How Important Is Personal Statement?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Remember, your personal statement is all about you, so you should use it

to showcase your personality, experience, achievements, and future ambitions

. Universities want to get to know you, and why you'd be an asset to the course – they don't want to read something that's written by someone else.

Do universities actually read your personal statement?

Clare Marchant, chief executive of Ucas, said a survey of 118 universities by Ucas in 2016 found that

89% of them used personal statements in their initial decision making

. … Some students may meanwhile have extenuating reasons for under-performance, and a statement can let universities know about it.

How important is personal statement for college?

Personal statements are your best opportunity to introduce yourself to the committee. Be sure to provide information that is not contained in other parts of the application. … Use the personal statement

to demonstrate what makes you unique

, and how you will contribute to the university community.

Can a personal statement make a difference?

The personal statement is a great opportunity to show off your writing skills as well as your determination to succeed while telling the reader why you are applying to their program – and why you should be accepted.

What is a personal statement and why is it important?

A personal statement

supports your application to study at a university or college

. It's a chance for you to articulate why you'd like to study a particular course or subject, and what skills and experience you possess that show your passion for your chosen field.

What makes a successful personal statement?

Your personal statement

should share something about who you are

, something that can't be found in your resume or transcript. … Your personal statement, application short answers, and supporting documentation should together tell a story about who you are.

How do you start a personal statement about yourself?


Start with why you chose it

, then try and summarise this in one or two sentences. Be original and refer to personal experiences as a way to draw attention. Avoid overused opening sentences, quotes and clichés like ‘when I was young…' They want to know about you now, not your childhood or Shakespeare!

What should you avoid in a personal statement?

  • NEGATIVITY. …
  • NOT MENTIONING YOUR SKILLS & ACHEIVEMENTS. …
  • EXAGGERATION & OUTRIGHT LIES. …
  • POOR SPELLING AND GRAMMAR. …
  • NOT GETTING FEEDBACK. …
  • STATING THE OBVIOUS. …
  • TALKING ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD. …
  • THE WORD PASSION.

How do you avoid I in a personal statement?

  1. Whining. Don't whine in your essay! …
  2. Someone else is the hero. …
  3. Reads like a resume. …
  4. Lack of focus. …
  5. Leaves out personal growth. …
  6. Overcomplicated language. …
  7. Incorrect grammar or spelling.

What makes a personal statement stand out?

Your personal statement

should be upbeat

. If you don't believe in yourself, this will come across in your application. Focus on your strengths, along with the skills you have and make a case for why you would be an excellent candidate for your chosen course.

Is it important to be honest when writing personal statements?

It's important to that

your personal statement clearly and sincerely reflects you

. It must sound genuine, and the reader should feel that you are being completely honest with them about your reasons for wishing to pursue your career and attend this particular school.

How do you end a personal statement for a job?

Do end your statement

by letting the employer know what you are looking for

. Do show you're a good fit. Pay attention to the language used by the employer. Don't make spelling or grammar errors.

How do you write a unique personal statement?

  1. Work out why you want to study the subject you've picked. …
  2. Think about your transferable skills. …
  3. Include some anecdotes. …
  4. Don't leave out your difficulties. …
  5. Vary your language. …
  6. Make a list of all your achievements.

How do you write a powerful personal statement?

  1. Make a draft without a character counter. …
  2. Take your time. …
  3. Find the perfect words and expressions. …
  4. Concentrate on your strengths. …
  5. Find the perfect opening sentence. …
  6. Make it your own work, voice and ideas. …
  7. Be honest. …
  8. Get someone to proofread your statement.

What skills should I include in my personal statement?

Your personal statement should include a brief overview of who you are, your strengths and any work experience and/or education you've got. Be sure to include skills you've gained, such as

time management, customer service, teamwork, computer skills

etc.

What do you mention in a personal statement?

Your personal statement should include

a brief overview of who you are

, your strengths and any work experience and/or education you've got. Be sure to include skills you've gained, such as time management, customer service, teamwork, computer skills etc.

Carlos Perez
Author
Carlos Perez
Carlos Perez is an education expert and teacher with over 20 years of experience working with youth. He holds a degree in education and has taught in both public and private schools, as well as in community-based organizations. Carlos is passionate about empowering young people and helping them reach their full potential through education and mentorship.