ENGLISH WORKSHEET

NAME: __________________________________________________________________ NUMBER: _____

GRADE: _______ CLASS: _______ DATE: ______ / ______ /______

How to write a personal statement

A personal statement is an extended essay about yourself and a key part of your application to a university abroad.
While many candidates may apply with the same grades as you, they aren’t you as a person, with your passions,
experiences and thoughts. You need to stand out as a real person to an admissions tutor, as opposed to one of the
many applicant numbers that will pass before their eyes!
Your personal statement is where you can distinguish yourself from other candidates; fill in the picture a tutor has of
you in their head; and leave a real impression that makes them want to meet you or offer you a place.

So what should go in a personal statement?

1. Explain your reasons for wanting to study the course

What motivates you to take this course further at a university level? Mention how your interest developed, what you
have done to pursue it or how you’ve drawn inspiration from your current studies. Or, just demonstrate your enthusiasm
for it. If you want to get something specific out of it, provided it's reasonable, say so.

2. Explain how you're right for the course

Provide evidence that you fit the bill to show that not only do you meet the selection criteria; but also that you’ve
researched the course (or profession) and understand what studying the subject at university level will involve. Also
show that you're prepared for this.

3. Say what you’ve done outside the classroom

If possible, outline how you’ve pursued your interest in your chosen subject beyond your current syllabus.

For example, talk about any further reading you’ve done around the subject and give your critical views or reflective
opinions about it (don't just write a list). This could be from books, quality newspapers, websites, periodicals or scientific
journals or from films, documentaries, blogs, radio programmes, podcasts, attending public lectures and so on. Try to
avoid mentioning the wider reading that everyone else is doing.
4. Why it’s relevant to your course...

Reflect on your experiences, explaining what you’ve learned from them or how they’ve helped develop your interest in
the subject – it could be work experience, volunteering, a university taster session or outreach programme, summer
schools, museum, gallery or theatre visits, archaeological digs, visits to the local courts, travel, competitions or a maths
challenge.

5. … And relevant to your chosen career

Reflecting on relevant experience or observations will be essential for some professional courses where, in effect,
you’re applying for the career as well as the course:

6. Can you demonstrate transferable skills?

Yes, you can – and admissions tutors will want to hear about them!
It could be your ability to work independently, teamwork, good time management, problem-solving, leadership, listening
or organisational skills.

7. Expand on the most relevant ones

But don’t simply list off the skills you think you have – think about which ones relate most readily to the course you’re
applying to. Then demonstrate how you’ve developed, used and continued to strengthen these.
Again, admissions tutors want to hear about specific examples, like:
 projects and assignments (what role did you play, what went well?)
 positions of responsibility (what did you achieve, how has it improved your self-confidence?)
 sport, music or drama (what did you learn from your role, how did you work as a team?)
 Young Enterprise, Awards, … (what was the biggest challenge, how did you overcome it?)
 volunteering or a part-time job (what have you observed, what extra responsibilities have you taken on, what
skills have you demonstrated yourself?).

8. Show that you’re a critical thinker

University is all about being able to think independently and analytically so being able to demonstrate that you’re
working like this already is a big plus point.
Briefly explaining how one of your A-level subjects, an assignment or placement, or additional studies have made you
think more critically could be a way of doing this.
9. What’s the long-term plan?

Mention what your longer term goals are if you can do it in an interesting way and you’ve got a specific path in mind. If
you do, then try and show a spark of individuality or imagination.

If you’re not sure yet, just talk about what you’re looking forward to at uni and what you want to gain from your course
or from university life.

If you’re applying for deferred entry, do mention your gap year plans if you’ve made a firm decision to take a year out.
Most courses are happy for you to take a gap year – but they will want to know how you plan to spend it.
10. Keep it positive

It can be difficult to get started with your personal statement, but don’t panic. Start with your strengths, focus on your
enthusiasm for the course and talk positively about yourself.

What NOT to include in a personal statement

1. Quotations

It’s your voice they want to hear - not Coco Chanel, Einstein, Paul Britton, Martin Luther King, David Attenborough,
Descartes or Napoleon’s. So don’t put a quote in unless it’s really necessary to make a critical point. It’s a waste of
your word count.

2. Random lists

Avoid giving a list of all the books you’ve read, countries you’ve visited, work experience placements you’ve done,
positions you’ve held. For starters, it’s boring to read. It’s not what you’ve done, it’s what you think about it or learned
from it that matters. See our guide to writing about experience in your personal statement to make it really count.

