Steps to writing a winning Personal Statement

Writing a personal statement is an important part of the application process for college or university. It's a chance for you to showcase your personality, achievements, and aspirations to potential schools or employers. However, crafting a personal statement that effectively communicates your strengths and motivations can be a challenge. This post aims to provide some guidance on how to write a personal statement that resonates with secondary and A level readers.

1. Know your audience

One of the most important things to keep in mind when writing your personal statement is your audience. In this case, your readers are likely to be admissions officers or hiring managers who are looking for students or employees with a certain level of academic achievement and potential. As such, it's important to tailor your personal statement to highlight the qualities and experiences that make you a strong candidate for their program or position.

2. Be authentic

While it's important to highlight your achievements and strengths in your personal statement, it's equally important to be authentic and genuine. Admissions officers and hiring managers are looking for individuals who are passionate and committed to their goals. Share your story in a way that conveys your personality, interests, and motivations.

3. Start strong

Your personal statement should begin with a strong opening sentence or paragraph that captures the reader's attention. Consider starting with a personal anecdote or a statement that summarizes your strengths and aspirations. This will help to establish a strong connection with your reader from the outset.

4. Provide evidence

Throughout your personal statement, provide specific examples and evidence to support your claims. For instance, if you claim to be a strong team player, provide an example of a time when you worked effectively in a team. This will help to convince your readers that you possess the qualities and skills that you claim to have.

5. Be concise

While it's important to provide enough detail to support your claims, it's also important to be concise and to the point. Avoid rambling or repeating yourself, and focus on providing clear and concise statements that effectively communicate your strengths and motivations. 

6. Edit and proofread

Finally, before submitting your personal statement, make sure to edit and proofread it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and ensure that your statements are clear and coherent. Consider asking a friend or family member to read your statement and provide feedback.

In conclusion, writing a personal statement can be a daunting task, but with these tips, you should be well on your way to crafting a compelling and effective personal statement that resonates with secondary and A level readers. Remember to tailor your statement to your audience, be authentic, provide evidence, be concise, and edit and proofread carefully. Good luck