Guidelines for Writing Your Professional Goal Statement

At least have it to be around 500 words (about a page double-spaced - but feel free to write more if you want)

Directions: The following instruction contains information about your goal statement essay. Please focus on you, your background, and your future goals. You are strongly encouraged to carefully proofread, grammar check, and spellcheck.

Overall writing presentation and clarity are very important. Not all questions below need to be answered; however, this is how the review board members initially "see" you, so please be as personable as you feel comfortable.

Degree and specialization: You must clearly indicate your Full Name, and to which degree program you are applying.

• Personal/Professional Goals - examples:

Why are you interested in graduate school?

What are your plans after you receive your degree?

Why are you interested in the program to which you are applying?

• Academic Experience - examples:

Describe specific courses or professors / mentors who shaped your interest in education.

Explain any inconsistencies in academic record or work experience. (If your GPA is not what you would have liked, explain special personal,
physical or family circumstances that may have adversely affected your GPA).

• Work /Other Experience - examples:

What is your prior work experience? (Include any volunteer work and/or extracurricular activities that complement your career decision. You can also address any cultural knowledge or experiences you may have acquired that may better prepare you as an educational professional).

• Personal Qualities - examples:

Include in this section personal qualities (e.g., interpersonal skills, team work skills, etc.) you possess that you believe will contribute to your success as an educator.

Indicate any personal qualities that make you suitable for graduate study.

Why are you interested in an online program?