3. Over-used clichés

Avoid 'from a young age', 'since I was a child', 'I’ve always been fascinated by', 'I have a thirst for knowledge', 'the world
we live in today'… You get the idea. They constantly recur in hundreds of personal statements and don’t really say an
awful lot.

4. Bigging yourself up with sweeping statements or unproven claims

More phrases to avoid: 'I genuinely believe I’m a highly motivated person' or 'My achievements are vast'. Instead give
specific examples that provide concrete evidence. Show, don’t tell.
5. Limit your use of the word ‘passion’

The word ‘passion’ (or ‘passionate’) is incredibly over-used. Try to convey your passion without using the word
'passion'. See, it loses its effect.

6. Stilted vocabulary

Frequent use of words or phrases like 'fuelled my desire', 'I was enthralled by' or 'that world-renowned author Jane
Austen' make you sound, well, a bit fake (or like you’ve been over-using the thesaurus).

If you wouldn’t say something in a day-to-day discussion, don’t say it in your statement. It’s even worse if you get it
slightly wrong, like 'I was encapsulated by the bibliography of Tony Blair' or 'it was in Year 10 that my love for chemistry
came forth' (or, worse still, 'came fourth').

7. Plagiarism, lies or exaggeration

UCAS uses stringent similarity and plagiarism software and your universities will be told if you copy anything from
another source. And as for exaggeration, don’t say you’ve read a book when you’ve only read a chapter – you never
know when it might catch you out at a university interview.

8. Trying to be funny

Humour, informality or quirkiness can be effective in the right setting but it’s a big risk, so be careful.

9. Negative comments or excuses

It can be difficult to ‘sell yourself’ in your personal statement, but don’t talk about why you haven’t done something, or
why you quitted a project. Focus on the positives!

10. Irrelevant personal facts

Before you write about playing badminton or a school trip you went on in year nine, apply the 'so what?' rule. Does it
make a useful contribution and help explain why you should be given a place on the course? If not, scrap it.
 Samples

International Relations Personal Statement

Throughout my travels, studies, and experience in the world, I have been able to attain what I hope to be a worldly and open-minded
perspective. In my efforts to further broaden and improve this perspective, and fully pursue all of my academic passions, I hope to have the
privilege of attending university in the United Kingdom.
It was only within the past year that I have recognized my passion in the subject of International Relations. I have always had an interest in
almost anything the world has to offer, obsessed with understanding the way the world works, and why it works that way. But my diversity of
interest has not led me astray in finding my greatest passion; in fact, it has helped me harness it. By studying and exploring a diverse variety
of interests, I found that my true interest lies in understanding and exploring the way the whole of global society functions, which has led to my
passion in International Relations.
Within academics, I have challenged myself to succeed as much as I have been able, in efforts to better myself both as a student and as an
individual. I have been awarded my school's Award for Academic Excellence in the Area of Social Studies for my exemplary work in AP World
History, Distinguished Honor Roll for my 4.0+ GPA, and have strived to challenge myself academically to my upmost capacity by taking 12
Advanced Placement Courses over my high school years, seven of which I am currently taking this year. The rigor of my academics has also
allowed me to partake in studies that have further enhanced my knowledge and interest in International Studies: my study of US political
relations in AP Government and Politics and in-depth analysis of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in AP World Literature being
areas of study I have particularly enjoyed. This year I was also elected President of my school's chapter of the US National Honor Society,
which is a program that promotes both academic excellence and community involvement, which has helped me further hone my skills in both
leadership and communications.
Outside of the classroom, I have participated in activities that have lent me a global perspective. This year, I have been able to join the Model
United Nations Club, which has been an extraordinary experience in learning so closely about an institution that has such an important and
central position in the world of global politics and relations. In addition, two years ago I was able to journey to Costa Rica, where I was able to
complete a Community Service Program assisting and rebuilding a rural community. Last summer, I was nominated to attend the National
Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Washington DC as well as being accepted as an intern at the Steve Irwin Australia Zoo. These
experiences, though their focuses were broad, have been key in my development of leadership skills and personal independence, as well as
inciting my passion in the international community.
I have strived to excel not only in academics, but in attaining a perspective and point of view that will allow me to not only understand the world
of International Relations, but also contribute my own theories and understanding of the subject to the world. I sincerely hope my pursuits in
being a well-rounded and globally oriented student and individual has allowed me enough qualification to attend your university, and hope to
further broaden my perspective by attending such a high standing university in an entirely new country.
Economics Personal Statement

