Let’s get personal

Advice on what, and what not, to write in your personal statement

4,000 characters, 47 lines and 18 years of experience. That’s all you are given to show universities that you are who they want and need.

Who am I? Who do I want to be? What are my interests? What am I good at? What makes me unique? These are all questions that can come flooding into your mind as you try to figure out exactly what it is the universities want to hear. As a young person, you may find this overwhelming (I certainly did). However, whilst you don’t have to claim that you were born a rocket scientist, they are important questions to ask yourself.

To help you, I have collated 10 useful tips that I learnt through my UCAS experience to help you present your best self on paper.

1. Plan

Plan. Plan. Plan. Write down all your achievements, especially ones related to your chosen subject. If you have written an essay that is connected to your subject of interest and it won a competition, mention it! Don’t ever be afraid to sell yourself, and don’t be modest. You want to show confidence that they will want you. I know that you will have achieved some amazing things, so talk to your parents and teachers, and see what you can come up with!

Try writing an unlimited statement first, and then use this for the final draft.

2. The Opening Sentence

One of the most important aspects of the Personal Statement is the opening tone. There are many cliché phrases that it is imperative that you avoid: “X-Subject has always been my passion...” “I have always had a deep interest in…” “For as long as I can remember…” etc. P.S. Don’t use quotes, they want to hear YOUR voice, not someone else’s.

Instead, you want to start with a direct and simple sentence that immediately gets to the point, why do you love this subject and why do you want to explore it further?

3. Skills

Have a think about what skills you have learnt. Have you practiced the piano for 2 years?

Do you love language analysis? Perhaps you were on the school netball team? You want to show these universities that you have dedication, ambition and drive.

4. Awards

I’d definitely recommend taking part in competitions, whether with or outside of your school. Any awards or certificates that you have won are definitely things you want to mention! Did you win a maths competition? Have you won an essay prize? Perhaps you experienced the simultaneous glee and trauma of DofE and won a Bronze, Silver or Gold (wow) certificate? Let them know!

5. Hobbies

Much like awards, it is important that you do mention your hobbies. Think: how can I connect this back to my subject?

For example: if you like to sing in the choir, and you are studying English Literature at university, you could discuss how you love exploring the aural side of literature and analysing the lyrics in the songs.

6. SPAG and Language

Think about your phrasing and have it proofread by 3 different people! Whilst word choice can be subjective, you want your statement to be sharp, formal and persuasive. Ask your teachers if there is anything they would add, and make sure there are no grammatical errors!

7. Don’t Lie

This one is simple. Do. Not. Lie. Many universities will do interviews and they will talk to you about your statement. Make sure that you are able to talk about everything mentioned and won’t get caught fibbing. This one can be tempting to some, but it is a definite ‘No’.

8. Research

Look into where you are applying, what the courses contain and what the universities are looking for. You’d be surprised to find that most universities mention the sorts of things that they are looking for. Maybe you have already read and loved a book on their course? Perhaps you have visited the university for a public lecture on a related subject? Doing a little research is always a good idea!

9. Make sure you feel comfortable with the statement.

Whilst it is important that you let other people help you with this, it is YOUR statement. When you read it, make sure that you feel comfortable with everything that is said. Don’t let it lose its personal touch, it is important that you feel that you are the one talking, not someone else.

“Personality begins where comparison leaves off. Be unique. Be memorable. Be confident. BE proud.”

Shannon L. Alder

10. Confidence and Personality

I titled this article “Let’s get personal” for a reason, they want to see your personality shine through. Don’t be afraid to let them know who you are (but always keep it related to your subject of choice).

For example: if you have a passion for debating, and you ran a debate club at school, let them know! It’s these extracurricular interests that the universities want to hear about. They want to feel that you will become a part of their community. If the university you want to go to has a debate society, it’s totally worth a mention!

Remember: “Personality begins where comparison leaves off. Be unique. Be memorable. Be confident. BE proud.” Shannon L. Alder

I hope this has helped and I want to wish you all the best of luck!

ELLA MARIA, student at University College London

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