Free Personal Statement Maker

  • ⚙️ How to Use the Tool?
  • 🙋 Who Can Use It?
  • ✅ The Tool’s Benefits

📝 What Is a Personal Statement?

  • 📍 How to Make a Personal Statement

🔗 References

⚙️ how to use this personal statement maker.

Here is a detailed guideline on the use of our tool, made for your convenience and easy onboarding.

Step 1 – State Your Goal

The first point you should cover is your motivation and goal for writing this personal statement. Give a comprehensive statement of whether you apply for college education, internship, post-graduate program, or a job.

For example, a PhD program in Nursing .

Step 2 – Justify Your Goal

The nest tab requires you to indicate the reasons that motivated you to choose this particular goal and explain why you consider yourself a suitable candidate for this position. Do you have relevant education, experience, or personal skills? Be specific.

For example, recently graduated from the RN program in Massachusetts with honors .

Step 3 – Get the Result

Now that you’ve filled out the tabs required from you, it’s time to press the “Generate” tab and receive the result of our generator. The outcome is typically presented in the form of four comprehensive personal statement options, each of which may be used as a starting point in your own writing process.

Here are the outcomes you will see by feeding the sample statements we’ve provided above:

  • Having recently graduated from the RN program in Massachusetts with honors, I would like to pursue a PhD program in Nursing.
  • I would like to achieve a PhD program in Nursing because I recently graduated from the RN program in Massachusetts with honors.
  • Thanks to the fact that I recently graduated from the RN program in Massachusetts with honors, my next achievement would be to pursue a PhD program in Nursing.
  • After I recently graduated from the RN program in Massachusetts with honors, my next goal is to pursue a PhD program in Nursing.

Step 4 – Add a Personal Touch

Obviously, these statements look pretty clumsy and require fine-tuning. You should add a personal touch by writing more about your skills and values.

If you don’t like the outcomes, you can always re-generate the personal statement by looking at the examples and prompts we’ve prepared for you as guidance (see below).

🙋 Who Can Use the Personal Statement Maker?

Personal statements may be required from you in many situations. Thus, our tool can become your vital aid in the concise formulation of your statement:

  • School leavers may need personal statements when they send applications to colleges.
  • Researchers and current students may use personal statements when applying for internship programs, scholarships , new study degrees, and research publications.
  • Graduates include personal statements in job application packages and apply for vacancies of interest.

In any of these cases, a well-written personal statement will present you as a clearly determined candidate, an interesting personality, and a seeker with a good understanding of your relevant expertise, qualifications, and skills.

✅ Personal Statement Maker Benefits

When using our builder, all kinds of users (students, researchers, job seekers) are sure to reap the following benefits:

A personal statement is a short document written in essay form, presenting the applicant’s relevant achievements, interests, experience, and credentials.

Depending on the institution to which you’re applying and the use case of your personal statement, you may include different data in it:

  • Students should focus on their interests and talents
  • Job seekers and scholarship applicants should emphasize their skills and knowledge

📍 How to Make a Personal Statement in 4 Steps

If you decide to create a personal statement on your own, here is a simple step-by-step guide to follow.

Step 1 – State Your Goal & Justify It

The introductory part of your personal statement should present you as a personality and indicate the reasons for your interest in the specific vacancy or educational spot. Make sure you sound confident and specific about what you’re applying for and why. This is what our free tool can help you with.

If you’re stuck writing an introduction for your personal statement, consider using a hook generator . This free tool will provide you with catchy ideas for attention-grabbing starters.

Step 2 – Provide Some Background

Now it’s time to prove that you fit this position and have the skills, expertise, and ambitions necessary to contribute to the company, educational program, or any other organization. It’s important to choose the most relevant achievements and experiences linked to the application and name your skills and talents matching the position. You may also mention your plans and goals in case the application is successful. It’s a good place for a bit of personal information, but don’t talk about yourself at length; the reviewer may get bored and miss some vital data points.

Step 3 – Expand on Your Skills

After covering the relevant details of your academic and personal path, you can now proceed to a reflection on how it has brought you to the current point in your life. What skills have you acquired, and how will they help you become a valuable asset in the organization you’re applying to?

Step 4 – Conclude Your Personal Statement

The conclusion should be brief and memorable. You should recap your main motivation for the application and give the reviewer a call to action by inviting them to review your references and contact you via one of the indicated contact channels.

If you’re in a lack of time, try using this conclusion maker . It will summarize the key ideas of your personal statement, wrapping them up into a short and sweet paragraph. Another idea is to listen to how your personal statement sounds. You can ask someone to read it aloud or use an automatic essay reader .

📑 Personal Statement Examples

To help you make sense of the personal statement writing process, we’ve also prepared an illustrative example of what you can include in your CV or resume package, as well as a list of inspiring prompts.

250-word Personal Statement Example

Having majored in Business and Management (International Business) as an undergraduate, I would like to pursue an MBA degree now in an effort to hone my managerial skills.

I have been interested in how businesses can be optimally organized to meet the needs of employees and make clients happier and more satisfied. I have been passionately studying the backstage of business innovation to see what businesses can do to move human society forward and simplify people’s lives.

In the course of my college studies, I have conducted a series of in-depth research projects on disruptive business innovations and studied unique ways Asian businesses organize their activities to push their profit margin further without compromising quality and customer satisfaction. Doing things differently has always been my primary focus, and I do hope to achieve the degree of academic excellence and knowledge sufficient for implementing my forward-looking, revolutionary mindset in business practice.

In the course of obtaining an MBA at your organization, I hope to get in touch with the practical nuances of international business activities and meet renowned practitioners in the business sphere to learn from their examples and inspiration. I also plan to narrow the scope of my business career prospects and hone specific skills to become a valuable member of the international business team after graduation.

More Personal Statement Examples

  • APRN Program Applicant Personal Statement
  • Personal Statement for a Major in Geography and Planning
  • Personal Statement for a Degree in Nursing
  • Personal Statement for a Master's Degree in Social Work

Thank you for reading till the end! We hope the information in this short guide to personal statement writing was useful. Note that you can speed up working on your text by using an AI essay generator . Choose “Scholarship” in the first drop-down list, add the necessary information, and get a full-scale personal statement example.

Updated: Nov 8th, 2023

  • How to Write a Powerful Personal Statement
  • How To Write Your Undergraduate Personal Statement
  • How to Write a Personal Statement
  • Personal Statements - UConn Writing Center
  • Writing a Personal Statement - UChicago College Admissions

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5 Personal Statement Templates You Can Use

  • By Alexander Daniels

personal statement template job

How to Write a Personal Statement with Example

supporting statement job example

Learning how to write a  great personal statement is a vital skill when applying for jobs, in this blog post we will discuss various strategies you can use to write a great personal statement with plenty of examples.

