SOP Sample for MS in Geospatial Science in the UK

Statement of Purpose

With advanced technologies like Satellites, Geospatial tools and modern computer applications like Data and Digital technologies, we now have tools to map and analyze our world to the grain. Being a student of Geology, I was introduced to GIS & Remote Sensing technology in my undergraduate studies. To me, GIS represents the pinnacle of modern sciences as it is an amalgamation of multiple domains of knowledge. Also, the technology has a very wide scope of application in areas like Environment Science, Public Safety, Resource Mapping and Education. Thus, I have decided to pursue higher education in the field through the reputed Master's in Remote Sensing and GIS program offered by [UNIVERSITY_NAME].

'Science is simply the word to describe a method of organizing our curiosity.' I was very much inspired by this quote that I heard while attending Science classes at school. This curiosity helped me strengthen my liking for science experiments, activities and practicals, which later on became the basis of my future interests in the subject. During my school days, I performed well in Mathematics and Science and I also had liking for music. My participation in an essay writing competition titled 'Youth Training Program' on Oil Conservation organized by [ORGANIZATION_NAME], got me a prize for writing a visionary article on the future of Oil and Petroleum industry. I completed my schooling at [HIGH_SCHOOL_NAME]. During later years of school, I also appeared for Elementary and Intermediate exams in drawing and secured a 'C' grade in it.

Since childhood, I was a voracious reader and used to read books, blogs and magazines regularly. My earlier interest in science led me to take it up further. In the course of graduation, I decided to study Chemistry, Microbiology along Geology. On careful introspection and research, I finally decided to pursue the B.Sc. (Geology) program at [COLLEGE_NAME], [CITY]. The subject is a perfect amalgamation of arts, science and research. As I continued to learn the delicate and intrinsic interactions between the physical and human environment, my understanding of the world expanded. This helped me in understanding the interdisciplinary way of how all these subjects are related. My interest in Geology kindled through my school days and I dived deep into its study. I developed skills in practical geology, x-ray crystallography technique, preparing topographic sheets, studying rock outcrops and fossils, recording observation in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary terrain.

Besides academics, I enjoyed volunteering for a social cause like education with a firm named '[ORGANIZATION_NAME].' Herein, we helped spread awareness about education through various means and around the [CITY] district. Along with this, trekking has been one of my favorite hobbies which also nurtured in me the love for nature. This enriched my understanding of the topography of that particular region. The course also provided a strong technical mindset through practical learning opportunities like academic projects, research projects, laboratory sessions and seminars. In the last year of my graduation, a workshop was organized by the geology department, [CITY] in December 2015 entitled, "Methodologies and Applications of Hydrogeology in Ground Water Resource Management." We were taught how to collect water samples, and illustration for water samples analysis was also shown. They also explained to us the detailed process of the perched water table. This workshop opened up new avenues in Geology for me and helped me in expanding my understanding of this field.

During the course of my bachelor's, we went on different excursion tours and learned more about Deccan Volcanic Province, collected rock samples, igneous flow structure, natural bridge, Giant Plagioclase Basalts (GPB). In [MUSEUM_NAME] we had seen different types of cavity minerals, quaternary sedimentary deposits along fracture zone. In my final year, I had an opportunity to visit [LOCATION_NAME], which is part of the giant Sahyadri Western Regions which are considered as the most diverse biodiversity hotspot. Herein, I acquired the knowledge of dyke, apophyses, Ropy Lava structure, and columnar joints. The project experiences helped me apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classes to practical experiences in the field. We learned much about physical data collection and gained valuable insight into the relationship between life and our physical environment.

Owing to some major family and financial constraints, after my graduation, I started taking up home tuitions to meet the financial expenses. In this time, I taught Mathematics and Science to High School students. This elevated my teaching skills and gave me a very different experience. In order to remain in touch with my core field of interest, I kept reading the research articles and reviewing/reading new literature. In lieu of this, I learned how to search using different platforms like Google Scholar. After reading through such articles, I was introduced to the vast domain of GIS. I started collecting more information about the same. Finally, I decided to penetrate deeper into this field which would lead to master a degree.

I started doing my thorough research for different destinations across the globe. This helped me to conclude that the United Kingdom is one of the leading educational hubs. The UK has an established track record of providing a consistent and high standard of education in various fields. It has managed to evolve with time and allow more flexibility for the students yet creating a balance between the industry requirements and educational quality. I found that the study system is of exceptional standard and intense; though being of shorter duration yet providing excellent education. Universities present diversity in education along with state-of-the-art infrastructure along with wide availability of scholarships. English being the most widely spoken language invites people from all over the globe making it a cultural hotspot. This made it to the top of my list for higher education.

At the time of gathering information for the programs of my interest, I came across the course from [UNIVERSITY_NAME] which is offering a very different kind of program. This is a full-time course named, MSc in Remote Sensing and GIS. The areas covered under this program are Advanced Research Skills 1: science communication and data analysis, Advanced Skills in Geographic Information Systems, Advanced Skills in Remote Sensing, Applied Geospatial Skills in Industry, Fundamentals of Remote Sensing and GIS, Remote Sensing Issues. These modules will help me understand the basics concepts still giving the broader aspects of the topic. The Remote Sensing module will provide it as an application for land use, agriculture, forestry, mapping, ocean and coastal monitoring, etc.

The opportunity to write and work on a dissertation would assist me in establishing new objectives and exploring niche areas in my field. I hope to develop highly polished research and practical experience. Thus, a Masters education will allow me to apply Remote Sensing & GIS techniques for various fields. This will further lead me in demonstrating my abilities acquired during the program that is certainly required for being an independent GIS Analyst. After this program, I aim to be a professional GIS Analyst. My intention is to use GIS Techniques for the betterment of mankind and hope to serve the community. The GIS application in almost all fields will help in implementing and improving infrastructure for all. Besides, I am looking for a stable position with an established company eg. [COMPANY_NAME], [COMPANY_NAME], [COMPANY_NAME], [COMPANY_NAME] and [COMPANY_NAME].

Thus, I look forward to a fruitful study experience and undergo academic and professional development at [UNIVERSITY_NAME].