-term career goals, such as becoming a professor, a policy-maker, or a consultant, and explain how these align with the objectives of the PhD program and the institution’s mission. This gives the admissions committee a clear vision of your future trajectory and reassures them of your determination and potential to succeed.

Remember, your conclusion is your final chance to leave a lasting impression, so ensure it’s compelling, coherent, and reflective of your passion, readiness, and potential to excel in the PhD program.

“To conclude, I am keen to join your esteemed PhD program as I see it as a platform where my experiences, skills, and aspirations can have a significant impact. With my in-depth background in environmental science and a passion for data analytics, I intend to explore innovative methodologies that address the pressing issue of climate change. This interdisciplinary approach, I believe, can fill gaps in current research and provide novel insights that could potentially lead to impactful solutions. I am equally committed to fostering a supportive academic culture through active mentorship in the X program, leveraging my experience as a TA during my master’s in Y activities. Looking ahead, my ultimate career goal is to work as a policy consultant, leveraging research to shape powerful environmental policies. I am confident that this aligns with the mission of your institution and the objectives of the PhD program. In summary, I am eager to contribute to the academic community and believe that with my passion, readiness, and potential, I will be a valuable addition to your program.”

Express clearly and concisely

As demonstrated in the statement of purpose for PhD samples above, writing an essay that is clear and concise necessitates a logical structure and a succinct, yet compelling language.

Use simple, direct language, focusing on precision and clarity. Be mindful of wordiness and redundancy, as these can dilute your message and confuse the reader. It’s crucial to use strong, active verbs and to avoid jargon, ensuring that your SOP is accessible and engaging. Breaking down complex ideas into simpler terms not only demonstrates your understanding of the subject but also makes your SOP easier to read.

Each paragraph should flow seamlessly into the next, maintaining a logical progression of ideas. Providing relevant examples and conveying them succinctly can further enhance the clarity and impact of your SOP. Moreover, a well-structured, concise SOP reflects your ability to communicate effectively, a skill integral to any academic pursuit. Whether you’re describing your research interests, academic achievements, or future plans, make every word count.

Remember, your goal is to convince the admissions committee that you are a promising candidate who will contribute positively to their program.

Show, don’t just tell

One of the most persuasive techniques in writing a compelling SOP is to employ a ‘show, don’t tell’ approach. This involves illustrating your claims with vivid examples and stories that demonstrate your qualifications and passion, rather than merely stating them.

For instance, instead of claiming that you have strong research skills, you might describe a complex project that you successfully managed, explaining the strategies you used and the challenges you overcame. You could bring your academic interests to life by detailing the precise moment when you realized your passion for your field of study, whether it was a fascinating lecture, a thought-provoking book, or a groundbreaking research paper.

You can also substantiate your career aspirations by recounting relevant experiences, such as internships, workshops, or leadership roles, that shaped your career goals and prepared you for the future. These narratives not only provide concrete evidence of your attributes but also make your SOP more engaging and memorable.

Be sure to use vibrant language to paint a clear picture and evoke emotions, making your experiences resonate with the reader. Incorporating a personal touch — your unique perspective, insights, or reflections — can give your SOP a distinct voice that stands apart from others.

Through compelling storytelling, you can transform your SOP into a captivating narrative that leaves a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

Warning: The purpose of statement of purpose for PhD samples

When it comes to crafting an impactful statement of purpose, samples can serve as invaluable tools. They offer a glimpse into the structure, content, and tone expected in a well-curated SOP. More than mere templates to be copied, statement of purpose for PhD samples should be viewed as guides for understanding how to articulate your academic and career aspirations effectively. They showcase successful attempts at conveying passion for a field, highlighting academic achievements, and outlining future goals within the constraints of a limited word count.

Despite the benefits of statement of purpose for PhD samples, it’s critical to remember that each SOP is unique and personal. Simply copying a sample would undermine the primary purpose of the SOP: to provide a distinct and authentic narrative of your journey and aspirations. The correct way to utilize these statement of purpose for PhD samples is by analyzing the writing strategies used, deriving inspiration, and then creating an original piece of work that reflects the applicant’s unique story. This approach ensures that the SOP not only meets the formal requirements set forth by the academic institution but also captures the individuality of the applicant, thus making a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

The high stakes of your statement of purpose

Your SOP is much more than a mere component of your application; it is a crucial determinant of your acceptance. This document breathes life into your application, rendering a vivid picture of your past, present, and future aspirations to the admissions committee. Its weight is such that a well-crafted SOP can elevate an otherwise average application, while a poorly constructed one can diminish the impact of an exceptional academic record.

Think of it as a double-edged sword, capable of either bolstering your chances of admission or, alternatively, significantly undermining them. The smallest of errors — be it a grammatical faux pas, a lack of coherence, or a failure to aptly convey your passion — can be detrimental, casting doubt on your abilities and commitment.

On the other hand, a compelling, polished SOP that succinctly encapsulates your journey, goals, and potential can resonate profoundly with the committee, positioning you as a desirable candidate. The stakes, then, are undeniably high. It’s a daunting task to undertake alone, and the margin for error is slim. Assessing your work objectively can be challenging, and subtle nuances may escape your notice. Seeking feedback in this critical endeavor may prove invaluable in ensuring your SOP is not just good, but exceptional.

Let’s recap. As demonstrated through our statement of purpose for your PhD samples, the SOP is one of the most important elements of the application process and needs to distinctly capture your research interests, fit for the program and future aspirations in its few pages. We have provided you with helpful information about components and structure, given real samples to emulate, and shared tips on writing and editing to ensure you submit a top-notch statement that will leave a favorable impression. Now that you know how to write an effective SOP for your PhD application confidently, what are you waiting for? Put your newfound knowledge into action and get started on creating an outstanding SOP that truly speaks for itself. And if you find yourself struggling or needing a bit of guidance along this journey, we offer statement of purpose services – whether it be helping you write your SOP from scratch or providing personalized feedback. Make sure to check them out!

With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Dr. Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab . As a tenure-track professor, Dr. Barr spent a decade teaching and serving on several graduate admission committees at UNC-Chapel Hill before turning to full-time consulting. With more than seven years of experience as a graduate school admissions consultant, Dr. Barr has stewarded the candidate journey across multiple master’s programs and helped hundreds of students get admitted to top-tier graduate programs all over the world .

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How To Write a Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

Congratulations! You’ve chosen a graduate program , read up on tips for applying to grad school , and even written a focused grad school resumé . But if you’re like many students, you’ve left the most daunting part of the application process for last—writing a statement of purpose. The good news is that the task doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming, as long as you break the process down into simple, actionable steps. Below, learn how to write a strong, unique statement of purpose that will impress admissions committees and increase your chances of getting into your dream school.

What is a statement of purpose?

A statement of purpose (SOP), sometimes referred to as a personal statement, is a critical piece of a graduate school application that tells admissions committees who you are, what your academic and professional interests are, and how you’ll add value to the graduate program you’re applying to.

Jared Pierce, former associate director of enrollment services at Northeastern University, says a strong statement of purpose can be the deciding factor in a graduate student’s admission.

“Your statement of purpose is where you tell your story about who you are and why you deserve to be a part of the [university’s] community. It gives the admissions committee the chance to get to know you and understand how you’ll add value to the classroom,” he says.

How long should a statement of purpose be? “A statement of purpose should be between 500 and 1,000 words,” Pierce says, noting that it should typically not exceed a single page. He advises that students use a traditional font at a readable size (11 or 12 points) and leave enough white space in the margins to make the statement easy to read. Make sure to double-space the statement if the university has requested it, he adds.

How to write a statement of purpose: a step-by-step guide

Now that you understand how to format a statement of purpose, you can begin drafting your own. Getting started can feel daunting, but Pierce suggests making the process more manageable by breaking down the writing process into four easy steps.

1. Brainstorm your ideas.

First, he says, try to reframe the task at hand and get excited for the opportunity to write your statement of purpose.

“Throughout the application process, you’re afforded few opportunities to address the committee directly,” he explains. “Here is your chance to truly speak directly to them. Each student arrives at this process with a unique story, including prior jobs, volunteer experience, or undergraduate studies. Think about what makes you you and start outlining.”

When writing your statement of purpose, Pierce suggests asking yourself these key questions:

Why do I want this degree?
What are my expectations for this degree?
What courses or program features excite me the most?
Where do I want this degree to take me, professionally and personally?
How will my unique professional and personal experiences add value to the program?

Jot these responses down to get your initial thoughts on paper. This will act as your starting point for creating an outline and writing your first draft.

