how to brainstorm a personal statement

How to Brainstorm for Your Personal Statement

• Sasha Chada
• October 25, 2021

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Many students struggle to find the perfect topic for their personal statements. This can lead to stress and worry, after all the personal statement is the most important essay for college admissions. This desire for perfection can be a good thing, but sometimes leaves students paralyzed when trying to find a topic.

This is an understandable struggle. The prompts provided by Common App for the personal statement are incredibly open-ended, with the seventh quite literally allowing you to write anything you want. This breadth of choice can be freeing, but it can also be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll go over what makes for a good topic to write your personal statement about, how to brainstorm for your personal statement, and we’ll present some personal statement brainstorming questions. While we won’t be able to cover every possibility, we hope this will help you when you write your own essays.

What Personal Statements Should Be About

You. A personal statement, whatever else it covers, should in the end be about you. Who you are, what your hopes and dreams may be, what your values are, and what qualities you possess. Each person is unique, and the personal statement is the place for you to describe what makes you you . 

Colleges are looking to admit more than collections of numbers and statistics, they want to admit people, bold and curious, with passions and interests and points of view they can contribute to campus. They use your essay for this, to see how you think, and what your values are.

Thus whatever your essay is about, you should be the central subject. The essay may cover a transformative experience, one of your hobbies, an academic passion, or how someone else impacted your life, but the center of focus should be you. 

This can feel awkward for some students. All of your essays for school are completely different, with you as an author relegated to the third person, and personal pronouns are expressly forbidden. Your history essays and English papers are about the books you’ve read and the facts of someone else’s life. Your personal statement is your own story, and only you can tell it.

Thus when deciding what to write about, you need to first determine what you want colleges to know about you. Which of your traits is best? Which hobbies define who you are? Which of your experiences have shaped you, and become core to your being? These are the things you will write about.

Brainstorming a Personal Statement Topic

This will be easier for some students than others. You may have a single activity or experience so important to who you are that you can’t fathom writing about anything else. This doesn’t mean your brainstorming is done, and your task is over, merely that you have an easier starting point. 

If you don’t have a clear topic in mind, don’t worry, we’ll cover that in later exercises. First, however, we’re going to do the values exercise. 

The Values Exercise

The values you hold are important, and some colleges will ask for specific essays on them, usually leadership or community. These are far from the only values it’s possible to embody, however. When preparing your personal statement, you should first decide what values will be core to your narrative. To begin determining these, answer the following questions:

• What three words describe you best?
• Which of your traits are you proudest of?
• What beliefs shape your life?
• How have your beliefs influenced your actions?

The goal here is to determine which of your values are most important to you. You should write a list of your top ten, then narrow that to three, then pick your top value from there. While it is possible to talk about many values in an essay, it is better to have a single value provide a central theme. Whatever the essay is about, it serves to demonstrate your values to the readers through the narrative, and the lessons you learn within it.

Once you know which of your values you want to write about, it’s time to decide what your actual topic should be. For that, we turn to our next exercises. 

Objects Exercise

Pick ten objects that demonstrate one aspect or trait of yours. A past student’s object list looked like this:

• Running shoes
• Sewing machine
• Paint brushes
• Fresh strawberries
• Blue jacket
• Fountain pen
• Pocket knife
• AP Bio textbook

Each of these objects has a story to tell. Why is it important to you? What does its presence say about your life, and your values? What are your memories associated with the object?

Your essay will likely not be about the objects themselves, but each is a jumping-off point for a story about you. This stage of brainstorming is collecting stories and determining which are worth telling. That brings us to our next exercise.

Self Portrait Exercise

In this exercise, you list interesting tidbits about yourself. Not long ones, only a sentence or so, but interesting pieces. These are small details that added together make a full self-portrait of who you are. How many of these you end up with depends on you, but we suggest at least ten. Here are some examples from past Ivy Scholars students who have done this exercise:

• I’ve lived on the same street my whole life but in two different houses
• One of the most rewarding days of my life is when I saved enough to pay for half of my car. One of the worst days of my life is when I crashed and totaled that car.
• I never wet my toothbrush before I brush my teeth.
• I hate wearing sunglasses because I feel like I’m not actually seeing what I’m looking at and I don’t get to see the actual color that everything is.
• I love baking cookies and have a specific cookie cookbook that I try a new recipe from every time I bake.
• My mom made chicken pot pie for the first time for me when I was four and I said it was my favorite meal and it still is to this day so every year on my birthday my mom makes me a chicken pot pie.

