“ARCHITECTUR (URBAN TRANSFORMATION)”
Statement of Purpose
Personal Introduction
Hello! It’s a great pleasure to introduce myself and express my opinions and thoughts about my past, present and planned future concerning my education and career to you. I am Applicant Name, a permanent resident of……, Nepal. I was born on DOB. With strong desire and determination to fulfill my aim to become a successful Architect, I look forward to pursuing a full time Masters of Architecture (Urban Transformation) at University Name. I believe that this course will give a direction to my goal and help me achieve a successful and challenging career.
Academic Background
Regarding my academic background, I went to School Name located at …….. from where I completed my school level under School Leaving Certificate (S.L.C.) board securing 71.63%, first division in the year 2010 A.D. After S.L.C., I joined ……. School located at ……… for my Grade XI and XII in Science faculty with Mathematics as major. I completed this course in 2012 AD with 64.20%, first division. After that with my interest in Mathematics, Science, Sketching and Designing, I pursued Bachelors of Architecture degree from College ……. located at …….., Nepal affiliated with University……….. I completed the 5 years course in September 2017 with CGPA 2.95. My results were published on February of 2018. After 3 months of graduation, I was issued with a Certificate for Registered Engineers in accordance with section 16 of Nepal Engineering Council Act 1998. After being awarded as “Architecture” “A” Category, I began working at …….. Engineering Consultancy as an Architect. After working for a year, I decided to continue my master’s degree in overseas as the overseas qualifications are given more priority here in Nepalese job market. For this, I began preparing for the IELTS test and on 3rd December 2019, I appeared on the test and was able to score an overall band of 6.5 (Listening 6, Reading 6.5, Writing 6 and Speaking 6.5).
Why Not Nepal?
I love my country, as Nepal is a beautiful and harmonious country to live in. But it’s unfortunate to mention that the education sector of my country is still not competent to the rest of the world. The syllabuses are not timely updated and the teaching learning process is lecture based. I, being a student of the subject which depends almost fully on practical knowledge and handling, am not satisfied with this system of education provision in my country. While the qualified and skilled manpower is highly sought after in my country’s development process. The process of generating them is not as satisfactory as it should have been. In Nepal there are not many universities. There are only 5 accredited universities at the moment and to get enrolled into a desired course a student has to compete as there are limited seats. Students need to sit through various entrance examinations and interviews. These tests are held only once in a year. So, if a student does not score the target score, during this entrance test, then he or she will be losing one whole year. Besides this, the education system in Nepal is not developed as it has to be, this is the conclusion I gained from my studies as we have lack of well-equipped facilities and training due to which students here face a lot of difficulties regarding the subject matter. Moreover, the degree of Nepal is not globally accepted by renowned companies of the world. It is not even prioritized by Nepal’s renowned hospitals comparing to developed nations academic degree. Hence, I choose to study in Australia rather than Nepal and I will return back to my home and apply that knowledge and skills for the prosperous health of the people of my country.
Why Australia and why not other countries?
So, in search of perfect education destination that not only could help me to achieve my educational goal but also provide me with foreign exposure as well, different countries like USA, UK, Australia and European Countries came into my mind. Every country had something that could allure international students to choose them. As a result, I needed to go through in-depth research about the pros and cons about these international study destinations.
As per the survey done by Project Atlas – 2018, USA hosts 22% of international students; U.K hosts 10% of international students, Australia, Canada and France host 7% of international students and Germany host 5% of international students. Upon making research between the countries, USA which host 22% of international students but to get into a good university or colleges for Masters degree, a student need to give a competitive exam like SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test), GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), GRE (Graduate Record Examination) along with TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing system). These tests are time consuming process from preparation to securing the required scores. In this country, each state follows a different curriculum of courses which create students of varying standards of education. Similarly, the cost of dollar is slowly rising every year which may lead to expensive living cost and tuition costs. UK host 10% of international student. Although the fee is comparatively low, the value of currency is too high and will be expensive for international students. Also, while contrasting among other European countries for instances in Germany, France etc. the life style is really expensive and language barrier could be the challenge. Many students in Europe find it difficult to adjust to their daily life because of the language. Supermarket and train stations have displays that are primarily in the local language. Communication can become challenging as many locals are not adept in talking in English.