2. Develop an outline.

Next, you’ll want to take the ideas that you’ve identified during the brainstorming process and plug them into an outline that will guide your writing.

An effective outline for your statement of purpose might look something like this:

An attention-grabbing hook
A brief introduction of yourself and your background as it relates to your motivation behind applying to graduate school
Your professional goals as they relate to the program
Why you’re interested in the specific school and what you can bring to the table
A brief summary of the information presented in the body that emphasizes your qualifications and compatibility with the school

An outline like the one above will give you a roadmap to follow so that your statement of purpose is well organized and concise.

3. Write the first draft.

Your statement of purpose should communicate who you are and why you are interested in a particular program, but it also needs to be positioned in a way that differentiates you from other applicants.

Admissions professionals already have your transcripts, resumé, and test scores; the statement of purpose is your chance to tell your story in your own words.

When you begin drafting content, make sure to:

Provide insight into what drives you , whether that’s professional advancement, personal growth, or both.
Demonstrate your interest in the school by addressing the unique features of the program that interest you most. For Northeastern, he says, maybe it’s experiential learning; you’re excited to tackle real-world projects in your desired industry. Or perhaps it’s learning from faculty who are experts in your field of study.
Be yourself. It helps to keep your audience in mind while writing, but don’t forget to let your personality shine through. It’s important to be authentic when writing your statement to show the admissions committee who you are and why your unique perspective will add value to the program.

4. Edit and refine your work.

Before you submit your statement of purpose:

Make sure you’ve followed all directions thoroughly , including requirements about margins, spacing, and font size.
Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Remember that a statement of purpose should be between 500 and 1,000 words. If you’ve written far more than this, read through your statement again and edit for clarity and conciseness. Less is often more; articulate your main points strongly and get rid of any “clutter.”
Walk away and come back later with a fresh set of eyes. Sometimes your best ideas come when you’re not sitting and staring at your computer.
Ask someone you trust to read your statement before you submit it.

Making a lasting impression

Your statement of purpose can leave a lasting impression if done well, Pierce says. It provides you with the opportunity to highlight your unique background and skills so that admissions professionals understand why you’re the ideal candidate for the program that you’re applying to. If nothing else, stay focused on what you uniquely bring to the classroom, the program, and the campus community. If you do that, you’ll excel.

To learn more tricks and tips for submitting an impressive graduate school application, explore our related grad school success articles .

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Editor’s note: This article was originally published in March 2017. It has since been updated for thoroughness and accuracy.

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How to Write a Chemistry Personal Statement Worthy of Oxbridge!

Writing a personal statement is a very daunting task, it can seem like the be-all and end-all of your university application. In this post, Oxford PhD Chemistry researcher and 1st Class Oxford Chemistry graduate, Zoe, outlines how to structure your personal statement, as well as discuss the do’s and don’ts when it comes to a Chemistry personal statement. We have also provided an example Chemistry Personal Statement for those looking for inspiration.

Four Top Tips for a Successful Chemistry Personal Statement:

When applying to the top universities such as Oxford and Cambridge or other Russell Group universities, your Chemistry personal statement is not going to be the single factor determining the success of your application. In that sense, there is no need to spend hours curating the ‘perfect’ personal statement - interview preparation and school grades will have a much stronger weighting in the eyes of the admissions office. That being said, a poorly written personal statement can negatively impact your chances and you’ll want to make sure you have avoided common pitfalls and checked all the boxes for a successful application.

Below I’ll discuss key things your Chemistry UCAS personal statement should include, along with common mistakes people make when trying to impress.

1. Convey your genuine interest for the subject in your Chemistry personal statement

This should be the first paragraph and clearly indicate why you want to study Chemistry.

- Don’t write clichés such as ‘I’ve wanted to be a chemist since I was 4 years old’ - they want to know what motivates you now.

- Do be yourself and talk about what you genuinely find interesting and what got you motivated to study Chemistry in the first place e.g. at A-level (you don’t gain points for having stated to like Chemistry at an earlier age). Demonstrate your enthusiasm for chemistry by discussing what motivated you to study the subject, such as a particular experiment or a fascinating discovery

2. Use your Chemistry Personal Statement to demonstrate your skills and motivation

Paragraphs 2 and 3 form the bulk of your personal statement and should be used to demonstrate that you have the skills and motivation to succeed in pursuing Chemistry at the highest level. Don’t get carried away, focus on one or two key examples that demonstrate your commitment to the subject.

- Don’t lie in your Chemistry Personal Statement – this may seem obvious, but don’t mention books you haven’t read or experiments you haven’t done just to sound clever; this is the easiest way to get caught out in an interview. Tutors are not expecting you to know the whole 1st year undergraduate course and they will be well aware if you pretend you have.

- Do include any research or reading you have done which shows commitment to the subject in your Chemistry UCAS personal statement. All they want is for you to show you have taken the time to go beyond the standard A-level syllabus, be that by reading books, keeping up with the literature or even attending talks or visiting an interesting exhibition at a museum. There is no right way to show interest in the subject! Highlight your academic achievements in Chemistry, including any relevant coursework, research projects, or awards that showcase your skills and knowledge

3. Highlight skills in your Chemistry Personal Statement that show your suitability for the course

This should the final paragraph and should be a couple of sentences at most concluding your Chemistry Personal Statement. Showcase these skills, such as your ability to think critically, work collaboratively, and problem-solve, which are essential for success in the field of Chemistry.

- Don’t mention extra-curriculars that are not directly relevant to the course. 4000 characters is not a lot and you do not want to waste space in your Chemistry personal statement on things that tutors will not even consider

- Do include any extra-curriculars that demonstrate either proficiency and commitment to the subject (e.g., Chemistry Olympiad) or extra-curriculars that will show you are suited to high-paced and demanding environments such as Oxford or Cambridge (e.g. sports or activities that required significant dedication and skills such as time-management)

4. Be concise and focused

Keep your Chemistry Personal Statement concise and focused, with a clear structure and well-defined paragraphs. Finally, proofread your personal statement carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Consider asking someone else to read it and provide feedback before submitting your application.

Are You Looking For a Russell Group or Oxbridge Chemistry Personal Statement Tutor?

Our Chemistry tutors are brilliant at supporting students through all elements of the personal statement writing process, including the initial wider research and drafting process. They offer reading and research suggestions and can provide feedback on personal statement drafts to ensure your Chemistry personal statement makes you stand out. Visit our Personal Statement page or book a free consultation to discuss how we can support.

Demonstrating Interest Beyond the A-level Curriculum in your Chemistry Personal Statement

You may feel overwhelmed when it comes to searching beyond the A-level course. Chemistry is a huge subject so how do you find the best, most interesting things to read and talk about?

The short answer is you can’t. There is not right or wrong book to read just as there is no right or wrong thing to be interested in. The breadth of most Chemistry courses highlights this very fact – you can be interested in whatever area of Chemistry you want, and its completely okay if this ends up being a different area to your interviewer! In fact, you are more likely to invest time into learning new content, and thus are more likely to effectively demonstrate your skills if you have chosen something you are genuinely interested in. So, don’t spend ages trying to find the ‘right’ area to research but do pursue your actual interests!

Below are just a few examples of ways in which you can engage with chemistry outside of the classroom, but it is by no means an exhaustive list. So, if you find something else that sparks your interest then by all means, go with that!

Books You Could Mention in Your Chemistry Personal Statement:

Why Chemical Reactions Happen – James Keeler*

The Pleasure of Finding Things Out – Richard Feynman

The Most Beautiful Molecule – Hugh Aldersey-Williams

Periodic Tales - Hugh Aldersey-Williams

The Disappearing Spoon – Sam Kean

Napoleon's Buttons – Jay Burreson and Penny Le Couteur

*A very good introduction to some 1st year undergraduate topics but also a pretty big cliché so I would avoid having this as the main book in your personal statement

Chemistry Podcasts:

Chemistry for your life : A podcast helping you understand the chemistry of your everyday life

Chemistry in its element : A weekly tour of the periodic table, from Chemistry World, the magazine of the Royal Society of Chemistry

Chemistry Cayk

Distillations : Uncovering moments in science-related history

chemistry personal statement oxford podcasts

Extracurricular Activities For Success in Chemistry University Applications:

UK Chemistry Olympiad

Cambridge Chemistry Challenge (Year 12 only)

Giving a talk at your school’s Chemistry/ Science society

Seek out relevant work experience : If you have any relevant work experience, discuss it in your personal statement. This could include internships, volunteer work, or research assistantships

U2 Tuition’s co-curricular division, Minds Underground, host online specialised research projects, with many Chemistry-related options. Gaining research experience can be a valuable opportunity for school students, offering numerous benefits beyond what is typically learned in the classroom. Visit the Research Experience page for more information!

