Smart Student tips for writing a great personal statement

Writing a great personal statement can be a challenging task, but it is also an opportunity to showcase your personality, achievements, and goals. A personal statement is often required for college or job applications, and it gives you the chance to explain why you are the best student candidate for the position or course. Here are some tips for writing an effective personal statement that will best illustrate your achievements and introduce your potential:

1. Be clear about the purpose of your personal statement: Understanding the purpose of your personal statement will help you tailor it to the specific audience and requirements. You may find it useful to plan it first with bullet points to organise a good structure.
   
2. Be concise and to the point: Personal statements are typically limited to a few hundred words, so make sure to use them wisely. Get straight to the point and focus on the most important information.
3. Show, don’t tell: Instead of simply listing your accomplishments, show the reader how they demonstrate your qualities and skills. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and make your personal statement more engaging.
4. Highlight your unique qualities: What makes you stand out from other applicants? This could be your background, experiences, skills, or achievements. Emphasize your unique qualities and how they make you the best fit for the program or position.
5. Proofread and edit: Make sure to proofread and edit your personal statement carefully. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and other mistakes that could detract from your message.
6. Be honest: Your personal statement should reflect who you are and what you believe in. Be honest about your experiences, achievements, and goals, and make sure your personal statement reflects your authentic voice.

By following these tips, you can write a great personal statement that will help you stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of being accepted into your desired MA or PHD course application or professional position. 

Good luck!