Whereas, Australia has become one of the most sought educational destinations for students from all over the world. It is a large country with most culturally diverse habitats and international students, which gives great opportunity to have an exposure with multi-cultural peoples. It gives a great platform for the international students to understand the diverse culture while acquiring qualitative knowledge. I felt a strong urge to pursue my further education in an Australian University because the value of Australian education is of exceptional quality and has an excellent reputation all over the world. It is now home to some of the world’s best universities with excellent education and infrastructures for students. Seven Australian universities are placed in the top 100 in the latest QS World University Rankings 2019. And 24 of Australian Universities were ranked among the top 400 universities of the world as per the Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2019. The degrees provided by these institutions are well recognized and globally accepted. These universities are strong in research, excelling in areas such as arts, humanities, IT and sciences. Also, Australian Universities have a well – founded reputation of consistently providing skilled workforce that has made significant contribution in all parts of society throughout the world. Therefore, I am greatly looking forward to be part of an Australian University which will provide me with both globally valued education and necessary exposure to pursue my career goals.
Furthermore, Australia has various rules and regulations to ensure and maintain high standards to facilitate quality education to the international students like Education Services for International Students (ESOS), Tuition Protection Services (TPS). ESOS structure protects the rights of international students to receive, before enrolling, current and accurate information about the courses, fees, modes of study, and other information from the institution and institution’s agent. Whereas, TPS is an initiative of the Australian Government to ensure that international students are able to either complete their studies in another course or with another education provider or receive a refund of their unspent tuition fees. Australia also provides an opportunity to international students to apply for Post Study Work (PSW) visa after the completion of a university degree which will help the students to gain practical work experience in after they graduate and enhance their overall international study experience.
So, Compared to other learning destinations, multicultural Australia also being an English speaking country endures safe, friendly and harmonious society in which international students can learn and accommodate with ease. In Australia, most student visas will permit students to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, and unlimited hours during course breaks. So we can work to help to cover our refreshments while studying in Australia as well as we can spend some of our earnings checking out some of the great destinations the country has to offer. Australia is a large country and it boasts a number of natural wonders, 17 of which are classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These destinations include the Great Barrier Reef, Kakadu National Park, Lord Howe Island Group, the Tasmanian Wilderness, Fraser Island and the Sydney Opera House. For the sake of accommodation for international students, Australia offers a range of living options to suit all kinds of needs. Depending on the length of our stay, where we’re studying and our personal preference, we can choose between short-term accommodation, rental properties, on campus accommodation and home stays.
So, to sum up all, Australia is generally suitable destination in terms of personal safety as well as developed infrastructure along with quality education and many other terminologies.
Why Sydney?
The surrounding and the environment that exist around have a great impact on student’s psychology and the knowledge they attains. So, I have chosen Sydney as my study location. According to Department of Education and Training, the number of international students staying in Australia has an increase of over 10% from 2015 and Sydney is one of the world’s best cities for international students beating 87 cities to the coveted 13th spot, QS Best student’s cities 2017 reveals. According to the wellbeing international students in the city 2016, the majority of students (88%) responded that they would recommend Sydney as a place to study. According to QS Best student cities 2018, https://www.topuniversities.com/city-rankings/2018 Sydney was ranked at 9th position as world best student cities because of its quality of life and varied choices or leisure and relaxation. According to CNN Travel https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-most-liveable-cities-2018/index.html Sydney is ranked as one of the 5th most livable cities in 2018. Sydney is a paradise for the world’s sun and sand lovers. The hustle and bustle of this urban city blends smoothly into idyll of Sydney’s beaches. Bondi beach is the most iconic beach with stretching, golden sands and awesome surfing conditions. There is a high appreciation for creativity in this city. These includes galleries and exhibitions (Art Gallery of NSW, Museum of Contemporary Art, White Rabbit) going sightseeing (the Harbour Bridge, Observatory Hill, Mrs. Macquaries Point), having a cycling tour alone or in a group, having a free gigs, visiting libraries, monthly community festivals, discovering Sydney’s markets, a festival every quarter (the Sydney Festival, Art and About and Crave Festival). Sydney has been listed in the top more livable cities in the world for many consecutive years, according to Economist Intelligence Unit. We can have peace of mind when studying in such a city with high quality of life as Sydney.
