Institutions of higher learning such as postgraduate departments of universities and professional schools will most often require personal statements as part of the application process. Some degree programmes require specific information to be included in personal statements. Typically this will be the applicant's intended research project or area of study within a field of study in a postgraduate level. However, there are other institutions that do not require specific information, thus leaving the applicant free to discuss many things. The significance of personal statements vary depending on the university and field of study. Below are tips for writing postgraduate personal statements:
Be clear on your purpose in taking up a particular degree programme in a specific university. The aim of personal statements is to convince the admissions committee of your suitability for study for a degree programme they are offering. Thus, the content of the personal statement must be structured in such a way that it will reflect this fact on the personal statement. Pay close attention that this purpose is kept evident throughout the entire personal statement and any non-essential content is left out. In addition, remember that your readers are the professionals in the field you are talking about, so never make assertions about what an ideal expert in the field should be like.
Organise the content of your personal statements. In writing personal statements with no specific emphasis, you can write about the following subjects:
What you hope to achieve upon enrolling in a postgraduate course.
The area of study where you wish to specialise.
How you are going to use the knowledge you gained from the study in your future career.
Your unique way of being a fit into the field and any preparations you have undertaken, when applicable
Any issue or inconsistently that can possible create a conflict in you postgraduate studies.
Why you chose to study in a specific university from among other universities offering the same program.
Your unique personality traits and characteristics.
3. Determine your preferred approach and writing style. While there is no single approach and style that will work for all students, there are general guidelines that you can follow such as:
Be objective in your statements, but at the same time revealing something about the topic you are discussing. Write using concise and straightforward statements and do not attempt to use academic terms that you are not too familiar with.
Evaluate your experiences and make conclusions about what it has taught you about yourself, your field and your expected goals. Base these conclusions on the current trends in your life.