Its also something over which they have total control, unlike, say, their GPA or SAT score.
And a memorable personal statement can give students with less-than-spectacular stats an edge over the competition.
Heres how to craft one.
I dont have anything to write about.
Nothing interesting has ever happened to me, is a common refrain.
I told her I thought that might interest college admissions officers.)
Brainstorming is a good place to start.
Then I have them list people they admire, and times when they experienced failures and successes.
Also helpful is to ask teenagers to describe themselves and talk about their hobbies and interests.
What makes a good personal statement topic?
Her Campusadds to the list of no-nos any politically controversial topics, lists of accomplishments, and sob stories.
It all comes down to the writing.
The personal statement should function as a narrative that places the reader in the writers shoes.
I encourage writers to open with a hook, a specific moment that is emblematic of their storys themes.
Often, once writers have their beginning, the rest of the essay flows from there.
But the final sentences are what will linger with readers, so they need to be carefully chosen.
Some schools also provide examples of personal statements they lovedcheck out these from Johns Hopkinsas a jumping off point.
Revising
As with any other form of writing, editing is a critical part of the process.
Questions to consider during the revision phase are, does this tell a story?
Does it grab me at the beginning and maintain my interest throughout?
Does it conclude in a way that makes sense and is impactful?
Does it answer one of the prompts?
Does it show me something interesting about who this person is as an individual?
Keep an eye out for repetition and wordiness.
