When filling out applications for colleges, law schools, certain fellowships and other programs, you may be required to submit a personal statement. What is a personal statement? What constitutes an effective personal statement? Once you understand the purpose and structure of a quality personal statement, you will find that writing a personal statement is not only easy, but a wonderful opportunity to express yourself and let your personality shine through.
The reason that many universities and programs you might apply for require a personal statement, is because there is only so much an admissions officer can tell about you based on a straightforward application or resume. Those are great sources for facts, but they lack flair. Writing a personal statement allows you to express the real you behind the basic facts. It also shows that you know how to communicate well in standard written English.
So when writing a personal statement, it's important to keep those purposes in mind. First and foremost, you want to use the statement as your chance to express your individuality. Find the aspects of your life and your history which set you apart from the crowd, that make you uniquely you. A great way to accomplish this is through the use of anecdotes - true stories from your real life. Pepper your personal statement throughout with small narratives which highlight your past trials and triumphs; try especially to emphasize the great qualities of yours which showed through during these times of great stress or great success.
Also, don't forget to do your best writing. This may seem quite obvious on its surface. But when writing a personal statement, many applicants become preoccupied with listing their own accomplishment and positive attributes. Then the personal statement becomes no different from a cover letter, and that's not what writing a personal statement is all about.
Instead, focus on writing a personal statement which is engaging to read. Don't just incorporate anecdotes here and there; make sure that the whole statement tells a complete story. It should tell the story of you. The people reading your personal statement probably haven't met you. Make them feel like they have. Concentrate on writing a personal statement which evokes a character they want to get to know better, namely you.
Also, please don't forget the basics of good composition. In most cases when writing a personal statement is required, it is indeed a test of your English composition skills. Check your spelling and grammar carefully. Use a varied and lively vocabulary. And of course, have trusted friends proofread your personal statement for you before you send it in.