Personal Statement International Relations

[NObama]

I'ma applying to grad school for the fall. I'm hopeful of getting into a top school for international relations. I have a definite career goal in mind, but I am having a little trouble explaining it.

I want to work initially in international development, whether privately or in the public sector, before hopefully (if I manage to get a dual degree with an MBA) transitioning into more private work covering the area. So my primary goal is economic development.

I'm having trouble relating this to international relations. I know why the two areas are fundamental to one another but I am having trouble explaining it! So far, what I have written reads like I ought to have been applying for economic development degrees, rather then a more interdisciplinary degree which gives me a better foundation to build upon.

Anyone have any ideas as to how to get this on paper?

And would anyone be willing to read what I have written so far?

[NObama]

Anyone willing to read or share?

[maeisenb]

I want to work initially in international development, whether privately or in the public sector, before hopefully (if I manage to get a dual degree with an MBA) transitioning into more private work covering the area. So my primary goal is economic development.

I'm having trouble relating this to international relations. I know why the two areas are fundamental to one another but I am having trouble explaining it! So far, what I have written reads like I ought to have been applying for economic development degrees, rather then a more interdisciplinary degree which gives me a better foundation to build upon.

Well it seems like you just said how they are related, so just expand that now. Talk about how your work experience has done both parts of that and future stuff will too.

[NObama]

Thanks. I think I know what you mean but its proved difficult thus far to get it down onto paper!

[NObama]

Anyone else with any direction? It would be greatly appreciated.

[Sigaba]

How does your SoP discuss the re-emergence of public private partnerships?

[NObama]

How does your SoP discuss the re-emergence of public private partnerships?

It doesnt, really. I've largely discussed why I am applying, and how it relates to my ultimate goal, of working within development, whether privately or in the public sector.

[NObama]

However, I dont think it flows so well. Hence me wondering if anyone else also had similar aspirations as mine, and how they managed to integrate development and international relations.

[Sigaba]

It doesnt, really. I've largely discussed why I am applying, and how it relates to my ultimate goal, of working within development, whether privately or in the public sector.

I understand the "either/or" aspect of your interests.

I'm attempting to suggest that you to discuss, however briefly, the possibility that you'd end up working in an environment that requires one foot in each sector.

(Or maybe you think PPP is just a fad?)

[NObama]

I understand the "either/or" aspect of your interests.

I'm attempting to suggest that you to discuss, however briefly, the possibility that you'd end up working in an environment that requires one foot in each sector.

(Or maybe you think PPP is just a fad?)

Not at all. I had no intention of mentioning it as I was running short of words but I'm sure I can squeeze it in. Thanks!

Edited December 10, 2011 by NObama

[NObama]

Would be delighted to hear of anyone else who may actually be applying to MA in IR this fall.

[NObama]

How does your SoP discuss the re-emergence of public private partnerships?

When you mention re-emergence, is there something specific you had in mind? I hadnt seen or read much in relation.

[Sigaba]

When you mention re-emergence, is there something specific you had in mind? I hadnt seen or read much in relation.

Today's buzz over PPP reminds me of the fanfare surrounding Dollar Diplomacy. YMMV.