SOP Sample for MS in Computer Science in Canada

Statement of Intent

"Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value." – Albert Einstein

My limited experience with life thus far has taught me immensely; I realized that everything that I do is essentially going to impact not just me and my future but also my loved ones. I also learnt that everything that my parents asked of me is not from a Parent Handbook but is a gist of their own learning from life that they share in the hope that I learn vicariously without essentially repeating their mistakes. Today, one of my strongest convictions is that work ethics and human values are the quintessential lighthouses that guide even the most disoriented traveller to the shores of success.

Ever since I could access technology, computers have fascinated me. When combined with the Internet, it was like an entire new world opened its door to me. My initial interactions with this technology marvel were limited to just playing games but later I started to disassemble my computer's CPU and assign latest graphic cards and more RAM to it so that I could play latest games. By the time I went to high school, computers had left a deep impression on me and I realized that their ubiquitous presence had an impact on almost everything in life. It was not until my 8th grade when I got a personal computer, and by the time I had picked a few basics of hardware and software I was dying to figure it out further. My teacher in my school days, who was aware of my love for mathematics and computers, reaffirmed my desire to study computers during my undergraduate studies. All of these made me tech-savvy, which eventually led to my decision to pursue a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) degree in Computer Engineering at the highly reputed [UNIVERSITY NAME], India.

During my graduation, I studied various subjects that allowed me a view into aspects of computers that I often wondered about. I learned about how to create algorithms and the related statistics for its execution through the course on analysis of algorithms. This also taught me to select optimal algorithms for any problem statement, and to create solutions that would optimize the usage of time and space without compromising the efficiency. Furthermore, I studied data warehousing and mining, whereby I found my interest in data modelling, which would turn out to be the career that I would be involved in in the future. The fact that the algorithms that were involved are even in use in the data science domain today augmented my interest in the subject. Eventually I also studied applied mathematics, which has always been my strongest and favourite subject. I have performed very well in mathematics during the first two years of engineering. Thus, I learned the key links between mathematical principles and computers. This module focused on the application of concepts such as Fourier transform, dual integration, complex numbers, matrix applications and so on, that enhanced my participation in various aspects of computer science.

My final year project in a team of three students revolved around security and Internet of Things (IOT). We were determined to design a project that comes handy to the patroller. The project was titled 'Spy-guard' using RF-ID and it was aimed at helping those who are constantly patrolling the campuses, grounds that included security guards, patroller, or scouts. We designed a security monitoring system that alerts the supervisor through a messaging enabled Bluetooth operated RF-ID scanner device held by the patroller scanning the campus. Along with the location of the patroller who had the scanner, the log of scans is also transmitted to the supervisor, thus improving the security and response time in case of a mishap. We had published a paper for this project in a recognized online journal [JOURNAL NAME] and received a certificate for the publication.

Having come this far in the field of computers, I believe that I am ready to take my skills and knowledge a step up on the ladder. Passionate about learning new things, I have completed certifications in Python ([ORGANIZATION NAME]), Tableau and AWS and have been consistently participative in events such as Hackathon, programming at [PLATFORM NAME] (Gold badge in Python). I have learnt a lot through these platforms that have helped me solve complex coding scenarios.

My long-term goal in life is to be a technologist engaged in managing innovations and finding creative solutions and re-engineering of existing systems using technology. This is also what I aspire to learn during my graduate studies program. I believe that the world of technology is growing at an exponential rate and I want to contribute to the world of computing with my skills and knowledge in the field of Computer Science. Such aspirations demand solid foundation and profundity in my chosen subject. I am currently working with company [COMPANY NAME] as a Software Engineer; I have learned a lot about processes involved in developing projects and its applications. I have been part of multiple projects which involved methodologies ranging from waterfall to Agile-SCRUM, also my continuous interaction with client has helped me lot in grasping apt project requirements from client and delivering them precise on-time solutions.

It would not be far-fetched to say that I am driven by curiosity and fuelled by ambition of becoming a renowned Senior Specialist Architect, but this journey towards final goal involves lot of challenges, initial aim is to start the growth ladder as a Software Engineer and grow exponentially in coming years. After completion of my masters, I would aim to work with [COMPANY NAME] as Software Developer or Solution Architect.

I now seek to gain admission to the Master of Applied Computer Science at the [UNIVERSITY NAME]. There are two reasons why I believe that graduate study in a well-known department is important as it will give ample of opportunities for a student looking towards a software engineer career. Firstly, the curriculum of professional master's program in software engineering matches my expectations. Secondly, I feel that with the department's comprehensive facilities and competent faculties doing quality research work in the field of Computer Science, it would be the ideal place for me to pursue graduate studies. I am confident that my prior experiences and skillset will help me settle in the exigent academic environs at your institute, and I am sure that my ability to socialize and communicate will allow me to be an active part of the collegiate activities on campus. I aspire to advance my professional knowledge along with educational learnings in field of Computer Science. I am certain that the education and experience I stand to gain through studying at the [UNIVERSITY NAME] will mould my skills. The MS shall engage me rigorously for two years of learning and I shall not be found lacking in any manner and will keep up to the expectations of the faculty. I strongly believe that when my effort and my strengths are mentored in the empowering learning environment of your exceptional University Campus, I can achieve my goals. I also bring to the university my ability to work with teams, a dedication and diligence born out of the knowledge that the only way for me is the way forward.

[APPLICANT NAME]