biology grad school personal statement sample

Sample Personal Statement in Biology (Admitted to JHU)

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

Here is the personal statement of a student who made it to John Hopkins University with a 100% scholarship in the field of cancer biology.

I want to emphasise that you must be honest in writing your personal statements. If you borrow content from other places, refer to them in your personal statement. Admissions officers in the US read many essays each year and can easily detect plagiarism.

Sample Personal Statement in Biology

“Raise your hand if your first memory was at age five,” prompted the professor on the first day of my classes. By the time he reached age two, most hands had lowered, but mine remained high. When I was two, I vividly remember when my aunt hugged her daughter tightly and exclaimed to her, “Someone is really brave and is soon going to become even braver!”

I must have looked bewildered because then my aunt started to sob uncontrollably. How could I have known then what she meant? A couple of days later, my cousin was on an operating table, screaming and crying, with bright lights and nurses poking at her – she never came out of that operation theatre.

However, it was not until I was in grade 8 that I learned that she had breast cancer, but I have long considered it a defining characteristic. Now years later, I wonder about the rareness of this disorder, the steadfast will of her parents throughout the hardship, and the failure of medicine to save her. From this experience as an onlooker, my passion for medicine emerged.

During my primary education, I expressly recall interacting with several people in the late stages of cancer. I knew my actions would not cure them at that point, yet I endured and persevered with patience. The immovable barriers of affliction I encountered during my academic years were far too menacing to be left unaddressed; during this time, I learned about the staggering number of deaths due to breast cancer alone. After realizing the cost of inaction, I decided to search for a career involving action against affliction.

Since R&D provides a vehicle for such action, I delved into several research efforts at the Molecular Biology (Human Genetics) Lab under the supervision of Dr Brown. Although I wanted to work in the area of breast cancer since I had taken several courses in cancer biology, due to a lack of research in the area of my interest, I decided to get involved in a similar domain called “hereditary hypotrichosis” or research on hair related diseases; also a genetic disease with research techniques similar to that of cancer biology. These experiences have drawn me to research as I have seen its potential to engage disease.

But could I pursue research for the rest of my life? This question resonated in my head countless times and is still faintly heard. I am attracted to research by its potential for action but am detracted by its distance from the afflicted and its consequent neglect of presence. Unsatisfied, I looked for a vocation involving both presence and action.

Being born and raised in a remote rural village 130km away from the nearest city, I used to walk 6km every day to a shelter home school when I was in grade 5. Later, at the age of 12, I left my home permanently to study at another rural school 30km away – but these efforts and hardships paid off; as I stood ranked 1st in my enrollment. With the help of the Education Scholarship, I could continue my education.

During these years, I also focused on teaching and ensuring that my rural village benefited from my expertise. However, what drew me to teaching was the capacity to love with both presence and action. This became evident over the years as I have spent countless hours counselling and mentoring those afflicted with educational concerns, both in my home city and places I have been to for work.

Beyond teaching at various schools, where I taught about biological disorders, genetics, biochemistry, and nutrition to teachers from an arts background, I have also extended my efforts to community work by disseminating scholarship information to our community. Being associated with a village-based development organization as a community mobilizer, I have won rewards for my role in completely eradicating drug addiction in my area. I have also extended my philosophy to social, economic, and emotional affliction by wholeheartedly working on schemes such as “Water Supply”, “Don’t Let Our Environment Get Contaminated”, “Stitching and Handicraft”, and “Try to Boast Economy” – projects that engage in a struggle against poverty, mortality, and social injustice. As my conception of affliction broadened, I began to see many exciting career paths in various fields. However, thought, prayer, and counsel have revealed that my efforts would be best spent focusing on one form of affliction.

This circuitous path has thus brought me back to medicine. In considering teaching, volunteering, and social work as potential vocations, I have confirmed my desire to become a researcher in the field of breast cancer and to focus on physical affliction. Nonetheless, my experiences in these fields have helped me to forge a new conception of medicine that I can uphold as a future researcher.

From my study and interactions with cancer patients, I have learned about the capacity to love when facing a terminal illness. In addition, my research pursuits have revealed the importance of action in combination with presence. Finally, my experiences with teaching and social service have stretched my conception of affliction.

A further degree will amalgamate my existing knowledge and experiences with a command of the causes and effects of illness, yielding an acute insight into the field of breast cancer. A multidisciplinary approach that involves collaboration across the fields of basic science, medicine, and public health can tackle the roots of problems with a high rate of breast cancer. I believe I can make a significant difference in the health of our society, and I cannot wait for the opportunity to do so actively.

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Graduate school personal statements: Examples and tips for success

Step-by-step guide to crafting a strong personal statement.

Grad student smiling at desk with multiple computer screens

A personal statement, admissions essay or statement of purpose is a written essay that applicants submit when applying to college or graduate school .

Your personal statement is a key part of an application and can help determine whether you get an interview. It's an opportunity to introduce yourself to the selection committee and demonstrate your strengths, values and potential to contribute to the academic community.

