Volunteer projects, studying or practice abroad, research grants - whatever you apply to, there will be the need to write a motivation letter or personal statement.
You should not take this mandatory point as another challenge though it is worth noting that a well-written motivation letter plays a key role in the selection of applicants.
This is your chance to add information about the most important items on your resume: education, experience, intentions, and goals. Writing such an essay doesn't always go smoothly.
However, if you want to complete this task all on your own - keep reading this article!
It Is About You
The letter accompanying your application to
universities in Europe must be unique, so do not try to use other people's thoughts and adjust them to yourself. It is worth looking at examples, but not more. When drafting, follow a standard structure: introduction, main part, conclusion.
Introduce yourself, describe your personality in a few sentences. But do not rewrite your resume, especially if it is part of a document package.
Ideally, the first paragraph must be really catchy. In the main part, focus on the program you have chosen and the motivation driving you. Write about your goals and how your participation will help in achieving them.
Put your goals in a global context, stating how your participation can benefit your country, university, or company. Then talk about your abilities to prove that you not only want to but can also achieve what you want.
Finally, it is worth mentioning what you can do for the foundation or the organizers of the program. Tell why you share their values and want to be on their team.
Finish the letter with a short story about your plans after training or practice. Write only the facts about yourself. Make sure you are fully compliant with the selection criteria.
The Letter Must Match the Program
Read the curriculum or internship requirements carefully. Make sure the letter reflects your sincere interest. Imagine you've already been chosen: which courses will you attend? How will the program help you?
If you are applying to study at different universities, the motivation letter should be changed each time. Even if your field does not change, the course structure or research area may vary considerably.
The admission officer needs to know why you are interested in participating. How will this program help you become better and why your choices are not random?
It is possible that your plans will change when you receive a grant. But the detailed description proves that you are making a conscious choice, not just willing to take advantage of the offer.
The Letter Should Stand Out
Now it's your job to prove you're the right candidate. You may have infinitely long lists of achievements and serious experience. But there are hundreds of applications and very little time for the commission to make a decision.
Simply listing your skills and intentions is not enough. Demonstrate your great desire to participate and passion for the chosen field.
Let your shortcomings become virtues. For example, if you have not studied abroad yet, it can also be used as an advantage. When you return after participating in the program, you will be a different person, more open and flexible.
Back your strengths up with concrete examples. If you write that you are willing to work hard, mention your most successful previous projects.
The main thing is that your arguments consistently convince the commission that all the experience you have gained will be very useful in this program. Write succinctly and logically, avoid templates: let the text be yours, it will make it lively and memorable.
The Letter Should Sound Diplomatic
Many grant foundations and organizations belong to some political party or promote certain values. Everyone has their own opinions, and the organizers will certainly appreciate it.
However, you should not express your views sharply or take extreme positions on sensitive issues in the motivational letter.
Who knows, maybe your views will change? Familiarity with the specifics of the organization, its mission and projects can help you understand what kind of person is required for this program, and become one.
On the Last Note: Composing a Successful Essay Takes Time
Finally, one more tip for you: start early. Never leave composing the paper to the last minute, hour, or a day. You'll probably fail to come up with a great paper overnight.
Hopefully, this article was of help to all of you looking for new possibilities. Master your skills of preparing great admission essay and open doors to many awesome experiences!
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