Personal Statements Northern Illinois University 2007

Purpose Provides an identity –Who you are –What qualities do you have to be a … –Shows individuality

Possible ideas Anecdotes to make it easy to read Answer to why you chose medicine Experiences you have had that left lasting impression –School –Personal

Avoid Listing everything you have accomplished Dropping names Presenting controversial issues Making apologies Writing in a creative style Adding too many details

Format Guidelines Introduction –Gain attention –Applicable to position or program –Strongest part

Format Guidelines Supporting paragraphs (2-3 paragraphs) –Focused and relevant –Precise language with a confident tone –Avoid pointless duplication of information from other parts of the application –Use I, but do not start every sentence with I

Format Guidelines Supporting paragraphs –Answer any, and all, questions from the application –Use transitions to blend the ideas together –Use active voice –Accentuate the positive—avoid the negative –Show you have specific knowledge of the position or program

Conclusion Ties issues together Reiterates interest in position or program Points out acceptance will be a step toward long-term goal

Notes Think about what interests or excites you (use Personal Inventory Questions as a guideline) Do not be generic— This is your chance to sell yourself! Use concrete examples Use limited or subtle humor—not blatant, over-the-top humor Explain discrepancies, but do not make excuses

Effective writing should… Say something worth saying in an original way? Convincingly support any claims Make sure your topic sentences and paragraphs develop your thesis statement and that the supporting details are relevant

Revise Content –Did you address the question(s)? –Is there enough detail to complete the picture? –Did you “sell” your qualifications?

Self-edit Sentences –Is the writing clear? –Are the language and tone appropriate? –Are the mechanics and grammar correct?

Tips Leave time between drafting and revising or self-editing Read the document aloud and slowly and, if possible, from a hard copy Concentrate on what is written—not what you think you have written. Read the document from the perspective of your audience—Were you convincing?

Tips Follow all guidelines –Margins –Font size –Font style –Length **Some organizations have special requirements

Remember Do not underestimate the importance of the essay Essay is the first impression Essay may be basis for the admissions interview