Tools for Writing a Personal Statement

Some general tips for writing a personal statement:

  1. Be yourself and be genuine in your writing.
  2. Avoid cliche statements and ideals whenever possible.
  3. Proofread, proofread, proofread.
  4. Use your personal experience to reinforce your points, but do not make the personal experience itself the focus.
  5. You can now use “I” and “me” without worry. Just remember that beginning every sentence with “I” would look rather conceited.
  6. If a question is asked, answer it completely with specific details and examples. It is respectful to the admissions committee and shows that you know how to follow directions.
  7. Always write a new unique personal statement for each college you are applying for.

Resources:

Personal Statement Handout

https://watwbroward.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Personal-Statement-Guidelines.pdf

Critique Form 

https://watwbroward.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Personal-Statement-Critique-Form.pdf