Why and When Do We Write a Personal Statement?

Personal statements are commonly required in various situations, such as college admissions, graduate school applications, scholarship applications, and job applications. The purpose of a personal statement is to provide the reader with a comprehensive understanding of who you are beyond your academic or professional achievements. It allows you to showcase your qualities, values, and potential contribution to the institution or organization. We write personal statements for various reasons and in different contexts. The primary purposes of writing a personal statement include:

• University and College Applications: One of the most common instances where a personal statement is required is during the university or college application process. Universities use personal statements as a means to assess an applicant’s suitability for their programs. It allows applicants to demonstrate their qualifications, passion for a particular subject, and overall fit with the institution.

• Graduate School Applications: When applying for graduate school programs, a personal statement helps applicants showcase their academic achievements, research experiences, and career goals. It enables them to explain why they are interested in pursuing advanced studies and how their academic background aligns with the chosen program.

• Scholarship Applications: Many scholarships require applicants to submit a personal statement. In this case, the personal statement is used to evaluate an individual’s qualifications, achievements, and potential for success. It allows applicants to communicate their financial needs, academic achievements, leadership abilities, and the impact the scholarship will have on their educational journey.

• Job Applications: In certain job applications, employers may request a personal statement as part of the application process. This is particularly common in industries that emphasize the individual’s personality, values, and cultural fit within the organization. A personal statement for job applications allows candidates to highlight their skills, experiences, and career aspirations relevant to the position they are applying for.