Writing a Chemistry Personal Statement: Oxbridge Applicants Guide

If Oxford is your dream destination for studying this fascinating subject, there are some crucial tips to consider. Here's a breakdown of key elements to enhance your Chemistry personal statement, especially tailored for Oxford.

1. Embrace Depth and Breadth:

Oxford values not just your depth of understanding in chemistry but also your ability to appreciate its broad applications. Showcase both your passion for specific areas of chemistry and your awareness of its interdisciplinary nature.

2. Highlight Research Awareness:

Demonstrate your awareness of cutting-edge research in chemistry. mention specific projects, studies, or advancements that have caught your attention, showcasing a keen interest in staying updated on the latest developments in the field., 3. demonstrate critical thinking:.

Oxford places a strong emphasis on critical thinking and analytical skills. Showcase instances where you've applied these skills in problem-solving, especially in chemistry-related scenarios.

4. Exhibit Your Intellectual Curiosity:

Oxford seeks students who are not only knowledgeable but also intellectually curious. Share instances where you've gone beyond the standard curriculum to explore your interest in chemistry, such as engaging with advanced books, attending seminars, or participating in relevant extracurricular activities.

5. Discuss Your Future Contribution :

Convey a sense of your long-term vision in the field of chemistry. Whether it's contributing to ground-breaking research, advancing technology, or inspiring future generations, Oxford wants to see your commitment to making a meaningful impact.

6. Make Sure You Personal Statement Is An Exciting Springboard For Discussion At Interview

Oxford places significant importance on the interview process, and your personal statement can serve as a crucial catalyst for engaging discussions during this stage. Craft your statement in a way that prompts curiosity, inviting interviewers to delve deeper into your experiences and viewpoints. Incorporate thought-provoking questions or reflections on your experiences, leaving room for insightful conversations. Showcasing your ability to articulate complex ideas and engage in dynamic discussions will not only demonstrate your readiness for the Oxford environment but also set the stage for a compelling interview experience.

Tailoring your statement with these specific considerations for Oxford will help you showcase your suitability for the challenging and enriching academic environment at the University.

Looking for Chemistry Personal Statement Examples?

Below, we have shared a personal statement example for a chemistry degree application. This is a succinct and focused piece, highlighting experiences from engaging with captivating books and podcasts to participating in the UK Chemistry Olympiad. From sugar plastics to sustainability, each facet contributes to a narrative showcasing the dynamic nature of chemistry and the student’s commitment to making a meaningful impact.

Chemistry captivates me as a subject that blends curiosity and practical understanding. My journey began with Hugh Aldersey-Williams' 'The Most Beautiful Molecule,' a book that provided a captivating exploration of molecular structures. What fascinated me most was the author's ability to unravel the complexities of these structures in a way that felt accessible and intriguing. Aldersey-Williams seamlessly blended scientific detail with a narrative that made me appreciate the elegance hidden within the microscopic world of molecules. This narrative approach to scientific storytelling resonated with me, creating a bridge between the abstract concepts of chemistry and their real-world implications. I enjoy listening to Chemistry podcasts and found the ChemTalk podcast episode featuring Dr. Karen Wooley discussing Sugar Plastics and Sustainability particularly fascinating. Unlike conventional plastics, which contribute to pollution and resource depletion, sugar plastics offer a renewable and biodegradable alternative. Her insights into sustainability, sugars, and their applications in industry resonated with me. This podcast demonstrated the bridge between theory and real-world challenges, showcasing the versatility of chemistry in creating alternative materials and emphasising the practical role of chemistry in addressing global issues. Inspired by Dr. Wooley's work, I undertook a project focused on developing sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics using sugars. Collaborating with peers, we explored the synthesis and properties of sugar-based plastics, aiming to contribute to environmentally friendly solutions. This hands-on project allowed me to witness the tangible applications of chemistry in addressing contemporary issues, reinforcing the importance of sustainable practices within the field. Attending a lecture on sustainability in chemistry further deepened my appreciation for the discipline's potential impact on global challenges. The lecture illuminated innovative approaches and advancements in sustainable chemistry, emphasising the role of environmentally friendly practices in research and industry. What fascinated me was the integration of green chemistry principles, showcasing how the field is evolving to minimise environmental impact and enhance efficiency. This experience broadened my perspective on the practical applications of sustainable practices within the realm of chemistry, reaffirming my commitment to contributing to solutions that align with the principles of environmental responsibility. Participating in the UK Chemistry Olympiad further deepened my understanding of the versatile nature of chemistry, challenging me to apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems. Being a passionate debater, I have also honed my communication and critical thinking skills, learning to articulate complex ideas effectively. Additionally, running my school's Chemistry Society has provided a platform to share my enthusiasm for the subject with peers, organising events and discussions that foster a collaborative and interactive learning environment. These activities showcase my commitment to both academic excellence and fostering a broader understanding and appreciation for chemistry beyond the classroom. These experiences have solidified my passion for chemistry and its real-world applications. Eager to delve deeper, I am motivated to pursue a chemistry degree, driven by a genuine curiosity and a commitment to contribute meaningfully to this impactful discipline.

In conclusion, writing a strong Chemistry degree personal statement requires careful planning, organisation, and attention to detail. A successful Chemistry personal statement should demonstrate your passion for the subject, showcase your academic achievements, highlight your relevant experiences, and emphasise your skills. By following these guidelines and taking the time to craft a well-written and compelling personal statement, you can increase your chances of being accepted into the Chemistry degree of your choice. Remember to proofread your statement carefully, seek feedback from others, and let your unique voice and personality shine through. Good luck with your application!

Are You Looking For an Chemistry Personal Statement Tutor or Support with Your Wider Oxbridge Chemistry Application?

U2 Tuition specialises in Top UK University/ Oxbridge preparation, with a team of 700+ Oxbridge-educated tutors. We offer personal statement preparation with our Oxbridge Chemistry tutors, who host live sessions brainstorming ideas, helping with drafts etc. We also offer offline personal statement reviews for those with a full draft already complete.

Our experienced Oxbridge-educated tutors are experts in their field and have a proven track record of success in helping students achieve their goals and gain admission to some of the top universities in the UK. We also offer admissions test and interview preparation for those applying to Oxbridge and also top Russell Group Universities who interview such as Imperial.

Visit our Personal Statement page for more detail on how we can support.

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Successful Personal Statement For Chemistry At Oxford

Last Updated: 7th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it.

Today, we are looking through a Chemistry applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Chemistry Course at Oxford is taught in a world-leading chemistry department with state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories and world-class research.

Read on to see how this candidate wrote a Personal Statement that helped secure their place on a reputable degree.

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement:

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

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With our Oxford Chemistry Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal Statement and teach you how to Interview effectively .

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Chemistry Personal Statement

Few aspects of our lives remain unaffected by the fundamental subject of chemistry. Chemists have revolutionised the way we live; from the medicines we use to the water we drink, it is hard to imagine what our everyday life would be like without the help of this vast subject. I wish to be a part of the chemical discoveries of the future which is what entices me to study chemistry in greater depth at university.

My interest in chemistry has developed a great deal since starting the AS level course. Each time I learn something new, it inspires me to develop my knowledge even further. I have particularly enjoyed the organic chemistry involved in the AS course due to the practical work it entails. Laboratory work for me is enjoyable because it provides an opportunity to test out the theoretical knowledge you have gained and is also great fun! For example, I particularly enjoyed making azo dyes as it was interesting to recreate a process in the lab which is so frequently used in industry.

I have been able to develop my passion for chemistry through wider reading. I have recently enjoyed reading Molecules at an Exhibition. The range of molecules which can have profound effects on our lives surprised me and showed me again how relevant chemistry is to our lives. I have a subscription to New Scientist. An article I particularly enjoyed reading over the summer was “Rogue elements” which explores some of the unanswered questions associated with the periodic table. For example, when the elements will stop and whether superheavy elements, which exist for fractions of a second only one atom at a time, can be considered elements at all. The article also looked at the issues of where to place the elements hydrogen and helium and where the metal/non-metal divide should be. This showed me that although the periodic table is often considered to be complete, there is still much to uncover. Reading Quantum Theory Cannot Hurt You introduced me to the concept of relativity and I was amazed to find out how this theory affects chemistry as well as physics. For example without relativity the properties of some of the heavier elements such as gold would simply not be the same. I have been developing my interest in maths and have taken up AS further maths which will be largely self-taught, I know this will complement the chemistry syllabus.

