Hello all,
This is completely out of my comfort zone, so I knew I should give it a go. I am applying to business MA/Msc programs in London and I do not have a business academic background. Since I stumbled across this site today, I thought I'd ask for any constructive criticism and suggestions for my SOP below. My personal deadline to submit my applications is tomorrow (March 8). I removed company/school/city names. Thank you in advance and I will try not to become overwhelmed by any responses :)
The prompts/instructions: What are your reasons for applying for this postgraduate course or research degree? Please refer to career and personal reasons as appropriate. Indicate how you intend to manage your studies with your other commitment? How will you benefit from a postgraduate course or research degree at this time? How might this postgraduate course or research degree fit in with your career plan over the next 5 year?
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An educated mind coupled with passion, enthusiasm and determination is a powerful force in our world. Many people have the passion, but lack other components, which can result in settling for less. To prevent this, I believe that life is more enjoyable and worthwhile not in spite of, but rather because of the obstacles and mistakes one must overcome on the road to inevitable triumphs. For me, my greatest achievements have come to fruition due to my ability to rise to any challenge in my academic and professional pursuits.
Growing up as a military child-having lived in Germany-I am no stranger to constant change, challenging environments, and the need to apply a different approach and perspective in daily life. In 2006, I studied abroad in Hong Kong and interned with [company name]. Exposure to different cultures and structures is a great foundation for a future leader, innovator and thought provoker. My quest to become all three requires continued growth and education to stand out as an exemplary example of such. These qualities, along with my academic and professional experience, make me an ideal candidate for your MSc, International Business Management program.
Although my academic background lies in social sciences, I have held various positions with large and medium-sized companies, such as [company name]. Since 2010, I have worked in advertising and marketing roles from ad sales to sales planning on the agency and publisher sides. I love what I do and am adamant about my career development. I am excited by consumer behavior research, marketing trends and innovative technology that helps companies reach consumers. Since London is a global market hub, it is the only logical destination after my successes in [city name]. I view myself as a brand and I am ready to take my brand international. There will always be constant change due to new technology that requires consumer needs to fluctuate and steady challenges placed upon companies to supply demand and satisfy need ahead of the curve. With this program I can better prepare myself for these situations. Additionally, I will have the chance to improve my theoretical and practical skills, demonstrate my strategic and analytical skills, and test my competency as a future business manager. I am also attracted to the marketing specialization option of this program. Advertising and marketing campaigns are everywhere; they are a staple of every company's business model and plan, and they have a scalable influence over consumers that is undeniable. This program's content-by teaching business core modules that intertwine with other relatable areas such as marketing-is interdisciplinary. It aligns with my learning style and philosophy because of my interdisciplinary academic approach as an undergraduate and graduate student.
The culturally diverse learning environment and structure [school name] offers, and that which I thrive in, is necessary to ensure my success in securing a management role with a top global company, such as [company name] or [company name]. I know this is the right time to pursue this program, as my motivation is high. Upon completing my master's in media studies in May, I am ready to push myself onward toward what I still have yet to master. Within the next five years, I expect to hold a senior marketing executive role, equipped with the business acumen and refined specialty obtained from this program; and, to solidify my business expertise with an MBA. This program affirms that those of all walks of life are welcome that have "a willingness to learn, develop and change."
In 2010, I moved to [city name] with $800 and determination. Two years later, I'm gainfully employed, completing my master's degree with a 3.6 GPA and more determined than ever. I know my capabilities, and my only wish is to be admitted into an atmosphere where I will be guaranteed to improve and gain new skills and knowledge so that I may achieve all of the above.
Since 2010, I have worked in advertising and marketing roles, from ad sales to sales planning on the agency and publisher sides.
There will always be constant change, due to new technology that requires consumer needs to fluctuate, and steady challenges placed upon companies to supply demand and satisfy need ahead of the curve.
Your essay is excellent, I could hardly find anything to edit. Good luck with school and have fun!
:)
