Writing a Personal Statement
(possibly the most important 47 lines of size 12 you have ever written!)
There may be thousands of applicants for the course you are applying for and this is your chance to impress! The universities want proof that you are both academic and rounded. You need to convince them that you are ideally suited to the course and that you are more worthy of a place than anyone else. Before you start you will need to have researched you courses inside out. You must know the content of the course, how it is examined, what choices you have within the course….
The first 60% of the statement should address….
* Reasons for choosing course
* Knowledge/experience/interest/capability/independent research or study in your subject. This could include work experience, courses, trips, projects, workshops, conferences, books, journals, gap year, evening class…
* Show ‘breadth’ and appreciation of current affairs in your field.
The remaining 40% should address ….. activities, positions held, skills and qualities
e.g. other work experience, shadowing, contribution to school community, part-time employment, volunteering, D of E awards, sports, hobbies, clubs, ….
The first 60% of the statement should address….
* Reasons for choosing course
* Knowledge/experience/interest/capability/independent research or study in your subject. This could include work experience, courses, trips, projects, workshops, conferences, books, journals, gap year, evening class…
* Show ‘breadth’ and appreciation of current affairs in your field.
The remaining 40% should address ….. activities, positions held, skills and qualities
e.g. other work experience, shadowing, contribution to school community, part-time employment, volunteering, D of E awards, sports, hobbies, clubs, ….
You are trying to demonstrate qualities of leadership, time management, trustworthiness, communication skills etc. Do not write a ‘shopping list’ of everything you have done...