Recently I took part in a UNIQ summer school at Oxford University which allowed me to have a great insight into undergraduate chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed my week, particularly the lecture on chirality. This was a new concept for me and I was surprised by the huge differences that can result from this form of isomerism. My subject knowledge was greatly enhanced and the skills I gained have been even more valuable. I was taught to question, develop and evaluate my knowledge at every stage and become a more independent learner.

During Year 12 I acted as a science tutor for GCSE students, helping them with exam technique. I found that explaining the subject matter to others helped to enhance and consolidate my own knowledge. My success both in and out of school was rewarded when I received Clevedon’s 2014 Academic Achievement Award in chemistry.

I enjoy playing the piano and recently achieved Grade 6 during my GCSE year, developing my time management skills. My other hobbies include drama and singing and I am a member of Clevedon Light Opera Club as well as the school choir. I have taken part in several productions as well as performing in school stage shows and concerts. All of which contributed to me gaining my Gold Arts Award. I volunteer with a Rainbow group. When I started I found the prospect of running activities for a group of people quite daunting, but 2 years later I think my confidence and communication skills have improved greatly. I have developed my knowledge, skills and aptitude both in and out of school and I look forward to being able to extend these further by studying at university.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This is a well written and well-structured statement. The student places points in order of relevance, making the statement easy to read. All points are clearly explained, and their impacts on the student are clear. There is a clear introduction, main body and conclusion.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

Although the statement is written in a logical order, there are a lot of paragraphs. Whilst it is very good that the student has a wide range of interests and hobbies, the student dedicates two paragraphs to these. It would have been possible to shorten the statement by removing some of the points mentioned, without taking away from the quality of the statement. The student clearly has many experiences from outside of the A-level syllabus, such as the UNIQ summer school and working as a GCSE science tutor. Whilst is it of course important to describe individual experiences and achievements, focussing on the positives alone limits the impact that mentioning such experiences will have. It would have been nice to see what challenges the student faced through their experiences, and how the student overcame these.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is an excellent statement. The Personal Statement is clearly written and easy to read. The length of the statement could have been reduced, however, there are no other areas in which the student needs to make significant improvements.

This Personal Statement for Chemistry is a great example of a well-written Statement that demonstrates a wealth of experience and interest, vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

You can find more successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Chemistry application.

With our Oxford Chemistry Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal Statement , perform strongly on the Written Test and teach you how to Interview effectively .

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Not sure what graduate schools are looking for in a statement of purpose? Looking at successful graduate school statement of purpose samples can help! In this guide, we’ll orient you to what makes a great statement of purpose or letter of intent for graduate school. Then we’ll provide you with four successful statement of purpose examples from our graduate school experts. We’ll also provide analysis of what makes them successful. Finally, we’ll direct you to even more helpful examples that you can find online!

The Graduate School Statement of Purpose: An Overview

A statement of purpose (also called a letter of intent or a research statement) introduces your interests and experience to the admissions committee. For research-focused programs, like most PhDs and many master’s degrees, your statement of purpose will focus primarily on your past research experience and plans. For more professionally-focused graduate programs, your statement of purpose will primarily discuss how your pursuit of this professional program relates to your past experiences, and how you will use the skills from the program in your future career.

A statement of purpose for grad school is also where you sell the admissions committee on why you belong in their program specifically. Why do you fit there, and how does what they offer fit your interests?

What’s in a Great Grad School Statement of Purpose?

Here are the essential elements of a strong graduate school statement of purpose:

Clear Articulation of Goals and Interests

A strong statement of purpose will clearly and specifically lay out your goals in undertaking the program and what you hope to accomplish with the degree. Again, for a research-focused program, this will focus primarily on the research project(s) you want to undertake while you are there. For a more professional program, discuss what interests you within the professional field and what skills/knowledge you hope to gain through the program.

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You should be as specific as possible in discussing what interests you. Use examples of particular phenomena, tools, or situations that you find exciting. If you are vague or say that everything in the field interests you, you run the risk of seeming unfocused or not actually that passionate.

Don’t worry that being too specific will box you into a particular research area or subfield during your entire tenure in graduate school. Your program understands that interests change—they won’t be pulling out your research statement to cross-reference with your dissertation proposal!

Evidence of Past Experience and Success

A great graduate school statement of purpose will also show programs that you have already been successful. They want applicants that will be able to follow through on their research/professional plans!

To this end, you’ll need to provide evidence of how your background qualifies you to pursue this program and your specific interests in the field. You’ll probably discuss your undergraduate studies and any professional experience you have. But be sure to draw on specific, vivid examples. You might draw on your thesis, major projects you’ve worked on, papers you have written/published, presentations you’ve given, mentors you’ve worked with, and so on. This gives admissions committees concrete evidence that you are qualified to undertake graduate study!

Interest and Fit With the Program

The third essential ingredient to a great statement of purpose is to clearly lay out why you and the program are a good fit. You should be able to identify both specific reasons why your work fits with the program and why the program suits your work/interests! Are there particular professors you’d like to work with? Does the department have a strong tradition in a certain methodology or theory you’re interested in? Is there a particular facet to the curriculum that you’d like to experience?

Showing that you and the program are a match shows that you chose the program thoughtfully and have genuine interest in it. Programs want to admit students who aren’t just passionate about the field. They want students who are genuinely enthused about their specific program and positioned to get the most out of what they have to offer.

Strong Writing

The final essential piece of a strong statement of purpose or letter of intent is strong writing. Writing skills are important for all graduate programs. You’ll need to demonstrate that you can clearly and effectively communicate your ideas in a way that flows logically. Additionally, you should show that you know how to write in a way that is descriptive but concise. A statement of purpose shouldn’t ever be longer than two pages, even without a hard word limit.

Admissions committees for humanities programs may be a little more focused on writing style than admissions officers for STEM programs. But even in quantitative and science-focused fields, written communication skills are an essential part of graduate school. So a strong statement of purpose will always be effectively written. You’ll see this in our statement of purpose for graduate school samples.

Real, Successful Statement of Purpose Samples

In this section, we’ll present four successful graduate school statement of purpose examples from our graduate school experts, along with a brief commentary on each statement. These statements come from a diverse selection of program types to show you how the core essentials of a statement of purpose can be implemented differently for different fields.

Note: identifying information for these statements have been changed—except for example four, which is my statement.

Statement of Purpose Sample One: Japanese Studies MA

This statement of purpose is notable for its great use of space and its vivid descriptions. The author is able to cram a lot into about a page. She discusses how she came to her two primary research interests (and how they are connected). She integrates this discussion of her interests with information on her past experiences and qualifications for pursuing the course of study. Finally, she includes details on her goals in pursuing the program and components of the program that interest her. Her examples are specific and fleshed-out. There’s a lot very cleverly included in a small amount of page space!

Additionally, the language is very vivid. Phrases like “evocative and visceral” and “steadily unraveling,” are eye-catching and intriguing. They demonstrate that she has the writing skills necessary to pursue both graduate study and her interest in translation.

Statement of Purpose Sample Two: Music MM

This sample is fairly long, although at 12 point Times New Roman it’s under two pages single-spaced. The length of this statement is partially due to the somewhat expansive nature of the prompt, which asks what role music has played in the applicant’s life “to date.” This invites applicants to speak more about experiences further in the past (in the childhood and teen years) than is typical for a statement of purpose. Given that this is for a master’s degree in music, this is logical; musical study is typically something that is undertaken at a fairly young age.

This statement does an excellent job describing the student’s past experiences with music in great detail. The descriptions of the student’s past compositions and experiences performing new music are particularly vivid and intriguing.

This statement also lays out and elaborates on specific goals the student hopes to pursue through the program, as well as features particular to the program that interest the student (like particular professors).

Statement of Purpose Sample Three: Economics PhD

One of the first things you’ll likely notice about this statement is that it’s a little on the longer side. However, at 12 point Times New Roman font and single-spaced, it still comes in under 2 pages (excluding references). It makes sense for a PhD statement of purpose sample to be longer than a master’s degree statement of purpose—there’s more to lay out in terms of research interests!

The writing style is fairly straightforward—there’s definitely a stronger focus on delivering content than flashy writing style. As Economics is a more quantitative-focused field, this is fine. But the writing is still well-organized, clear, and error-free.

The writer also gives numerous examples of their past work and experience, and shows off their knowledge of the field through references, which is a nice touch.

Statement of Purpose Sample Four: History of the Book MA

This is actually my statement of purpose. It was for a program that I got accepted to but did not end up attending, for a Master’s in the History of the Book. You’ll notice that the two essay prompts essentially asked us to split our statement of purpose into two parts: the first prompt asked about our research interests and goals, and the second prompt asked about our relevant experience and qualifications.