What is a Personal Statement

A personal statement provides color to your CV or resume, it helps fill the blanks, provides context and insight into who you are as a person and a professional. A personal statement should be no longer than ¼  of a page A4 and up to 100 words.  

In this blog post, we’re going to be looking at personal statement examples UK, the USA, and the rest of the world. As well as various types of personal statement examples for job, graduates, school leavers and experienced civil service, NHS, and tech professionals for Google and Amazon. 

Also, what is equally as important as writing a great personal statement is that once you arrive at the interview stage, is that you’re ready to perform at your best and learn the STAR interview technique and calm your interview nerves . We recommend that you consider signing up for our free interview coaching or if you have a civil service interview consider researching civil service interview questions and answers .

How to Structure a Personal Statement

A personal statement structure should be done in a systematic way. This is important because you’re trying to cover a lot of information in a very short amount of words,  therefore being succinct and efficient with your language is critical.  There are four key steps that I recommend when it comes to structuring a personal statement:

  • An initial over the line this should cover your current job role, how many years of experience you possess, and the Industries/sectors that you worked in and the companies that you worked in. If you’re someone with very little experience, then include the university you have studied at. 
  • Talk about the specific quantifiable skills you possess for example if you’re a scientist he might want to mention the lab techniques that you are familiar with if you’re a software engineer talk about the programming languages you are trained in,  and in project management the types of qualifications and specific analysis techniques you have experience in.
  •  Talk about the major achievement that you’ve made this can be singular or multiple for example in project management you can say you delivered over 7 high-profile projects valued in excess of 2 million.
  •  Current career goals and objectives. For example, currently seeking an exciting role within the FMCG sector.

How to start personal statement examples:

Below is a list of personal statement examples to open with:

Example One

Project manager possessing over 4 years of professional experience within the I.T, and financial services sector, working for the likes of  Citigroup, Google, and Stripe. Strong working knowledge of PRINCE2 methodologies Kaizen, Six Sigma, and JIT.

Example Two

Software engineering graduate with 6 months of professional experience possessing a 2:1 grade from Oxford University. Experience of a range of programming languages, including Java, JavaScript,  Python, and Ruby.

Example Three

Highly experienced HR  director (CIPD)  with over 20 years of experience across the third sector, civil service, and the NHS. Expert knowledge of policy development, staff governance, and organizational cultural transformation.

Example Four

MBA qualified project manager, and product manager with 5 years of product development experience working for the likes of Dyson Amazon, and AWS.  Expertise includes full product life cycle, development experience, and conducting product stress test analysis. 

How to end a personal statement examples

Below are a list of personal statement examples to finish with:

Ready for an immediate start and currently seeking an exciting opportunity with a reputable organization.

I believe with my current experience I’m ready for the next step in my career where I can contribute towards helping an ambitious organization achieve its mission, vision, and goals.

Considering all of the above, I believe I can become a valuable asset to any organization that’s seeking to excel in providing the highest quality product or service. 

I believe with my expertise and motivation I can help contribute towards achieving the organization’s ambitions and goals.

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How to write a personal statement with example.

There are various styles of personal statements that can be written depending on the sector that you’re in and where you are in your career. Below are different strategies that you can use to help you and being able to adapt your personal statement examples.

How to write a University Personal Statement

A personal statement for a university means that the person writing it probably has very little work experience. So the main focus  of this particular personal statement structure will include the following: 

  • Write about what your goals and ambitions are related to your career and where you see yourself in the future.
  • Think about what value this university can offer to you in alignment with your goals and ambitions and what you enjoy doing in your free time.
  • Talk about the value that you can bring to the university through your studies and work experience.

Example University Personal Statements

Below is a list of good personal statement examples. 

University Personal Statement Example One

I’m passionate about helping people and I believe by becoming a nurse, I will have the opportunity To make a difference. Seeing your program and the fact that you are a leading  University in nursing really excites me. I believe my hard-working attitude combined with my enthusiasm to learn will make me an asset to the program. 

University Personal Statement Example Two

I’m currently a student at XYZ College. My desire is to become an investment banker and I believe that by studying economics and finance I will be able to achieve my dream. I also have a passion for sports and play rugby. Your university has a fantastic economics and finance program along with a sporting heritage which excites me.  I believe that the combination of my grades (BBB),  enthusiasm, motivation, and commitment. I can be a great fit for the program and university.

How to write a School Leaver Personal Statement

For school leavers, a personal statement is likely as important as a CV or Resume because it will provide context to a very short CV. In most cases, the personal statement will act as a supporting statement for a job. Just as a school leaver’s CV is likely to be on the shorter side, so will their personal statement. Below I’m going to provide you with some short personal statement examples for school leavers.

School Leaver Personal Statement Example One

Hard-working school leaver who has recently completed his GCSEs.  I’m an empathetic and enthusiastic person. I believe my personality makes me a great fit for a customer services role. I’m a team player and in my free time participating in many sporting activities including football and tennis. 

School Leaver Personal Statement Example Two

Recent school leaver with three A’s, three BS, and 2C’s in their GCSEs.  I’m looking for an exciting part-time opportunity within customer services. I feel that my enthusiasm, positive energy, and desire to learn will make me an excellent fit within your organization.

School Leaver Personal Statement Example Three

I’m an energetic, diligent young professional who is looking to start my career as an administrator.  I have excellent typing and Microsoft Office skills and am very familiar with Microsoft Excel. I’m a team player and would love to join your organization and help you achieve your company goals.

How to write a Graduate Personal Statement

A personal statement for a graduate is critical as the graduate job market is extremely competitive and your personal statement could be the difference between getting an interview and not getting a job interview .  Below is a list of key rules for writing a graduate personal statement:

  • Mention the university that you studied, the degree course, and the grade that you achieved.  Now if your grades or the university aren’t particularly good, then simply mention the course.
  • List the skills, techniques, and knowledge areas that you studied in university courses that would be beneficial for the job.
  • Talk about what your career objective is and your career goals and how this aligns with the organization. 

Graduate Personal Statement Example One

A recent graduate from Oxford University with a 2.1  in PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics).  Possessing a strong understanding of financial techniques including cost modeling, Economic impact analysis as well as studying the philosophy of Economics.  Currently seeking an exciting opportunity within the Financial Consulting sector. 

Graduate Personal Statement Example Two

Enthusiastic graduate in Marketing with first-class honors. With knowledge and experience of a range of subjects including social media engagement, and theory of marketing and completed a  Project on developing a complete social media campaign. Seeking an opportunity with a creative Boutique firm where I’m able to learn and contribute. 

