Personal Statements

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What is a Personal Statement?

Think of a personal statement as a cover letter you need for professional or graduate school. From outlining your achievements to refining your writing style, we can help you create a memorable and impactful statement that sets you apart in any application process.

Writing a Personal Statement

The best personal statements give the reader a window into who you are, usually by examples or stories. Ask yourself:

Does this introduce me as a person and a future practitioner in the field?
Does it have elements that will impress the reader?
Would the reader want to meet me after reading my statement?

Even the best content will be lost if the ideas are presented in a jumbled, incoherent manner. Clear writing begins with an outline.

What is your message? Write that first.
How will your ideas logically progress to get to that conclusion?
Write your key sentences – do they flow in a logical order?
Does the final essay say what you want in a logical and compelling way?

Poor grammar, spelling, and typographical errors can ruin your statement. Review your essay:

Check guidelines for appropriate length
Avoid starting sentences with "I"
Use no exclamation points, except in dialogue.
Use active, rather than passive voice (e.g., "I found the book" vs. "The book was found by me.")
Write sentences no longer than approximately 30 words in length.
Shorten paragraphs so that the page doesn't look like a wall of type.

Personal Statement Workshops

General Personal Statements

Each Fall, this series provides an overview on the basics of a strong personal statement and allows you to have your first-draft reviewed.

Open to all majors.

Pre-Law Personal Statements

Each Fall, this series provides students seeking higher education in the legal field an opportunity to learn about personal statements and have their drafts reviewed.

Pre-Health Personal Statements

Each Spring, this series provides juniors, seniors, and alumni applying to health professional programs an opportunity to learn about personal statements and have their drafts reviewed.

Fall 2025 Personal Statement Pop-Ups

In addition to our workshop series', we're excited to offer pop-ups during the semester for personal statement review. Get personalized, one-on-one feedback on your personal statement at any stage —whether you’re just getting started or need a final review before submitting.