SOP Sample for MS in International Development | UK Fresh Graduate

Statement of Purpose

Coming from South Asia, I am cognizant of the inequalities and development challenges that third-world countries face. Pondering about this situation, I opted for Humanities in high school and my electives were History, Political Science, Geography, and English. I was aghast to learn of the egregious behavior of mankind. Keen to do something about it, I chose to do a BA (HONS.) in Political Science from [UNIVERSITY_1]. During my course, of the many subjects I studied, I veered towards political theory, International relations, global politics, Development, and modern social movement. As a member of [ORGANIZATION_1], I did a project working in the social media team, where I wrote current political updates, attended global youth events, etc.

Following my aspirations of making a difference, I am currently pursuing my Master's in Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding from [UNIVERSITY_2] which will be completed by June 2022. It was during this course I became more entrenched in contemporary scenarios.

I started doing certain internships with the commencement of my Master's. The first one was [ORGANIZATION_2] where I did research in political and current affairs. I then volunteered at [ORGANIZATION_3], an NGO, as a Social Work Intern. At [ORGANIZATION_4], I was a Campus Ambassador and helped build a team of valuable interns for the [ORGANIZATION_4]'s Vaccination Program. I handled the entire recruitment cycle while making sure team members were aware of what they had to do. Lastly, I joined [ORGANIZATION_5], and I am currently doing research in the field of gender, sexuality, etc. for articles that will be published. I am simultaneously pursuing a P.G. Diploma course in International law and Diplomacy from [ORGANIZATION_6] to enhance my knowledge in this realm as international law is imperative to have a better understanding of the international structure and allows me to develop insights into the global legal system and its influence on both national and international policies.

I took part in a debate competition at [UNIVERSITY_2], on the topic 'differences must be integrated not annihilated', and spoke for the motion. In addition, I recently completed a 10-week course "International Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding" and secured a certificate from [PROFESSOR_1], Director, [ORGANIZATION_7].

With my future in mind, I decided to enhance my linguistic skills and knowledge and I am learning French from [ORGANIZATION_8]. I am currently in level B1.2 and Spanish from [ORGANIZATION_9] from which I have completed level C1.2.

In my free time, I have volunteered for an NGO. Working here has made me more empathetic, responsible, and resilient. I have started appreciating how important it is to have a feeling of community, possess an orientation to live cooperatively with others, and have a lifestyle that values the common good above one's own interests and desires.

My next academic step is to enhance my knowledge in the field of gender in international development. By studying abroad, I will be able to better myself academically, improve on my career prospects and contribute to global development. I will be able to gain a different perspective by studying in a cosmopolitan environment, amidst classmates who will come from different parts of the world.

During my Master's, I wish to study Gender analysis in international development to study: feminism, gender studies, cultural studies, and sexuality studies, along with interdisciplinary research in international political economy, civil-military relations, international development, and the study of men and masculinities. Hate Crime and Sexual Violence.

During the Master's in Gender analysis in international development, I hope to explore the complexity of gender, which is understood to be a product of the often unequal entangling of global and local forces in the region. I intend to develop integrative perspectives in Gender Studies by investigating the complex relations between the symbolic and the social order, the entangled relations between gender, race, and class, and the dynamics combining the (re-)production of social persons and societies. Finally, by focusing on gender in all of these senses I hope to develop self-reflective perspectives in this field. As a feminist, I want to understand international relations through a gender lens and address relevant issues such as migration, human rights, and security; Poverty and Development; Gender Inequality: Theory and Evidence; Globalisation, Trade, and Development; The Politics and Governance of Development, etc.

I am applying to [UNIVERSITY_3] to get international exposure, as going forward, I want to work in the humanitarian field in the UN-based in different continents – the Red Cross (ICRC) or International NGOs, working for Gender Equity, Peacebuilding, and Human Rights. I would prefer to work in Africa or Latin America. My knowledge of the Spanish and French languages will hold me in good stead. An alternative is to enter academia and contribute to 'think tanks'. I look to [UNIVERSITY_3] to help me achieve my goals.