How to write an Unemployed/redundancy Personal Statement 

If you’re currently unemployed or have been made redundant my suggestion is very simple: you should never draw direct attention to your unemployment at this stage in the job search process.  A personal statement for job is a sales pitch and you only want to focus on the positives. When one is unemployed or has been made redundant a clear positive for the company is the fact that you will be able to start the job immediately.  A good personal statement example would be the following.

Unemployed/redundancy Personal Statement Example

Business development & Sales Manager with over 20 years of professional experience within the Automotive, Precision Engineering, and FMCG sector. Possessing a track record of successfully driving sales growth (£3m of new business in 2022). Available for an immediate start and seeking a position within a value-focused organization. 

Career break personal statement example

Software engineer with expertise in Java, JavaScript python (full stack experience),  with over 10 years of professional experience.  This includes working with AWS, Google, YouTube, and Waze.  After recently returning from her career break and traveling, I’m now ready for a new challenge and I’m seeking an exciting organization where I can help towards achieving their mission and goals.

Career change personal statement example

Experienced, hard-working professional with over 8 years of professional experience within the corporate sector. Experience includes project management, business analysis, and budget management.  Currently undergoing a career change and looking to work within the charitable sector I believe many of the skills that I possess are transferable and I look forward to joining an organization where I can contribute and make a difference.

Personal Statement Frequently Asked Question

Do you need a personal statement for an apprenticeship?

Yes, you should include a personal statement if you are applying for an apprentice role , since you have so little to no work experience as a school leaver your personal statement will give the hiring manager deeper insight into to the qualities you possess and your suitability for the role.

How long should a personal statement be for a job?

A personal statement should ideally be around 100 words long,  less than a ¼ of a page of A4. Anything longer than that will turn the personal statement into a cover letter. This is obviously something that we don’t want to do since the personal statement is just a snapshot of who you are and what you can bring to the job.

What is a supporting statement for a job?

A supporting statement is a short paragraph which is providing an overview of who you are and what value you can bring to the organization. Is there to enhance your CV  or Resume? 

How to write a personal statement for a job

There are four key steps to follow when writing a personal statement: the first talk about your current job and how many years you’ve worked, secondly talk about quantifiable skills that you can bring to the role, thirdly talk about your achievement and finally what your current goals are.

How to write a supporting statement for a job examples

Writing a supporting statement is virtually the same as writing a personal statement the slight difference being that a supporting statement, it’s something that doesn’t necessarily include anything personal but rather just purely focuses on your professional expertise.

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Farhan Raja

I'm Farhan, the Founder and Coach at JobInterviewology.com, one of the world’s leading Career and interview Coaching specialists. Bringing over a decade of industry experience and a passion for guiding individuals in their career journeys. As an Interview and Career Coach, I've authored the eBook '10 Simple Steps to CV & Resume Success,' directed a leading UK CV writing specialist, and pioneered the iPREP interview coaching methodology. My career and interview coaching has spanned over 10 years across diverse industries, from IT giants like Google and Microsoft to vital sectors like Civil Service & NHS, Pharma, Finance, Engineering, Automotive, Construction, Logistics, Banking, and Management Consulting. I've had the privilege of assisting professionals in presenting their best selves, and targeting roles at renowned companies like Amazon, GSK, EY, Shell, Rolls Royce and more.

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Personal Statement Templates

Check Out Template.net for Free Personal Statement Templates That You Can Use to Apply for a Job, Nursing School, or Graduate School. Each Statement Sample Comes with a Predetermined Format That's Fully Customizable. If You're a High School Student Who Wishes to Go to College at a University, We Strongly Recommend That You Download a Template.

  • Personal Statement Template in Word

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Whether it is for pursuing a college and graduate school education or applying for a new job, you are usually required to submit a personal statement. It shows your skills, goals, strengths, and weaknesses and highlights your qualifications for a degree program or position applied for. A well-written personal statement gives you a competitive advantage and secures placement. One of the main goals of writing this statement is to demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for that job or degree program. If you’re unsure how to write a compelling letter, then check out Template.net’s varied collection of personal statement samples .

Personal statements from our website guarantee a distinct and reflective essay of your values and personality. You can easily edit your chosen template to show who you are at the beginning of your statement to encourage employers or admission officers to read more about you. Although it’s pre-written, you can still highlight all of your relevant skills, interests, and experiences on our platform. If you’ve worked in the healthcare industry and applying for nursing or medical school, include it in your letter. Your work experience adds value to your application.

With our professionally written templates, you can be sure to leave a lasting impression on your potential employer or the admission committee. It will help your reader to consider your application and review your credentials. Improve your chances of admission or employment further with Template.net’s editable and printable personal statement templates. View and download a sample or blank template now!

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StandOut CV

Resume personal statement examples

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If you want to secure job interview, you need a strong personal statement at the top of your resume.

Your resume personal statement is a short paragraph which sits at the very top of your resume – and it’s aim is to summarize the benefits of hiring you and encourage employers to read your resume in full.

In this guide I have included 17 resume personal statement examples from a range of professions and experience levels, plus a detailed guide of how to write your own personal statement that will get you noticed by employers

Resume templates 

17 resume personal statement examples

To start this guide, I have included 10 examples of good personal statements, to give you an idea of how a personal statement should look , and what should be included.

Note: personal statements are generally used by junior candidates – if you are experienced, check out our resume summary examples instead.

College graduate resume personal statement (no experience)

College graduate no experience resume personal statement

Although this college graduate has no paid work experience , they compensate for it by showcasing all of the skills and knowledge the have gained during their studies, and demonstrating how they apply their knowledge in academic and personal projects.

When you have little or no experience, it’s important to draw out transferable workplace skills from your studies and extracurricular work, to showcase them to employers.

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College graduate resume personal statement (part time freelance experience)

Graduate with part time freelance experience CV personal statement

This candidate has graduated college with a degree in biochemistry but actually wants to start a career in marketing after providing some digital freelance services to fund their studies.

In this case, they haven’t made much mention of their studies because they aren’t relevant to the marketing agencies they are applying to. Instead they have focused their personal statement around their freelance work and passion for the digital field – although they still mention the fact they are degree educated to prove their academic success.

High school leaver resume personal statement (no experience)

High school leaver no experience resume personal statement

This candidate is 16 years old and has no work experience whatsoever, but they compensate for this by detailing their academic achievements that relate to the roles they are applying for (maths and literacy are important requirements in finance and accountancy roles).

They also add some info on their extracurricular activities and high school work-placements, to strengthen this student resume further.