In your personal statement you should include:

Opening paragraph : Draw in your reader
Academic background : What you studied, your GPA, any relevant coursework or research
Professional experience : Work, internships or volunteer work related to the field
Motivation for pursuing graduate studie s: Why you want to pursue this specific program and what drives you
Reasons for applying to this particular school/program : What stands out about the program and how does it align with your goals?
Career goals : What you hope to achieve with this degree
Closing paragraph : Pull it all together and share any final thoughts.

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Personal statement examples.

Below are a few personal statement examples for graduate school, each tailored to different fields and specific grad programs. These sample outlines will give you a general idea of structure and tone, but be sure to customize them .

Personal statement example for psychology graduate school

Opening : Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the way people think, feel and behave. My curiosity about human behavior led me to major in psychology during my undergraduate years, and over time, this fascination evolved into a commitment to understanding the underlying mechanisms that drive mental health conditions. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I am eager to contribute to the growing body of research on cognitive-behavioral therapies, and I believe your program at [university] is the ideal environment for me to deepen my expertise in clinical psychology.

Academic background : During my undergraduate studies at [undergrad school], I pursued coursework that ranged from abnormal psychology to research methods, each of which expanded my understanding of the intricacies of the human mind. I took particular interest in cognitive development and later worked on a research project investigating the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on adolescents with anxiety disorders. My senior thesis, which focused on how early childhood trauma influences emotional regulation in adulthood, received recognition at the university’s annual psychology symposium.

Research and experience : In addition to my coursework, I gained hands-on experience in a clinical setting, working as a research assistant under [researcher] in a lab focused on the neurological underpinnings of PTSD. My responsibilities included data collection, statistical analysis, and co-authoring a paper on the neural activity involved in trauma-related memory recall, which was later submitted for publication. This experience not only honed my technical research skills but also reinforced my passion for studying the intersection of mental health and neuroscience.

Why this program : The unique opportunity to work with [faculty member] at [university] is one of the key reasons I am drawn to your program. [Name]'s research on the efficacy of cognitive interventions in treating PTSD aligns perfectly with my own interests, and I am eager to contribute to ongoing projects while pursuing my own research in the area of trauma-informed therapy. Additionally, your program’s emphasis on integrating evidence-based practice with clinical training is exactly what I’m looking for as I seek to bridge the gap between research and real-world clinical applications.

Career goals : My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of more effective, accessible mental health treatments, particularly for individuals with trauma-related disorders. I envision myself working in a clinical research setting, where I can continue to study the effectiveness of various psychotherapies, contribute to clinical trials, and ultimately use research findings to guide therapeutic practices that improve the quality of life for people affected by trauma. [University]’s commitment to both rigorous academic training and applied clinical practice makes it the ideal place for me to achieve these goals.

Closing : The opportunity to join [university] would be both a privilege and a challenge, and I am confident that my academic background, research experience and passion for psychology will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the program. I look forward to the possibility of working with esteemed faculty and fellow graduate students who share my commitment to advancing the field of mental health research.

Personal statement example for MBA applications

Opening : I am excited to apply for the MBA program at [university] because I believe it will provide the knowledge, skills and network necessary to fulfill my long-term career aspirations of becoming a transformative leader in [industry/field]. My passion for business, coupled with my background in [your background: e.g., engineering, finance, marketing], has driven me to pursue an MBA to deepen my understanding of strategic decision-making, management and entrepreneurship.

Professional experience : Over the past [X] years, I have gained hands-on experience at [company], where I have contributed to [key projects, achievements or responsibilities]. In my role as [your current position], I have developed expertise in [relevant skills: project management, financial analysis, data-driven decision-making] and have worked with cross-functional teams to [describe key outcomes or contributions]. For instance, I led a team that [specific accomplishment], resulting in [impact: increased revenue, improved operational efficiency, cost savings]. This experience has deepened my understanding of the complexities of business and sharpened my problem-solving abilities.

Why MBA : While I have gained valuable practical experience, I recognize that an MBA will provide the strategic framework and leadership tools required to make more impactful, long-term decisions. I am eager to strengthen my understanding of topics like [finance, marketing, strategy, leadership, operations] and learn from esteemed professors and diverse classmates. The interdisciplinary approach of [university]'s MBA program, with its focus on [key aspects of program: innovation, sustainability, global business], resonates with my career goals and values. I also look forward to the opportunity to engage with the school’s vibrant alumni network and learn from the experiences of business leaders who have navigated similar challenges.

Career goals : Upon completing my MBA, I aim to transition into a leadership role at [company or organization] where I can leverage my skills to drive business growth and innovation. My long-term goal is to [specific career aspiration: manage a business unit, start my own company, lead sustainability initiatives in a multinational corporation]. I am particularly interested in how businesses can balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility, and I hope to be part of a movement that redefines success in business.

Why this program : The reputation of [university]'s MBA program for academic excellence, leadership development, and global perspective is what initially drew me to apply. I am particularly excited about the [specific program element: global immersion programs, consulting labs, entrepreneurial ecosystem] and how it will enable me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world business challenges. I believe that the collaborative, forward-thinking environment at [university] will foster my growth as a leader and allow me to contribute meaningfully to the community.

