Sample SOP for MS in Computer Science in Canada

Statement of Purpose

My interest in computers since my school days and the infinite possibilities that we can explore through this medium serve as my motivation to pursue a Master's in Applied Computer Science. From a young age, I always wanted to be a part of the software engineering industry. This resolve has only gotten stronger with my professional experience in the computer science domain. While working as an Associate Software Developer has given me numerous opportunities to prove my technical skills. However, it has also reinforced the fact that there is a lot more to learn and explore in computers, and therefore my decision to put my well-settled career on hold and apply for a Master's in Applied Computer Science. After the Master's program, I wish to take up the role of a developer with a leading IT giant such as [COMPANY_1] or [COMPANY_2], where I look forward to combining knowledge and skills on both the front and back end of applications in that role.

The seeds of independence were sown quite early when I was sent to a hostel for my senior secondary education in a different city. Staying away from the familiar comfort of the family did pinch me in the initial days, but it also made me responsible. I became self-motivated and went on to perform exceptionally well in my secondary and senior secondary examinations. I scored a CGPA of 9.2 and 93.8% in the secondary and senior secondary exams.

For my undergraduate program, I chose to study for a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communications. I chose this program to expose me to two of my similar interests: Computer science, Electronics and communication engineering. The undergraduate program was a whirlwind of different courses, labs, seminars, and practicals. An essential part of the program was my growing interest in computer science. If truth be told, I started having more interest in computers than in the core subjects. Projects were an essential part of the program, and I went on to do a project on an ECE topic allotted to me; working on this project brought forth my team skills. My project "Synchronized control automation extensive safety measures in smart train" was a combination of hardware and software; in this, I played a crucial role in the software part and developed webpages using HTML, CSS and coded using JAVA. I went on to intern with [COMPANY_3] and learned more about embedded systems, their properties, and the way they programmed to function. I especially enjoyed the programming aspect part.

I have conducted a Technical quiz forum with 50 students apart from participating in various workshops. I loved writing codes from scratch, trying out new functions or merging old ones that allowed me to see my growth as a programmer.

Given my interest in computers, when companies have started coming for campus placements in the final year of undergraduate, I decided to appear for interviews for roles in computer science. Eventually, I got placed with [COMPANY_4] and started my journey into the wide world of IT industry. I got familiar with the agile life cycle, which provided insights into the Software Development Life Cycle – from project scope to retirement. I have been working as an Associate Software Developer for the last two years. My role here has allowed me to collaborate on all stages of the systems development lifecycle, from requirement gathering to production releases. I have also built data cubes, data marts, and queries, maintaining every aspect of storage and translation, among other things. My interest in full-stack development has motivated me to pursue an online certification from [INSTITUTION_1]. This program teaches Python, Mongo DB, Data Structures, HTML, CSS, SQL, and AWS. I have built on my theoretical skills through this online certification. However, being an online certification, it lacks practical application. Having worked in the IT industry for the last two years, I have proven my technical skills and aptitude in this field. I now feel the call of the next frontier and wish to further augment my knowledge in the path of computers. Thus, my application to the Master's in Applied Computer Science program will further build on practical skills and experiential learning.

Canada has always been on top of my list when pursuing higher education from outside India. The excellent universities that dot Canada are the perfect place to build on my expertise in this field. The student-friendly environment and the comparatively lower cost of living are other reasons for choosing Canada. In addition, the Canadian educational system encourages cross-disciplinary studies and the development of transferable skills (e.g., critical thinking, teamwork, and communications) and uses cutting-edge technology and digital media.

[UNIVERSITY] provides the best world-class education that encourages cross-disciplinary studies and transferable skills. The Applied Computer Science program (MACS) at [UNIVERSITY] is equipped with core subjects such as Advanced Topics in Web Development, Data Management and Cloud computing. Along with its highly distinguished faculty, a milieu replete with academic activity and practical exposure and a graduate program that blends high-quality course work motivated me. This program will help me strengthen my technical skills and knowledge. The practical orientation, an essential part of this coursework, will give me the chance to get a clear understanding of the subject while also developing the skills to execute it. With the presence of novel, innovative labs like [LAB_NAME], the student atmosphere across the university must have acquired a vibrant and creative phase. I am sure and confident that my exposure to such initiatives would immensely augment my knowledge base and add tremendous value to my skill set, empowering me to achieve high strands in my long-term career path.