How To Write Personal Statements

As many are returning to school for a higher level of education such as business or graduate school, they are faced with the challenge of how to write a personal statement as part of the application process.  A personal statement is somewhat equivalent to a cover letter that would accompany a job resume’ with the sole purpose of selling yourself as a strong asset to a company or other entity.  Writing a personal statement is like writing an autobiography but more career or goal-oriented. Yet, personal experiences that influenced a career decision or goal should be included.  A personal statement should be written in a fashion that separates you from other applicants. Here is a basic guide for writing a general personal statement  that can later be formatted to specific guidelines.

1. Write down all facts about yourself,career aspirations and accomplishments.  This should include why you seek this career, what education, experience and skills do you have that would make you a good candidate. 
2. Follow this with any unique qualities that are likely to separate you from the competition (i. e. time spent in the Peace Corps, working in impoverished communities).  Also include a short statement as to why your application should be selected.
3. Write down any obstacles or gaps that have affected career goals negatively.  Follow with steps you have taken to remedy the situation.
4. Make sure that when writing a personal statement that the opening paragraph is the most compelling to read.  This can be any factual account of an event that influenced your career goals.

Every learning institution has their individual requirements for writing a personal statement, such as furnishing their own set of questions to be answered in the first-person, essay style. Though you may find that more than one of may want a general personal statement as opposed to answering specific questions, it is not advised to use the same personal statement when applying to different schools.