Each of these is a small story themselves, and each says something about the student. While not all of these would work as a full essay, there are some with obvious potential. 

Elevator Pitch Exercise

For this exercise, imagine you are in an elevator with the head of admissions for your dream school. What would you tell them about you? What do you most want them to know about who you are? It has to be short and to the point – so what do you say?

Turning Brainstorming Into Essays

These personal statement topic ideas on their own are not essays but are the seeds of them. You can get a sense from each of what the essay will say about you, and what it will tell readers about your life. Then you can use the values exercise to see which of your values you want to inform colleges about and pick a topic that will let you do that.

Don’t be afraid to take several possible ideas and sketch outlines for each. See how the story develops, and whether you have enough to say for each to make a full essay. Not every idea will lead to a good essay, but coming up with a great idea is always the first step to writing a great essay.

Final Thoughts

Trying to find the right essay topic can feel intimidating or impossible, but knowing how to brainstorm can make the test far less daunting. By picking the right topic, you are well on your way to writing a great essay.

Of course, there’s more to an essay than the topic alone. If you want further help picking a topic, or with writing your essay, schedule a complimentary consultation with us. We have a long experience helping students write great college essays, and we’re always happy to share what we know.

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Brainstorming Exercises for Your Personal Statement Essay—aka the Common App Essay

• June 11, 2021
• Elite Collegiate Planning

Your Personal Statement essay (also known as “the common app essay”) is a huge part of your college application. However, many students find this essay to be one of the hardest parts. Why? Frankly – because it is hard! Writing an essay that reveals your unique characteristics and values in 650 words or less is not easy! But, that doesn’t mean it’s not doable.

While the Common App provides a few prompts for the personal statement essay, they are all fairly open-ended. In essence, you can write almost anything about yourself. The goal is to write about something that will help admissions see beyond your test scores and grades and provide a glimpse into your personality and character.

Start Early

It’s best to start brainstorming and thinking early. The more pressure you put yourself under, the harder brainstorming will be. Give your ideas time to grow beyond their original conception, and eventually, the winning topic will reveal itself and your story will unfold across the page.

Overwhelmed Already? Relax!

All of this can seem completely overwhelming, but don’t worry! One of the best things you can do is to simply relax. As you lay on the beach, by the pool, or hike through the mountains this summer, take some time to reflect as you enjoy what you’re doing. Engaging in an activity you enjoy can alleviate some of the pressure that comes along with starting the process; activities can also begin to get your creative juices flowing and provide inspiration for other essay ideas. So, where should you begin? Below, we’ve provided two exercises that can help you brainstorm topics or ideas for your personal statement essay.

Essay Brainstorming Exercise #1: 20 Questions

This exercise works by helping you think quickly, and succinctly about yourself and your life. Simply answer 20 questions about yourself. Don’t think too hard. Write down the first things that come to mind. It can be helpful to talk these out as well. Talking with your family and friends can help jog your memory of past events and situations. When you’re done, look through your list and see if anything, or a combination of items might make a good topic for your essay.

Here are your 20 questions:

• What has been the greatest moment in your life?
• What was the worst moment of your life?
• What accomplishment are you most proud of?
• What is your biggest pet peeve?
• What’s the most important relationship in your life?
• What, in your opinion, is the greatest problem facing the world today?
• What is your favorite hobby?
• What’s your most important idea, belief, or fact?
• What is your strangest hobby or habit?
• Do you have a quirky personality trait that makes you unique?
• What have you failed at?
• What challenge have you overcome?
• What is an item that you associate with home?
• What was your most embarrassing moment?
• What is one word your best friend would use to describe you?
• What is one word your sibling(s) would use to describe you?
• Who was your favorite teacher and why?
• What is the most disgusting food that you like?
• What is one item or object you associate with your Mom or Dad?
• When have you taken a risk?

