The Effective Personal Statement?

How should I start?

  • Write a draft version.

  • Now read it as if you were the actual admissions officer.

  • Ask yourself: 'Does it really excite me enough to offer a place?'

  • If it does, cool! Clear off 'n' listen to that classic album you've just bought!

  • Most of you will have been underwhelmed, especially as everyone is their own worst critic. If so, maybe there's something else you could add to persuade that admissions officer you'll be an asset?

    • But I'm struggling to write a draft!
    How can I hit the right spots!
    Is there a plan?

    'The more vocational the course, the more you need to emphasise your commitment and interest in the course; the more academic the course, the more you need to show tutors why you want to study it for 3 years or more. Show your knowledge or enthusiasm through reading and/ or work experience.'

    Imagine your Personal Statement has 2 sections:

    1... 'THE COURSE BIT!'

    (Up to two thirds of the statement?)

  • Firm reasons for your degree choice.

  • Accurate knowledge of the course.

  • Proof of commitment and evidence of definite enthusiasm.

  • Description of all relevant Work Experience (undertaken and/ or planned).

  • Links between your A Level studies and your degree choice. (Common elements you enjoy and are good at?)

    • 2... 'THE EXTRAS!'

    (Last third of the statement)

  • List/ describe briefly your achievements (academic/ sport/ extracurricular) in school or outside.

  • Detail any other recent work experience.

  • Briefly include personal interests.

    • What's vital then?

  • Be concise, current, informed and accurate.

  • Communicate clearly and organise your piece.

  • Offer specific tags/ leads for any interview.

  • Excite the Admissions Tutor!

  • Sell yourself! Don't hide your light! Be and express yourself!

    • And the things to avoid?

  • Lies.

  • Repetition.

  • Woolly, long-winded explanations or nonsense.

  • Mistakes or poor presentation.

  • Autobiographies, bath water and all (e.g. being World Thimble Champion in 1987, a major achievement then, but irrelevant now!).

  • Don't set yourself up for awkward interview questions by leaving vague, generalised statements about your taste in music, cinema, literature.

  • Remember! If you are not applying for a Sports and Charity degree, don't make it sound as though you are by filling the space with shedloads of trivia but little substance on your proposed course.



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