Newcomer; SOP question
Hello! I'm applying to PhD programs in Economics, and tis the season to write statements of purpose...
I was a late-bloomer in terms of deciding that I wanted to go to grad school. As such, I have 2 shortcomings that I hope to make up for in my SOP. One is that I didn't take nearly enough math as an undergrad. I've made up for that by taking classes after graduation, but I still feel like I should qualify my math, since its still not as extensive as that of many applicants. I'm trying to decide where to put this information - its currently stuck in the middle of my SOP, which is ruining the flow. Placing it at the beginning seems to call attention right away to a negative, while at the end seems like I'm ending on a low note...
The other is that I don't have much (any) research experience. I have 3 years of work experience, which does have some overlap with research, but I'm not sure how to address it.
On a more basic level, is there any sort of order to an SOP that makes the most sense?
Thanks...
I was a late-bloomer in terms of deciding that I wanted to go to grad school. As such, I have 2 shortcomings that I hope to make up for in my SOP. One is that I didn't take nearly enough math as an undergrad. I've made up for that by taking classes after graduation, but I still feel like I should qualify my math, since its still not as extensive as that of many applicants. I'm trying to decide where to put this information - its currently stuck in the middle of my SOP, which is ruining the flow. Placing it at the beginning seems to call attention right away to a negative, while at the end seems like I'm ending on a low note...
The other is that I don't have much (any) research experience. I have 3 years of work experience, which does have some overlap with research, but I'm not sure how to address it.
On a more basic level, is there any sort of order to an SOP that makes the most sense?
Thanks...