This sample SOP is for applying to a master’s program in Finance in the UK.
Financial professionals in the modern age play an important role in shaping the global economy and the future direction it will take. As I approach the end of my undergraduate education and consider my future goals, it is clear that pursuing a master’s degree in finance would be the wisest choice. My interest in finance stems from a variety of factors. I have always had natural talents with numbers and analysis, and the field of finance thus naturally suits me. Professionals in this dynamic industry are limited only by their own creativity and analytical skills, yet, as the recent subprime crisis and Eurozone debt crisis have shown, this creativity must be tempered with foresight and a sound ethical foundation. The prospect of working in this industry on an international scale excites me greatly, and to achieve this goal I am applying to your master’s program.
Currently, I am completing my final year in the university, and I will soon earn a Bachelor of Accounting degree with a concentration in Finance from Goodwill College of Industry, which is among the most highly ranked colleges in my country. In this course of study, I have built an extensive foundation of knowledge in areas including financial analysis, investment, micro- and macro-economics, derivatives, and risk management. Meanwhile, I have also had the chance to take classes on marketing, management, and other business fields, which has given me an opportunity to hone my communication, leadership and organizational skills. My overall scores have been quite strong, with especially high scores in finance-related courses, which is due to my strong interest in the subject.
During summer holidays I have applied what I learned in classes by working for three years in an accounting firm. This has been a wonderful complement to my studies, as it has refreshed my perspective and taught me about the realities of a workplace such as this. Most importantly, working in a real-world context has inspired me to get the most out of my education so that I may excel in my career. I also had the chance to do an internship in a multinational accounting firm, where I got acquainted with accounting software and had numerous chances to practice using English in professional contexts.
Now, I believe that studying in the UK for my master’s degree is the ideal next step for me. The UK boasts perhaps the most prestigious education system worldwide, and its reputable financial sector has avoided many of the pitfalls that have stricken other countries’. I am eager to further develop my foundation of knowledge the principles and practice of finance, learning from world-renowned instructors while interacting with top students from around the world. After completion of your program, I expect to possess highly practical financial skills and the flexibility necessary to work in international settings in the future. My career goal is to become a leading financial analyst in my country and develop a career that is rewarding in terms of both the financial and personal rewards.
