One of the most challenging parts of a scholarship or college application is writing a personal statement. Many students feel caught between the fine line of over-exaggeration or being too humble. Here are some tips that will help you write a winning personal statement that is truly personal.
1. Know all about the scholarship or school in which you are applying to. Knowing the school or scholarship well will help you understand what they are looking for. Your application and personal statement will stand out more if you show that you are well-informed about the scholarship or school.
2. Cater your personal statement to each scholarship or school. You should include at least a few sentences or even paragraphs that show how you can be an asset to the school or how you can give back if you win the scholarship. The more specific you are, the better it is. It is more convincing when the reader can see that you have done your homework and are applying for a specific reason.
3. Don’t repeat what is already going to be submitted. A personal statement should not be a summary of your application. It should be what makes you stand out aside from what the readers are already going to see. Remember that this is your opportunity for them to get to know you besides seeing grades, numbers, and scores. Make your personality shine.
4. Discover what makes you unique. A personal statement is your only opportunity to sell yourself besides what they already see in the application. Find out what makes you stand out and write about it. Ask yourself, friends, and family members what makes you special. Everyone has a unique story, a challenge they have overcome, or a moment that has touched their lives. You just need to discover it and write from your heart.
5. Write down the goal of your essay. Although most applications are generally aimed at introducing yourself to the reader and convincing them that you are a valuable candidate, you need to have a specific goal outlined before you begin writing your essay. For example, you may want to jot down something like: “I want to convince my reader that I have a passion for marine biology because I want to protect endangered marine animals. Thus, attending this school will allow me learn more about the subject so I can become a marine biologist.” The more specific your goal is, the easier it will be to convey your feelings on paper.
Don’t forget to proofread, be creative, and honest. Most importantly, speak from your heart as it is no wonder that a personal statement is called a “personal statement.”
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Tip #3 is particularly useful. You don’t want to reiterate your application, the personal statement is an opportunity to show “more.”
Yes, I agree. The same applies to a cover letter and resume. I think sometimes people get stuck in their obvious accomplishments and forget other things such as letting their personality shine.
- Ann @anngo