College Apps: Tips for a Compelling Personal Statement Essay

2 mins read

Your personal statement is an important part of your college admissions application, as it provides an opportunity for you to showcase your personality, values, and goals to the admissions committee. A strong personal statement can make you stand out from the rest of the applicant pool and increase your chances of being accepted to your dream school.

Here are some tips to help you write a compelling and unique personal statement:

  1. Start early: The best personal statements are usually the result of several drafts and revisions. Start thinking about your personal statement early, and give yourself plenty of time to brainstorm, write, and revise.

  2. Be yourself: Your personal statement should be authentic and genuine. Don’t try to impress the admissions committee with what you think they want to hear; instead, be honest and genuine and let your unique personality shine through.

  3. Choose a specific topic: A personal statement that is too broad or vague is likely to be less compelling than one that is focused and specific. Choose a topic that is meaningful to you and allows you to tell a unique story.

  4. Use concrete examples: Instead of making general statements about your interests or experiences, use specific examples to illustrate your points. This will help make your personal statement more engaging and memorable.

  5. Edit, edit, edit: A well-written personal statement is clear, concise, and free of errors. Make sure to proofread your essay carefully and get feedback from others before submitting it.

  6. Seek help if needed: If you are struggling to come up with ideas for your personal statement or you are not confident in your writing skills, consider seeking help from a tutor, mentor, or writing center.

In summary, a compelling and unique personal statement can be a powerful tool in your college admissions application. By starting early, being yourself, choosing a specific topic, using concrete examples, and editing carefully, you can write a personal statement that showcases your personality and values and sets you apart from the rest of the applicant pool.

Andrea Bernal

Admissions consultant for California high schools for 15 years. Currently advisor and educational material specialist at IVY'D College Prep.