How to write a personal statement

Some universities will ask for a personal statement. The purpose of a personal statement is to tell the university admissions office and the admissions tutors important information about you that might not be clear from your application.

Universities want to ensure that the best possible applicants are chosen. Sometimes there are special circumstances that have affected an individual’s education. There might also be a wide range of qualifications and life experiences that can bring someone to higher education. We are all individuals and a personal statement should be exactly that – personal.

Writing a personal statement is challenging and it’s good to ask for feedback on what you have written from somebody who knows you well. Try to stay positive. There are also some guidelines to help you get started:

1. Be you. There might be a lot of candidates who apply with the same grades as you, but they aren’t you as a person, with your interests, experiences and thoughts. Write about the matters that make you who you are.

2. Stand out. You need to stand out as a real person to an admissions tutor so try to make your personal statement sound interesting.

3. Explain why you want to major in the study program. Have you specialized in similar subjects in your high school studies? How did your interest develop? How does your enthusiasm show?

4. Show evidence of what you have done outside the classroom. Have you read books or quality newspapers on the topic? Researched websites, blogs, periodicals or scientific journals? Watched films or documentaries? Listened to radio programmes, podcasts or attended public lectures?

5. Show that you have already done something relevant. Do you have work experience? Have you volunteered? Done a university taster session? Gone to summer school or on museum, gallery or theatre visits? Taken part in competitions?

6. Reflect on your experiences. How is everything you have done relevant to your career choice and personal growth?

7. Describe your skills and how they relate to your chosen career. Are you able to work independently? Do you excel at teamwork? Does good time management come naturally to you? Are you good at problem-solving and leadership? Are your listening or organisational skills excellent? Have you taken part in any special projects and assignments? Have you had any positions of responsibility?

8. Show that you are a critical thinker. The university studies require this skill and you could try to prove that you already have the right mindset.

9. Describe your long-term goals in life. What are your main goals in life?

10. Explain why you would be the right choice. How could you prove that you understand the requirements of the course and career?