Helpful tips

Personal statements must have an anecdote. These anecdotes must be emotional, but not too emotional. They must be personal, but likewise, not too personal. Most importantly, these anecdotes must communicate your passion for chosen career or degree. Done correctly, beginning an anecdote is one of the most effective means to draw in your reader and get them wanting to know more. 

But passion is not enough. We must also demonstrate your competence. What have you done in high school or college to corroborate your passion? Are your accomplishments written in a way that shows not tells? This is challenging paragraph that succeeds or fails based verb choice and what I call your “punchline sentence” at the end. 

Do your homework before we meet. Can you name specific professors you want to work with? How about a specific program that you are thrilled to join? Be sure to know about either (or both) and have a couple examples ready.