Closing : In conclusion, I am confident that the MBA program at [university] will equip me with the tools I need to achieve my career aspirations. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the diversity of thought and experience in the classroom while learning from faculty and peers who share my passion for business leadership. I am committed to leveraging my skills, experiences, and perspectives to make a positive impact in the business world, and I am excited to take this next step in my professional journey.

Personal statement example for Master of Engineering program

Opening : From a young age, I have always been fascinated by how things work — whether it was taking apart my computer to troubleshoot issues or participating in robotics competitions in high school. This natural curiosity evolved into a passion for mechanical engineering during my undergraduate studies at [undergrad school], where I excelled in courses such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and system design. With a desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable technology, I am eager to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at [university], where I believe I can acquire the advanced skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Academic background : During my time at [undergraduate school], I earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering, graduating with honors. My coursework allowed me to develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanical design, materials science, and energy systems. One of the most impactful experiences during my undergraduate years was my senior project, which involved designing a low-energy heating system for a small-scale residential building. I worked closely with a team to create a prototype and conducted simulations to test the system's efficiency. This hands-on project taught me how to apply theoretical principles to real-world challenges and further fueled my passion for sustainable engineering solutions.

Professional experience : After graduation, I joined [company], a leading firm in renewable energy systems, where I contributed to the design and optimization of solar panel arrays for commercial properties. My role included conducting energy yield assessments, performing structural analysis, and collaborating with engineers to improve the efficiency of our installations. I also gained experience working with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SolidWorks. My work on optimizing solar panel designs led to a 15% increase in energy efficiency for one of our client projects, which reinforced my interest in advancing renewable energy technologies.

Why this program : The Master’s in Mechanical Engineering program at [university] stands out to me because of its strong emphasis on sustainable energy systems and its cutting-edge research in the areas of thermal energy and energy storage. In particular, the work being done by [faculty member] on advanced thermodynamics and energy-efficient technologies aligns closely with my career aspirations. I am eager to collaborate with [name] and other faculty members to deepen my understanding of energy systems and contribute to projects that have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of industrial applications.

Career goals : Ultimately, my goal is to develop and implement innovative engineering solutions that promote environmental sustainability while meeting global energy demands. I aspire to work at the forefront of renewable energy technology, designing systems that optimize energy efficiency for large-scale industrial applications. I am confident that the master’s program at [university] will equip me with the tools and knowledge to achieve these goals and make a lasting impact on the field of sustainable engineering.

Closing : The opportunity to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at [university] is an exciting step toward achieving my professional goals. With my background in mechanical design, my passion for sustainability, and my professional experience in the renewable energy sector, I am eager to contribute to your program and grow as an engineer. I look forward to the challenge of advancing my expertise and making meaningful contributions to the field.

Personal statement example for Public Health MPH program

Opening : My passion for public health was sparked during a volunteer trip to [country], where I worked alongside local health officials to improve sanitation and nutrition in rural communities. Witnessing firsthand the challenges that underserved populations face in accessing basic healthcare motivated me to pursue a career in public health. With a background in biology and a deep commitment to improving health equity, I am eager to advance my education in public health at [university] and contribute to global efforts in disease prevention, health education and health policy reform.

Academic background : I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from [undergraduate school], where I developed a strong foundation in the life sciences, including microbiology, epidemiology and biostatistics. During my coursework, I became particularly interested in the social determinants of health, which led me to take an independent study course in global health. My academic experience also included internships with local health organizations, where I assisted in health surveys and data collection efforts to identify risk factors in vulnerable populations.

Professional experience : After graduation, I joined [organization], a nonprofit dedicated to improving maternal health in underserved communities. As a program coordinator, I worked on a project aimed at increasing awareness of prenatal care and reducing maternal mortality rates through educational workshops and access to healthcare resources. My responsibilities included developing educational materials, conducting needs assessments, and evaluating program outcomes. This experience highlighted the importance of health policy and community-based interventions, and reinforced my desire to pursue an MPH to develop more effective public health strategies.

Why this program : I am particularly drawn to the MPH program at [university] because of its interdisciplinary approach to public health and its focus on global health, health policy and epidemiology. I am excited about the opportunity to work with [faculty member] and other faculty members whose research on maternal and child health aligns with my interests. The program’s emphasis on practical experience through field placements and internships is another reason why I believe it is the ideal fit for my career goals.

Career goals : My long-term goal is to work with international health organizations to design and implement public health programs that reduce health disparities, particularly in low-income countries. I aim to specialize in global health policy, focusing on how policy reform can improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities. I believe the MPH program at [university] will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to make a tangible impact on global public health.

Closing : The opportunity to study public health at [university] is one I approach with enthusiasm and dedication. I am eager to contribute to the program’s community of scholars and practitioners while gaining the expertise necessary to drive meaningful change in global health. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, peers and community partners to create lasting health improvements around the world.

In conclusion

These are just a few examples of different personal statements, and each is tailored to the specific field and career goals of the applicant. Be sure to personalize your statement to your field of interest, experiences and goals to make it more specific and compelling.