How to Write a Personal Statement in the Sciences Organized by Becky Ostertag-UHH Biology, PIPES/PACRC, EPSCoR, LSAMP, Keaholoa, and UHH MOP Funded by an NSF Ecosystem Studies Grant (Grant # 0546868)

Overview Purpose of the Personal Statement Guidelines and Structure Tips Examples Questions

Purpose and Goals Assess thinking and writing skills – show how well you can express ideas in plain English Show how much thought you put into the position – this translates into your interest in the field / position A chance to present intellectual accomplishments other than by academic records A chance for you to stand out

Guidelines Keep it around one page Write in essay format Introduction and main argument Body Conclusion NOTE: format can sometimes be different, but purposes are the same Express yourself – without repetition

Structure Paragraph 1: Introduction (2-3 sentences) Begin with a hook – avoid clichés State thesis/main argument Paragraph 2: Introduce Body Support main argument Call attention to relevant courses, research experience, workshops, etc.

Structure Paragraphs 3 and 4: Body What could you do with this scholarship? Why do you want this position? What makes you stand out? Why did you pick this program? How will this help you achieve professional goals? Paragraph 5: Conclusion (2-3 sentences) Summarize background Refer to intro, restate main argument/thesis

Tips DO: DON’T: Brainstorm Give your P.S. a main argument Write about what excites/interests you Avoid clichés! End with conclusion – refer back to opening statement Revise several times Watch spelling and grammar Write clearly DON’T: Include irrelevant information Write in an autobiography, itinerary, or resume form Hesitate to start over Try to impress with excessive vocabulary Rely on computer spell check Provide false information Use tired expressions Be afraid to ask friend, faculty, or family to read draft

Tips Concentrate on opening paragraph Set yourself apart – be personal and analytical Maintain positive/upbeat tone Confidence and enthusiasm Brainstorm Use transitions between paragraphs Use a variety of synonyms Avoid qualifiers (rather, possibly, etc.) Vary sentence structure Use active voice

Tips Questions to think of before writing: Why are you unique or impressive? When did your interest in this field begin? Career goals? What characteristics do you possess? How will this help you achieve your professional goals?  Why should the committee pick you?

Examples

Questions?