SOP Sample for MS in Data Science in Canada - Industry Experienced

Statement of Purpose

I have been passionate about computer science and mathematics since my childhood days, and I wanted to explore the subjects to fulfill my curiosity. I was particularly interested in computer science and was always looking for ways to understand its practical applications. Everything changed in my life when I was introduced to computer programming during my formative years in school, as I read tech magazines and implemented the code provided in them. I also learned how to use the internet at that time (around 2001) and communicated with my father, who went abroad to attend his professional activities. Fascinated and amazed by the wonders of computer science and its vastness, I made up my mind to pursue this as a career later on. A rewarding undergraduate program equipped me with the knowledge and introduced me to the world of data science. Subsequently, through various internships, projects, higher studies, and professional experiences, I realized that I could solve more problems and develop valuable solutions if only I had advanced knowledge of Data Science from the perspective of corporate environment. This realization steered me toward the application of a master's degree in this subject.

Hailing from a family that taught me the qualities of hard work and determination, I always persevered to make the best of my educational opportunities. But I never restricted myself from exploring computer science and took it as an elective subject in class 12, as it allowed me to be creative and learn new concepts. I was a dedicated student at school and completed my senior secondary years with commendable marks, and this prepared me for the next step in my academic career. Later, I enrolled in [UNIVERSITY_1] to pursue a bachelor's degree in Computer Science Engineering. The enriching curriculum of the institute allowed me to dive deep into the varied domains of the subject and understand its applications. I was very keen on understanding the nuances of programming and spent a considerable amount of time coding Java and C++ programs. These four years amplified my thirst for learning concepts of Computer Science, but I had this visceral feeling that there is so much more I can learn. It made me decide to join a Master's course in CSE at the prestigious [UNIVERSITY_2], where my academic disposition was molded further.

I was eager to delve deeper into the field of Computer Science and learn about the practical uses of technology. With this motivation, I worked on an array of projects to garner a hands-on understanding of various concepts and expand my knowledge base. One of the most significant projects I worked on was "Test It", an Android application that enabled users to take part in exciting quizzes. The project equipped us with the skills of Android, Java, SQL, PHP, and Apache. The next significant project I engaged myself in was a Heart Disease Prediction tool developed using Python and Scikit-learn. The application was capable of predicting heart disease after analyzing patient information from Cleveland heart disease dataset. Other essential projects which allowed me to expand my knowledge included a Credit Card Defaulter Prediction System, which prevented credit card complications, and a Crack Detection on Ball Bearing of Motor project where Python and Tensorflow were used to detect cracks in a motor.

With the college practicum, I looked for opportunities beyond my academic obligations to apply my skills and gain industry experience. My work as an Intern at [UNIVERSITY_3] offered me the perfect avenue to achieve this objective. As a final year Bachelor's degree student, I developed a Heart Disease Prediction System under the guidance of a senior professor which later helped me to write a conference paper in ICACDS-2016 (Springer: CCIS). This is when I was introduced to the applications and concepts of Machine Learning & Data Science, and it really fascinated me. My next significant internship experience was at [COMPANY_1], where I was exposed to multiple modern technologies along with understanding code structure and how to refactor code to make it efficient. The opportunity also exposed me to a professional environment where I learned to work together with seasoned programmers and managers. The other enriching internship experiences I would like to include is my stint at the [ORGANIZATION_1], where I learned the network structure of [ORGANIZATION_1]. In addition, my experience at the [ORGANIZATION_2] enabled me to understand Linux Shell Scripting and work on a project called Student Information Management System. These experiences allowed me to strengthen my technical concepts and the internship at [UNIVERSITY_3] boosted my interest in data science.

Together with expanding my knowledge spectrum through the college coursework, I also decided to steepen my learning curve through online courses and certifications. To that end, I have completed an array of courses on Computer Networking, Ethical Hacking, Python Programming, and Shell Scripting. I have also attended various stimulating workshops on Robotics and Cisco Networking Design & Implementation. This helped me navigate through various technologies and connect with eminent professionals during the workshops.

Having a strong conceptual foundation and relevant technical skills, I received a full-time job at [COMPANY_1] after completing my internship there. Apart from learning new technologies, I received multiple opportunities to solve real-world problems. I was part of a mixed unit assembly project, where I used my problem-solving and technical skills to find the optimum solution. In addition, I was involved in a project where we had to help our customers migrate from one version of our software to another. Here, I utilized machine learning to determine the configurations that might affect the process and eventually found a way to execute the task efficiently. Furthermore, I was also involved in initiation, conceptualization, and prototyping of a project where Machine Learning was used to select geometric entity in our CAD software, which further led to filing of corporate patent. Even though I was appreciated and rewarded for my efforts, I felt a better understanding of Machine Learning and Data Science would have assisted me in providing better solutions and its applications in professional software and corporate industry required another level of knowledge.

Besides my professional obligations, I also spent a considerable amount of time in extra-curricular activities. I organized various college events such as Tech Fests and led these events occasionally. Also, I won a fashion show at my department's fest, worked as the technical coordinator of multiple fests, and was also the Executive Member of the Computer Science and Engineering Department.

After developing a commendable professional and academic profile, I believe now is the perfect time for me to take the next step in my career and pursue higher education. I believe I have the ideal momentum and skills to acquire advanced knowledge and enhance my career prospects. At this juncture, I aim to enroll for a Master's coursework in Data Science and develop an exhaustive knowledge base on the subject. During the degree, I wish to draw on my academic and professional experiences as a foundation for studying advanced theories. The world-class [UNIVERSITY_4] (where [PROFESSOR_1] teaches and alma mater of scholars like [PROFESSOR_2]) will offer me the platform and skills relevant to becoming a successful data science professional in the future and pursue my passion for developing valuable solutions for the betterment of society.