Essay Brainstorming Exercise #2: Future You

What’s your vision for your future, ideal self? Thinking existentially can help you discover what your goals are. Describing who you want to become can also help you rediscover events and parts of your life that have already happened, and provide inspiration. While you can answer in whatever form comes naturally to you, here are a few ideas to jump start your futuristic thinking. Write down your answers.

• What’s more important to you: financial stability or doing what you love?
• What is your dream job and why?
• What will your life look like in 10 years? Where will you be living?
• Who will you have an impact on?
• How will you get to where you want to be?

When it comes to your brainstorming sessions and exercises, write everything down. It doesn’t have to be neat or orderly. You never know what thoughts or ideas are going to spark the perfect essay topic or story or anecdote to include in your essay. Most importantly, give yourself time! Allow your ideas and thoughts to roam and wander. If you are hit with inspiration – write it down – use the Notes app in your phone if you have to. Essay topics are as unique as the students who write the essays. No doubt, you will find the right topic for you!

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How to Brainstorm for the Personal Statement: A Mini-Guide

It’s difficult. It’s a pain in the ass to figure out a topic or narrative for your personal statement.

I know it all too well: sit down, open laptop, start typing.

And nothing.

Nothing comes to mind, nothing gets written. Writer’s block commences and frustration sets in.

It’s difficult to write about yourself, especially with so much on the line.

People often recommend that you take an inventory of transformative events in your life or past accomplishments. In other words, they’re recommending you do what you’ve already been trying to do, except they suggest a more concrete goal for the brainstorming.

That approach is still difficult and, for some, requires mental gymnastics. It still requires you to pick out parts of your life from a plethora of experiences that only exist in your mind .

I recommend something different, and have found it to work consistently.

Write your life story. Sit down and just free write as much of your life story as you can think of. And then take a break.

If a day later, you realize you have more to add to the story, then by all means go back and add.

If you covered everything in your initial free write, then it’s time for the next step.

Go through your life story and pick out transformative events or past accomplishments. Pick out patterns or experiences that define you. You’ll see a narrative start to protrude its head and you’ll have the pieces you need to tell your story right in front of you.

Of course, this is only the beginning of your personal statement writing journey, but it’s a big step in the right direction and a great place to start.

Good luck, and happy brainstorming!

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36 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Writing Your Personal Statement

April 25, 2017

Phase I of Writing Your Personal Statement: 36 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Begin

In less than 650 words, you have to persuade a stranger to care about you and your application. That’s why the Common App personal statement is one of the most discussed aspects of the college application. Think about how much time you spend on homework, standardized testing, and extracurriculars. This single essay will influence admissions officers as much as these other factors. You could be the perfect applicant, but if your reader doesn’t get to know you and CARE about YOU, you won’t be admitted.

There is no formula for creating the perfect personal statement. The best personal statement topic for your friend might not work well as a topic for you. The topic that might inspire your friend to show his most unique thoughts, the challenges he’s overcome, and the maturity he has gained, might not help you reveal what’s most interesting and compelling about you.

So, how can you write the best possible personal statement for you and your application? Here are the first steps in the process.

1. Start early!

The worst thing you can do is rush the creation of your personal statement. The next two steps below might take weeks...and these occur before you even have a good first draft and can start multiple rounds of edits. You should edit your personal statement multiple times. You should get feedback from as many family members, friends, and teachers as you can.

But, before you get to this stage, you need to choose the perfect topic (and the best Common App essay prompt )  for you .

So, when is the right time to start the process of writing your personal statement ? You should start brainstorming for your personal statement as early as the spring of your junior year and as late as the summer between junior and senior year.

Why shouldn’t I start earlier? A successful personal statement relies on having a strong and mature sense of yourself. It can also rely on your understanding of what you’d like to do in college, what type of college community you’d like to be a part of, and why you care about your education. Starting too soon might mean you need to start over (see step 3) after you really do some soul-searching about college.

