SOP Sample for MS in Computer Science in the USA

Statement of Purpose

"I think everyone should get a little exposure to computer science because it really forces you to think in a slightly different way, and it's a skill that you can apply in life in general, whether you end up in computer science or not." - Tony Hsieh

A fascination for Science & Technology and keen interest in the ever-growing world of technology motivated me to take up engineering. I chose to major in Mechanical Engineering with an intense urge to delve into this challenging field. During my undergraduate program I learned the various fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering which, together with practical coursework, reinforced my interest.

Right from my school days, I had a penchant towards Mathematics, Science and research in general. This basic interest led me to take up Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry as my major subjects in high school. I was astounded by the power of energy, and this interest made me pursue Mechanical Engineering. I would like to present my past performance as my credentials for success in my future endeavors. My innate strength has been my quantitative and analytical abilities which instilled in me a special interest for mathematics and physics. I had opted for the same in my 10+2 with good marks. I was placed in the top 10% in my school, which led me to take the engineering entrance examination. This performance helped me in getting admission into [UNIVERSITY], India.

During the course of my undergraduate study I was exposed to various courses with applications like C, C++ and basic introduction to computing. I secured good results in my engineering. I was well versed in programming languages like C and developed a huge interest in computers, so during my undergraduate years, I started learning various courses like Python, which made me decide to pursue MS in Computer Science.

As a person with a wide range of interests, I participated in various extracurricular activities during school and college which helped me grow as a well-rounded person. Over the last few years, I have also discovered my passion for adventure which has taken me to new places and has brought me in contact with people from various backgrounds. Likewise, I have been active in corporate social life annual camps wherein we bring in underprivileged children from our society for an office visit. Interacting with them has helped me develop a better understanding of their lives and hardships, and I have learned to listen and empathize. I aspire to build on these qualities in the coming years and tread the entrepreneurial path in the future, establishing my own embedded systems development firm. Excellence in any sphere of life can be achieved through determination, hard work, perseverance and dedication.

I was really amazed by the potential of computers and their use in the mechanical field when I was exposed to subjects like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM). This motivated me to do my final year project on machining of various materials using CNC machines, which involved learning CNC machine G-Code. I had to learn about the network connection that connected multiple CNC machines to a single computer. I also prepared a computer-aided model for the components that were being machined in my project. By the time the project was completed successfully, I got to know how computers are being used effectively and efficiently in industries.

When I was doing my project in final year, I realized that the mechanical field alone is not sufficient—software systems must also be involved to complete projects successfully. For example, in modern mechanical systems, coding languages are required to perform tasks in subjects like robotics and communication systems. So I decided to pursue my master's in Computer Science so I can complete the project which I started in my undergraduate studies. To fulfill that project, I require a suitable curriculum which will help me complete the project perfectly. That is why I have chosen [UNIVERSITY], as it exactly suits my needs to achieve my goals.

I am very much interested in pursuing MS Computer Science at [UNIVERSITY]. I realize the need for me to study at the center stage of activity in these fields at your university in the USA. My earnest desire to continue my future studies at your graduate school stems from the fact that it is one of the top universities in the USA, having a fine record of academic excellence and backed up by expert faculty and research facilities.

The other reason why I want to study at your esteemed university is that it provides the kind of exposure needed to broaden my thinking and eliminate any insular prejudices that might still be prevalent in me. Your university is a confluence of people from every nationality, religion and race. Overall development of personality can be achieved, and it helps me to broaden my concept from the narrower confines of nationalism to internationalism.

I am certain that [UNIVERSITY] is the right choice for me, since it provides a rare combination of academic advantages. It is one of the most versatile universities providing individual attention and substantial academic resources along with superior education in the field of Computer Science. I will obtain an education that gives me both the technical skills and the intellectual discipline to become a leader in industry. It is the meeting spot of numerous social lives and cultural ideas. In all, it is a comprehensive university that furnishes an education that will serve me well in my career and prepare me for a lifetime of learning.

I am clear as to my career aspirations. Education, I believe, is a lifelong process. I therefore wish to pursue a doctoral degree after my MS and combine research with my future career. I am fully aware that your curriculum requires that I summon all my resources, and I aver that I have the necessary commitment, intelligence and stamina to look forward to doing it all. I am convinced that my study at your department would be a meaningful and rewarding experience. I look forward to having a long and profitable association with your esteemed university. I especially thank you for giving me the opportunity to express myself.

[NAME]