Below are some tips for writing your personal statement:

• Be straightforward. Do not make it more complex than it is. Write a candid, well-written essay that helps the Committee learn about you, your story, and your background.

• Proofread, proofread, proofread. Your personal statement should not have errors.  This is a sample of your writing and it should be a strong reflection of your written communication skills. Edit extensively.  

• Be concise and organize your thoughts.  Remember your basic writing skills and essay structure. You want to present your ideas in a logical, clear manner.

• Make sure your personal statement is about you. Keep the focus on you with any topic that you choose. Focusing too much on a family member or family history, a social or legal issue, or stories about others is a very common mistake. Even if you tell a moving and interesting story, it will not be a successful personal statement if it does not allow the Committee to get to know you.

• Be yourself.  Every applicant is unique. Be honest. Do not write about something you think you are supposed to write about or rely too heavily on sample topics or model statements.  A topic will not be effective unless it is appropriate for your specific application and background. Don’t try to fit your personal statement into a defined category or box.

• Write in your own voice. This makes your personal statement believable and authentic. Don’t use phrases and vocabulary that you wouldn’t normally use in writing and conversation. It is usually not a good idea to lead with a quote.  Clarity and honesty are key.

• Make it personal. If someone else could write your personal statement, it probably is not personal enough.  Your goal should be to educate the Admissions Committee about you.