Letter of Intent
Chathurie Nupearachchi
Physicist with good vibes while acting multiple roles as a lecturer, researcher, education consultant, STEM activist, writer and speaker
How to write a letter of intent?
Most of the time, a statement of purpose (SOP) is considered as a similar document to letter of intent (LOI). It is a brief and a well-focused essay that is submitted as a requirement to the admission of a university. LOI highlights the intent of enrolling by providing the necessary information about your educational and career background. It is a helpful document to the admission authorities to check whether a particular student is a suitable candidate for their educational program. So, it is your duty to show that you are a good fit for the study program and emphasize that the university is not doing a mistake by selecting yourself.
Just remember there is no perfect LOI format. The most important thing is that it should both fit your personality and the requirements of the specific university. However, there are important parts that should be evident in every LOI according to my knowledge.
They are,
· Professional experiences,
· Educational history and accomplishments in the specific area of study,
· Research interests if any,
· Your future goals,
· The reason that is needed to attend the specific educational program and
· Conclusion with genuine interest and enthusiasm
Even there can be inconsistencies in your history as a learning break or a change in educational program which can be different from your undergraduate program. It is advisable if that particular inconsistency is explained and justified in your LOI with positive statements.
You first can sketch a rough LOI once you are clear with short- and long-term goals along with relevant skills and passion in the academic life. It is your duty to emphasize the selection committee that you are a solid candidate through a LOI. Main thing is that LOI should be precise, specific and do not forget to proof read. Even you can ask for help from academics or senior students to review your LOI well in advance and get their feedback as you need to stick to the admission deadlines.
In short, LOI should reflect, highlight and sell your true academic and professional potential.
Tip:
The following link explains about the basics that you need to know about LOI and some samples.