Top tips for writing a resume personal statement

  • Thoroughly research the jobs and companies you are planning to apply for to identify the type of candidate they are looking for – try to reflect that in your personal statement
  • Don’t be afraid to brag a little – include some of your most impressive achievements from education, work or personal life
  • Focus on describing the benefits an employer will get from hiring you. Will you help them to get more customers? Improve their workplace? Save them time and money?
  • If you have no work experience, demonstrate transferable workplace skills from your education, projects, or even hobbies

High school leaver resume personal statement (part time experience)

High school leaver part time experience resume personal statement

Although this person has only just left high school, they have also undertaken some part-time work in a call center alongside their studies.

To make the most of this experience, they have combined their academic achievements with their workplace exposure in this personal statement.

By highlighting their future studies, summer programme involvement, work experience and expressing their ambitions to progress within sales, this candidate really makes an appealing case for hiring them.

College leaver resume personal statement (no experience)

College leaver no experience resume personal statement

This candidate has left college with good grades, but does not yet have any work experience.

To compensate for the lack of workplace exposure, they have made their honor results prominent and highlighted skills and experience which would benefit the employers they are targeting.

Any recruiter reading this summary can quickly understand that this candidate has great academic achievements, a passion for IT and finance and the ability to transfer their skills into an office environment.

College student resume personal statement (freelance experience)

College graduate freelance experience resume personal statement

As this student has picked up a small amount of freelance writing work during their studies, they have made sure to brag about it in their personal statement.

They give details on their relevant studies to show the skills they are learning, and boost this further by highlighting the fact that they have been applying these skills in a real-life work setting by providing freelance services.

They also include key action verbs that recruiters will be looking for , such as creative writing, working to deadlines, and producing copy.

Academic resume personal statement

Academic CV personal statement

Aside from junior candidates, the only other people who might use a personal statement, are academic professionals; as their resume’s tend to be more longer and detailed than other professions.

This candidate provides a high level overview of their field of study, length of experience, and the roles they have held within colleges.

High school leaver resume personal statement with sports experience

High school leaver sports focussed resume personal statement

Although this person has no work experience, they are still able to show employers the value of hiring them by selling their other achievements and explaining how they could benefit an organization.

They expand on their sports club involvement to demonstrate their teamwork, leadership skills, communication and motivation, which are all important traits in the workplace, and will be looked upon favourably by recruiters and hiring managers.

They also draw upon their future plans to study business studies at college and take a part time job, to further prove their ambition and dedication.

History graduate resume personal statement

History graduate CV personal statement

This history graduate proves their aptitude for both academic achievement and workplace aptitude by showcasing valuable skills from their degree and voluntary work.

They do this by breaking down the key requirements for each and showing how their skills could be beneficial for future employers, such as listening, communication, and crisis management.

They also describe how their ability to balance studies alongside voluntary work has not only boosted their knowledge and skills, but also given excellent time management and organizational skills – which are vital assets to any employer.

Law graduate resume personal statement

Law graduate resume personal statement

This legal graduate makes the most from their college work placements by using it to bulk out the contents of their resume personal statement.

They include their degree to show they have the necessary qualifications for legal roles, which is crucial, but more importantly, they showcase how they applied their legal skills within a real-life work setting.

They give a brief overview of the types of legal professionals they have been working alongside and the type of work they have been carrying out – this is all it takes to get the attention of recruiters and show employers they have what it takes to fulfil roles in the legal sector.

Medical student resume personal statement

Medical student resume personal statement

This medical student proves their fit for the role by showcasing the key skills they have gained from their studies and their work experience placements.

In just these few sentences, they are able to highlight the vast amount of experience they have across different disciplines in the industry, something which is particularly important in the medical sector.

As they have not graduated yet and are still studying, they have provided proof of their most recent grades. This can give the recruiter some indication as to the type of grade they could be graduating with in the near future.

Masters student resume personal statement

Masters student CV personal statement

This masters student has started by specifying their area of study, in this case, accounting, and given details about the specific areas of finance they are most interested in. This can hint towards their career goals and passions.

They have then carefully listed some of the key areas of accounting and finance that they are proficient in. For example, business finance, advanced corporate finance and statistics.

They have also outlined some of the transferable skills needed for accounting roles that employers will be looking out for, such as communication, attention to detail and analytical skills.

Finance student resume personal statement

Finance student CV personal statement

As this finance student has recently undertaken some relevant work experience, they’ve made sure to shout about this in their personal summary.

But more than this, they have included a list of some of the important finance skills they gained as a result of this work experience – for example, financial reporting, processing invoices and month-end reconciliations.

Plus, through power words and phrases such as ‘prevent loss’ and ‘improve upon accuracy and efficiency’, they have also showcased how they can apply these skills in a workplace setting to benefit the potential employer.

Internship resume personal statement

Internship resume personal statement

This digital marketing professional has started their personal summary by outlining their most relevant qualifications and work experience, most notably their freelance role as a content manager.

They have also provided examples of some of the key marketing skills that potential employers might be looking for, including very detailed examples of the platforms and tools they are proficient in – for example, LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.

They have then closed their statement by giving a detailed description of the type of role or opportunity they are looking for. In this case, an in-house position in a marketing company.

College graduate career changer personal statement

College graduate career changer resume personal statement

Switching careers as a college graduate can be tough. Especially when it comes to writing a personal statement that will attract employers in your new chosen field.

This candidate is looking to move from history teaching into journalism, so they have created a statement which briefly mentions their current workplace, but mainly focuses on highlighting transferable skills which are relevant to journalism. They achieve this by discussing the writing skills they use in their current role, and mentioning their hobby of writing – including some publications they have been featured in for extra brownie points.

Business management graduate personal statement

Business management graduate CV personal statement

This business management proves their ability to work within a junior business management position by swiftly highlighting their impressive degree (to ensure it is not missed) and summarizing some of the real-life experience they have gained in management during their college placements and volunteering. They do not let their lack of paid work experience, stop them demonstrating their valuable skills.

PhD graduate

PhD graduate CV personal statement

PhD graduate roles attract a lot of competition, so it’s important that your resume contains a personal statement that will quickly impress and attract recruiters.

This candidate provides a short-but-comprehensive overview of their academic achievements, whilst demonstrating their exceptional level of knowledge in research, languages and publication writing.

By highlighting a number of skills and abilities that are in high-demand in the academic workplace, this resume is very likely to get noticed and land interviews.

How to write a personal statement for your resume

Now that you’ve seen what a personal statement should look like and the type of content it should contain, follow this detailed guide to one for your own resume – and start racking those interviews up.

Guide contents

What is a resume personal statement?

Resume personal statement or resume summary, personal statement format, what to include in a resume personal statement.

  • Personal statement mistakes

How to write persuasively

A personal statement is a short paragraph at the top of your resume which gives employers an overview of your education, skills and experience

It’s purpose is to capture the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers when your resume is first opened – encouraging them to read the rest of it.

You achieve this by writing a tailored summary of yourself that explains your suitability for the roles you are applying for at a very high level, and matches your target job descriptions .

