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Advice and Tips on Personal Statements

How to Write a Personal Statement


What is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a short piece of writing you are usually asked to submit when applying for postgraduate study or research, but may sometimes be asked for when applying for jobs.

Before you start writing your personal statement

Remember that this section is a very important part of your overall application - it may be the deciding factor in making your application successful.

Take your time to carefully plan the contents of your statement and practise it before you commit to the final version.

Read and follow any instructions given, e.g. it may specify that the documents should be hand written, there may be a word limit etc.

Make sure you answer any questions asked directly.

Structure

A good personal statement is clearly structured with an opening paragraph (introduction) and a conclusion that sums up what you have to offer. It is often a good idea to use headings, which can be based on the essential and desirable criteria set out in the person specification , specific questions you are asked or on the contents listed below.

Content

Each application will have different requirements and you should always tailor your personal statement to meet the requirements of the course/research or job that you are applying for. Most personal statements will include sections on:

Why do you want to do the course/undertake the research/apply for the job?
What has attracted you to this particular institution/organisation, e.g. do they specialise in a particular field, is there a particular member of staff you want to work with? Why are you interested in the course/research or job? Give examples of your knowledge and experience in this area including essays, dissertations, seminars and conferences, work experience etc.

What can you offer?
Make sure you state your interest and enthusiasm in the area of study/research or employment and give clear reasons for that interest.
Detail your skills, knowledge and experience highlighting its relevance to the course/research or job applied for. Give examples of how you developed these skills or when you have used them. You can draw on academic work, part-time employment, voluntary work, membership of clubs and societies as well as leisure activities and personal commitments.
Mention any relevant prizes/scholarships you have won, study/travel abroad and other achievements.

What relevant experience do you have?

Do you have paid or unpaid work experience that is relevant? Are you a member of a relevant society or club? This is especially important for vocational courses such as teaching, medicine and social work.

Think about what skills you gained or what you learnt through observation. Reflect on how this experience will help you in the course/research or job.

What are your Career Aims?

How does this course/research or job fit in with you future plans? Having some idea about what you hope to achieve will strengthen your commitment to do well in the course/research and therefore impress selectors.

Can You Offer Anything Else?

Do you have any additional skills or involvements that would be relevant to the course/research or job e.g. trainee teachers should mention expertise in extra curricular areas such as arts, sports, etc.

Top Tips Updated: Summer 2011