How to write a REALLY good personal statement for university

1. Introduction

Writing a personal statement for university is a unique opportunity to tell your story, share your passions, and explain why you’re the ideal candidate for your chosen program. It’s often one of the most important parts of your application. A well-written personal statement can help you stand out in a competitive field and show admissions teams why you belong at their university.

2. What Is a Personal Statement

A personal statement is a short essay that accompanies your university application, where you explain why you are applying to a specific course and university. It highlights your academic background, personal achievements, and future goals. The personal statement is your chance to show your personality, motivation, and why you’re a good fit for the program.

3. Why Is the Personal Statement Important

Your personal statement is one of the few chances you have to directly communicate with the admissions committee. It allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the subject, explain why you are passionate about pursuing it, and detail what makes you unique compared to other applicants. A strong personal statement can sometimes make up for less-than-perfect grades or test scores.

4. Understanding the University’s Expectations

Before you start writing, it’s essential to understand the specific expectations of the university and program you are applying to. Some universities may provide a set of guidelines or questions for you to answer in your personal statement. Be sure to carefully read these instructions to ensure you’re addressing what the admissions team is looking for.

5. Steps to Write a Great Personal Statement

Step 1 Understand the Requirements

First, familiarize yourself with the word or character limit, any specific questions the university asks, and the general guidelines for the personal statement. Follow these carefully to avoid wasting time on unnecessary details.

Step 2 Brainstorm Your Ideas

Take some time to reflect on your academic journey, personal experiences, and career aspirations. Write down key points that you’d like to highlight. Consider the following:

• Why are you passionate about this subject?
• What experiences (academic, extracurricular, volunteer) have prepared you for this course?
• What goals do you hope to achieve through this degree?

Step 3 Start with a Strong Introduction

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your statement. A strong opening paragraph can make a big difference. Consider starting with:

• A personal anecdote that sparked your interest in the subject
• A brief reflection on what led you to pursue this career
• A statement about your values and how they align with the course

Step 4 Show Your Passion and Motivation

In the body of your statement, explain why you are genuinely interested in the subject. What motivated you to choose this particular course? Use specific examples from your academic life or personal experiences that demonstrate your commitment to the field.

Step 5 Highlight Your Skills and Achievements

Focus on relevant skills or experiences that will help you succeed in the course. Include examples of:

• Academic achievements or projects related to the subject
• Work or volunteer experience that showcases relevant skills
• Extracurricular activities that demonstrate your dedication, leadership, or teamwork abilities

Step 6 Tailor It to the Course and University

Each personal statement should be tailored to the specific university and program. Do your research on the course structure, the university’s values, and any unique aspects that attracted you to it. Demonstrate that you understand what the course entails and explain how it fits with your academic and professional goals.

Step 7 End with a Powerful Conclusion

In your conclusion, reaffirm your commitment to the course and explain why you are the right fit for the university. Mention how the program will help you achieve your long-term goals, and express your enthusiasm about the opportunity to contribute to the university community.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Being Too Vague: Don’t make general statements like “I love helping people” or “I’ve always been interested in this field.” Instead, explain why and how these interests have shaped your academic journey and future goals.
• Repeating Your CV: Your personal statement should not be a list of your qualifications or experiences. Instead, discuss how those experiences have motivated your academic goals and how they’ve shaped your interest in the course.
• Writing Without Focus: Avoid rambling or including irrelevant details. Stay on topic and make sure each sentence adds value to your statement.
• Overusing Clichés: Phrases like “I’ve always been passionate about…” are overused and can make your statement sound insincere. Be unique and specific in your writing.

7. Tips for Making Your Personal Statement Stand Out

Be Authentic

Admissions teams want to get to know the real you, so avoid using generic language. Share your personal story and explain why you are passionate about the subject in your own words.

Use Specific Examples

Rather than making broad claims, show how your experiences demonstrate your commitment to the subject. For example, instead of saying, “I am good at problem-solving,” explain a situation where you solved a difficult problem or overcame a challenge.

Avoid Repetition

Keep your personal statement concise and avoid repeating points. Every sentence should offer new information or further explain your qualifications and motivations.

8. How to Edit and Review Your Personal Statement

Take Breaks and Revisit It

After writing your personal statement, take a break and return to it with fresh eyes. This will help you spot errors and areas where your writing can be improved.

Seek Feedback from Others

Ask teachers, mentors, or friends to review your personal statement. They may offer valuable feedback, point out areas for improvement, and catch errors you might have missed.

Ensure Clarity and Precision

Make sure your personal statement is clear, well-organized, and free of unnecessary jargon. Avoid long, complex sentences and focus on being clear and direct.

9. Understanding What Admissions Teams Look For

Admissions teams are looking for more than just academic achievement. They want to know:

• Your motivation for studying the subject
• What unique perspectives or experiences you bring to the program
• How well you align with the university’s values and what you can contribute to the campus community

0. How to Handle Challenges or Gaps in Your History

If there are any gaps in your academic or personal history, be honest about them. You can explain challenges such as health issues, family responsibilities, or personal setbacks. Focus on what you learned from these experiences and how they’ve shaped you into a resilient and motivated applicant.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Is a Personal Statement?
3. Why Is the Personal Statement Important?
4. Understanding the University’s Expectations
5. Steps to Write a Great Personal Statement
   • Step 1: Understand the Requirements
   • Step 2: Brainstorm Your Ideas
   • Step 3: Start with a Strong Introduction
   • Step 4: Show Your Passion and Motivation
   • Step 5: Highlight Your Skills and Achievements
   • Step 6: Tailor It to the Course and University
   • Step 7: End with a Powerful Conclusion
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
7. Tips for Making Your Personal Statement Stand Out
   • Be Authentic
   • Use Specific Examples
   • Avoid Repetition
8. How to Edit and Review Your Personal Statement
   • Take Breaks and Revisit It
   • Seek Feedback from Others
   • Ensure Clarity and Precision
9. Understanding What Admissions Teams Look For
10. How to Handle Challenges or Gaps in Your History
11. Conclusion

Conclusion:

A well-crafted personal statement is your chance to shine and show why you’re a great fit for your chosen course and university. By focusing on your passion, experiences, and skills, and avoiding common mistakes, you can write a personal statement that stands out from the crowd. Take the time to reflect on your journey, make sure your statement is tailored to the course, and present your best self. Good luck!