Personal statement basics

One question candidates often ask me is , “what is the difference between a personal statement and a resume summary?”

To be honest, they are almost the same – they are both introductory paragraphs that sit at the top of your resume… but there are 2 main differences:

A personal statement tends to be used more by junior candidates (college graduates, high school leavers etc.) and is relatively long and detailed.

A resume summary tends to be favoured by more experienced candidates , and is shorter in length than a personal statement.

Personal statement vs summary

Note: If you are an experienced candidate, you may want to switch over to my resume writing guide , or example resume summaries page.

To ensure you grab recruiters’ attention with your personal statement, lay it out in the following way.

Positioning

You need to ensure that your personal statement sits at the very top of your resume, and all of it should be totally visible to readers, without the need to scroll down the page.

Do this by reducing the top page margin and minimizing the space taken up by your contact details.

CV page margins

This will ensure that your whole personal statement can be seen, as soon as your resume is opened.

We have a resume template which can help you to get this right.

Size/length

Your personal statement needs to contain enough detail to provide an introduction to your skills and knowledge, but not so much detail that it bores readers.

To strike the right balance, anything between 8-15 lines of text is perfect – and sentences should be sharp and to-the-point.

As with the whole of your resume , your personal statement should be written in a simple clean font at around size 10-12 to ensure that it can be read easily by all recruiters and employers.

Keep the text color simple, ensuring that it contrasts the background (black on white is best) and break it into 2 or even 3 paragraphs for a pleasant reading experience.

It should also be written in a punchy persuasive tone, to help you sell yourself and increase your chances of landing interviews, I cover how to do this in detail further down the guide.

Quick tip: A poorly written resume will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy Resume Builder to create a winning resume in minutes with professional resume templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Once you have the style and format of your personal statement perfected, you need to fill it with compelling content that tells recruiters that your resume is worth reading.

Here’s what needs to go into your personal statement…

Before you start writing your personal statement, it’s crucial that you research your target roles to find out exactly what your new potential employers are looking for in a candidate.

Run a search for your target jobs on one of the major job websites, look through plenty of adverts and make a list of the candidate requirements that frequently appear.

Tailoring CV profile

This research will show you exactly what to include in your personal statement in order to impress the recruiters who will be reading it.

Education and qualifications are an important aspect of your personal statement, especially if you are a junior candidate.

You should highlight your highest and most relevant qualifications, whether that is a degree or your GED. You could potentially go into some more detail around modules, papers etc. if they are relevant to the roles you are applying for.

It’s important that you discuss the experience you have gained in your personal statement, to give readers an idea of the work you are comfortable undertaking.

This can of course be direct employed work experience, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can also include:

  • High school/college work placements
  • Voluntary work
  • Personal projects
  • Hobbies/interests

As with all aspects of your resume , the content should be tailored to match the requirements of your target roles.

Whilst discussing your experience, you should touch upon skills used, industries worked in, types of companies worked for, and people you have worked with.

Where possible, try to show the impact your actions have made. E.g.  A customer service agent helps to make sales for their employer.

Any industry-specific knowledge you have that will be useful to your new potential employers should be made prominent within your personal statement.

For example

  • Knowledge of financial regulations will be important for accountancy roles
  • Knowledge of IT operating systems will be important for IT roles
  • Knowledge of the national curriculum will be important for teachers

You should also include some information about the types of roles you are applying for, and why you are doing so. Try to show your interest and passion for the field you are hoping to enter, because employers want to hire people who have genuine motivation and drive in their work.

This is especially true if you don’t have much work experience, as you need something else to compensate for it.

Resume personal statement mistakes

The things that you omit from your personal statement can be just as important as the things you include.

Try to keep the following out of your personal statement..

Irrelevant info

Any information that doesn’t fall into the requirements of your target roles can be cut out of your personal statement. For example, if you were a professional athlete 6 years ago, that’s great – but it won’t be relevant if you’re applying to advertising internships, so leave it out.

Generic clichés

Poor resume profile

If you are describing yourself as a “ dynamic team player with high levels of motivation and enthusiasm” you aren’t doing yourself any favours.

These cliché terms are vastly overused and don’t provide readers with any factual details about you – so keep them to a minimum.

Stick to solid facts like education, skills , experience, achievements and knowledge.

If you really want to ensure that your personal statement makes a big impact, you need to write in a persuasive manner.

So, how do you so this?

Well, you need to brag a little – but not too much

It’s about selling yourself and appearing confident, without overstepping the mark and appearing arrogant.

For example, instead of writing.

“Marketing graduate with an interest in entering the digital field”

Be creative and excite the reader by livening the sentence up like this,

“Marketing graduate with highest exam results in class and a passion for embarking on a long and successful career within digital”

The second sentence is a much more interesting, makes the candidate appear more confident, throws in some achievements, and shows off a wider range of writing skills.

Quick tip: A poorly written resume will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy Resume Builder to create a winning resume in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Your own personal statement will be totally unique to yourself, but by using the above guidelines you will be able to create one which shows recruiters everything they need.

Remember to keep the length between 10-20 lines and only include the most relevant information for your target roles.

You can also check our college graduate resume example , our best resume templates , or our library of example resumes from all industries.

Good luck with the job hunt!

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Personal Statement Examples That Will Get You Writing

ContentQueen

Whether you're aiming for a job, university program, or scholarship, the value of an effective personal statement is vital to success. However, writing a personal statement that will make your application stand out can be challenging.

This post will help you put your best foot forward by providing examples and tips for crafting your personal statement. By the end, you will be able to write a standout personal statement with confidence.

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a written document that gives an overview of who you are, your experiences, achievements, and goals. It is typically required as part of a job, university program, or scholarship application. The purpose of a personal statement is to convince the reader that you are the right candidate for the opportunity by showcasing your strengths, experiences, and aspirations.

The content of a personal statement will vary depending on the context. Still, it generally includes information about your educational and professional background, achievements and accomplishments, skills and strengths, and goals and aspirations. It is an opportunity to highlight your unique qualities and what sets you apart from other applicants.

Personal statements are often limited to a certain word count or page limit, so it is important to be concise and focus on the most relevant information. Additionally, it is important to tailor your statement to the specific opportunity you are applying for, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the role or program.

A well-crafted personal statement can be a powerful tool in the application process, demonstrating your passion, motivation, and suitability for the opportunity.

There are several reasons why you may need to write a personal statement:

  • To apply for a job A personal statement is often required as part of a job application, allowing candidates to showcase their skills, experience, and personality to potential employers.
  • To apply to a university Universities often require a personal statement as part of the application process, which allows the applicant to demonstrate their suitability for the program, their passion for the subject, and their goals for the future.
  • To apply for a scholarship Personal statements are often required for scholarship applications. They allow the applicant to explain why they deserve the scholarship and how they plan to use it to achieve their goals.
  • To promote oneself Personal statements can be used to promote oneself as an expert in a particular field or to showcase one's achievements and experience to a wider audience.

