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How to write a Personal Statement?

This section reviews what a personal statement is, how should it be written, and some tips to capture readers' attention.  A downloadable version of the document and a template are provided below for your assistance.

Are autobiographical essays written in first person usually required for admission to a graduate or professional schools. It's an opportunity to talk about who you are and what you aim to become. The length of a personal statement might range from 100 to 1,000 words (around one page).

What should a Personal Statement include?

Immediate answer to why you are applying to the position

It should be strengthened by personal stories, anecdotes, or explanations.

Discuss topics that could be clarified from other documentation

Volunteering experiences, personal interests, some of your teamwork experiences.  Use your essay to explain why you are more qualified than other applicants.

Use clear language, proper spelling, and grammar

You may ask other people to read and discuss your essay before submitting it for feedback. But make sure to avoid asking close friends or family, and remember the intended audience is a group of strangers.

Characteristics of a Personal Statement

  1. Make sure you are answering the five W’s and one H: who, what, when, where, why, and how.

  2. Select a few and the best experiences from the curriculum vitae.

  3. Adequate formatting of the document (character or page limits, font, etc.).

  4. Follow the proper grammatical rules and don’t try to impress readers with your vocabulary (specialized wording).

  5. Instead of enumerating your skills, provide examples that demonstrate how you have developed that characteristic and why it is relevant to the experience.

  6. Be concise and unique (avoid cliches).

  7. Don’t be repetitious.

Composition of a Personal Statement

Introduction

You should explain who you are and your personality, explain why you are interested in the position, and your recent experience related to the position.

Body

Develop your idea with examples and detailed experiences. Mention your relevant skills, achievements, interests, and experiences, and explain what you intend to bring to the university or laboratory you are applying to. Discuss your goals and how this position aligns with them.

Conclusion

Summarizes what has already been written. The final paragraph should provide your most important information. You should include a clear restatement of why you are applying for the position and what you hope to achieve from that experience.

References

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