There is a lot of thinking and planning that happens before you start writing, so that’s why you should start early. You will complete your best work when you’re not up against a deadline and you’ll be able to start over (again, see step 3) if this is in your best interests.

2. Brainstorm

If you complete this stage of the process with care and attention, you won’t be faced with Step 3. This step in the process helps you pinpoint that perfect topic for you... which won’t be the same perfect topic for someone else.

To start the process of writing your personal statement , ask yourself the series of 36 questions below. These will help generate topics that will be important and meaningful to you. Keep a written list of possible topics you could choose.

• What’s your main academic area of interest?
• Why does this matter to you?
• When did this interest first start to matter to you? Was there a specific event that sparked your interest?
• How did your interest evolve over time?
• Did you ever face a really big challenge in continuing to learn about or study this topic?
• Was this challenge the result of your gender, race, or religion?
• Was this challenge the result of your family’s socio-economic background or the result of the culture of the place you lived?
• Would you still pursue this academic interest if you earned a very small income with your future job in this area?

Activities:

• What’s an extracurricular activity you do that’s incredibly rare?
• What’s an extracurricular activity that has shaped your personality and character?
• Why does this activity matter so much to you?
• When did this activity first start to matter to you? Was there a specific event that sparked your interest?
• How did your interest in and commitment to this activity evolve over time?
• Have you done something with this activity that no one else you know has done?
• Did you ever face a really big challenge in continuing to pursue this activity?
• Was this challenge the result of your family’s socio-economic background?
• Was this challenge the result of the culture of the place you lived?

Life-events:

• Is there something you’ve done or experienced that changed you forever in a positive way?
• How did this event make you more mature, compassionate, self-aware, determined, or strong?
• Is there a day from your life that you reflect on often? Why is this day so memorable to you?
• Are you similar to or different from your parents / siblings? What made you this way?
• When did you feel like you didn’t fit in with a group of people? What made you different than others?
• Is there something (non-academic / extracurricular) that you devote A LOT of time to? Why do you do this?
• What have you done that didn’t earn you praise, attention, or success?
• What makes you feel like your life is meaningful and important to you?
• What is one thing that you would never change about yourself or your life experiences?

Once you’ve created your list of topics, you’ll need to start narrowing them down. For each topic, ask yourself:

• Is this a topic I care about?
• Is this a topic that I’ve cared about for more than 1-2 years?
• Is this a topic I think shows something about my character and personality?
• Is this a topic that shows something impressive and / or unique about my achievements or activities?
• Is this topic memorable to me? Do I think about this fairly often in my life?
• Am I the only student in my high school class who would write about this topic?
• Does this topic show only positive things about my character, maturity, and perspective on life?
• Would I be interested in reading about this topic if someone else wrote about it?
• Could I write 10 pages about this topic (far more than you’ll need to write, of course)?

If the answer to most or all these questions is “yes!” you’ve probably landed on an ideal topic for you! And get started with writing your personal statement ! 

I talk more about choosing your personal statement topic, as well as some of the best topics and worst topics here:

3. Start over?

Have you already written your 650 words? Ask yourself: is this best possible story I could tell about myself to admissions officers? What does this story show about me? Is there anything that’s negative in this essay? Is there anything that would make me appear privileged, immature, irresponsible, unfriendly, boring, or unmotivated?

One of the best skills you can develop while writing your personal statement is not to be too attached to your writing. Good editors make BIG changes. And sometimes “big change” means starting over from scratch.

I’ll share my story as a cautionary tale. After careful planning, I wrote the first draft of my personal statement during the summer before my senior year of high school. I was really proud of it. I’d developed a (I thought) complicated and literary metaphor throughout the personal statement. I printed it off. I gave it to my dad to read. He read it through once and said, “you should start over from scratch.”

I was shocked and horrified. What about the more than 5 hours I’d spent planning and writing this essay? My dad pointed out to me the ways in which my personal statement didn’t show the most impressive things about me. It was fine. But it wasn’t unique. It wasn’t personal.

