A step-by-step guide to crafting a statement that’s honest, compelling, and thoughtfully you

Let’s talk about telling your story

Writing a personal statement can feel like trying to sum up your entire life in a few hundred words. No pressure, right? But here’s the thing: this isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being real. A good personal statement doesn’t just list achievements; it shows how you think, what you care about, and where you’re headed.

This guide walks you through the process with care and clarity. Whether you’re applying for a course, a role, or a grant, you’ll find prompts to help you reflect, structure your ideas, and write something that feels true to you and meaningful to the reader.

Start with reflection, not writing

Before you open a blank document, take a moment to pause and gather your thoughts.

☑ Ask yourself:

• What experiences have shaped me?
• What values guide my decisions?
• What do I want the reader to understand about me?

✍ Three words I’d like someone to associate with me after reading my statement are ____________, ____________, and ____________.

Choose a structure that supports your story

There’s no single “right” way to structure a personal statement, but clarity helps.

☑ Try this flexible outline:

• Opening: A moment, idea, or question that draws the reader in
• Middle: Key experiences, skills, or turning points
• Closing: What you’ve learned, and where you’re going next

✍ The story I want to tell is about ____________________________
because it shows ____________________________.

Show, don’t just tell

Instead of saying “I’m passionate about science,” show us what that looks like in your life.

☑ Use specific examples:

• A project you led
• A challenge you overcame
• A moment that changed your perspective

✍ One experience I’ll include is ____________________________
because it demonstrates ____________________________.

Make it personal, not performative

This is your story, not a sales pitch. Let your voice come through.

☑ Check for:

• Language that sounds like you
• Honest reflection, not just polished perfection
• A tone that’s confident but grounded

✍ A sentence that feels most like “me” is:
“__________________________________________________________”

Connect your story to your next step

Help the reader see how your past connects to your future.

☑ Ask yourself:

• Why this course, role, or opportunity?
• How does it align with your goals or values?
• What do you hope to contribute?

✍ I’m applying because ____________________________
and I hope to ____________________________.

Revise with care and curiosity

Your first draft is just the beginning. Rewriting is where the clarity comes in.

☑ Try this revision checklist:

• Does each paragraph build on the last?
• Are there any vague or generic phrases to replace?
• Have I asked someone I trust for feedback?

✍ One thing I’ll revise is ____________________________
so that it feels more ____________________________.

Final Reflection: What story are you really telling?

Beyond achievements and goals, your personal statement is a chance to say: “This is who I am, and this is what matters to me.” What would it mean to write a statement that reflects not just what you’ve done, but how you move through the world?

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