Personal Statement Do's and Don'ts

The personal statement is one of the most critical components of your university application. It’s your opportunity to convey your unique qualities and convince the admissions committee that you are an ideal candidate. While there is no one-size-fits-all formula, here are some do's and don'ts, shared by admission experts, to help you write a standout personal statement.

Do's:

1. Be Yourself
Admissions officers want to get to know the real you through your personal statement. Be authentic and honest in your writing. Share personal stories and experiences that have shaped your interests, goals, and character. Your personality should shine through your words.

2. Show, Don’t Tell
Rather than simply stating that you are passionate about a subject, provide examples that illustrate this passion. For instance, if you’re passionate about biology, describe a specific experience where you conducted a research project, volunteered at a science center, or solved a complex problem related to the field. This approach makes your passion more credible and relatable.

3. Focus on Reflection
Reflect on your experiences and how they’ve influenced you. It’s not enough to list your achievements or activities; explain what you’ve learned from them and how they’ve shaped your academic and career goals. Reflection demonstrates maturity, self-awareness, and personal growth.

4. Tailor Your Statement to the Course
While it’s tempting to reuse the same personal statement for multiple applications, it's crucial to tailor each one to the specific course and university. Highlight why you are drawn to that particular course, what excites you about it, and how your background has prepared you for success.

5. Proofread Thoroughly
Your personal statement should be free of grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Proofread your work multiple times and ask a trusted teacher, mentor, or friend to review it as well. A well-polished statement shows attention to detail and professionalism.

Don'ts:

1. Don’t Use Clichés
Avoid overused phrases like “I’ve always been passionate about…” or “Since I was a child, I’ve dreamed of becoming….” These clichés don’t add value and can make your statement sound generic. Instead, focus on unique experiences that set you apart.

2. Don’t Overdo It with Quotes
Using quotes from famous figures can be tempting, but it’s usually better to avoid them. Admissions officers are more interested in your own words and thoughts than those of someone else. If you do use a quote, make sure it adds significant value and connects directly to your personal story.

3. Don’t Focus Solely on Academics
While academic achievements are important, your personal statement should also reflect your broader interests, experiences, and personality. Admissions officers are looking for well-rounded students who will contribute to the university community beyond the classroom.

4. Don’t Ramble or Go Off Topic
Stay focused on the topic at hand—your suitability for the course. Avoid tangents or unnecessary details that don’t contribute to your narrative. Stick to a clear structure and ensure that every paragraph serves a purpose.

5. Don’t Ignore the Word Limit
Respect the word limit provided by the university. Going over the limit may indicate a lack of discipline and attention to detail, while submitting a statement that is too short can suggest a lack of effort. Aim to write a well-balanced statement that fits within the required word count.

Writing a personal statement can be challenging, but by following these do's and don'ts from admission experts, you can create a strong, compelling narrative that highlights your strengths and sets you apart from other applicants. Take your time, reflect on your experiences, and let your authentic self shine through.