Writing a Winning Personal Statement

There are 3 basic kinds of Personal Statements 1.Education: Used for getting into college. 2.Career: Cover letters for getting a job. 3.Overcoming Obstacles: Personal narratives detailing the troubles you've overcome and the strengths you have gained because of them.

What do I want to be when I grow up? What are my life goals and dreams? How did I become interested in these things? What am I doing now in preparation for getting there? What do I write about?

What is different, unique, or impressive about me? How has this school helped me? What volunteering, internships, life experiences have contributed to my objectives?

Don ’ t Be Boring! Nobody cares what you did in Junior High or how old you are or who your favorite rap star is or some boy broke your heart or even your name!

Don ’ t Be Boring! The worst thing you can do is start with: “Hello. My name is Xxxx Xxxx. I am 16 years old. I have an average life with normal friends and blah blah blah … BORING!BORING!

Don ’ t Be Boring! Instead, tell a story: Ask yourself: –What dramatic thing that happened to me made me the person I am? –Or experience has shaped your life? –How can I make my story interesting? –What is significant my life?

Special Considerations Special circumstances: It’s ok to talk about failures: low grades, switching schools, mistakes you’ve made in the past, etc. Just be sure to focus on how you learned from your failures, how they gave you strength and resilience. Be positive, realistic, & professional sounding!

Things to Mention –Awards & Honors –Groups & Clubs –Writing or publishing experience –Internships or work experience that contribute to your maturity –Experiences - academic, work- related)

Start Writing Start with a compelling opening line. –Pick an incident or story and explain why it is meaningful to your career or college choices. –Stick with the same themes throughout the statement. Describe Your Interests & what they mean to you –How do Your Experiences Apply? –Plans for college or Professional pursuits –Why is your career choice a good fit for you?

Examples Before: “I am a compilation of many years gained from overcoming the relentless struggles of life.” After: “I was six years old, the eldest of six children in the Bronx, when my father was murdered.”

Examples Before: “My recognition of the fact that we had finally completed the research project was a deeply satisfying moment that will forever linger in my memory.” After: “Completing the research project at last gave me an enduring sense of fulfillment.”

Examples Before: “If it were not for a strong support system which instilled into me strong family values and morals, I would not be where I am today.” After: “Although my grandmother and I didn’t have a car or running water, we still lived far more comfortably than did the other families I knew. I learned an important lesson: My grandmother made the most of what little she had, and she was known and respected for her generosity. Even at that age, I recognized the value she placed on maximizing her resources and helping those around her.”