In all of these cases, a personal statement can effectively communicate your strengths and goals and make a compelling case for why you are the right candidate for a particular opportunity.

Why are personal statements important?

Crafting a killer personal statement can elevate your application to new heights! It can set you apart from the crowd and is a powerful tool to showcase your strengths, passion, and unique experiences. By weaving a compelling story about yourself, you help the reader understand what makes you tick and how you are prepared for the opportunity.

Beyond this, a captivating personal statement can provide valuable insights into your personality and values, making you an even more attractive candidate to employers and admissions officers. Trust us - a powerful personal statement is a game-changer for any successful application!

Personal statement examples

It's important to understand what to include in each personal statement. Here are some examples to consider:

Personal statement for a university application

As a passionate programmer and creative problem-solver, I am eager to pursue a degree in computer science and unleash the endless possibilities it offers me. Through this degree, I can acquire the skills and knowledge that will allow me to create meaningful solutions to real-world problems, something I strive for each day. With great excitement, I look forward to furthering my expertise in this field in a university setting and exploring the exciting opportunities ahead.

In high school, I was a dedicated student who took the initiative and maintained a strong work ethic. I earned high grades and actively participated in extracurricular activities such as the Computer Science Club and Robotics Team. My ambition has been to use my knowledge and skills to help build a better future. That is why I am confident that pursuing a career in computer science is the right decision for me.

Personal statement for job application

As a highly motivated and results-oriented professional, I am eager to contribute my skills and experience to an organization that values innovation and teamwork. Throughout my career, I have developed a reputation for being a problem-solver and effective communicator, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to work under pressure.

I have experience leading teams and coordinating tasks to ensure successful outcomes. Additionally, my communication skills enable me to effectively interact with colleagues, vendors, and customers to ensure that projects are completed on time. I am confident that my passion for my work and dedication to excellence will make me a valuable asset to any team.

Personal statement for scholarship application

Receiving this scholarship would be a life-changing opportunity for me. As a first-generation college student, I have faced many obstacles in pursuing my education, but I have never let these challenges hold me back. When my parents told me they could not help pay for my college tuition, I felt a wave of uncertainty wash over me. But I quickly realized that if I worked hard enough and never gave up, I could make my dreams come true.

With this scholarship, I can continue my studies and achieve my goals, including becoming a role model for other students in my community. I am committed to giving back to my community and using my education to impact the world positively.

Tips for crafting a personal statement

While crafting a standout personal statement can seem daunting, with the right guidance, you can create a compelling document that showcases your unique qualities and sets you apart from other applicants. This section will provide tips and strategies to help you write a powerful personal statement that effectively communicates your skills, experiences, and aspirations.

From tailoring your statement to the opportunity to using specific examples and demonstrating authenticity, these tips will help you create a personal statement that makes a lasting impression.

Here are some tips for writing a strong personal statement:

  • Research: Before writing your personal statement, research the opportunity you are applying for. This will help you to understand the requirements and tailor your statement to the specific role or program.
  • Be concise: Personal statements are often limited to a certain word count or page limit, so it is important to be concise and focus on the most relevant information. Ensure each sentence and paragraph adds value and contributes to your overall message.
  • Use specific examples: Specific examples can be used to illustrate your skills and experiences. This will help to bring your statement to life and provide evidence to support your claims.
  • Tailor your statement: Tailor your statement to the specific role or program. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the opportunity and demonstrate how they make you a strong candidate.
  • Show, don't tell: Instead of stating that you are a good fit for the opportunity, provide specific examples and evidence to tangibly demonstrate your skills and experience.
  • Be authentic: Be true to yourself and your experiences. Your statement should reflect your personality, values, and motivations and provide insight into who you are.
  • Proofread and edit: Finally, proofread and edit your statement carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure your message is clear and concise. A well-written and error-free personal statement can make all the difference in a competitive application process.

By following these tips, you can create a personal statement that effectively showcases your strengths and makes a compelling case for why you are the ideal candidate for the opportunity. Remember to tailor your statement to the specific requirements of the opportunity, use specific examples to illustrate your achievements and experiences, and be authentic to yourself. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to crafting a powerful personal statement that will help you stand out from the competition.

Unlock your future

Writing a personal statement can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding experience with the right approach. A well-crafted personal statement can be the key to unlocking exciting new opportunities, whether it's a job, a university program, or a scholarship. Following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can create a personal statement that showcases your strengths, experiences, and aspirations and demonstrates why you are the ideal candidate for the opportunity. Good luck!

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  • Personal mission statement:...

Personal mission statement: How to write one?

7 min read · Updated on October 25, 2024

Marsha Hebert

Minimize chaos and increase professional focus by defining your life's purpose in one sentence.

Life can get pretty overwhelming. Let's face it: you're inundated with choices that need to be made, and sometimes those options look really good. Other times, you wonder if the choice you make is the right thing for your life. 

What you need is a good personal mission statement! But how do you write one? Just as importantly, what is a personal mission statement? You've come to the right place. 

What's the point of a personal mission statement?

Undoubtedly, you've heard of creating SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely – at some point in life to manage projects or take the right steps on the path toward getting things done. There may have even been assignments in school where you practiced writing SMART goals. 

A personal mission statement is the why behind your goals. It's your big picture – the thing that drives you to be the best version of yourself. When you take the time to define your mission and write it down, you'll have a beacon that can help you stay focused on the things that matter. 

Key takeaway: A personal mission statement gives you direction and purpose in work and life so you can make choices that align with your values, dreams, vision, and goals. 

The 3 parts of a personal mission statement

Your personal mission statement should be a one-sentence guide that not only reflects who you are and where you're heading in life. It can be quite challenging to trim out the fluff and come up with a statement that is concise and impactful. 

The process of writing your personal mission statement can be simplified by breaking it down into three parts: Purpose , Values , and Goals . 

Your purpose (the why ): Think about why you do what you do. What is it that makes you get out of bed in the morning? You might want to be a positive role model for others. Perhaps you are focused on effecting change in your community. This part of your personal mission statement should be THE THING that drives you and gives your life a sense of meaning.

Your values (the how ): These are the principles you live by, the things that are most important to you, and have a solid impact on your moral compass. They can include integrity, kindness, compassion, accountability, and balance. 

Your dreams and vision, e.g., goals (the what ): This is your path in life – the big-picture path that gets you from where you are to a place where you're fulfilling your personal aspirations. This is what you want to achieve, whether that's career success, personal growth, or making a meaningful impact on others.

