Personal statement

While the statement of purpose highlights goals and experiences related to the research area you plan to pursue, the personal statement is an opportunity for the review committee to learn about unique qualities and perspectives you will bring to the program.

Simply put, the statement of purpose is about your work, while your personal statement is about you – and how you will contribute to the spectrum of ideas in your chosen program. Draw on your unique background to present yourself as an ideal candidate for the graduate program to which you are applying.

Tell your story

This is your opportunity to expand on your background, highlight unique experiences, challenges and triumphs and give the committee a compelling reason to accept you. If a personal statement is not requested as part of the application, consider incorporating this content into your statement of purpose. It is in your best interests to offer the most complete and vivid picture of yourself, and this is where to do it.

Describe goals, achievements and challenges

Describe your academic and career goals, and how graduate school will advance them.

Tell how personal experiences have shaped your aspirations, and do not shy away from discussing poor grades or large time gaps in your resume.

Address specific challenges you have faced, and how you worked to overcome them.

Focus on issues that have had an impact on your education, such as being raised in a single-parent household, working to help support your family, thriving in unsafe environments, or persevering with physical or other challenges.

Describe past activities related to your chosen field of study

Most of us have been honing our interest and skills in a chosen field, even without knowing the exact path we would follow. For example, you can write about your personal history of related coursework, summer programs, extracurricular activities, special training, volunteering, community involvement, awards and recognition, independent study or noteworthy contributions to this field.

Describe ways in which you have used your knowledge and skills in this area to benefit your community, and your awareness of the ways in which your field brings value to other people or society as a whole.

Describe any creative endeavors wherein you have expressed your aspirations for and appreciation of your field, and/or expressed why the world needs this discipline.

Remember, write a statement specifically tailored for the program to which you are applying. This allows the admissions committee an opportunity to see exactly who you are.