Writing a personal statement for university can seem daunting, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a compelling statement that showcases your strengths and achievements. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you write the perfect personal statement:
Step 1: Research the university and the course
- Start by researching the university and the course you are applying for. Look at the course description, entry requirements, and any other relevant information to understand what the university is looking for in a student.
Step 2: Brainstorm your ideas and experiences
- Make a list of all your experiences, achievements, and skills that are relevant to the course you are applying for. This could include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, work experience, or any other experiences that have shaped your personal and academic development.
Step 3: Plan your structure and content
- Think about the structure of your personal statement and what content you want to include. You should have an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, explain why you are interested in the course and what motivates you to study it. In the body, use examples from your experiences to demonstrate your skills and achievements. In the conclusion, summarise why you are a good fit for the course and what you hope to achieve in the future.
Step 4: Write your first draft
- Start writing your personal statement, focusing on the structure and content you have planned. Write in a clear and concise style, using active verbs to describe your experiences and achievements.
Step 5: Edit and refine your statement
- Review your first draft and make any necessary edits and refinements. Ensure that your statement is well-structured, flows smoothly, and is free from any errors or typos. Cut out any unnecessary information and focus on the most important points.
Step 6: Get feedback
- Ask a teacher, tutor, or someone else you trust to read your statement and provide feedback. Use their feedback to make further improvements and refine your statement.
Step 7: Finalise your statement
- Once you are happy with your statement, make any final edits and proofread it carefully. Check that you have met the university's word count and any other requirements for formatting or submission.
By following these steps, you can write a compelling and well-structured personal statement that showcases your skills, achievements, and potential as a student. Good luck with your application!