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Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/q/31064
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

I am an engineering student trying to write a statement of purpose for graduate school and I am **having trouble properly introducing in writing why I'm applying for a particular subject when most of my work has been in a different field of study.**

**Here's the scenario:** Coming into college, I wanted to go down the regular path of engineering, in essence, learn, do a few internships, find work as an engineer after graduation. However, along the way, I was introduced to a [name of subject]. This subject deeply interested and challenged me. It made me passionate about research. I learned a lot of fundamental skills such as [list skills]. After I published [enter name of publication] I stumbled upon [enter name of new subject]. This subject allowed me to apply my analytical and technical skills for more pressing and life changing problems. I was motivated by the potential results of my work(Not sure if I should mention this as it might come of as I don't really enjoy the "journey"). [explain the work I've been doing in this new subject for the past 1 year]

That's how I am currently thinking of structuring my introduction. However, I feel it is very weak and uninspiring to read how I transitioned into the new subject. Moreover, I feel like it doesn't really convey why I'm so passionate about this new subject.

My dilemma is the following:

1. Graduate schools usually look for sustained interest. I've only been doing research in my new subject for 9 months. So I can't make up B.S. about how I've always been interested in this.
2. Graduate schools also look to see if you have taken courses in that subject. I haven't. 

Hence, how do I properly introduce my situation in writing?

Original score: 3