The subject of economics, which I seek to study in the coming years, was first introduced to me through the United States Academic Decathlon,
a ten-subject team competition for high schools. Over the past two years I have devoted hundreds of hours to independent preparation for this
competition. Consequently, I took third place in my division at the national level for an eloquent performance while interviewing. However, the
greatest benefit has been developing a fascination with economics. I now see it as an elegant, mathematical approach to studying the
consequences of human nature in action.
Economics is a subject that demands a great deal of focus, ambition and pragmatism when studied effectively, characteristics instilled in me
during my arduous but fulfilling time on the Decathlon. When I first began studying economics, I was concurrently attracted to the material
introduced in my Honors Calculus class. There I was encouraged not only to absorb the information presented, but also to pursue it individually.
The allure of the mathematical
tools integral to understanding economics reaffirmed my interest in this field.
Studying economics also appeals to me because it promises the possibility of leadership. Thus, I have sought to balance my studies with
experiences that prepare me for such possibilities. I have managed the staged productions and finances of a comedic acting troupe named
ALBATROSS. Some of my peers and I founded this organisation during my freshman year of high school. Running ALBATROSS has taught
me how to direct multiple projects at once, how to motivate people toward a common goal and how to determine when it is best to delegate
work.
Further seeking to gain managerial experience, during the summer of 2009 I worked for the Chicago Public Schools' Freshman Connection
program as a Youth Leader. I learned to step into a position of authority through both observation and practice as I assisted in overseeing
aspects of the program and aided in teaching incoming high school freshmen during preparatory courses. There were many opportunities to
refine my communications skills both when lecturing younger pupils on the importance of self-discipline, and when working to increase
efficiency of exchanges between program administrators.
I have cultivated other interests, as well, during my high school years. In 2008, I translated Adam Lizakowski's 'Chicago: City of Belief' from
Polish into English for a bilingual edition. Also referred to as 'Chicago: City of Faith', this book of poetry won an award from the UNESCO
Polish Division. As a clarinettist, I have won awards as a member of large and small ensembles at municipal and state levels. Additionally, I
became a National Merit Semi-Finalist and Illinois Student Assistance Commission 2010-11 State Scholar in 2009. Through my academic and
extracurricular endeavours, I have gained knowledge, discipline and resolve which I will continue to foster in my university studies.
Ultimately, I seek to pursue a PhD in economics. Because economics is a global phenomenon, I would find it particularly helpful to study in
the United Kingdom. I believe this relocation would expose me to ways of thought that are currently unknown to me yet vital in an increasingly
interrelated world. I would like to take part in strengthening the relationships
that are bred globally and fuelled by cross-cultural professions. As economists are key players in this process, my attempts to join their ranks
are enthusiastic and resolute.
Dentistry personal statement

