Writing the Personal Statement Before you view this PowerPoint, go to View, then Notes Page, so you can see all of the extra information that make the slides more helpful!

Writing the Personal Statement Graduate and Professional Programs

The “Personal” Statement It isn’t really all that personal anymore

Personal Statement Purpose To give the program some idea of who you are To reveal information not easily seen in your application and transcripts To show you know something about the field you plan to enter and that you are a good fit To show your commitment to the field To highlight your personal strengths To get you an interview (some fields)

Personal Statement Content Why do you want to enter the field What skills do you possess that are valued by the field Relevant experiences Clinical Research Professional Personal What you are looking for in a program Varies largely by field

Personal Statement Content Personal interests and life experiences that showcase your values and priorities Explain gaps (unapologetically and excuse free) Academic difficulties Leaves of absence Other interests Future plans within the field

Common Mistakes Rehashing your application, resume, CV, or transcripts Underestimating the importance of the statement PROCRASTINATING Using cliches or quotations I, I, I, I, I……. Not providing examples or evidence to back up descriptive comments about yourself

Common Mistakes Poorly written Spelling errors Grammar problems Coming across as arrogant Positive Example: Shaun White Making excuses

Common Mistakes Describing why you did not choose other professions Healthcare Example: Physicians vs Nurses Badmouthing others Never a good sign What will you say about them later?

Organizing the Personal Statement

REMEMBER: Portray yourself as_______ Passionate about the field Intelligent Well prepared (academically and personally) Able to succeed in a challenging graduate program Collegial Potentially outstanding representative of that school

Personal Statement – Major Themes What motivated you to enter the profession Demonstration of characteristics and abilities that qualify you for the profession

Organizing the Personal Statement 1.Hook 2.Background in the field Be specific Use examples 3.Related extracurricular activities How do you know What if you think you don’t have any? 4.Publications or professional accomplishments

Organizing the Personal Statement 5.Explanations about problems in your background If needed No excuses 6.Why this school Be specific Use examples

Personal Statement Tips Talk the talk Do your homework Have command of jargon Be aware of current issues, trends, etc Demonstrate commitment Find a bridge Link past experiences to new goals

Personal Statement – Final Thoughts This is YOUR STORY Tell it well

Additional Resources Engineering Career Center University Career Services ASU PreHealth Advisers personal_statement tab

For More Information Connect with Fulton Engineering Career Center Phone: (480) Website: Sun Devil CareerLink: MyASU>Campus Services>Jobs & Careers>Sun Devil CareerLink Facebook: Engineering Career Center Arizona State University 18