What is an example of a bad personal statement?

A bad personal statement often reads like a collection of tired, overused phrases. Phrases like “ever since I was a child,” “passionate about helping people,” or “changing the world” may have been powerful once, but they now make admissions officers groan. These clichés show a lack of originality and genuine thought.

What makes a killer personal statement?

It sounds obvious, but showing a real interest and passion in the subjects you're applying for is the key to standing out. In fact, a significant amount of the statement should focus on your chosen subject and details of what you have read or participated in to show evidence of your genuine interest.

Can you be negative in a personal statement?

Before you start writing your personal statement

Avoid using negative language or volunteering weaknesses about yourself. Present any gaps in skills or experience in a positive light and try to show how setbacks were overcome. Make sure you answer any questions asked directly.

What should you not mention in a personal statement?

How do you write a killer opening to your personal statement?

Don't waffle or say you want to study something just because it's interesting. Explain what you find interesting about it.' It's much better to engage us with something interesting, relevant, specific and current in your opening line… Start with what's inspiring you now, not what inspired you when you were six.

The Best Personal Statements Begin with These 2 Sentences (Oxbridge Examples)

What is a strong opening sentence for a personal statement?

Start with a quote

Using a personal experience or story is a good way to start a personal statement. It is also a great way to highlight your knowledge of history, social history, or your future plans. If you get stuck with an opening sentence, you may want to write the rest of the statement last.

What is a good sentence starter for a personal statement?

Example sentence starters

I have a great interest in... Studying...has always appealed to me because... In my free time I enjoy... After school I dedicate a lot of time to...

How to write a personal statement without sounding arrogant?

Do I mention my name in a personal statement?

Do you put your name on a personal statement? It's better not to put your name in the first paragraph of the application essay. The name is usually mentioned in the header of the personal statement. However, it's necessary to consider the guidelines for an essay.

Can you start your personal statement with a quote?

It can be tempting to use a quote that has inspired you when writing your personal statement. However, admissions officers generally won't appreciate this, and it will most likely result in eye rolls.

Should you brag in a personal statement?

While you may feel uncomfortable bragging about your accomplishments and qualifications in your personal statement, it's important that you underscore your value as a candidate.

What does a good personal statement look like?

A clear introduction, explaining why you want to study the course. Around 75% can focus on your academic achievements, to prove how you're qualified to study it. Around 25% can be about any extracurricular activity, to show what else makes you suitable. A clear conclusion.

How do you know if your personal statement is good?

The same is true for an effective personal essay. To earn a 5 in this category, make sure your essay includes self-reflection about what you learned from an experience, how you have grown in some way, and even how you have applied what you've learned in a new situation. The essay moves into the future.

How do you introduce yourself in a personal statement?

Write an introduction that reflects you and your personality. It should say why you are interested in the job or degree and, if appropriate, your recent experience with the job type or course topics. Starting a personal statement with sentences that show who you are can help encourage the recipient to read further.

How do you write a strong personal statement?

Address your strengths, experiences and accomplishments. It is important to be specific by using examples from your experiences to support your statements. Do not make assumptions, use clichés or state the obvious. Conclude the statement by summarizing everything that was previously addressed.

How do you introduce yourself in a statement of purpose?

Part 1: Introduce yourself, your interests and motivations

Tell them what you're interested in, and perhaps, what sparked your desire for graduate study. This should be short and to the point; don't spend a great deal of time on autobiography.

Who can read my personal statement?

With that being said, you should have 2-4 trusted people to read your personal statement. Medical students, doctors, professors, or friends who are excellent writers are excellent editor options.

Should you say I in a personal statement?

Keep the question in front of you as you write, and refer to it often. Consider The "I" Problem: This is a personal statement; using the first person pronoun "I" is acceptable.

How long should your personal statement be?

A general rule of thumb you might follow is to submit a 2-3 page statement, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins, in 12-pt. Times New Roman font. While there are no set rules about length or format, this is typically considered appropriate and sufficient.

How do you impress a personal statement?

What is a personal statement hook sentence?

The “Hook”: The first paragraph should engage the reader and make them want to keep reading your paper. Remember, the program's admissions committee you are applying to have hundreds (even thousands) of personal statements to read. The stronger your beginning, the more likely they will get to the end.

What is a good last sentence for a personal statement?

To do this, take the most heart-moving story from the body of your personal statement on what inspired you to apply for your course. Mention the main idea of it in a sentence or two, then end with a “for this reason, I believe pursuing [mention course] is the best way to achieve my [state your why].”

What is the shortest a personal statement should be?

(5) Be Concise

Some schools set no limit for personal statements, but most suggest either 2–3 or 2–4 pages. Aim for two pages, double-spaced. Do not make the error of thinking that more is better.

Should you have paragraphs in your personal statement?

Careful formatting will make your personal statement appear neat and professional. To do this, separate it into paragraphs, making sure to include an introduction and conclusion. Each paragraph should discuss a different topic, so that, as a whole, your personal statement reads in a clear and fluid way.

Can I write my personal statement in one day?

A good personal statement cannot be written the night before. Take your time to plan what you want to say, and use multiple drafts to make sure you say it in the right way. As well as this, make sure you have enough time before the deadline to give yourself a break before rereading and sending off your statement.