A motivation letter (aka Personal Statement) is a mandatory part of the questionnaire, which is attached when submitting documents to a foreign educational institution. Often this factor is underestimated by the applicant and is revered for pure formality. Instead of using the chance of enrollment, applicants simply find an example of a motivation letter and replace it with their name, the name of the university and some other provisions.
Successfully and competently written motivation letter will make it possible to pass the contest even with obviously losing points for exams. Many people look for an example of a motivation letter on the Internet, but they lose sight of the fact that this letter must be unique. If it is secondary, that is, it is similar in style and content to the rest of such letters, then the applicant’s chance to get the coveted place is sharply reduced.
Instead of giving an example of a motivation letter, it will be much more useful and correct to indicate the basic rules and principles of its preparation. Accumulate all your knowledge and imagination. The right example of motivational writing can inspire the leadership of the university and the applicant to unexpectedly productive cooperation. It is very important to be independent and creative when writing: devote at least forty minutes to thoroughly think over the real reasons why you want to become a student of this particular university, what it will give you, and what you yourself can offer to a potential educational institution.
Motivation letter structure
In order to make your motivation letter easy to read, you should adhere to a clear plan. It should consist of introduction, main part and conclusion. Do not forget that the letter is intended to attract attention, to interest the reader. Therefore, the main idea is better placed in one of the first paragraphs. The main part involves a list of your academic achievements, an average grade, and a list of publications and developments on major topics. The following are your personal qualities and reasons that prompted you to choose this particular institution as an option to continue education. Conclusion is always a look into the future. Tell us about your plans, about how you see your cooperation with the university, what you expect from it. You should know that a motivation letter, an example in Russian of which you will find, must be extremely competently translated into a foreign language.
Rules and tips for writing a motivation letter
Be concise. Brevity is the soul of wit. Usually there is a set framework that limits the volume of the letter. In addition, this is a great chance to demonstrate to the admissions committee how you are able to formulate and state your thoughts. Stick to an academic presentation style. Ask for a motivational example letter to the university from those who have already submitted and enrolled.
Do not forget that this is an important document, part of your resume, you should not use slang and jargon when writing. They can cause conflicting feelings in the reader and create an erroneous impression of your abilities. Use drafts. Before you make the final version, try to make a few draft options, each of which will focus on the different sides of your personality, its features. Then you can distance yourself and objectively assess the strengths and weaknesses of each option, choose the best and make it the final one.
Ask for advice. It is often difficult for a person to assess their strengths and skills. The outside view is perfect for this: ask your teachers, friends and parents to help you. Listen to their opinion, maybe they can submit a couple of good ideas.