A personal statement is one of the most important papers a student will have to write. It is a paper which is required by all colleges and universities as part of a potential student's application process. Understandably, the personal statement you compose and present to the applications committee will not only have to be an interesting one, it will also need to be written in a persuasive manner. This will be imperative for your ultimate goal of winning acceptance into the college of your choice.
Of course, writing about oneself is not always an easy task. Some students feel uncomfortable when singing their own praises; while others relish in the opportunity to 'boast' about their accomplishments. Whichever type of student you are, when you sit down to write your personal statement there are essential elements which need to be included in your personal statement that will not only ensure your statement is well received but can quite possibly set you apart from the rest of the candidates.
Objective - To write an interesting and effective statement that will demonstrate your academic and character strengths along with your future aspirations and goals.
Academic Experiences - You will want to write about your academic accomplishments and what awards or recognitions you have received. Writing about what experience or interest you have in a particular field is extremely effective as is writing about a professor who has influenced you academically.
Personal Information - Life experiences or events that relate to your professional goals and career choice are essential to write about. Write about specific people who have influenced your decision to pursue a future in a particular field of study.
Work Experience - Communicate any and all previous jobs, extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, or relevant events you have participated in that have influenced your career choice or goals.
Your personal statement is an opportunity to demonstrate your strengths and abilities, personal qualifications and aspirations, and future career goals to the admissions committee members of the school you are applying to. It would be wise to keep in mind that these admissions committee members undoubtedly have thousands of personal statements to read through so making yours unique and impressive will be imperative. Your objective will not only give the reader a greater insight to understanding who you are, it will also to set you apart from the rest of the candidates. If you successfully illustrate your strengths, achievements, and aspirations with impeccable writing skills and creativity; chances are... your personal statement will be an effective one which captures your reader's attention from beginning to end!
