Writing an Effective Personal Statement (2024)

FAQs

What makes a personal statement effective? ›

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.

Begin your personal statement with something other than, “My name is … and I am interested the Master of Science in …” Start off with what excites you the most about the graduate degree programs, how your personal and professional background makes you a great fit for graduate school, and why you feel like you're ready ...

Start with a short sentence that captures the reason why you're interested in studying the area you're applying for and that communicates your enthusiasm for it. Don't waffle or say you want to study something just because it's interesting. Explain what you find interesting about it.

Personal Statement Work Experience and voluntary experience. Work experience is the best way to demonstrate your commitment and passion to your subject. Make a list of your interests and goals and be creative with finding relevant work experience that you will find beneficial, think outside the box.

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...

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.

Example: “In my final year at college, I lost my part-time job and scholarship and had no one to support me financially. Despite the huge toll these events took on my mental and financial status, I was able to maintain my 3.98 GPA.

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.

Should I include hobbies in my personal statement? ›

If you have hobbies or volunteering experiences related to the subject, include them here. Why will you be great? Your personal and practical skills combined will create a unique picture of who you are and why you'll be a successful student, so definitely include both.

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].”

As well as mentioning your experience, discuss how you are keen to expand your skill set or work with a team that will help you further the employer's goals. Your academic or professional goals: Outline how the job you are applying for will help you achieve your career goals and future plans.