1. 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 # )

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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?

10. Examples

11. Questions?