Personal Statement

Personal Statements

Graduate and Professional School applications typically require that you write essays in response to specific questions. These are called admission essays or personal statements.

The Career Resource Library has books with tips and strategies to approaching these essays. Following are a few tips to get you started:

• Answer the Questions asked in the directions and stay within the page or word limit provided.

• Tell your story - This is your opportunity to show the individual behind the application. Discuss your unique background and your passion for the field. Be specific about your interest in their graduate program and why you will be a good fit. Use specific, concrete examples. The essay is not a life story; strive for depth not breadth.

• Strong Writing. The essay will be viewed as one sample of your writing. Avoid grammatical errors and typos. Avoid using cliché language like, "I want to be a psychologist because I am a people person." Avoid repeating information that is found in your resume and application.

• Start early so you have time to write several drafts. Make sure to request that career counselors, your advisor, faculty in your department or The Writing Center review and provide feedback.