Writing your personal statement is a very strategic part of your college application. There are many "bad" topics you should avoid , there are many “good” topics you could choose, but there are a few that are “outstanding” because they bring a new, personal, thoughtful, and insightful angle to your application and your personal story. This is the personal statement you want to write! Your personal statement needs to engage your readers in less than 650 words in a way that convinces them to believe in you. Your admissions officer will need to advocate for you in order for you to be admitted. You want this person on your side.

Ask your family, friends, and teachers to read your personal statement or consider the topic you’ve selected. Do they feel like this piece of writing or this topic shows the person they know and love? Could this topic make a stranger care about you in the way that your family, friends, teachers care about and support you? This is your personal statement topic selection goal!

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How to Brainstorm Your Personal Statement

The most important work on college application essays comes before you write the very first word of your very first draft of your very first essay.

Brainstorming is the essential first step in the college application essay writing process. While there are many ways to brainstorm personal narrative essays, we at Ivy Experience have fully embraced an intentionally open-ended style where we ask students simply one question: 

“What do I need to know about you?” 

We then ask students to brainstorm anything and everything they can think of to answer this question. They do not need to write in full sentences, just bullet points. 

While a blank page with just that one question can be daunting, intimidating, and challenging, it is an amazing and invaluable approach. After all, no matter what a college application essay prompt is asking, at the end of the day, every prompt wants students to reveal themselves—who they are, what their values are, and how they see the world. 

The more personal and personally insightful an essay is, the more it stands out from the crowd. Whether they are writing a personal statement about their service experience, an academic essay on why they want to study biology, or an identity essay about their cultural background, a student needs to assume that dozens if not hundreds of other applicants will be writing about the same topic. 

But that doesn’t mean there is no hope of writing a powerful essay. In fact, fully embracing this idea—that there is no truly “original” topic—can and should be incredibly liberating for students because it means the pressure is off: they can and must share their personal experiences with and perspectives on that topic. 

And that starts with brainstorming.

Framing the practice of brainstorming with an open-ended question—”What do I need to know about you?”—helps students think more expansively about the essay-writing process. Direct, focused questions often signal to students that certain facets of their identities, backgrounds, and lived experiences—those not reflected in the questions being asked—are less important.  Asking “What do I need to know about you?” invites students to reveal these pieces of themselves.

As we tell students over and over again during the brainstorming process, every detail—about themselves or their lives—CAN have value. That is what we tell students over and over and over again. Anything that is important to you, put down. Anything that feels meaningful to your story, put down. 

And students: do not carry this burden only on your shoulders! Bring your computer to the dinner table and ask your family members and loved ones to share what comes to mind when they think about you. Ask your friends, too! Sometimes we are so close to our own experiences that we will overlook certain stories, quirks, hobbies, qualities, etc. 

Not everything will go onto the application. But as we tell our students: let’s lay everything out there so we can decide what pieces you want to use to create the most beautiful, insightful, strategic, and authentic mosaic to present to admissions officers.

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How to Come Up With an Idea for a Personal Statement

The importance of the personal statement can hardly be understated – the perfect personal statement can mean the difference between an acceptance, a rejection, or a waitlist letter . Frustratingly, for all its significance, the personal statement is notoriously tricky to master.

A great personal statement is meant to be an exploration of what motivates a student. However, it’s difficult to distill your deepest passions and most significant experiences into a 650-word essay. How are you supposed to choose what topic to write on?

Thankfully, we at CollegeVine have your back. Read on for our tips on how to choose the perfect subject for your personal statement.

What’s the Point of the Personal Statement?

Before we share our advice on how to choose a topic for a personal statement, we first want to address what purpose a personal statement serves in the context of your application.

Holistic admissions seek to consider not only tangible accomplishments, such as grades and accolades, but also the character of applicants. Are they truly dedicated to their passions? Do they actively seek to contribute to their community? Do they possess a genuine spirit of intellectual curiosity?

All these questions and more may factor significantly into an admissions committee’s final decision on an applicant, but they can’t easily be answered by test scores or extracurricular activities. That’s where the personal statement comes in.

A personal statement serves a dual purpose: not only does it allow a student to demonstrate their writing ability (which can be the most important skill you’ll need for success in college and your career) but it also communicates some aspect of the student’s life, be it their passion for a certain sport or activity, the adversity they’ve faced, or a unique perspective that allowed them to thrive in high school.

