1. Personal Statement

2. The Basics  What is it?  A snapshot/summary of you  Why is it important?  Your scores are not the only thing that reflects who you are  A chance to understand who you are, your goals and potential  How important is it?  Can help (or hurt) you tremendously!

3. How is it organized?  Length: 1.5 - 2 pages (~600 words)  Format: essay  On the Common Application, five prompts to choose from:  Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.  Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what lessons did you learn?  Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?  Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or experience there, and why is it meaningful to you?  Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.

4. Time to Shine!  Figure out your strengths and highlight them!  International students have a unique perspective that U.S./local students abroad do not—emphasize it!  Emphasize but don’t lie; schools want to get to know you!

5. How?  Start with a hook, an anecdote, an attention grabber  Reflect upon it  How did you process it?  How did it influenced/changed you?  Reveal something essential about yourself

6. Touch it up!  Write, edit, edit, edit, edit…edit  A word on using editing services.  Make sure they keep the essence of your essay  Don’t worry too much if you cannot afford fancy services: IVCE is happy to help (first-come, first-serve basis)

7. Some Thoughts  Start the summer before you begin applying  Write the essay completely before seeking advice  Choose your themes and personal experiences carefully  Personal essays should be “personal” but be careful to reveal what should help you get into college  Be clear (details, details, details); do not assume  Remember the reader may not know anything about the particulars of your life, family, culture

8. PS vs. SOP  Undergraduate: Personal Statement  Graduate: Statement of Purpose  Research topic  Writing Sample  Why are you a good fit for this school  Why is this school a good fit for you  Professors, facilities, resources, etc.