Letter of intent grad school reddit

Looking for advice - applying for a Master of Public Health. Any tips on writing the Letter of Intent?

Finding it difficult to "sell myself", but that is essentially what a letter of intent is. So any tips are much appreciated.

Thanks

Currently working on the last piece of my grad school application (other than recommendations, but that's out of my hands now) and so lost on this letter of intent. You want me to answer seven questions in two pages? Each question could easily be a two page answer, and what in the actual fuck does this even mean: "what do you determine to be your legacy?"

I know this is the right program for me (MS Healthcare Administration), and pretty sure it's the right school, but I'm so lost here. I've been "working" on my essay for two weeks now... So mostly just doodling and watching a lot of House. I've read pages and pages about the program, about career options for specializations (there is an Informatics track and a Health Care Ethics track, but it's only two extra classes to do both which I'm seriously considering), etc. but I still don't really know how to answer some of the questions. I assume "I think I'd be really good at running shit" is not an acceptable answer for what my career goals are.

Any advice? Am I just supposed to bullshit through this? Am I missing some crucial part of writing my "letter"? Am I just thinking about it too much? I swear I'm not actually an idiot, I'm just stuck. Help / thanks for letting me rant.

Dear Administration Office,

I am currently applying to get into the University of Toronto, so I can pursue a Master’s Degree in Chemistry. I believe my chemistry background is well versed in all the fields of chemistry, but hope to expand my chemistry knowledge. During my pursuit of my Bachelors of Science with the University of Toronto, my love and passion for chemistry continued to grow. Despite the wide selection of courses available in humanities, social sciences and other fields of science and obtaining enough credits for my program- Chemistry Specialist, I found myself continuingly taking chemistry courses to feed my curiosity. Although I am now graduating, I am still eager to learn more and would like to continue my education with the University of Toronto. Not only do I want to expand my knowledge, I want to continually make contributions to the field.

My most recent position I hold is an undergraduate student researcher working with Dr. ---- ---- and his lab (June, 2011-Present). Currently, I am working on a project of developing target cancer therapeutics; using purine as a scaffold to inhibit Stat3 activity in cancer cells. This opportunity has opened my eyes to the field of medicinal chemistry; bridging chemistry and biology to make a positive impact on society. Using the chemistry I’ve learned to design and synthesize molecules that could potentially treat diseases is something I have grown a passion for. I feel that pursuing a Master’s degree will only help me be placed in a better position, where I can eventually pursue a Ph.D. to work in academy or industry to make a contribution in the field of medicine. With your acceptance to the Master’s Program, I would like to continue working with the ----- Group.

During my time with the ----- Group, I have been very fortunate to get a chance to practically apply my chemistry knowledge and skills. I am well experienced with a variety of techniques involved with synthesis, HPLC, NMR, IR and Mass spectroscopy that I will continue to use and learn more skills. My research is not only limited to the lab, but I have literature research experience with a fourth year literature dissertation I have written under the supervision of Professor ----- and essays for other advanced level chemistry courses.

My biggest regret I have during my time at UofT is not volunteering in a research laboratory earlier. Ever since I was 16, I’ve been working at a Wendy’s Restaurant, which has helped me pay for school. Although I have been there for over 6 years now and it has been challenging, it has taught me to develop a great work ethic while in my studies. I will not only be an asset to work in lab, but would be able to maintain time for my courses and TAing.

With my broad chemistry knowledge, literature research experience, and research-laboratory experience I will be an asset to the university and the chemistry department. I will uphold the curiousity, integrity, and dignity that has made the University of Toronto an institute leader in the world.

Sincerely,

Here it is …..

I wish to pursue a Graduate Certificate in Thermal Engineering

After graduating in 2008 with a BS in Physics and minor in Mathematics from SCHOOOLLL, I was eager to enter industry. While I was fascinated with the entire curriculum, I particularly enjoyed Statistical Thermodynamics.

I secured a position in quality control in order to gain an understanding of the rigorous scrutiny a product undergoes. Working with the engineering team daily, I helped design inspection procedures and programmed inspection equipment. I constantly probed them with questions on their specific problems and challenges, offering input when appropriate. Over time I found myself being more interested in their work than my own. While they wore many hats, I learned that the bulk of the engineering obstacles fit under the umbrella of heat transfer. After inquiring about a position on this team, I was told my education was not specific enough to be considered.

A coworker highly recommended YOURRSCHOOLOMG after receiving his MS there. After researching the university, I was very impressed with its rich history and stellar reputation. I was pleased to find the Thermal Engineering Graduate Certificate program, which was exactly what I was looking for. Since I came to this conclusion late in the summer, I took a calculated risk and enrolled in the program as a non matriculated student. The courses were engaging and challenging, further confirming my passion for this field.

It took time in industry to reflect upon and realize what I wanted. Coupled with my prior education and experience, this program will complete the foundation necessary to transition into a fulfilling professional career. I've seen how quality control fits into the bigger picture of delivering a product. I believe combining this knowledge as well as that from this program will allow me to become a strong, well-rounded engineer.

There are some W's on my undergraduate transcript; family issues surfaced that required time and energy. I hope my performance this past semester demonstrates my capability to succeed in this program.

Thanks!!