I’ll keep my comments on this graduate school statement of purpose sample brief because I’ll do a deep dive on it in the next section. But looking back at my statement of purpose, I do a good job outlining what within the field interests me and clearly laying out how my past experiences have qualified me for the program.

Obviously this statement did its job, since I was accepted to the program. However, if I were to improve this statement, I’d change the cliche beginning (“since I was a child”) and provide more specificity in what about the program interested me.

Deep Dive Analysis of a Sample Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

Next, we’ll do a paragraph by paragraph analysis of my statement, statement of purpose sample four. I’ll analyze its strengths and suggest ways I could shore up any weaknesses to make it even stronger.

Essay 1: Academic Interests

To refresh, here’s the first prompt: Please give a short statement that describes your academic interests, purpose, objectives and motivation in undertaking this postgraduate study. (max 3500 chars – approx. 500 words)

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Paragraph 1

Since I was a child, my favorite thing has always been a book. Not just for the stories and information they contain, although that is a large part of it. Mostly, I have been fascinated by the concept of book as object—a tangible item whose purpose is to relate intangible ideas and images. Bookbindings and jackets, different editions, the marginalia in a used book—all of these things become part of the individual book and its significance, and are worth study and consideration. Books and their equivalent forms—perfect bound, scrolled, stone tablets, papyrus—have long been an essential part of material culture and are also one of our most significant sources of information about the human historical past. Through both the literal object of the book, the words contained thereon, and its relationship to other books—forms of context, text and intertext—we are able to learn and hopefully manage layers of information with which we would otherwise have no familiarity.

First, the good: this paragraph does a good job introducing my academic interest in the book-as-object, and shows off pre-existing knowledge both of the study of material culture and literary theory. Additionally, the language is engaging: the juxtaposition of “tangible” and “intangible” in the beginning and phrases like “perfect bound, scrolled, stone tablets, papyrus” lend life to the writing and keep the reader engaged.

If I were to go back and improve this paragraph, first, I would absolutely change the first sentence to something less cliche than talking about my childhood. I might try something like “My love of books is a multifaceted thing. I don’t only love them for the stories and….” Second, I would chill out on the em dashes a little bit. Three sets in one paragraph is a little excessive. Finally, I might actually cut this paragraph down slightly to make more room word-wise later in the statement to discuss what specific things about the program interest me.

Paragraph 2

Furthermore, blogs, webcomics, digital archives, e-readers, and even social media sites like tumblr and Facebook have revolutionized the concept of the book by changing how we share and transmit ideas and information, just as the Gutenberg printing press revolutionized the book all those years ago in the fifteenth century. Once again there has been an explosion both in who can send out information and who can receive it.

This paragraph briefly and effectively introduces my other main academic interest: how new technology has changed the concept of the book-as-object. The tie-back to the printing press is a nice touch; it’s a vivid example that shows that I’m aware of important historical moments in book history.

Paragraph 3

I am deeply interested in the preservation of the physical book, as I think it is an important part of human history (not to mention a satisfying sensory experience for the reader). However I am also very concerned with the digitization and organization of information for the modern world such that the book, in all of its forms, stays relevant and easy to access and use. Collections of books, archives, and information as stored in the world’s servers, libraries and museums are essential resources that need to be properly organized and administered to be fully taken advantage of by their audiences. My purpose in applying to the University of Edinburgh’s Material Culture and History of the Book is to gain the skills necessary to keep all forms of the book relevant and functional in an age when information can move more radically than ever before.

This paragraph actually has a focus problem. Since it covers two topics, I should split it into two paragraphs: one on the integration of my two interests, and one on my goals and interests in the program. I could also stand to expand on what features the program has that interest me: professors I’d like to work with, particular aspects of the curriculum, etc.

In spite of these things, however, this paragraph does a good job clearly integrating the two academic interests related to the book I introduced in the first two paragraphs. And the language is still strong —“satisfying sensory experience” is a great phrase. However, I’ve been using the word “information,” a lot; I might try to replace with appropriate synonyms (like “knowledge”) in a couple of places.

Paragraph 4

Additionally, I intend on pursuing a PhD in Library and Information Sciences upon completion of my master’s and I feel that this program while make me uniquely suited to approach library science from a highly academic and interdisciplinary perspective.

This final paragraph offers just quick touch on my future goals beyond the program. It’s typically fine for this to be relatively brief, as it is here, just so long as you can clearly identify some future goals.

Essay 2: Relevant Experience

The second prompt just asked me to describe my relevant knowledge, training, and skills.

As a folklore and mythology student, I have gained a robust understanding of material culture and how it relates to culture as a whole. I have also learned about the transmission of ideas, information, stories and pieces of lore among and between populations, which is an important component of book history. Folklore is also deeply concerned with questions of the literary vs. oral lore and the tendency for text to “canonize” folklore, and yet text can also question or invert canonized versions; along with this my studies in my focus field of religion and storytelling have been deeply concerned with intertextuality. One of my courses was specifically concerned with the Heian-period Japanese novel The Tale of Genji and questions of translation and representation in post-Heian picture scrolls and also modern translations and manga. In addition to broader cultural questions concerned with gender and spirituality both in historical Japan and now, we considered the relationships between different Genji texts and images.

This is a strong, focused paragraph. I relate my academic background in Folklore and Mythology to my interests in studying the book, as well as showing off some of my knowledge in the area. I also chose and elaborated on a strong example (my class on the Tale of Genji ) of my relevant coursework.

I also have work experience that lends itself to the study of the book. After my freshman year of college I interned at the Chicago History Museum. Though I was in the visitor services department I was exposed to the preservation and archival departments of the museum and worked closely with the education department, which sparked my interest in archival collections and how museums present collection information to the public. After my sophomore year of college and into my junior year, I worked at Harvard’s rare books library, Houghton. At Houghton I prepared curated collections for archival storage. These collections were mostly comprised of the personal papers of noteworthy individuals, categorized into alphabetical folders. This experience made me very process-oriented and helped me to understand how collections come together on a holistic basis.

This paragraph also has a clear focus: my past, relevant work experience. Discussing archival collections and presenting information to the public links the interests discussed in my first statement with my qualifications in my second statement. However, if I were to revise this paragraph, I would add some specific examples of the amazing things I worked on and handled at Houghton Library. In that job, I got to touch Oliver Cromwell’s death mask! An interesting example would make this paragraph really pop even more.

Finally, in my current capacity as an education mentor in Allston, a suburb of Boston, I have learned the value of book history and material culture from an educational perspective. As a mentor who designs curriculum for individual students and small groups, I have learned to highly value clearly organized and useful educational resources such as websites, iPad apps, and books as tools for learning. By managing and organizing collections in a way that makes sense we are making information accessible to those who need it.

This final paragraph discusses my current (at the time) work experience in education and how that ties into my interest in the history of the book. It’s an intriguing connection and also harkens back to my discussion of information availability in the paragraph three of the first statement. Again, if I were to amp up this statement even more, I might include a specific example of a book-based (or book technology-based) project I did with one of my students. I worked on things like bookbinding and making “illuminated manuscripts” with some of my students; those would be interesting examples here.

This statement is split into two parts by virtue of the two-prompt format. However, if I were to integrate all of this information into one unified statement of purpose, I would probably briefly introduce my research interests, go in-depth on my background, then circle back around to speak more about my personal interests and goals and what intrigues me about the program. There’s not really one correct way to structure a statement of purpose just so long as it flows well and paragraphs are structured in a logical way: one topic per paragraph, with a clear topic and concluding sentence.

More Statement of Purpose Examples

We’ve provided you with four great graduate school statement of purpose examples from our graduate school experts. However, if you’re looking for more, there are other sample letters of intent and statements of purpose for graduate school online. We’ve rounded up the best ones here, along with some strengths and weaknesses about each example.

Majortests Statement of Purpose Sample

This is a fairly straightforward, clearly written statement of purpose sample for a biology program. It includes useful commentary after each paragraph about what this statement of purpose is accomplishing.

This statement of purpose sample is well-organized, with clear topic sentences and points made in each paragraph.
The student clearly identifies what interests her about the program.
The student proactively addresses questions about why she hasn’t gone directly to graduate school, and frames her professional research experience as a positive thing.
She gives a tiny bit of color about her personality in a relevant way by discussing her involvement with the Natural History Society.
In general, discussing high school interests is too far back in time unless the anecdote is very interesting or unusual. The detail about The Theory of Evolution is intriguing; the information about the high school teacher seems irrelevant. The student should have condensed this paragraph into a sentence or two.
While this statement is cogently written and makes the candidate sound competent and well-qualified, it’s not exactly the most scintillating piece of writing out there. Some of the constructions are a little awkward or cliche. For example, the “many people have asked me” sentence followed by “the answer is” is a little bit clunky. This is probably fine for a STEM program. But just be aware that this statement is not a paragon of writing style.

