The five things every student should include on their personal statement.
How to stand out
With admissions tutors reading hundreds of personal statements, how can you make sure you stand out and are remembered?
Here, we’re going to share with you the five things every personal statement should include. We’ve spoken to advisors from many universities and colleges, so the information is coming directly from those who read them.
“Their interest in the subject may have been generated from work experience, voluntary work, hobbies/interests or even from studying it at A Level.”
Subject tasters
Subject Spotlights give you the chance to try a university course before you apply. Delivered by the lecturers themselves you will gain insight into what it’s like to study the course and give your personal statement a boost.
Can I include quotes in my personal statement?
“Everyone has a passion, and all passions have something which shows why you’re good at a certain thing… for example, with netball you’re working in a team, being committed, and if you don’t prepare you fail...”
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Be Uniquely You
Show off your skills and experiences that make you unique. Link how that’s relevant to the course you’re applying for and how it’ll serve you well in your university journey.
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Show not tell!
It’s all very well telling someone you’re great at something, but an admissions tutor wants to see the evidence. Share a real-life scenario where you’ve clearly demonstrated the skills or knowledge you’re referring to.
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Unapologetic passion
Don’t be afraid to shout about how excited you are about a course or subject. What is it you love and why do you want to study it? What impact do you think you could have when you’re armed with more knowledge?
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Your ‘why’
We’re all driven by something, and it’s that drive that leads us to the uni and course we choose. Talk about your ambitions and the things you think your undergraduate study will help you achieve.
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Humble confidence
Discussing about your achievements is important as it shows you’re self-aware and clear on your strengths. Whether it’s leading a sports team, completing your Duke of Edinburgh or winning a poetry competition, all achievements deserve to be recognised.
Should I talk about my qualifications?
“I think it’s really important to not only include why you’d like to study the course you're applying for, but also the things that set you apart from other applicants, i.e., your hobbies, interests, skills, volunteering etc.”
Summary
We’ve talked about the five things every personal statement should include and how you should approach writing it. You may have noticed a big part of writing a great personal statement is your openness to recognising your strengths and sharing that in writing.