The aptly-named personal statement is intended to portray a side to the applicant that isn’t reflected elsewhere in the application. Accordingly, a safe, run-of-the-mill personal statement is unlikely to wow an admissions committee, while a creative and bold personal statement that allows admissions officers to understand an applicant in a new light can have a huge positive impact on an application.

Go With Your Gut, Not Your Resume

The most popular prompt on the Common Application reads as follows:

“Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”

There are many students who read this prompt and immediately know what to write on; a lifelong illness or other significant adversity, a defining personal characteristic or ability, or a unique set of life circumstances could all be great material for a personal statement. If this sounds like you, by all means, pursue this topic!

However, circumstances like this aren’t the norm for most students. Many students look at this prompt and brainstorm for hours before deciding to answer the prompt with a description of a sufficiently impressive accomplishment or extracurricular activity.

The truth is, unless you feel an award or your involvement in an extracurricular activity has significantly impacted who you are, what you want to study, or any other aspect of your educational career, it’s probably not your best bet. This prompt, and the personal statement in general, are not intended as another outlet for you to list your various accomplishments and awards.

Put a Spin on Your Extracurriculars

This isn’t to say that you can’t talk about extracurricular accomplishments in your essay; like we said before, the personal essay is supposed to be an opportunity for you to showcase your primary passions and motivations. It’s very likely that the research project you completed or the piano concert you performed in have inspired you to pursue a certain path or informed your work ethic, dedication, patience, or any number of personal characteristics.

If you have an extracurricular activity or experience that you wish to write about for your personal statement, we encourage you to do so! It’s important to keep in mind, though, that unless this activity or accomplishment is extremely distinctive, there are likely hundreds, if not thousands of other applicants with similar stories.

The key to writing about these experiences – championship sports games, victories at academic competitions, and the like – is putting a unique spin on how they affected you. One way to do this is via figurative language ; a commonly used device is a conceit, or extended metaphor, that can add a layer of complexity to a straightforward story (check out our blog post on how to use rhetorical devices in your personal statement for advice on conceits and more!).

The key to writing about extracurriculars is to establish a connection between the extracurricular and how it’s affected who you are and your academic career. If it’s obvious that you’re only mentioning an award or activity for its own sake and not to showcase a larger aspect of your personality or academic history, it won’t make for a very effective personal statement.

Embrace Adversity, but Don’t Exploit It

It’s common advice to stay away from “sob stories” in college applications: tales of difficult circumstances or adversity in a student’s life intended more to elicit sympathy from an admissions committee than to demonstrate the student’s academic, extracurricular, or personal merit.

While it’s true that your personal statement shouldn’t be a detailed account of all your woes, that doesn’t mean you can’t draw upon challenging life circumstances when writing your essay.

Just as with extracurriculars, the key to successfully recounting a tale of adversity in your personal statement is by explaining how that situation has shaped who you are as a person and student.

Therefore, if you choose to describe difficult circumstances in your essay, they shouldn’t make up the entirety of its content; rather, they can offer context on personal circumstances, while the thesis and bulk of the essay focus on describing how dealing with adversity has allowed the applicant to become who they are and achieve what they have.

The ability to overcome adverse circumstances and achieve success is highly prized by admissions committees. When skillfully done, essays addressing personal struggles can be highly effective and moving. What’s important to remember is that your story of hardship should serve as a springboard for a broader discussion of your personality, goals, and ambitions — not as a crutch to rely on to win the hearts of admissions officers.

Don’t Shy Away From the Mundane

Oftentimes, students brainstorming ideas for their personal statement worry because they’ve never had any especially exotic or inspiring experiences to write about. As is the case with extracurriculars, students who don’t have incredibly unique experiences may feel like they share the same story as thousands of other applicants; how can commonplace, everyday experiences match up to the grand tales some students have to tell?

In truth, though such distinctive situations may make for great personal statements if executed correctly, they are by no means necessary to have a powerful personal statement. Some of the best personal statements are crafted from circumstances, experiences, or characteristics that may seem unremarkable on the surface, but in which the author has found a deeper meaning or which serve as a platform for a wider philosophical discussion.