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UC Berkeley History Statement of Purpose Sample

This is a graduate school statement of purpose example from the UC Berkeley History department’s PhD program, with annotations from a professor as to why it’s a successful statement.

The author is able to very clearly and articulately lay out her research interests and link them to past work she has successfully completed, namely, her thesis.
She is able to identify several things about the program and Berkeley that indicate why it is a good fit for her research interests.
She addresses the time she spent away from school and frames it as a positive, emphasizing that her use of time was well-considered and productive.
Her writing is very vivid, with excellent word choice and great imagery.

While very well-written and engaging, this sample statement of purpose for graduate school is a little bit on the long side! It’s a little over two single-spaced pages, which is definitely pushing the limits of acceptable length. Try to keep yours at 2 pages or less. Some of the information on the thesis (which comprises over half of the statement of purpose) could be condensed to bring it down to two pages.

Pharmacy Residency Letter of Intent Sample

This is not technically a sample letter of intent for graduate school because it’s actually for a pharmacy residency program. However, this example still provides illumination as to what makes a decent graduate school letter of intent sample.

This is a serviceable letter of intent: the writer clearly lays out their own goals within the field of pharmacy, what qualifications they have and how they’ve arrived at their interests, and how the program fits their needs.
The writing is clearly structured and well-organized.
The main weakness is that some of the writer’s statements come across as fairly generic. For example, “The PGY-1 Residency Program at UO Hospitals will provide me with the opportunity to further develop my clinical knowledge, critical thinking, teaching, research, and leadership skills” is a generic statement that could apply to any residency program. A punchier, more program-specific conclusion would have amped up this letter.
While the writer does a decent job providing examples of their activities, like working as a tutor and attending the APhA conference, more specificity and detail in these examples would make the statement more memorable.
There’s a typo in the last paragraph —a “to” that doesn’t belong! This is an unprofessional blip in an otherwise solid letter. Read you own letter of intent aloud to avoid this!

NIU Bad Statement of Purpose Example

This is an ineffective graduate school statement of purpose example, with annotations on why it doesn’t work.

As you might imagine, the main strength in this document is as an example of what not to do. Otherwise, there is little to recommend it.

The annotations quite clearly detail the weaknesses of this statement. So I won’t address them exhaustively except to point out that this statement of purpose fails at both content and style. The author includes irrelevant anecdotes and lists without offering a decisive picture of interests or any particular insight into the field. Additionally, the statement is riddled with grammatical mistakes, awkward sentence structures, and strange acronyms.
You’ll note that the commentary advises you to “never start with a quote.” I agree that you should never start with a freestanding quote as in this example. However, I do think starting with a quote is acceptable in cases like the Berkeley history example above, where the quote is brief and then directly linked to the research interest.

Graduate School Statement of Purpose Examples: 4 Key Points

Graduate programs ask for statement of purpose to hear about your interests and goals and why you think you and the program would be a good fit.

There are four key elements to a successful statement of purpose:

A clear articulation of your goals and interests
Evidence of past experiences and success
Interest and fit with the program
Strong writing

We’ve provided you with four successful statement of purpose samples from our graduate school experts!

We also provided additional statement of purpose samples (and a sample letter of intent) for graduate school from other sources on the internet. Now you have all kinds of guidance!

What’s Next?

If you’re looking for more information on graduate school , see our guide to what makes a good GPA for grad school .

Not sure if you need to take the GRE ? See if you can get into graduate school without GRE scores .

Want more information about the GRE? We can help you figure out when to take the GRE , how to make a GRE study plan , and how to improve your GRE score .

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Author: Ellen McCammon

Ellen is a public health graduate student and education expert. She has extensive experience mentoring students of all ages to reach their goals and in-depth knowledge on a variety of health topics. View all posts by Ellen McCammon

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Statement of Purpose, Personal History, Diversity

SOP evaluation for PhD in Chemistry

By harshyjawale November 24, 2014 in Statement of Purpose, Personal History, Diversity

harshyjawale

Hello friends, I would be grateful to anyone who can evaluate my SOP and leave their valuable suggestions or edits.

Statement of Purpose

Chemical reactions are ubiquitous. When I typed this document, my muscles did a chemical reaction on sugars to give me the energy I needed. When you read this statement, your eyes were using retinal, an organic compound which converts visible light into nerve impulses. When you understood, the gaps between your brain cells were being bridged by simple organic molecules called ‘neurotransmitter amines’. We do not understand these processes but we carry them out in our mind and body efficiently. No chemist, however brilliant, understands all the minute details of chemistry in the universe. However, for a chemist the wonder and excitement lies in the fact that the universe is one gargantuan lab. It is this that motivates me to learn chemistry in my journey of education with a medium as good as the Duke University.

Mathematics and Chemistry have been my favourite subjects ever since the school days, when I tried every avenue to learn more about them. This led me to participate in many workshops and lectures by preeminent Indian scholars on both of them. Over a period of time, my curiosity regarding several natural phenomena evolved into choosing a career in Chemistry. I suspect that since my father holds a Masters in Organic chemistry, initiation towards the subject and a subsequent development happened by osmosis right from my childhood.

I opted for Chemistry major at V G Vaze College, one of the best chemistry departments in the University of Mumbai. The three wonderful years I spent there had a sweet ending - I stood first in the final year! Encouraged by this, I chose to apply to the two year Masters in Chemistry program at the reputed Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT/UDCT), Mumbai. By focusing on the joys of Chemistry and letting curiosity and good mentors be my guiding stars, I graduated in June 2014 and was placed 3 rd in my class. As a means to further my education and achieve my ambition of becoming a world class chemist, I plan to pursue a PhD in Organic chemistry from a reputed institution like yours.

I was fortunate to be in one of the few institutes in India where research work at the master’s level is not only made possible but encouraged. I choose to study Nature’s wonderful catalysts – enzymes – and their role in catalysing organic reactions. Dr. Bhalchandra M. Bhanage was generous in his time by mentoring and overseeing my work in ‘Studies of polyvinyl alcohol and chitosan based immobilized lipase for synthesis of anisyl propionate, characterization, activity, optimization and application studies’ spread over the one year of 2013 -2014.

Methodology development along with organic synthesis constituted the two parts of my research project. In the project, I learnt to use enzymes to synthesize several industrially important compounds used in flavours and fragrances. I was delighted in developing a new enzyme-polymer blend combination which successfully gave high selectivity and yields of the products. It was gratifying to combine the selectivity of enzymes with the high yields expected of reactions used in the industry. This research experience made me very much hands on in carrying out organic reactions and gave me an in depth knowledge of enzymes. I also learnt to use and interpret data from SEM, FTIR, GC, GC-MS and UV. It made me realise the joys (and the occasional pain) of experimentation. In the future, the research would be useful in exploring different biochemical pathways for several organic reactions and also in promoting the industrial use of enzymes as catalysts. After my graduation, I have continued my research efforts in organic synthesis by exploring different biochemical pathways under the guidance of Dr. B halchandra M. Bhanage.

One of the most significant achievements during my graduate tenure was when I had the honour of securing 2 nd prize in the national level competition ‘Industry Defined Problem’. In this, I developed a novel, alternative and non-patent infringing method to synthesize an industrially important drug trans-zeaxanthin from an abundant drug trans-leutine. This highly cost effective and eco-friendly method won me several accolades and subsequently, the 2 nd prize. Developing the methodology demanded creative designing abilities, literature surveys and out-of-the-box thinking all of which I believe, will revamp my research aptitude.

Besides academics and research, I am actively involved in community service through an international organization called ‘Swadhyaya Pariwar’ (DAY in USA) for the past 7 years. As a part of this organization, I take part in street plays, elocution competitions, and social awareness drives throughout the year. This work has helped a lot in my personal growth as I have come to realise the value of teamwork, communication and having fun in the work I do. It is also humbling to see the diversity of challenges facing humanity and the brave efforts by a few in addressing these. Besides this, I also enjoy sports and travelling.