Why Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation)?
As I mentioned earlier, I have been good in science, mathematics, sketching and designing since my childhood. That is why for my undergraduate degree, I chose Bachelors of Architecture from Nepal Engineering College. After this, I need to pursue my studies for postgraduate degree in Architecture in order to be a competitive Architect in the future. For this, Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) is the perfect degree for me as this course will prepare me for professional activities in the field of architecture. This course is designed for students like me, who have completed undergraduate studies in architecture and are looking to gain the required professional degree required for registration as an Architect in Australia. After completion of this course, I will be able to demonstrate my ability to think independently, critically, and to resolve complex design issues. Apart from this, additional studies in urban and contemporary architectural theory, building and design technology, electives, and professional practice constitute the overall degree. Completion of the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) will also prepare students seeking to undertake doctoral level study with the necessary qualification to seek admission as a higher degree by research candidate. The Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) is accredited by NSW Architects Registration Board and the program is designed to meet the guidelines of the National Competency Standards in Architecture (NCSA). Graduates of this program will be eligible to seek registration as a qualified architect in Australia upon completing a period of internship and registration exam after successfully completing the course. Graduates of this course will benefit from the emphasis that is placed on developing mastery of architectural design not only in theory, but firmly in practice. Work on exciting studio projects in a highly entrepreneurial interdisciplinary environment, while engaging with prominent practitioners as they guide students’ studies. The students not only learn practical, technological and professional skills but also extend their creative, advocacy, environmental and social capabilities as the tutors help the craft the beginning of their professional journey. With all these reasons and my interests in designing and construction, I would like to continue my further study in Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation).
Why University Name?
After deciding to continue my further studies in Australia, it was very hard for me to find the perfect education provider as there are plenty of institutions in Australia that provides the course of my interest. I began my research on some of the universities in Australia that best suit me. University of Sydney offers Masters of Architecture for AU$ 42,000 per year with IELTS requirement of an overall band 7.0 with no band less than 6.0. Bond University offers Masters of Architecture for AU$ 21,549 per semester with an IELTS of overall band 7.0 with no band less than 6.5. RMIT University offers Masters of Architecture for AU$ 41,280 per year with an IELTS of overall 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. Similarly, University of South Australia offers Masters of Architecture for AU$ 35,900 per year with an IELTS of overall band 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. University of Queensland offers Masters of Architecture for AU$ 40,640 per year with an IELTS of overall band 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. Deakin University offers Masters of Architecture for AU$ 35,000 per year with an IELTS of overall band 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. Whereas, Western University offers Masters of Architecture (Urban Transformation) for AU$ 31,680 only per year with an IELTS overall 6.5 with no band less than 6.0. With this comparison, University Name is a perfect education destination for my further studies in Australia.
