What's a Personal Statement and How to Make It Stand Out

by Grammarholic Colab February 16, 2023

Your personal statement should highlight your strengths, skills, and achievements, and demonstrate your passion for the subject you're applying for. Use examples to illustrate how you have developed these strengths and how they are relevant to the course you're applying for.

Your personal statement is an essential part of your university application. It is your chance to showcase your skills, achievements, and aspirations to the admissions tutors, and convince them that you are the best candidate for the course and university. Writing a personal statement can be daunting, especially if you're not sure where to start. In this blog, we will explore what a personal statement is and provide some tips on how to make it stand out. Additionally, we will look at examples of personal statements for law, psychology, and nursing.

What's a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a written document that accompanies your university application. It is usually between 400 and 600 words long and requires you to discuss your motivations, skills, achievements, and aspirations. Personal statements are essential for courses that are competitive, and universities use them to assess your suitability for the course and university.

How to Make Your Personal Statement Stand Out?

Start with a strong opening: The opening sentence of your personal statement should grab the reader's attention and make them want to read on. You could start with a personal anecdote, a relevant quote, or a thought-provoking question.
Be authentic: Your personal statement should be a reflection of who you are. Don't try to be someone you're not or write what you think the admissions tutors want to hear. Be honest, and sincere, and let your personality shine through.
Showcase your skills and achievements: Your personal statement should highlight your strengths, skills, and achievements. These could be academic, extracurricular, or personal achievements. Use examples to illustrate how you have developed these strengths and how they are relevant to the course you're applying for.
Address any weaknesses positively: If you have any weaknesses, don't try to hide them. Address them positively, and explain how you have learned from them and how they have helped you grow.
Show your passion: Your personal statement should demonstrate your passion for the course you're applying for. Discuss what motivates you and why you want to study this subject.

Personal Statement Examples: Crafting a Stand-Out Personal Statement for Law, Psychology, and Nursing Programs

Law: "I have always been interested in law and justice, and how they shape our society. Growing up, I was intrigued by legal dramas on television, which led me to read up on cases and the legal system. This led me to pursue a degree in law, where I have excelled academically and had opportunities to intern at law firms. These experiences have further fueled my passion for law, and I'm eager to learn more about its complexities and challenges."
Psychology: "I have always been fascinated by the human mind and behavior, which led me to pursue a degree in psychology. My interest in psychology began when I took a psychology course in high school, where I learned about the power of the unconscious mind and how it shapes our behavior. Since then, I have been involved in research projects, volunteered at mental health clinics, and taken courses that have broadened my understanding of psychology. I'm excited to pursue a career in this field and contribute to improving people's lives."
Nursing: "As someone who has always been interested in helping others, I believe that nursing is a fulfilling and rewarding career. My interest in nursing began when I volunteered at a local hospital, where I witnessed firsthand the compassionate care that nurses provide to patients. Since then, I have taken courses in anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, and have had the opportunity to work as a nursing assistant. These experiences have shown me that nursing is more than just a job - it's a calling, and I'm excited to pursue it further."

In conclusion, a personal statement is an essential part of your university application. It allows you to showcase your skills