The following ideas and questions can guide your development of an application essay or personal statement.
Introduction
Ask Yourself
- When did I first consider this career?
- What elements were meaningful to me?
- What led to my commitment to it?
Tell Your Story
- Start in the middle of the action with limited lead-in.
- Describe relevant details.
- Connect it to goals related to the program.
- Specify the school and program.
Body
Ask Yourself
- What are my career interests and goals?
- What have I done to prepare myself for this career and program?
- Why does this specific program interest me?
Make Your Case
- Identify experiences such as shadowing which gave you an understanding of the career.
- Describe how you developed your qualifications for the program and career including internships, research, coursework, or other relevant experiences.
- Share your career interests and goals.
- Connect your interests and goals to the program concentration areas, faculty, research, and/or internship opportunities.
Conclusion
Ask yourself
- How have my experiences affected my initial interest in the career?
- How will this program help me reach my career goals?
- How do I feel about the potential of being in the program?
Make Your case
- Reference the story in your introduction.
- Specify the school and program.
- Reinforce the connection between your interests and goals to the program.
- Express confidence in your readiness for the program.
Diversity Statement
Some programs may request an additional statement on diversity. Such a statement may
incorporate the diversity you will bring to the program and/or your experience with diverse
populations. Consider your experiences on campus, education abroad, workplaces, and social settings and think of diversity broadly as you develop your statement.