For example, a member of our team wrote her essay on her distinctive hair, and how it was a reflection of her larger struggle as a Hispanic student in a predominantly white community. Essays on the mundane can be so effective because they allow an applicant to showcase their unique perspective on life without the distraction of exotic or exciting happenings.

Inspiration for a moving personal statement can be found in the most unexpected of places. Never discount an idea because it seems too dull or “out there!” What’s important is finding a creative way of describing who you are and what motivates you in a way that sets you apart from everyone else. Everyday experiences at home, at school, with friends, can all be sources of inspiration, so keep an open mind!

Perhaps you have a certain ritual or tradition you’ve always shared with family, or you remember one class activity that helped you realize how much you truly love learning – these experiences, when described from the viewpoint of how they’ve shaped your personality or ambitions, can make for engaging personal statements.

Writing a personal statement is hard, and for many students, thinking of a topic is the hardest part. It’s never too early to start brainstorming on what you might write on, so that once you’re sure of the message you want to communicate, you can focus on choosing the perfect way to deliver it. Following our tips above, you’ll be well on your way to writing a personal statement that sets you apart from the competition!

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

How to Start a Personal Statement

One of the first hurdles students encounter when writing college essays is how to start a personal statement. As a core element of many applications, understanding how to write a personal statement is crucial. Learning how to write a personal statement that is an authentic representation of yourself can be challenging. However, mastering this skill will help you craft personal essays that make a lasting impact on admissions officers. 

Specific, actionable college essay tips can help you learn how to write a personal statement for college. If you spend time learning how to start a college essay, you’ll feel even more confident as you begin the process. So, let’s demystify just exactly how to start a personal statement. 

In this guide, How to Start a Personal Statement, we’ll cover everything you need to know about personal statements, including:

• Personal statement meaning, goals, and expectations
• Common personal statement formats
• The importance of a hook and how to write one
• Steps for how to start a personal statement
• Tips for how to write a personal statement
• How to approach the editing phase
• Coming up with personal statement ideas
• Examples of personal statements and how to use them

Remember, any writing process takes time. This applies whether you’re figuring out how to start a college essay or how to write a personal statement for college. No matter what approach you take, the key to how to write a great college essay is to start early! 

Now, let’s start with the basics: what is a personal statement?

What is a personal statement?

Simply put, a personal statement is a type of college application essay. But, if you’re looking for answers to, “What is a personal statement?” you probably already know that. At its core, the personal statement should be the essay that most clearly reflects your application narrative . By reading your personal statement, colleges should gain a better understanding of who you are. That means having a clear sense of your strengths, values, and interests.

However, this doesn’t mean that your personal statement needs to capture your entire life story. In fact, often, your personal statement will likely center around just one particular moment or experience. Specifically, one that has defined your identity, passions, or personal growth. 

If you search for a personal statement meaning by school, you may find slightly varying definitions. However, all personal essays have the same goal. Personal essays show colleges your authentic voice while highlighting a part of yourself that isn’t captured elsewhere in your application. You’ll notice this if you read any example of a personal statement for college. 

Engaging in self-reflection

To understand the personal statement meaning in the simplest terms, think of two words: self-reflection . Identifying pivotal life moments, values, and skills are all a part of how to write a great college essay. However, the process of how to write a personal statement for college takes more than just describing an experience. Instead, it forces you to find the balance between contextualizing what happened and expressing how it impacted you.

Successful personal essays will generally do two things. One, they’ll capture the meaning of your past experiences, specifically the ways you were changed and the lessons you learned. Two, they’ll connect your past experiences to your current and future goals. For many students, college applications are the first time they’ve been asked to write about themselves. So, the process of making these personal connections may seem daunting.

Preparing for the future

Knowing exactly what is a personal statement and how to write a personal statement can also help you in other facets of life. For example, consider the overlap between the college application process and the job application process. When applying to jobs, you need to highlight pertinent skills, values, and beliefs—just like in a college application essay. You can even use the skills and principles for writing a personal statement to write a cover letter (with certain nuances, of course).

