Can somebody please proofread my Statement of Purpose and give me your suggestions/Feedback? Appreciate your help.

My interest in the area of Finance is a long standing one. I can trace it back to my schooldays when I assisted my father with daily book keeping and accounts for his retail business. This small beginning with my father gradually expanded into a genuine interest in numbers and figures, and has since dominated most of my career choices. My love for numbers was closely followed by an interest in the field of computers, which led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in computer science.

Upon completion of my degree in 2002, I joined the exciting world of information technology (IT) and started my career with one ofIndia’s most reputed companies- XXX. During my time at XXX, I provided technical support to the sales operations team of XXX. I gained knowledge on the sales quote to cash modules and widely understood the significance of finance in the larger business world. As time passed, I chose to be a domain expert rather than a technology specialist and I was fascinated by the intricacies of finance, especially analytical reporting and its impact on new business strategies. To enhance my knowledge and gain a broader perspective, I pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Finance Management. This helped deepen my understanding of corporate financial theories and various accounting, strategy and control models used in large corporations.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at XXX (first job) and it was also a catalyst in helping me realise what my real passion was – Finance. This led me to my second and current job with a multinational IT company XXX inIndia- to lead a complex accounting process related to service revenue recognition and invoicing. Over the past 7 years in XXX, I have learnt about the complexities of finance and accounting and the influence of financial decisions in a large organizational context. At XXX, I have been responsible for the financial planning & analysis; country level detailed budgets and forecasts, management reporting, and revenue recognition for the Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) region. My analytical and statistical data models on operating expenses, resource utilization, project profitability, and margins were very well appreciated, and it helped the APJ leadership team to drive new business strategies in the region.

This experience gave me the confidence to pursue more challenging assignments within the company. Mynetworking skills allowed me to reach out to wider teams dealing with more critical projects within the firm. I was responsible for developing a global headcount forecasting and tracking model that was adopted by many business groups in XXX. As a part of the Global IT Finance management team I was responsible for the staff inIndia. The team prepares a variety of complex financial reports and assists in maintaining and updating company financial models and monthly forecast & close. I also gained experience in areas such as project finance, pricing and sales strategies for IT services, managing fixed assets and vendor accounts, and capital investments. My experience with XXX has allowed me to travel to many countries on short term assignments, providing valuable opportunities to interact with professionals who are experts in their domains. This was an enriching experience not only professionally but also personally, to develop a better understanding of cultures, and to build mature professional relationships with immediate stakeholders. It was an excellent opportunity to be a part of a dynamic team spread across different regions, which allowed me to contribute to the global operating model and develop a global mindset.

My decision to apply for the MSc Finance programme at XXX has come from both my passion for the subject and professional experience in the corporate world. I am keen on learning the existing and emerging trends in international finance. As I read more about the MSc programme, I feel positive that it will strengthen my empirical skills with structured knowledge and will give me an edge to venture in the gamut of International Finance. The rich programme content (Specifically Corporate Finance, Asset Markets and International Finance) and the strong emphasis on research appeals to me very much. The geographical location of XXX in London and the diversity of XXX’s student and academic body as well as its international reputation makes the XXX MSc Finance program my first choice. I believe XXX will provide exceptional opportunities to network with some of the remarkable personalities in the finance industry and to interact with a diverse set of students.

As someone who grew up in a small village in India, I highly value the significance of a good and timely education. During my early school years, despite showing great interest in studies and extra-curricular activities, the lack of resources and limited access to information placed limitations on my development. It has been through continuous hard work and dedication that I was able to build a successful career. During this time I was able to cultivate a sense of self reliance and determination which allowed me to face personal and professional setbacks independently from a very young age. Currently 70% ofIndia’s population lives in the rural areas; a huge talent pool underutilized, I believe their economic development and social transformation is critical toIndiabecoming a developed nation. My vision is to take an active role in education and microfinance initiatives seeking to empower the underprivileged.

Apart from my professional pursuits I am a member of the runners club, ‘XXX. I participate in regular running events which help me stay healthy and lead a balanced life. Last year, I ran the Bangalore Ultra Marathon and I enjoyed the rigorous training which helped achieve the end result. I also enjoy travelling and exploring new places; I had the most wonderful experience backpacking acrossEuropein 2008. Being an active member of the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) network in the city ofBangalore, I take part in the LGBT movement inIndiaby organizing film festivals and pride events. I strongly believe in the equal rights of all citizens, including those of sexual minorities.

I am confident that I will bring a lot of value and energy into the classroom and my diligence coupled with my professional experience of the last several years will assist me in the programme. I consider the one year at XXX as a timely opportunity that will allow me to evolve as a competent professional with the advantage of world class education. In the long-term, the skills and knowledge I gained in the field of Finance will help me to make a difference in the world around me.