I have always felt that we, as humans, have an inborn desire to want to help others. Having been raised amongst doctors, this passion has
blossomed into a responsibility I am beginning to understand, through my choice of studies and extra curricula. I believe dentistry is my
permanent source of satisfaction, providing the best of professional, and personal aspects of life. Today, dentists do more than drill and fill
their patients' teeth; they improve the quality of life of people through diagnosis, treatment and prevention of oral diseases and conditions
involving teeth and surrounding tissues. The statement, 'as long as people will have mouths, people will need dentists' highlights how a dentist
is an imperative necessity of the society and has convinced me to pursue dentistry as a means of serving the community.
To gain an insight into the real world of dentistry I joined the dental unit in a private hospital. Here, I observed many procedures including Root
Canal Treatment. Collaboration with staff and interaction with patients proved fascinating. The idea of how dentists give patients from all walks
of life a confident smile, and forge a close bond with them over time impressed me. Moreover, shadowing inspirational figures such as my
Aunt, who taught me the fine traits of a dentist; a dentist I worked with; and reading successful dentists' interviews online has enlightened me
to the commitment required, likewise, the challenges which lie ahead. Knowing I am capable, as reflected by my academic achievements, my
fervour to fulfil my ambition as dentist has intensified - with no trace of doubt in my mind.
I worked in my school canteen as an accountant; I was then promoted to a manager and was the first student to become one. As manager I
had to multitask: train employees, delegate work, command and monitor my subordinates despite their seniority, tackle pressure, make quick
decisions, accommodate customers and respond to complaints. Handling canteen matters alongside attending lessons taught me time
management which will help me become an efficient dentist. In addition, I worked at a preschool with children from a myriad of countries.
Among them was a disabled child. This taught me to be unprejudiced, appreciate diversity and enhanced my interactive skills, which are
essential as dentistry is a social practice. I also volunteered at a charity art exhibition which aided my communication skills, and ability to follow
orders.
As for extracurricular activities, athletics has played a major role in my life. It has aided my fitness, stamina, eye to hand co-ordination, reflexes
to varied stimuli and ability to rise up to challenges. Individual activities have promoted my independence, whereas team sports have enhanced
my teamwork and interpersonal skills. In addition, captainship has boosted my leadership and organisational skills as well as sense of
responsibility and discipline.
To counter the stress from studies, I engage myself in card games which have developed my strategic thinking. I also listen to music, watch
TV, socialise with my friends, bake and read. Frequent hand stitching and clay modelling have improved my precision and manual dexterity
considerably, which are vital since dentistry encompasses an artistic flair.
Besides admiring England's education and greenery, completing my studies in the country where my schooling initially began would be an
honour beyond words. Due to my father's job in Riyadh, I wasn't able to continue; now is my chance. My Irish nationality has facilitated my
annual visits to the UK and familiarity to the country; hence, moving will be a smooth transition. I believe my dedication to my future career,
coupled with my skills and attributes will help me adapt to university life and guarantee me success in this demanding profession.
Architecture Personal Statement

A pencil, ruler and rubber or perhaps a sharpener from time to time; those were the essential tools which followed me around as a child whilst
I imagined, designed and drew my perfect, dream house (which was obviously and most tastefully pink throughout!!). So it was inevitable that
I would pursue a career in design. However, it was only until recent experiences that I narrowed that choice down to becoming an architect.
Being a fully committed art student I've neither lacked creativity, nor the knowledge or history of previous architectural art forms and buildings,
as architecture itself, is based around innovative ideas, aesthetics and ingenuity, it naturally became a subject of interest to me. For instance,
whilst in midst of my A2 personal study for Art and Design I decided to compare two artists from different movements those being the Art Deco
movement, heavily influenced by Bauhaus buildings and architecture along with the Art Nouveau movement, which commenced with the
ornamental floral patterns of William Morris. Last Year, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to visit Glasgow and hence appreciate
Rene Mackintosh’s Art Nouveau souvenirs, gaining inspiration from the influential Glasgow School of Art, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
as well as Princes Square. It was like a dream.
Along with the aesthetical side to architecture, I have also understood the more logical side. This was due to a small work experience placement
with Simon Janes, a local self employed architect who had acquired a lot of attention and business over the last few years. Despite the fact
that his entry route into the world of architecture was slightly askew in comparison with what I had in mind, he was still successful. I built up an
array of knowledge and experience, having heard and witnessed the many challenges of the profession. For example demanding clients
(hopefully those polished people and communication skills I have obtained from working at the post office will support me here), late hours,
building codes and law, the logic of engineering and mathematics and even the management of the business at times; were all skills that I
picked up whilst working along side Mr Janes. It was a great experience to witness the progression of so many buildings, including; beautiful
houses, apartments and office blocks. Having played a part in the creation of something so beneficial, yet so striking would surely be the best
feeling in the world? The feeling that you contributed to someone’s dreams.
Having a father in the field of property development has played a vital role in my career decision. Through his experiences and knowledge of
properties, I realised that pragmatics comes hand in hand with aesthetics in architecture. On a day to day basis i assist him in not only imagining
and designing, but managing and estimating all costs, time schedules, construction control, obtaining planning permission, leasing whilst
working with architects as well as urban planners, estate agents, builders, surveyors and engineers, so that perfect properties are created for
his tenants. He led me to the conclusion that dreams are the foundations for success, but one can only build success with creativity and logic,
especially when art can be so subjective! So, what better way to share my passion for architecture than to help create those dreams for others?
After all, “An architect is the drawer of dreams" - Grace McGarvie

Further research:
http://www.shmoop.com/college/personal-statement-examples.html
https://www.studential.com/university/applying/UCAS-application-guide/personal-statement-examples/subjects
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