I am a Chinese student, I am now applying for a master's programme in literature. I have never written a motivation letter before so could someone please help me to revise my letter? Thank you very much.
Dear Sir or Madam:
I’m writing to you to apply for the MPhil
programme of Literature
My purpose to study this programme is
to gain insights in literary theories as well as various values and philosophy
that lie behind the literary texts. This field of study is of great interest to
me, so I have a strong desire to do research in it. I believe the Literature
programme in Leiden
University can give me
the opportunity to improve my analytical skills, theoretical expertise as well
as my ability to carry out independent research, thus I can have a solid preparation
for PhD programme.
As I have determined to pursue
research in this area, I have made many preparations. During my study in
college, I attended courses such as western civilization, literary theory and linguistics.
My academic performance in all the core courses is outstanding. I also study French
in my spare time, and extend my knowledge in art, history, philosophy and
politics. Additionally, as the university I attend is the only international
university in China,
I have the opportunity to meet people of different races and backgrounds on
campus. Thus I always face different people and cultures with an open mind and I
am willing to know more about them.
I am a contemplative student and an
avid reader. As I have a wide range of knowledge and interest, a sensitive and
acute observation, I believe I am prepared to interdisciplinary study, which is
also a distinctive feature of this programme. The programme is also flexible. These
two features make the programme very appealing as they give me the freedom to
design the programme according to my interest, and I believe they will help me
to broaden my horizon.
I know clearly that this programme
requires more talent and hard work than a one-year MA programme. But I have the
confidence to face the challenge. I have made remarkable progress as English
major: last academic year, I ranked 3 in my grade, but I am not and cannot
content at my past achievement. The programme of Literature in Leiden University
is well-organized and challenging and the university itself is among the top
ones in the world. It also has an attractive history: my favourite Dutch
painter Rembrandt and the British novelist Henry Fielding were both enrolled
there once. Therefore, it would be a great honour to study at Leiden and I believe that I can realise my
potential to the full there.
Thank you very much for considering
my request. I look forward to your positive response and to be a student in Leiden.