janenen

I'm a graduating senior who is planning on applying to PhD programs for the fall of 2018, and I have a few questions about the process. I want to begin working on an SoP so I can tighten it up as much as possible before submitting my applications, and I'm wondering exactly how much I should tailor my SoP depending on what program I'm applying to. Is it sufficient to have one set statement of my research interests and then interchange a paragraph or two that is specific to the university, or is it necessary to rewrite my SoP for each application? There are also a number of funded MA programs I'm looking at in the event that I get rejected from all the PhD programs I'm applying to. How true is it that PhD programs don't care where you get your MA? How much does an MA actually strengthen your application, assuming you work hard and do well?