<p>I'm currently writing some SOP for summer research programs and have a few questions.</p>
<p>Note: the majority of these have a 500 word max. It's a bit difficult to fit in everything. </p>
<p>After writing one, I feel I spent too much time talking about my past research experiences and relevant course(s). I'd say 75% of my essay is regarding these experiences, but at the end of each paragraph I noted these experiences and knowledge is related to the program I'm applying for. </p>
<p>Do you think the 75% ish is too much? I do feel that I emphasized my interest in the program.</p>
<p>Yes.</p>
<p>I think typically these statements should be about 40/60, honestly. You should spend a little less time talking about your past research experiences and relevant courses, and a little more time talking about your research interests, what your grad school and career goals are and why you want to attend a summer research program/what you think you’ll get out of it.</p>
<p>Okay thank you. </p>
<p>Also, I think for grad school you have write both a SOP and personal statement. For some of these research programs I am applying for it seems the 2 are used interchangeably, but I think there’s a distinct difference for grad school. </p>
<p>One of the programs I’m applying for said to include:
- WHat you hope to gain and your objectives in the program?
- What are your career plans after undergrad?
- Describe previous/current research experience.
- Describe research area(s) of interest
- Provide other relevant info (honors, awards, leadership, organizations, etc…)</p>
<p>Isn’t that the criteria for a SOP and not a personal statement?</p>