.jpg)
My Part of the Experience
.jpg)
In a bit, I will be sharing my experience with you and walking you through a step-by-step guide to writing a personal statement. To be honest with you, writing a personal statement feels a bit like trying to sell yourself without sounding like a pushy car salesman. My first experience felt this way. I stared at a blank page for a long time. I was sipping a drink at that moment to relieve myself of the stress of overthinking, but all I could wonder at that moment was how to start.
Should I start with "Ever since I was a child"? No, I couldn't, because my research told me that wasn't acceptable anymore. It is natural to panic in the first place because I panicked on my first try as well.
There are a lot of emotions you suffer at that particular moment. The overthinking and that temptation to copy someone's perfect statement from Reddit (let me be real with you: That is not something you should even think of doing; they can smell plagiarism from a mile away). Yes, that is an exaggeration, but it is true.
After reviewing the hundreds of successful statements for applications to top universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and UBC, I have come to learn exactly what separates a bad essay from one that admission tutors are ready to accept.
I learned this from my teacher in school, anytime they wanted to advise us: Experience is the best teacher." This is to say that I am not coming to share something out of the blue with you, but rather, one I have experienced on several occasions. So if it won't bother you, grab a cup of beverage as we ride along. Though it could feel like a long ride along the line, it is to walk you through a step-by-step guide to crafting a winning personal statement.
Let us begin: I walk with you through each step in this lecture note
The First Step: Start with a Hook (Hope you are thinking of a fishing hook, because that is not what I mean)
Starting with a hook is how you actually begin your statement, I mean, your first impression. Here is how I want you to think about it. Think about it as the academic version of a movie trailer, where you want the reader hooked, curious, and just a bit impressed.
The introduction to your personal statement should be simple and very thoughtful.
See The Example Below
When I was growing up, I would have my head turned to the sides of the streets just looking at the new and rising buildings in my community and how they made the whole place different. This was a passion that had me always go back to my room and sketch neighbourhoods while my friends didn't have much to do but put castles in the beach sand. Something, the waves will wash away in moments.
Avoid these common mistakes.
Avoid starting with sentences like "Since I was a child"; OR "I have always been passionate about...". Unless you actually built a rocket since age seven, leave those behind.
A step away from one: Step 2: Show the Purpose and the Passion You Have
Now that you’ve caught their attention, explain why you’re applying and what has given you the excitement about this field. I want you to see this as an opportunity to show your real motivation and not write a lot of words that will not make sense to the tutor. For instance, if you are applying for a master's in Real Estate, or let me say, Urban Development, talk about what gave you that interest. Were you feeling bad about areas being abandoned in your developing community?
See The Example Below
On several occasions, I have seen how technology is changing the world, and I have seen how it is making life easier for humanity as a whole. Just observing how technology is having a positive effect on people, my passion now is to learn how new innovations can create solutions to the problems that the world is facing.
The Third Step:(The Step to be bold and not bland): Outline Your Career Goals
You are not just studying for fun but building towards something. Tell them what that "something" is. Make sure you remain specific about both your short-term and long-term goals, and let them know how the program you're applying to fits that vision.
A Quote Box Example for You
After my graduation, I plan to work as a real estate analyst so I can be able to promote affordable housing. I have the aim to establish a firm that will be focused on sustainable urban planning across Africa.
Step 4: Give a Highlight of Your Academic Background
This is where you show that yes, you've put in the work, instead of listing grades like a robot.
Talk about your important coursework, the projects you did, or the awards you had that have allowed you to get that far.
You can go by this example:
During my undergraduate degree in Architecture, courses like Urban Design and Environmental Planning were the areas that allowed me to strengthen my skills in analysis and design. The two I know are both important in solving housing challenges in the real world.
Please remember to keep this consistent. Make sure it is important. No one needs to know about that "Intro to Basket Weaving" elective.
The fifth step: Discuss Your Research Experience
If you have done any research, I bet you that it is fine and perfect. Just talk about it in detail. Mention the projects, the findings you had, and do not forget to mention the skills you gained from the research. If you haven't done any research at all, that too is fine. You just have to substitute it with maybe your analytical projects, your independent studies, or your fieldwork.
Step 6: Share Your Professional or Volunteer Experience
Did you do any intern, volunteer, or work-related experience in a field? Then that is perfect, you are good to go.
All you have to do is briefly explain your roles, the responsibilities you undertook, and what you actually learned.
You can reference this example.
As an intern with a real estate firm, I made contributions to market analysis reports and also participated in community outreach projects.
The seventh step (Time to talk about your skills, the relevant ones)
What are you good at doing? This is your opportunity to showcase your skills.
For example
I am skilled in Python, Machine Learning, Statistical Analysis, Communication, Lab Safety, and teamwork.
Please note not to mention skills that do not relate to your skills. If it doesn't, just skip it.
Step 8: The Explanation Step(Explain Why This Program Fits You)
At this point, you are to mention the specific courses, professors, labs, or opportunities that excite you about the program, and why you think the program is meant for you.
Show your genuine interest and do not engage in any copy-and-paste spree.
The ninth step: Show How You'll Contribute to the University Community
Universities want people who give, not just the ones who take. So explain how you will add value both academically, socially, or through leadership or volunteering.
Maybe you will start a sustainability club, or maybe you will contribute to an ongoing research project, that is fine.
Here is an example:
Aside from my academics, I hope to contribute to the ongoing research on campus sustainability. I also want to engage in student mentorship and programs that will help bond the collaborations and disciplines among students.
That is what will make you stand out as someone who not only takes from society but also gives to it.
The 10th Step: End with a Strong and Confident Closing
Don't fade out with a weak thank you. End with some key motivations. Recap your key motivations and also reaffirm how excited you are about joining the program.
Tips for You: My Final Note: Do Your Homework
Before you write, make sure you research the program and university thoroughly. Review the modules of the courses and the faculty's recent projects. This is to make sure your statement knows what it is about and not something templated.
Good resources include:
- The University's Official Websites
- Program Brochures
- Alumni blogs or LinkedIn profiles and
- Academic journals in your field
Have a question or comment for us? Leave your message below!