
For example, it is not necessary to mention your exact GPA or specific grades and course titles in your personal statement or application letter. While starting every sentence with “I” is not advisable, remember that you and your experiences are the subject of the essay.Īvoid Unnecessary Duplication: Sometimes a writer has a tendency to repeat information in his or her personal statement that is already included in other parts of the application packet (resume, transcript, application form, etc.). Using third person can result in a vague and overly wordy essay. Yet in this type of writing using first person is essential because it makes your prose more lively. Writers often feel rather self-conscious about using first person excessively, either because they are modest or because they have learned to avoid first and second person (“you”) in any type of formal writing. Keep the question in front of you as you write, and refer to it often.Ĭonsider The “I” Problem: This is a personal statement using the first person pronoun “I” is acceptable. To avoid this problem, read the question or assignment carefully both as you prepare and again just prior to writing. If you spend your entire essay or letter detailing your qualifications with no mention of what attracted you to the company or department, your statement will probably not be successful. For example, an application might want you to discuss the reason you are applying to a particular program or company. The following is a list of concerns that writers should keep in mind when writing a personal statement/application letter.Īnswer the Question: A major problem for all writers can be the issue of actually answering the question being asked. In this way, you will be able to refer to these materials while writing in order to include as much specific detail as possible.Īfter you have collected and reviewed these materials, it is time to start writing. Make a list of important information, in particular names and exact titles of former employers and supervisors, titles of jobs you have held, companies you have worked for, dates of appropriate work or volunteer experiences, the duties involved etc. Obtain copies of documents such as transcripts, resumes and the application form itself keeping them in front of you will make your job of writing much easier. Your personal statement or application letter introduces you to your potential employer or program director, so it is essential that you allow yourself enough time to craft a polished piece of writing.īefore you sit down to write, do some preparation in order to avoid frustration during the actual writing process. Though the requirements differ from application to application, the purpose of this type of writing is to represent your goals, experiences and qualifications in the best possible light, and to demonstrate your writing ability. This type of writing asks writers to outline their strengths confidently and concisely, which can be challenging. The process of applying for jobs, internships, and graduate/professional programs often requires a personal statement or application letter.