Having already explored the enzymatic pathway for the synthesis of industrially important foods and flavour compounds, I plan to broaden my horizons by understanding the therapeutic importance of enzymes. Thus, I am very much interested in joining Duke University in pursuit of a doctoral program (PhD) in Organic chemistry, specifically under the guidance of Prof. Dewey G. McCafferty. His exceptional work on chromatin modifying enzymes, will help me to explore biologically inspired solutions in medicinal chemistry. My interest in medicinal chemistry arises because, I wish to contribute to the betterment of the society and I find the medium of medicinal chemistry to achieve my goals to be the most appropriate. Because, the world is plagued by illness and staying healthy and happy is a key to achieve prosperity. The area also represents fruitful opportunities for future research and a PhD in this area will help me channelize my efforts in the right direction. Hence, in future, I see myself as an independent researcher working with a dedicated research team in some premier institute.

In my assessment, Duke University provides one of the most recognized graduate programs in Organic Chemistry in the USA. A good graduate program is indispensable for realizing a professional ambition of becoming a competent researcher. Therefore, greater availability of inter disciplinary research activities along with an excellent research team at your university will provide me a proper work environment congenial to research field and offer a broad spectrum of the field of Organic chemistry. Furthermore, the access to advanced facilities in your department will enable me to conduct my research using cutting-edge technologies. I see myself integrating at Duke University and I strongly believe that I will be successful in both completing my doctorate and contributing meaningful to the research endeavours at your university.

P.S- One of the paragraph above is in red because I am not sure whether to include that in my SOP or not. Please suggest.

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Hey, I am also applying to Chemistry PhD programs. I have some suggestions for you, and I would be grateful if you (or anyone else reading) would return the favor!

I would choose two examples rather than three for your opening, and try to make them a bit shorter. It comes off as a little preachy whereas you are preaching to the choir, no?
In your second paragraph: Mathematics and Chemistry have been my favourite subjects ever since the school days childhood. , when I tried every avenue to learn more about them. I have pursued these topics from a young age, leading me to participate...
No explanation points. Keep it more formal.
I would get rid of the paragraph in red.
In general, I would try to shorten it. Try to eliminate excessive description and introduction - just get straight to the point, especially at the beginnings of paragraphs.

I know it's late in the game, but if anyone has suggestions for mine, it's below: I believe that studying the chemistry of biological systems will be critical in developing technology to address human health issues as well as future energy demands. I am specifically interested in investigating the chemistry performed by enzymes, using organic chemistry and biochemistry to understand reaction mechanisms as well as structure-function relationships. I am applying for graduate school because I want to dedicate my career to research in this field.

I believe my academic preparation and research background have sufficiently prepared me for graduate school. I have extensive research experience, and I am confident that I have the diligence, intelligence, and motivation to succeed. I want to make this important step in my career in the Chemistry program at University B because I am drawn to the large research community on campus, the collaborative research environment, and customizable curriculum. There are numerous investigators studying mechanisms and structural origins of catalysis whom I am interested in working with. In particular, I am interested in Dr. A's work on B, Dr. C's characterization of D, Dr. E's use of F, and Dr. G's work on H. I would be thrilled to pursue a PhD in Chemistry in such a rich and inspiring research community. Thanks

Crucial BBQ

Hey, I am also applying to Chemistry PhD programs. I have some suggestions for you, and I would be grateful if you (or anyone else reading) would return the favor! I know it's late in the game, but if anyone has suggestions for mine, it's below: I believe that studying the chemistry of biological systems will be critical in developing technology to address human health issues as well as future energy demands. I am specifically interested in investigating the chemistry performed by enzymes, using organic chemistry and biochemistry to understand reaction mechanisms as well as structure-function relationships. I am applying for graduate school because I want to dedicate my career to research in this field. My current research interests have resulted from a combination of both coursework and research experiences. During my senior year at X College, I enrolled in three highly influential courses: Advanced Synthetic Organic Chemistry, Structural Biochemistry, and Metabolic Biochemistry. The advanced organic chemistry course incited an enthusiasm for organic reaction mechanisms which was reinforced by studies of enzyme mechanisms and structures in my biochemistry courses. I discovered my passion for structural biochemistry and mechanistic enzymology, and achieved a senior-year GPA of 3.72. My research background is both extensive and varied, affording me a unique and well-rounded perspective in the lab. I have conducted research in four labs, ranging from Physical Chemistry to Environmental Microbiology, and although I have chosen to pursue graduate work in Biochemistry, my experience in other fields makes me a versatile and interdisciplinary researcher. Under Dr. X, I investigated multiphoton dissociation mechanisms using resonance Raman spectroscopy. I operated a Nd:YAG laser, optimized optical equipment, and programmed data analysis software. The next summer, I was accepted by NSF's Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program to research biomimetic complexes in Dr. Y's lab. This research experience was highly influential for me, not only because it was my first exposure to university-level research, but because it introduced me to the chemistry of biological systems and to the concept of biomimetics. I successfully synthesized analogs of metalloenzyme active sites, honed my organic and inorganic synthesis skills, and analyzed complexes using a suite of techniques including single-crystal XRD, paramagnetic NMR, and ESI-LC-MS. I returned to X College with a newfound appreciation for biological chemistry and a new perspective on research. That year, I completed a senior research thesis under Dr. Z, investigating the role of dynamics in the function of a metalloregulatory protein. I successfully expressed and purified a mutant protein in which a tryptophan residue was introduced in the metal-binding domain as a spectroscopic tag, enabling me to assay changes in dynamics by monitoring anisotropy of tryptophan emission. I wrote a dissertation on the project and presented my research in a Chemistry department seminar. After graduating, I taught SAT preparatory classes in order to explore my interest in teaching, which I had cultivated during my three-year appointment as a Chemistry tutor at College. Though I found it fulfilling to help students learn, I missed the intellectual stimulation and challenges of research. I began seriously considering graduate school, and I decided to gain more research experience in order to make an informed decision. I accepted a position as a Research Associate in a Microbiology lab at University A, where I have deepened my understanding of microbiology and enhanced my interest in enzymology. In Dr. A's lab, I have conducted research on three projects. In the first project, I characterized the physiology, phylogenetics, genomics, and pathways of aromatic catabolism of a novel bacterium. The work expanded the known diversity of perchlorate reduction, a metabolism which is a central focus in the lab. Despite being new to biology, I have learned quickly. Over the past year, I have presented my research at the Conference for the American Society of Microbiology and have submitted two manuscripts for publication, which are currently in review. In my second project, I purified and characterized a cytochrome c enzyme involved in electron transport in perchlorate reduction. I demonstrated that the enzyme was the physiological electron donor in our model organism through spectroscopic bioassays developed in the lab, and a manuscript for this work is currently in preparation. This project was especially pivotal because it substantiated my academic interest in enzymology with actual lab experience. More recently, I developed a GC-MS method for characterizing crude oil metabolism in bioreactors. I designed and engineered the bioreactors and have independently developed a method to analyze hydrocarbon degradation in complex biological sample matrices. My research experience in Dr. A lab has prepared me for graduate school in Chemistry in two major ways. First, I have gained a stronger foundation in biology which has contributed to my specific interest in Bioorganic Chemistry. Second, and perhaps more importantly, I have gained confidence in my research abilities. I present my research at weekly sub-group meetings as well as biannual group meetings alongside graduate students and post-docs. I adapt to the research needs of the lab and learn new techniques quickly. In short, I am confident in my ability to perform graduate level research because I currently conduct research among graduate students. Though I enjoy my research at University A, my research interests and career aspirations both point towards a doctoral degree in Chemistry. I hope to make a career in academic research science, either as a PI or as a senior researcher. Graduate school will help me realize this goal, and moreover, it will enable me to pursue my research interest in the organic chemistry of biological systems. I believe my academic preparation and research background have sufficiently prepared me for graduate school. I have extensive research experience, and I am confident that I have the diligence, intelligence, and motivation to succeed. I want to make this important step in my career in the Chemistry program at University B because I am drawn to the large research community on campus, the collaborative research environment, and customizable curriculum. There are numerous investigators studying mechanisms and structural origins of catalysis whom I am interested in working with. In particular, I am interested in Dr. A's work on B, Dr. C's characterization of D, Dr. E's use of F, and Dr. G's work on H. I would be thrilled to pursue a PhD in Chemistry in such a rich and inspiring research community. Thanks

You can tighten it up a little, but in general this good as it is.

3 years later...

somayeh mousavi

Do you think it's a good SOP?

Statement of Purpose: PhD (chemistry)

Throughout my life, I have learned that the ultimate happiness is obtained not only by hard work and intelligence, but also by unlimited passion in pursuing my own dreams. It is my ongoing desire for learning, invention, and teaching that lead me to continue my educational career towards a Ph.D. degree.

