SOP for Masters in English Literature

Ravi
4 min readOct 22, 2023

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I am Aryan Sharma, a passionate and dedicated individual from the vibrant city of Bangalore, India. The world of literature and language has always fascinated me, and it’s been the driving force behind my academic journey. I have a Bachelor of Arts in English from Vivekananda Degree College, Bangalore, a degree that has deepened my appreciation for this course and my forthcoming academic pursuits.

I am writing this Statement of Purpose to express my fervent desire to pursue a Master’s program in English at Queen Mary, University of London, England. This esteemed institution is renowned for its exceptional academic offerings and distinguished faculty. My aspiration is to immerse myself in the rich literary heritage of the United Kingdom and benefit from the unique learning environment that Queen Mary offers.

Educational Background

During my academic journey, I pursued my passion for English literature, which ignited my curiosity for the subject. I completed my Bachelor of Arts in English from Vivekananda Degree College, Bangalore, one of India’s prestigious institutions. This undergraduate program provided a strong foundation in literature and language studies.

My educational journey was enriched by eclectic coursework, including in-depth studies in British and World Literature. As part of my senior project, I conducted a comprehensive analysis of post-colonial themes in contemporary English novels, which deepened my understanding of the socio-cultural aspects of literature.

I am proud of my academic achievements, consistently maintaining an excellent academic record. This diligence earned me the University Gold Medal for academic excellence, a testament to my dedication and commitment to the field of English literature.

My educational journey has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to set forth on this Master’s program at Queen Mary, University of London, England. I am confident that my academic background and achievements will allow me to excel in this new academic endeavor.

Motivation for Higher Studies

Pursuing a Master’s degree in English has been a lifelong aspiration for me. I’ve always been intrigued by the magic of words and the boundless worlds they can create. English literature is not just a subject; it’s my unremitting passion. Its profound ability to reflect the human experience, tackle societal issues, and inspire change has fueled my determination to dive deeper into this subject.

My academic interests and love for English have evolved over the years. I’ve voraciously consumed literature from various cultures and time periods. The study of post-colonial literature during my undergraduate years was a turning point, which sparked a deep interest in exploring how literature reflects the complexities of a globalized world.

While working on my senior project, I realized that my connection with English literature was not merely academic; it was personal. These experiences and revelations led to my persistent decision to further my studies in English, a journey I aspire to undertake at Queen Mary University of London.

Why This Specific Program?

My decision to pursue a Master’s program in English in the UK, specifically at Queen Mary University of London, stems from a deep respect for the country’s rich literary heritage and its world-renowned education system. The UK has been a crucible for literary greats, from Shakespeare to Woolf, which makes it an ideal setting for my academic journey.

Queen Mary’s English program particularly appeals to me due to its unique blend of traditional and contemporary literature. The faculty’s expertise in post-colonial studies aligns with my research interests.

The program’s focus on critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural understanding is not only academically enriching but also essential for my future career. I believe this program will equip me with the knowledge and skills required to contribute meaningfully to academia and to the world of literature.

Career Goals

My long-term career objective is to become an English professor, contributing to the academic world by imparting knowledge and cultivating a deep appreciation for literature. I aspire to inspire young minds, much like my professors have inspired me.

This Master’s program at Queen Mary, University of London, is an essential step towards achieving this goal. It will equip me with advanced research skills, a deeper understanding of literature, and critical thinking abilities necessary for success in academia.

I am particularly interested in post-colonial literature and the portrayal of identity in contemporary literature. I aim to conduct research in these areas and contribute to the evolving discourse in English studies. My aspiration is to challenge and expand the boundaries of literary exploration and critical analysis, which I believe this program will facilitate.

Why You as a Candidate?

My journey through my undergraduate degree in English has sharpened my analytical skills and strengthened my commitment to academic excellence. I have consistently achieved top grades in my coursework and have been recognized for my academic achievements. Moreover, I have developed excellent communication skills through my participation in academic discussions and presentations.

What sets me apart is my diverse cultural background. Living in India, a country with a rich literary heritage, has given me a unique perspective on English literature. I have been exposed to a variety of literary traditions and perspectives, which enrich my understanding of the subject. Additionally, my experience as a teaching assistant has enhanced my ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, a valuable skill for a future educator.

I believe that my academic achievements, passion for English literature, and cross-cultural insights make me a strong candidate for the Master’s program at Queen Mary.

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Ravi

I am a English + Hindi content writer, news writer, copywriter, scriptwriter & academic writer by profession. MA (English), New Delhi, India