University Name (UNIVERSITY NAME) formally known as The University of Western Sydney (UWS) began its operation on 1st January 1989, under the terms of the University of Western Sydney Act, 1988 which had been passed by the New South Wales Parliament in December 1988. However, the predecessors of the University date back as far as 1891 with the establishment of the Hawkesbury Agricultural College. The single multi-campus University of Western Sydney has six campuses: Bankstown, Blacktown, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, Parramatta, and Penrith. UNIVERSITY NAME offers a wide range of high quality and affordable on-campus accommodations with balanced learning and living environment. They do have villages that are self-catered and fully furnished with a great range of accommodation options and 24 hour support. There’s a range of support available to International students at UNIVERSITY NAME. From finding somewhere to live or how one can find work in Australia, there’s help available. There are staffs available and willing to help students during their studies. Campus Safety & Security makes a significant contribution to the UNIVERSITY NAME community. Providing a safe and secure environment for their students, staff and visitors is their core business. UNIVERSITY NAME also helps their students plan their career, provide feedback on their resume, help them with their job hunt and to prepare them for their interviews. Besides this, Western’s Out & About program features regular activities and adventures open to all students at discounted rates. It can be sightseeing, bushwalking, adrenaline experiences or exploring the great Australian outdoors. Besides this, University Name is a world-class university, globally recognized for its research strengths and innovations in teaching. International students from over 70 countries choose to study at University Name every year. With all these facilities for international students and its academic as well as IELTS requirement and affordable tuition fees, I chose University Name for my further studies in Australia.
Career Plan
After completing Masters of Architecture (Urban Transformation), I would like to apply for Post Study Work (PSW), a provision provided to international students by Australian Government. By doing this, I will be gaining more skills and experience in international multicultural working environment. After that, I will come back to Nepal as a professional and competent Architect to work in one of the reputed companies of Nepal such as Green Design Nepal Pvt. Ltd., Nepal Construction Mart, Naxalaya Pvt. Ltd., ArEiCon Architects and Engineers Consultants, Matrix Design Consult Pvt. Ltd., G.A Builders (P.) Ltd., MEP Consulting Engineers Nepal, Evolve Design Studio, Future Works Building Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Pumori Engineering Services Pvt. Ltd., Voxel Pvt. Ltd., Green Design Nepal, Design Advocate Pvt Ltd etc. As an Architect, I will be designing anything from a single room to an entire complex of buildings. Nepal is a country with lots of rivers and lakes. It is estimated that there are altogether 6,000 rivers yet it lacks safe bridges in those rivers. There are not enough bridges built in my country which is causing difficulties for the citizens of the remote areas of Nepal. Building bridges for those people suffering is my main aim after completing my course of study in Australia. I will use my specialist construction knowledge and high-level drawing skills to design bridges that are functional, safe, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing and contribute in the development of my home country. Also, a survey shows that 80% of the houses in Nepal are not earthquake free, due to which the earthquake in 2015 destroyed 604,930 houses completely and 288,856 houses were partially damaged. As an architect, I want to design more powerful and earth quake free houses in the society. I also plan to design world class infrastructure for the country to progress both economically and socially. I also plan to work as an Architect and want to contribute to nation building by providing different housing solution tailored towards individual’s income and the state and local government budget.
Overall, as an Architect, I will be designing commercial, industrial, institutional, residential and recreational buildings as well as lots of bridges that are safe for the people of my country in the future.
Financial arrangement and family Background
While talking about the fulfillment of financial needs for my study, my parents have undertaken the full responsibility to sponsor my education. They are financially capable enough to fulfill all my financial requirements during my study and stay in Australia. My parents are planning for education loan for my studies to ensure that I have enough fund available to study and stay in Australia.
Visa Conditions:
I am fully aware and have understood the Higher Education Sector visa (subclass 500) which are as follows:
- Students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while the course is in progress.
- The students are required to maintain overseas student health cover (OHSC) policy for the full duration of visa.
- Students must maintain at least 80% attendance in their course as per education provider.
- If I change my residence or change my contact details, I should inform DHA/ University within a week.
- I should pay my tuition fees before the due date.
To conclude, I am looking forward to begin a new chapter in my life and to meet the challenges that student life in Australia has to offer. Both my professional and personal experiences to date have prepared me to deal with the challenges in life. I am well prepared to take the challenges in Australia. My parents always have been supportive towards my education and they will be sponsoring my education fees as well as living expenses throughout my entire study. My family will assist me financially and emotionally until I complete my respective program from University Name. I would humbly request you to accept my request and provide me the opportunity to be a part of its smart education system. I hope my application will be taken into consideration. Thank you.
Yours Sincerely,
Applicant Name