My interest in the field of Organic Chemistry goes back to the days of my High School where I learned about naming alkanes and cycloalkanes, as well as the different structures of functional groups in our textbooks. I always discussed these contents of the lessons with my chemistry teacher. With her encouragement and in order to satisfy my desire for comprehending the structure of compounds and learning their mechanism, I decided to study Chemistry as my major at university. Therefore, I passed the entrance exam of Iran universities, and chose Chemistry for my undergraduate study in Islamic Azad University Tehran Branch. Adjusting to the academic environment was a challenge at first, so the rather lower grades during the freshman year of my undergraduate studies; but I managed to quickly recover and make up for the lost grades.

I believe that graduate study in chemistry will provide me opportunities and the guidance to deepen my knowledge and gain valuable research experience of chemistry. Therefore, I devoted a great amount of time to study to pass the "National Iranian University Entrance Exam for M.Sc. degree," which guaranteed my acceptance to Alzahra University, one of the most prestigious universities in my country. In the period of study at Alzahra University, I have undertaken various courses like organic synthesis methods, heterocyclic chemistry, organic physical chemistry, and molecular spectroscopy . I had decided to do my thesis under supervision of Dr. Ghodsi Mohammadi Ziarani which is titled “Synthesis of Biologically Active Organic Compounds in the Presence of Nano-catalyst”. I finished my dissertation with the score of 20 out of 20, and also six international journal articles, three of which are derived from my dissertation, and 2 national conference in Iran .

For three years, Regarding my interest and dominance in teaching, I have worked as a chemistry teacher in some private institutions in Tehran which help me to enhance my skills in teaching, managing class and making relation with students. But my insatiable enthusiasm in learning new things and research leads me to decide to get hands on experience and become familiar with chemical industries, so from June 2014, I worked as a R&D specialist in Biosun Pharmed Company, a new established pharmaceutical company in Iran. My trainee program was held at Hybio Company in China, which was also a technology transfer process for two peptides: Eptifibatide & Octreotide. This awesome opportunity enabled me to grasp many crucial details concerning synthesis and purification processes of peptides. In addition, I was also permitted to participate in both synthesis and purification process in R&D department and in GMP unit of the Hybio factory in China. Now, I am synthesis supervisor that has the responsibility related to all those data sheets and documents for SOPs of the synthesis processes of drugs as well as the observer of monitoring of drug synthesis.

Having real work experiences, now I have a balanced view of my interests, which enables me to make a decision between pursuing a career in academia or one in the industry. I find the academic environment more appealing because of the high level of intellectual challenge and creativity with it as well as the opportunity if provides to follow my research interests in the field of organic chemistry.

I have always desired to follow my advanced academic studies in a renowned school where I can utilize both the knowledge of erudite people and high-tech facilities. Meanwhile, by a thorough search among many graduate schools, I found that different programs of organic chemistry that are offered at Department of Chemistry at University of New Hampshire . I would like to join the Department of Chemistry at University of New Hampshire because of the excellent learning environment, top-notch faculty, educational resources, and strong research centers in the field of my interest.

I consider it an honor to be accepted in organic chemistry program of the University of New Hampshire , and I know this will help me move towards my ultimate goal. I am aware that joining your program will require diligent work, energy and focus to accomplish given tasks, and I can assure you that I am absolutely motivated and totally prepared for it. I am self-motivated, independent, and hard-working. I have tremendous perseverance and a lot of research potential. I think my statement of purpose and CV illustrate my points sufficiently. I hope your university gives me the opportunity to grow as an individual and prove my potential.

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What is a chemistry personal statement?

Writing a personal statement for chemistry is a chance to sell yourself to the admissions tutors and show them why you would make a great candidate.

It’s a place to describe your skills and strengths, as well as your career plans and ambitions for the future.

You are allowed up to 4000 characters to explain why you are applying for a sociology degree, so you need to make sure your statement is as good as possible to stand out from the crowd.

How do I write a good chemistry personal statement?

Great chemistry personal statements always use evidence to support their claims.

You need to convince admissions tutors that you’re a good match for the programme, so if you claim to be committed or inquisitive, then use examples from your life to back it up.

To write a successful chemistry personal statement you need to start early, brainstorm some ideas, and then begin your first draft.

This will then need to be carefully revised and edited before asking family and friends for feedback. Incorporate their comments and suggestions, and see how it is improved before asking them to look at it again.

Read through our chemistry personal statement examples to give you an idea of what makes a good chemistry statement.

Make sure you proofread your statement for grammar and spelling before sending it off, and if you feel you need a little extra help, take a look at our personal statement editing services .

What should I include in my chemistry personal statement?

Many students choose to start their statement by picking a specific aspect of chemistry and explaining why they enjoy it.

Admissions tutors want candidates that are as passionate about the subject as they are.

As well as your motivations for studying chemistry, think about your hobbies and extracurricular activities too. What skills have you learned from these and how will these help you in your chemistry degree?

Talk about any work experience placements you have completed, e.g. shadowing a lab technician or someone in a hospital. What did you take away from this experience? Do you feel you have all the necessary personal traits and qualities that make a good chemistry student?

Your wider reading is also important, so it's worth mentioning anything you've read recently that you found interesting and why. Generally, admissions tutors like students who express their views and opinions, and can back them up with evidence.

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Statement of Purpose for PhD chemistry program

Hi everyone,

I am applying to PhD programs in the US for the Fall 2018 semester but I am not confident that my SOP is good enough. As an international student, I have little knowledge on this since writing SOP for graduate schools is not common my country. Can someone review my SOP and tell me what could be changed to improve it? Any advice is welcome :)

I tried to keep it 1 page long because I heard that faculty members in the US do not like to see statements any longer than that. However, I had to omit that I have one manuscript in preparation, one poster presentation, voluntary activities etc. What do you think? Should I replace any information on my SOP by those?

To the admissions committee,

I am writing on behalf of my application for the Doctoral program in Chemistry at the University of X. I have earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from the Federal University of Viçosa (Brazil) in 2015 and a Master's degree in Inorganic Chemistry from the Federal University of Minas Gerais in 2017. The strong research on catalysis and new synthetic methodologies conducted in your institution made me very interested in pursuing graduate studies at your department.

Since sophomore year in college, I have been involved in research projects in the interface between organic and inorganic chemistry, studying new ways to transform abundant and cheap substances into valuable compounds using less toxic reagents and generating less waste. In my Master's thesis I managed to transform compounds extracted from pine trees into biologically-active amines in a one-pot procedure using ethanol instead of toluene as a solvent, a greener approach to the synthesis of amines that led to higher yields and selectivities than the traditional systems already used. In addition, I had the opportunity to take graduate-level courses about group theory, advanced mass spectrometry, nanotechnology and experimental nuclear magnetic resonance which contributed to my understanding of core concepts of my research area. I have also spent the 2012-2013 academic year in the U.S performing research at the University of California Davis as a recipient of the Science Without Borders scholarship. Studying abroad has introduced me to state-of-the-art science and allowed me to operate new instruments and learn new techniques not available in my home institution, besides the rich cultural exchange. In 2016, the American Chemical Society awarded me with a scholarship to travel to Panama, where I received intensive training on scientific outreach and communication. This opportunity has impacted the way I think chemistry can serve our society and made me realize I can do more for my country than I ever expected through science. Brazil has numerous economic and social inequality problems,and I think one of the most powerful ways to overcome them is through international scientific cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Research experience combined with extensive theoretical and practical training received during the baccalaureate and graduate-level courses encouraged me to take a step further in my career as a scientist. My professional goal is to become highly qualified in the field of catalysis and teach at an institution committed to social, economic, environmental and scientific development in my country. The PhD program in Chemistry at the University of Utah is a very good fit for me since it has a structure with all the resources I need to advance in my research, with Dr. X and Dr. Y and Dr. Z groups being very active and relevant to my field. The NMR facility have the capability of multinuclear detection, which is indispensable for my work in the frontier of organometallic chemistry and synthesis, as well as modern mass and optical spectrometers.

I am confident that the aforementioned characteristics make me a viable candidate for this graduate program. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my candidacy with the department faculty and provide further information. Thank you for your time and consideration.

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1. Brainstorm your ideas. First, he says, try to reframe the task at hand and get excited for the opportunity to write your statement of purpose. "Throughout the application process, you're afforded few opportunities to address the committee directly," he explains. "Here is your chance to truly speak directly to them.
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I am writing on behalf of my application for the Doctoral program in Chemistry at the University of X. I have earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from the Federal University of Viçosa (Brazil) in 2015 and a Master's degree in Inorganic Chemistry from the Federal University of Minas Gerais in 2017. The strong research on catalysis and new ...