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Personal statements

Personal statements. Contents. The big picture Why is the personal statement important? Structure. Four key paragraphs Top tips Review. The big picture. UCAS application form (deadline 15 January) Five choices on the form Personal statement Reference from your tutor

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Personal statements

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  1. Personal statements

  2. Contents • The big picture • Why is the personal statement important? • Structure • Four key paragraphs • Top tips • Review

  3. The big picture • UCAS application form (deadline 15 January) • Five choices on the form • Personal statement • Reference from your tutor • Interview (not for all courses) • Portfolio/Audition – where appropriate

  4. Why is the statement important? • Carries a lot of weight with universities • Demonstrates your reasons for applying • Is the first and often only chance to ‘sell yourself’ to your university choices • Gives a flavour of you • Opportunity to create a good impression to Admissions Tutors

  5. Structure • Construct the personal statement through key paragraphs • Keep sentences short and to the point • Brainstorm ideas • Write a draft version and condense it afterwards • Do not make it specific to one university

  6. Paragraph 1 • Explain your choice of subject • Outline why you are interested in the subject(s). Why does the content/ structure of the course appeal to you? • Does your current study have relevance to your subject choices? • Demonstrates that you are well motivated and enthusiastic about your chosen subject area

  7. Paragraph 2 • Describe your suitability • What transferable skills have you gained from your current study? • How are these relevant to your chosen degree subject? Unsure? Check out course entry profiles (EP’s) at www.ucas.com • Has this study sparked your interest or affected your course choices at HE level? • What have you particularly enjoyed?

  8. Paragraph 3 • Longer - term career objectives • Even if these are broad, include an outline of the field in which you hope to work • Detail any work experience, placement or voluntary work, particularly if relevant to your subject choices • Identify additional skills that you have gained through part time/ voluntary work

  9. Paragraph 4 • The person behind the form • Describe yourself to Admissions Tutors – your skills, strengths and personality-don’t just list points • Outline your academic/social achievements • Describe your sporting and leisure interests • Are you planning a gap year? If so, what are you planning to do?

  10. Top Tips • Accuracy – spelling and grammar • Attention to detail • Ensure that it is all your own work, UCAS do check each statement for plagiarism • Use entry profiles (EPs) if you are unsure what to include • Don’t repeat yourself • Use positive and enthusiastic language • Give examples • Ask for help with editing/redrafting

  11. Review • Explain your choice of subject • Describe your suitability • Longer term career objectives • The person behind the form • Take your time • Make a start!

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