After you define each of these three categories, then you can start setting targeted and tangible goals to achieve your purpose. The personal mission statement is a guide that helps you know where you're going; your goals will get you there. 

It's time to write your personal mission statement

Now that you understand the key components of a personal mission statement, it's time to put pen to paper – or finger to keyboard. The best way to go about getting your brain juices flowing is to ask yourself a series of questions:

What have you learned in life?

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

What are you naturally good at?

What are your personal and professional passions?

Where do you see yourself in 5, 10, or 20 years?

What are some words or phrases that capture your beliefs and dreams?

At this point, you should be brainstorming ideas, so don't worry if you end up with what feels like a jumble of random phrases. As you reflect on your key life experiences, you'll start to see a few trends. These patterns can help guide you toward your purpose and the values that matter most. 

Start combining the phrases that resonate with you into a rough draft of your personal mission statement. Don't rush it though. Walk away and let the draft sit for a while. When you come back to it with fresh eyes, you may find that new inspiration jumps out at you or you might see a way to condense and combine ideas more succinctly. 

Personal mission statement examples

Now that you have your personal mission statement written, or at least an idea of what you may write, it's a good idea to have some examples to ensure that you are on the right track. Also, if you're still having a hard time getting started, you can use some personal mission statement examples to draw inspiration from. 

Here are some sample personal mission statements that reflect different values, purposes, and visions:

For Personal Growth : "To continually grow and improve by learning new skills and embracing challenges while staying true to my core values of integrity and perseverance."

For Leadership : "To lead with empathy, inspire others to reach their full potential , and foster a positive, growth-oriented environment where creativity and collaboration thrive."

For Community Impact : "To make a meaningful impact in my community by using my strengths and resources to create opportunities for others and promote positive change."

For Work-Life Balance : "To maintain a healthy balance between my professional ambitions and personal life, prioritizing well-being, family, and personal fulfillment."

For Creativity and Innovation : "To explore creative solutions and innovate in everything I do while staying grounded in my values of authenticity, curiosity, and perseverance."

Personal mission statement formula

A lot of people will ask whether there is a specific formula to follow for writing a great personal mission statement. Since personal mission statements are highly personal, there is no hard-and-fast approach. However, you can rely on the following fill-in-the-blank template to help you whittle down your purpose, values, and dreams into a concise statement.

  • Template : I aim to [purpose/why] by [values/how] so that I can [vision/what].
  • Example using this template : I am to inspire others by leading with empathy and creativity so that I can help people reach their potential and make a positive impact. 

If that's too simplistic, you could also use this variation:

  • Template : I will [action] by living according to my values [list key values] so that I can [vision].
  • Example using this template: I pursue lifelong learning and growth by living according to my values of curiosity, integrity, and perseverance so that I can create opportunities for positive change for those around me. 

Even if you embrace the concept of emulating people who inspire you, remember the rest of that phrase centers around the idea that you shouldn't try to be those people.

The actual quote comes from Oscar Wilde's famous line, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”

Your personal mission statement should reflect your own path and does not need to look like anyone else's. Make it authentic to you and your unique journey. 

Write it, live it, evolve it

There is no right or wrong way to develop your personal mission statement. As long as what you come up with shines as a guiding light that helps you make the best decisions for your life, then you're in a good place with it. Also, as your life changes, your personal mission statement should evolve. Nothing, including your purpose, values, or dreams, is ever written in stone. Stay true to yourself and create something that inspires you to live authentically. 

Now that you have a personal mission statement to guide your life and career, it's time to ensure your resume reflects that same clarity. Our resume-writing experts can give your resume a free once-over to make sure that it properly highlights your strengths and showcases the direction you want to take in your career. 

Recommended reading:

10 Steps to Setting and Achieving Goals at Work

5 Steps Career-Savvy Professionals Take to Define Their Goals

Career Goals: Why You Need Them with Examples

Related Articles:

How to Showcase Your Strengths and Weaknesses for Every Career Path

What Are Interpersonal Skills? Key Traits and Examples for the Workplace

What Does a Good Resume Look Like? Essential Elements and Examples

See how your resume stacks up.

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Examples

Statement of Purpose

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Statement of Purpose

Statements are often used in expressing information about a certain subject. People rely on statement in informing a certain audience what they need to know about a specific topic. For example, vision statements inform people about the long term and short term goals and targets of a certain company or business .

  • 33+ Statement Examples in Word
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Thus, it can be concluded that businesses usually count on statements in the dissemination of important information to their clients. A beneficiary simple statement , for instance, is usually given by a lender to a borrower, disclosing the remaining unpaid balance of a loan as of a certain period, including the interest rate.

What Is a Statement of Purpose?

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a written document typically required for university applications. It outlines an applicant’s academic background, professional experiences, career goals, and reasons for choosing a particular program. An effective SOP highlights the applicant’s strengths and unique qualities, demonstrating their fit for the desired program and their potential for success.

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Statement of Purpose Format

A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a crucial document for academic or professional applications. It outlines your goals, motivations, and qualifications. Here’s a suggested format for writing an effective SOP:

1. Introduction

Opening Paragraph : Start with a strong opening sentence to grab attention. Introduce yourself, mention the program or position you are applying for, and state your main goal.

Example: “As a passionate computer scientist with a keen interest in artificial intelligence, I am excited to apply for the Master’s program in Computer Science at XYZ University.”

2. Academic Background

Educational History : Briefly describe your academic background, focusing on relevant degrees, courses, and projects.

Example: “I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science at ABC University, where I graduated with honors. My coursework included advanced algorithms, machine learning, and data structures.”

3. Professional Experience (if applicable)

Work Experience : Outline your professional experience, emphasizing roles, responsibilities, and achievements related to your field of study or career goals.

Example: “After graduation, I worked as a software engineer at TechCorp, where I developed machine learning models for predictive analytics, improving accuracy by 20%.”

4. Research Experience (if applicable)

Research Projects : Detail any research projects you have undertaken, including your role, the project’s scope , and the outcomes.

Example: “During my undergraduate studies, I conducted research on neural networks, resulting in a publication in the International Journal of Computer Science.”

5. Relevant Skills and Achievements

Skills and Certifications : Highlight key skills , certifications, and any awards or recognitions you have received.

Example: “I am proficient in Python, Java, and R, and have earned certifications in Data Science and AI from Coursera. I was also awarded the Dean’s Scholarship for academic excellence.”

6. Goals and Objectives

Short-term and Long-term Goals : Clearly state your short-term and long-term goals and how the program or position will help you achieve them.

Example: “In the short term, I aim to deepen my knowledge of AI through advanced coursework and research. Long-term, I aspire to lead AI projects in the healthcare sector to improve diagnostic accuracy.”

