The personal statement is one of the most important elements of your college application. It’s your chance to show admissions officers who you are and explain why you deserve to be admitted to their school. Writing a strong personal statement can be challenging, so we’ve put together this guide to help you get started.
What Is a Personal Statement?
A personal statement is a short essay that introduces you to the admissions committee. In it, you’ll describe your background, interests, and goals. You’ll also explain why you’re interested in attending the school and what you hope to gain from the experience.
What Should I Include in My Personal Statement?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, but there are some general guidelines you can follow. In your personal statement, you should:
- Introduce yourself: Start by telling the admissions committee who you are and what you’re interested in.
- Explain your motivation: Why are you interested in attending the school? What are your goals for your time there?
- Highlight your skills and experience: What experiences do you have that make you a good fit for the school? What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Conclude with a strong statement: End your essay with a powerful conclusion that leaves the admissions committee impressed.
What Should I Avoid in My Personal Statement?
There are a few things you’ll want to avoid in your personal statement. First, don’t simply regurgitate information that’s already available on your application. The admissions committee already knows your GPA and test scores, so there’s no need to reiterate that information. Second, avoid clichés and trite phrases. Your essay should be unique to you, so don’t use generic phrases that could apply to anyone. Finally, don’t make any grandiose claims or promises. Be honest and realistic in your essay, and the admissions committee will take notice.
How Do I Stand Out With My Personal Statement?
There are a few ways you can make your personal statement stand out. First, focus on telling a story. Admissions committees want to know who you are as a person, so share a personal anecdote or two. Second, be specific. Avoid generalities and vague statements in favor of concrete examples and clear explanations. Finally, be yourself. The admissions committee wants to get to know you, so don’t try to be someone you’re not.
What Are Some Common Personal Statement Prompts?
There are a few common personal statement prompts that you may encounter. Here are a few examples:
- Tell us about yourself: This prompt gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee. Talk about your background, interests, and goals in your essay.
- Why are you interested in our school?: In this essay, you’ll explain why you’re interested in attending the school. What are your academic and career goals? How does the school fit into your plans?
- What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?: In this essay, you’ll share your strengths and weaknesses with the admissions committee. What experiences have you had that have shaped you into the person you are today?
There are countless personal statement prompts out there, so don’t worry if you don’t see your specific prompt on this list. Just focus on answering the question in a clear and concise way.
What Are Some Tips for Writing a Personal Statement?
Now that you know what to include in your personal statement writing help, it’s time to start writing. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start writing your essay. Give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise your essay.
- Be concise: Your personal statement should be short and to the point. Admissions committees don’t have time to read lengthy essays, so make sure you get your point across in a few hundred words or less.
- Edit and proofread: Once you’ve finished writing your essay, take the time to edit and proofread it. Remove any unnecessary words or sentences, and fix any grammar or spelling errors.
- Ask for feedback: Once you’ve edited and proofread your essay, ask someone else to read it. A fresh set of eyes can help you spot errors or areas that need improvement.
With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to writing a great personal statement. Just remember to be yourself, focus on the positive, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
