Future Plans in SOP- for PhD

[Vanilla Tea]

Hi All,

Some schools state in their SOP brief that one should talk about their future plans or career objectives. I'm applying for a PhD because I want to teach- just like 98% of the others wanting to gain a specialized doctoral degree. I think it's a bit of a waste of space- does anyone have any thoughts on how to make this sound 'sell-able'?

[zernike]

just be yourself. If you want to be a professor, just tell that and show why you are unique. Say what's in your mind.

[orst11]

Actually, you can elaborate on the "I want to be a professor," statement and that could make your SOP different than others. For instance, you can simply say you want to teach at either an R1, LAC, or other university/college. This will actually help them when they are setting up your file for placements.

Edit: Also, if you are an international applicant and are hoping to go back to your country of origin and teach, you can elaborate that way.

Edited October 27, 2011 by orst11