SOP Sample for MS in Computer Science in the US

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I somehow had a predilection towards technological advances from a very young age. During my schooling, I was always interested in the subject of computer basics and math compared to other subjects. Furthermore, in my free time, I used to explore the new computer that my dad gifted me and would always ponder about the working of various applications and software. With the same interest, I learned the C programming language before even beginning my undergraduate course in Computer Science.

I scored the highest in my 10th standard Board Examinations and secured the highest grade - a 10/10 GPA. My interest in Computers along with my hard work, sincerity, and commitment made the undergraduate program a rewarding experience. As an undergraduate student, I excelled in subjects like Artificial Intelligence, Big Data analytics, Design, and Analysis of Algorithms, Database management, Data structures, Software Architecture and Design Patterns, and math scoring top grades in all of these subjects and consistently being among the top 1% in the class with a CGPA of 9.14. These were the subjects that especially stimulated my interest in Computer Science as the practical sessions conducted for these courses awarded me the freedom to apply my logical skills and developed my attitude towards analyzing a problem. These subjects also enhanced my programming skills in languages such as C, C++, Java, and Python to an extent where I could create my algorithms to find my way out of a problem definition.

My academic proficiency helped me get scholarships during my sophomore, junior, and senior years. After completing my freshman year, I started attending various workshops and conferences that were not part of our undergraduate curriculum to improve my exposure and learn current and latest advances in technology. This zeal for knowledge landed me an internship at [COMPANY] and I was the only student from my college to receive an internship like that. This internship experience during the pandemic has changed my entire perspective about technology. I was assigned a project 'Data Lake for Analytics' during this period I coordinated with my team members to participate in the [HACKATHON_NAME] conducted by [COMPANY] and surprisingly in the competition full of experienced people I stood as runner-up. I received huge appreciation for the project 'App Health Score' which I designed in two days. Achievements and appreciations like these helped reinstate my aptitude in the field of computers.

Machine Learning seemed truly promising as I could pursue several pet projects using familiar programming languages. I slowly picked up the concepts of Machine Learning and worked on a project called 'Online Proctor Service' which aims at providing a proctoring environment for educational institutions to conduct examinations online during the pandemic.

Furthermore, I have taken an active part in organizing various events at my college. I was allowed to become the event head for the cultural fest in my second year of college, usually given to the seniors. My team management and supervisory skills were put to best use when I had to handle the circumstances associated with organizing events, like overcoming the possible grievances and unforeseen turnout. Besides academics, I love engaging myself in a plethora of extra-curricular activities including sports such as Swimming, Badminton, in addition, I am a voracious book-reader and I write e-books. I won several competitions in my primary and secondary schooling days. I still remember receiving an award for securing State 1st in a debate competition. Being recognized as a person with good leadership qualities, I was made the team leader for the final year project in our college. Further, my inclination to give back to society made me an active member of the social club at college, a noble organization that works towards educating children. Maintaining the right balance between academics and extracurricular activities, I was actively involved in conducting seminars and events every week in my department.

After finishing my graduation, I joined as an Associate at [COMPANY]. It is the second-largest professional services network in the world. [COMPANY] is considered one of the Big Four accounting firms. Here at [COMPANY], I started to work with a Fortune 500 client, where I worked on a few applications. One is a payment portal for the firm which bestows payment services using credit cards. While on the other side, providing Identity and Access management services through [PLATFORM] for a few other applications.

I believe pursuing a Master's degree with a focus on Computer Science would catalyze my career progress, and the program offered at [UNIVERSITY] is perfectly tailored to my necessities. After completing my Master's, I would like to work as a researcher at leading research centers and deliver better ideas at advancing technology. Being a part of your academia will help me explore and nurture my interests in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence, and to use them in building more primitive solutions that make life easier. Given my experience, I believe that I am a quick learner, a smart worker, and an ethical and diligent professional. Supplementary to these qualities, getting bestowed with world-class technical skills will empower me to craft cutting-edge solutions in real-time. It is my primary motto of pursuing a Master's degree in Computer Science at [UNIVERSITY].

[PROFESSOR]'s research on Video-based Activity Recognition through Tight Integration of Visual Reasoning and Plan Recognition also his prodigious contribution to AI Magazine and [PROFESSOR]'s Fake News Detection. Browsing further, I came across the Data Mining and Machine Learning (DMML) lab which appears to be the perfect platform for me to work with fellow students and professors and contribute to many interesting ongoing projects. The Computer Science course at your university is well-reputed around the world and I will be grateful to be a part of it.

I look forward to the boundless opportunities that the university holds and I will contribute my best to the ever-increasing stature of your prestigious institute. I sincerely request you to consider my candidature and I thank the admission committee for taking out the time to review my application. I await with pleasure to be a part of your university with full financial assistance.