7. Why This Program/Institution

Fit with the Program/Institution : Explain why you chose this particular program or institution, highlighting specific faculty members, courses, facilities, or values that attract you.

Example: “I am particularly drawn to XYZ University’s AI research lab and the opportunity to work with Professor Smith, whose work on neural networks aligns with my interests.”

8. Conclusion

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your enthusiasm for the program and reiterate your readiness to contribute and grow.

Example: “I am confident that the Master’s program at XYZ University will provide me with the knowledge and skills to achieve my goals. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and learn from your esteemed institution.”

Statement of Purpose Examples

Statement of purpose for research, statement of purpose for education, statement of purpose for job, statement of purpose for university, statement of purpose for engineering.

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Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Statement of Purpose

Writing a Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a critical part of the application process for academic programs and professional positions. Here are some essential dos and don’ts to guide you:

Dos for Writing a Statement of Purpose

  • Keep It Focused : Stick to relevant experiences and information. Avoid unnecessary details.
  • Clarity : Ensure each paragraph flows logically and is easy to understand.
  • Tailor to the Program : Highlight why you are interested in the specific program or institution.
  • Specific Examples : Use personal experiences and achievements to demonstrate your fit and passion.
  • Showcase Accomplishments : Mention relevant academic, professional, and extracurricular achievements.
  • Quantify When Possible : Use numbers or specifics to illustrate your accomplishments (e.g., “improved efficiency by 20%”).
  • Short-term and Long-term Goals : Clearly state your academic and career objectives and how the program will help you achieve them.
  • Connection : Show how the program’s offerings align with your goals.
  • True Representation : Be genuine about your experiences and aspirations. Authenticity resonates more than embellishment.
  • Personal Voice : Write in a natural, personal tone while maintaining professionalism.
  • Check for Errors : Thoroughly proofread for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
  • Seek Feedback : Have someone else review your SOP to catch mistakes you might have missed.
  • Adhere to Guidelines : Follow any specific instructions regarding length, format, and content provided by the institution or program.

Don’ts for Writing a Statement of Purpose

  • Avoid Clichés : Steer clear of overused phrases like “I have always wanted to…” or “Since I was a child…”.
  • Be Specific : Provide concrete examples instead of vague generalizations.
  • No Redundancy : Your SOP should complement your resume, not duplicate it. Focus on the narrative behind your achievements.
  • Add Depth : Use the SOP to elaborate on key points and provide context.
  • Be Honest : Misrepresenting your qualifications or experiences can lead to serious consequences.
  • Authenticity Over Perfection : It’s better to present a genuine but less-than-perfect story than a fabricated one.
  • Simplicity : While demonstrating your knowledge is important, avoid excessive use of technical terms that might confuse the reader.
  • Clarity : Ensure your SOP is understandable to non-specialists as well.
  • Holistic Approach : Include relevant extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal experiences that contribute to your suitability for the program.
  • Personal Attributes : Highlight qualities like leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
  • Goals Matter : Don’t just focus on past achievements; explain how the program will help you achieve your future goals.
  • Forward-thinking : Show your vision for how you plan to use the knowledge and skills gained from the program.
  • Customize for Each Application : Avoid using the same SOP for multiple applications. Tailor each one to the specific program and institution.
  • Unique Aspects : Mention specific faculty members, courses, or resources that attract you to the program.

Statement of Purpose vs. Personal Statement

How to write a statement of purpose.

Writing a Statement of Purpose (SOP) involves several key steps to ensure it effectively communicates your motivations, qualifications, and aspirations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Statement of Purpose

1. understand the purpose.

  • Objective : Know that an SOP is meant to explain your academic and professional journey, your goals, and why you are applying to a specific program or position.

2. Research the Program or Position

  • Specifics : Research the institution or company, the specific program or role, its culture, faculty members, courses, and any special projects or opportunities they offer.

3. Outline Your SOP

  • Structure : Create an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure you cover all necessary sections.

4. Write the Introduction

  • Example: “With a deep-seated passion for environmental science and sustainability, I am excited to apply for the Master’s program in Environmental Science at ABC University.”

5. Detail Your Academic Background

  • Example: “I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from XYZ University, where I developed a strong foundation in ecological research and environmental policy.”

6. Discuss Professional Experience (if applicable)

  • Example: “In my role as an environmental analyst at Green Solutions, I led a project that reduced carbon emissions by 15%, demonstrating my ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.”

7. Highlight Research Experience (if applicable)

  • Example: “During my undergraduate studies, I conducted research on renewable energy sources, which culminated in a published paper in the Journal of Environmental Studies.”

8. List Relevant Skills and Achievements

  • Example: “I am proficient in GIS mapping, data analysis, and have completed certifications in sustainable development and climate change.”

9. State Your Goals and Objectives

  • Example: “My short-term goal is to deepen my expertise in environmental science through advanced coursework and research. Long-term, I aspire to influence environmental policy and contribute to sustainable development initiatives globally.”

10. Explain Your Choice of Program/Institution

  • Example: “I am particularly drawn to ABC University’s renowned environmental science department and the opportunity to work with Professor Jane Doe, whose research on sustainable agriculture aligns with my interests.”

11. Conclude with Enthusiasm

  • Example: “I am confident that the Master’s program at ABC University will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve my career aspirations. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow with your esteemed institution.”

12. Review and Revise

  • Proofread : Carefully proofread your SOP for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Revise it to ensure it is coherent, concise, and compelling.

What is a Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

An SOP is a written document detailing an applicant’s academic background, professional goals, and reasons for choosing a specific program or institution.

Why is an SOP important?

It helps admissions committees assess your fit for the program, understand your motivations, and evaluate your potential for success.

What should be included in an SOP?

Include your academic background, professional experiences, career goals, reasons for applying, and why you chose the specific program and institution.

How long should an SOP be?

Typically, an SOP is 1-2 pages long, adhering to the word limit specified by the program or institution.

Can I use the same SOP for different applications?

It’s best to tailor each SOP to the specific program and institution, highlighting unique features and your fit for each one.

How should I structure my SOP?

Use a clear structure with sections for Introduction, Academic Background, Professional Experience, Reasons for Applying, Career Goals, and Conclusion.

What tone should I use in my SOP?

Maintain a formal yet engaging tone, demonstrating professionalism and genuine interest in the field of study.

How do I make my SOP stand out?

Be specific about your achievements and experiences, provide concrete examples, and show enthusiasm for the program.

Should I mention weaknesses in my SOP?

It’s generally better to focus on strengths and how you’ve overcome challenges, rather than highlighting weaknesses.

Can I include personal anecdotes in my SOP?

Yes, but ensure they are relevant to your academic and professional goals, and they contribute to your overall narrative.

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