Personal Statement & Statement of Purpose Resource

You probably hold this paper becuase you intend to apply for grad school, a scholarship, or perhaps a job. Wherever you find yourself, writing about an opportunity is easier said than done. A personal statement (or statement of purpose) is an essay, cover letter, or question response required for academic applications. They serve as a tool that advertises you! Showcasing your needs, experiences, and development as opportunities for growth. It presents a story of the applicant's academic motivations and career while exhibiting their unique qualities. In it, an applicant expands on the information in their resume or CV. Sounds like a lot but allow me (the paper) to guide you. 

So...what's the difference?

Personal Statements focus on why you're the right candidate for a program.

Display your dedication to the field you are applying to with personal characteristics that show you're ready for the given program.

• Include a narrative or anecdote

• Show not tell

• Present a personal story with a central theme

Statement of Purpose focus on what you want to study in a program by demonstrating you're a good investment in the program.

• Tell, not show!

• Add more...?

• Show what you can bring to the table

The application should just tell me, right?

Many organizations do not distinguish clearly between these two types of personal writing, remeber to review your college's application guidelines to determine which specific admissions essays are necessary for submission. Follow all statement instructions. All questions. Check twice!

Do I just talk about myself?

While personal statements are to discuss your past, think about your future as you prepare to write.

• Present your academic motivations and career goals

• Mention specific programs, professors, resources, and faculty you would love to work with.

• Be specific! Point to an experience, a volunteer opportunity, or a moment you can describe for the reader.

• Consider what you know about the position (program/institution) you're applying for.

Deciding what to include

Start with a good old brainstorming session and jot down some ideas that might be important to include. This can be a tedious process, but not to fret, the longer the list the better! (You do not need to include all of the list) Not all programs are the same, so you will likely need to write a different personal statement for each application. Creating a master list of ideas can help start multiple personal statements.

Some ideas to consider:

• Vulnerability (write about a sentimental/pivotal moment)

• Personal background (identity, culture, etc.)

• Mention long-term professional/academic goals

• Highlight the relevancy of your interests, skills, and values.

• Sources of inspiration

• *Address all requirements of the prompt

*If you need help starting your paper or would like a second pair of eyes reviewing your work, stop by the Writing Center! You can visit us up to three times per week, per assignment.

Format/Style

It's best to check what the application calls for. If no format is reqested, the standard double-spaced, 1-inch margins, in 12-pt. Times New Roman font is typically considered appropriate. 

Citations

Typically, you may not need citations for a personal statement. However, if you cite information from one of the instituion(s) websites, mention where you received the info! If the application you are submitting has citation guidelines, please follow those.

Tips

• Refrain from mentioning potential controversial topics (i.e. religion, polictics)

• Take this opportunity to research specific topics related to your school or career. Show you have explored your institution's interests!

• Write about an experience that shows off your best qualities.

• Have a few friends/peers read your paper alongside to revise.

• Watch out for too many "I" opening statements.

• Let your voice shine, be emotive, and use imagery!

Applying for nursing school?

Like every discipline, it takes a 'certain' kind of person to be fit for the position. In a sea of applicants, it's a true effort to 'stand out' from the rest. While the tips listed within this resource can help with the quality of a paper, it is in your best interst to seek adivce from a trusted professor or mentor (within the filed) when formulating your Nursing Application.

Like every discipline, there are differing requirements

• Stem calls for acceptability in programs*

• Highlight the topics you want to include in your essay, summarize your personal story, and  incorporate your qualifications.

• Talk to a mentor!

*Disclosure: The Writing Center's expertise cannot guarantee admittance. For more specific or in-depth help, we recommmend asking a trusted professor or advisor.