Websites all over the internet provide help with writing essays. This online guide is aimed at assisting you in writing a personal statement. Most universities supply guidance for applicants seeking a place. However, a personal statement can help you make a difference in other examinations (for instance, when you apply for a job or a special program). Our personal statement examples and top tips will help to learn how to write a personal statement, how to improve it, how to create an original story, and what to avoid to make your statement stand out from the rest.
What is a Personal Statement?
An American friend calls it a ‘persuasive essay’ – the part of a university, job or other application that allows you to describe, in your own voice, who you are and what you’ve done in terms of skills, experiences, and motivations. It matters, because it gets closer to who you are than do any other sentences that are written about you.
Purpose of a Personal Statement
While writing personal statements, the most important thing is to convey to your readers how your personality make you a suitable candidate to undertake a position or place you in a unique light vis-à-vis everyone else applying for that role or programme. Remember, only a small proportion of the applicants might possess the same qualifications.
How to Structure Your Statement
The beginning: Use a hook that grabs our interest and prepares us for your tale.
Body: Further develop your qualifications, successes and experience, indicating how they have equipped you for the position or programme.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reiterate your enthusiasm and readiness for the opportunity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Personal Statement
Reflect on Your Experiences: Think about your achievements, challenges, and what drives you.
Create an Outline: Plan your main points to keep your writing focused and organized.
Write the First Draft: Don’t worry about perfection; focus on getting your ideas down.
Edit and Revise: Refine your statement for clarity, impact, and flow.
Get Feedback: Ask friends, mentors, or professionals to review your statement and provide feedback.
Examples of Personal Statements
Example 1: College Application
From nights spent poring over 19th-century literature as an escape from my homework, to writing short stories of my own, my passion for literature has grown to become my second home. My adoration of reading led me to begin writing beyond schoolwork, composing short stories I entered into writing competitions. As part of this passion, I am exploring the idea of majoring in English Literature and being immersed in a community that encourages such creativity, critical thinking, and shared love of words. If exposed to new ideas and independent thinking, my experience and passion for storytelling is sure to be a worthwhile addition to your university.
Example 2: Graduate School Application
As a first generation college graduate, my path to higher education has not been a smooth one. Balancing a full-time job with a full-time student schedule in undergrad was hard, demanding, and required me to be resilient. However, I also learned time management skills and how to keep my eye on the prize. Entering my senior year in undergraduate, I know a lot more about the world of business and what it takes to be a good strategist. I am looking forward to learning as much as I can from seasoned professionals, and to bringing my experiences to the classroom.
Example 3: Job Application
Being a problem solver, who can find solutions and help others, has always attracted me to a career in customer service. In my four years of experience in customer service, I established my skills in communication, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
In my previous position at XYZ Company, I developed effective approaches to enhance customer service by improving processes, which led to a 20 percent increase in customer satisfaction.
It is my pleasure to apply for the position of Customer Service Manager at your company because I bring an energetic and proactive attitude to help people and continue offering quality customer service.
Example 4: Internship Application
Last summer, I spent my time as an intern for a non-profit organization giving back to my local community. This experience exposed me to the inequalities present in various underserved populations and I found my new passion – community outreach and advocacy. Through my work with these individuals, I discovered more about their needs and why they do not yet have the support they deserve. I am sure this internship is a great way for me to learn more about policy development, a future career choice. Given my experience working with organizations and a background in sociology, I am looking forward to my role on your team.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Being Too Generic: Avoid using vague statements that could apply to anyone.
Tunnel Vision: Don’t stray far from key experiences and achievements that are directly related to the job opportunity.
Ignoring Guidelines: Always adhere to the word count and other application instructions.
Top Tips for a Standout Personal Statement
Be Honest and Authentic: Write in your voice and avoid exaggerating your accomplishments.
Use Specific Examples: Illustrate your points with real experiences to make your statement memorable.
Keep It Engaging: Start with a strong hook and maintain a compelling narrative throughout.
Be Concise and Clear: Stay focused on your key messages and avoid unnecessary jargon.
Proofread Carefully: Ensure your statement is free of grammar errors, typos, and awkward phrasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long should a personal statement be? Most personal statements are between 500-800 words; check carefully with each application as all have their own requirements.
- Can I use the same personal statement for multiple applications? It’s generally a good idea to write a different one for each application so that it always fits the opportunity.
- What should I focus on in a personal statement?
Focus on your unique experiences, skills, and motivations that make you a suitable candidate.
- How do I start my statement? Start with a hook – an anecdote, quotation, story from your own experience, or statement of your aims.
- What if I don’t have many achievements to highlight? Concentrate on what you’re learning or changing or growing into. Even tiny things can be worth mentioning if you interestingly present them. Finding vivid anecdotes in your life story that can be woven into a persuasive personal statement isn’t easy. It takes thought and revision. But with these examples and advice, you can write a statement that showcases who you are and why you’re an ideal candidate for a position.
