BecomingWhoYouWantToBe

Among all of the paperwork that accompanies your college application, your personal statement has a distinctly different purpose. It has a big role in defining who you are and getting started can feel daunting. If you keep a few simple things in mind as you start, you’ll be off to a good start:

1. Start with a catchy introduction. You’ll want to get the readers attention from the very beginning. One way to do so is by using an anecdote or example from your life and then connecting it to the program in college that you want to go into. This is your first paragraph.

2. The supporting paragraphs are where your personal qualifications come into play. Remember, each paragraph should have a topic sentence that leads the message. You’ll want to shed light on your compatibility with the program, and the university itself. Make each word count as you discuss your goals and your ability to reach them.

3. The conclusion ties it all together. This is where you differentiate the personal statement from the accompanying application letter. The personal statement isn’t in business letter form, nor does it refer to the resume or ask the reader for an interview. Simply reiterate — without sounding like a broken record, why your life experience and unique qualities have lead you to the realization that your next step is to study your chosen field at their university.

4. Be honest about who you are while demonstrating your ability to overcome obstacles and turn them into opportunities. Confidence is key, as well as a desire to succeed in all areas of your life. Convince the reader that you have given this next step in your life a lot of thought.

This is your chance to reflect about your life and what you want it to become. Don’t let time become a hindrance, allow enough of it to revise, reflect and then revise some more. Get opinions from others who know you well and benefit from a fresh pair of eyes. Your personal statement is, after all, personal and not simply an application. Show the world who you are.

Allen Ross is an independent college counselor with special interest in online degree programs, online colleges and financial aid for adult students.