Many adults return to school, after years in the workplace, to advance their competitiveness and job prospects.
Graduate schools can translate into career advancement and higher wages for students. A prospective grad school applicant may be required to compose a letter of intent that briefly describes his background and motives for pursuing graduate studies. A well-crafted letter of intent can highlight an applicant's strengths and convince academic committees of his dedication to a chosen course of study.
Stating Your Purpose
A concise description of your reasons for pursuing graduate studies will add credibility to your admissions application. Indicating specific elements of the program and how they relate to your individual goals and aspirations will help convince the committee that you have thoroughly researched the graduate program and are entering your studies with a practical, realistic approach.
Stating Your Goals
An essential component of many collegiate institutions' success is the success of their alumni. Awards and accolades bestowed upon an individual help further establish the prestige and credibility of the academic institutions from which she has graduated. An ambitious and pragmatic description of an individual's goals following graduate school can help an admissions committee determine the viability and appeal of a candidate.
Establishing Your Credentials
A letter of intent offers a graduate school applicant a platform to highlight her strengths and credentials. These may include academic honors, work experience and formative life experiences that have shaped the applicant's goals and ambitions. For many professional programs, prior work experience in the form of internships, entry-level employment or unpaid volunteer work can help convince faculty members of an applicant's suitability.
Defending Your Weaknesses
Although establishing your strengths is very important, defending any weaknesses or inconsistencies in your academic record, through full disclosure, will help persuade committee members to focus on the positive aspects of your admissions portfolio. Low academic performance, during a semester of study, could be a product of family issues or intensive outside work; if this is the case, let the committee know. Full disclosure can serve as an excellent example of your commitment to a program.
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