For more information on the personal statement meaning, check out the application/essay page for schools on your college list. Their advice and resources can help students understand exactly what’s expected from them in these types of essays. And, many colleges will even provide their own tips for how to write a great college essay. They might also provide an example of a personal statement for college. 

We’ve answered the question, “What is a personal statement?” So, now, let’s get into the personal statement format.

Personal statement format

When learning how to write a personal statement, you’ll encounter some different personal statement formats. While there is no singular or “best” personal statement format, most personal essays share a few key attributes. So, understanding these key features can greatly help students learning how to write a great college essay.

Many students’ personal statements tell stories. In fact, discovering these important stories forms a key component of how to start a college essay. Much of the work that goes into discovering how to write a personal statement starts before you even begin writing. (We’ll discuss brainstorming ideas in a later section of this guide.)

Before we dive into how to start a personal statement, we need to pinpoint the starting point for your personal statements: the prompts.

Common/Coalition Application Personal Statement

In many cases, the personal statement refers to the Common App essay or Coalition Application essay. While there are some differences between the two application portals, both follow the same personal statement format. Students will choose from a selection of college essay prompts and write an essay (650 words max). Then, they will submit that essay to every school they apply to via that particular portal. In these cases, the process of how to start a college essay begins with reading through the provided prompts.

Learning how to write a personal statement for college includes learning how to choose the best prompt for you. The personal statement topic you ultimately choose is extremely important; your topic is essentially the soul of your essay. You’d be hard-pressed to find a well-written example of a personal statement for college that wasn’t based on an impactful topic. 

The Common App essay

Let’s take a closer look at how to start a college essay for the Common App. In the Common App, students have seven college essay prompts to choose from. Each of these college essay prompts allows students to share important anecdotes from their lives. Most of these college essay prompts ask specific questions, however, the seventh prompt is slightly different. Prompt #7 actually allows students to choose any topic for their essay.

10 Exceptional Common App Essay Examples

The coalition app essay.

The Coalition Application offers a similar personal statement format. Prompt #6 also asks students to submit an essay on any topic. You might think that responding to such an open-ended prompt would change your approach for how to write a great college essay. However, you can still use the college essay tips provided in this guide, no matter what prompt you decide to respond to.

The Common App and the Coalition Application are the most common personal statement formats you’ll encounter. However, some schools have their own unique personal statement format and requirements.

Coalition Essay Prompts 2023-24

Other personal statements

The method you take when figuring out how to write a personal statement will largely depend on your personal statement prompt. However, a personal statement for college isn’t always based on specific college essay prompts. You might simply be asked to share more about yourself. However, even if your personal statement format doesn’t directly ask you for a particular narrative, your essay still needs a focus. So, you should still aim to have your personal statement tell a story about some critical aspect of your identity. 

That being said, always double-check the specific personal statement format and requirements for each program you apply to. For instance, if you apply to universities in the UK, the UCAS personal statement is far different from other personal essays. Namely, these personal statements focus almost entirely on academics. 

When considering how to start a personal statement, look to admissions websites or university blogs for advice. Often, they’ll have a page dedicated to helpful college essay tips with insight into what they look for from students’ personal essays. For example, check out this blog from UChicago that provides tips on how to approach their quirky prompts. Additionally, check out this personal statement webinar in which an admissions officer shares helpful college essay tips. 

Now, let’s define an important attribute of how to start a personal statement: the hook.

How to start a personal statement: Understanding the “hook”

It’s impossible to learn how to start a personal statement or how to write a personal statement that “wows” without a hook. A hook is an opening statement that catches the reader’s attention. It draws them in and makes them want to keep reading to see how the story unfolds. In personal essays, the hook is key to getting your reader invested in your story. 

But, if the idea of coming up with a compelling hook intimidates you, don’t panic! The hook isn’t necessarily the step you need to start with when learning how to start a college essay. That being said, it forms a crucial component of the personal statement introduction. You’ll notice that almost every successful example of personal statement for college has an engaging hook.

Let’s check out some hooks that impressed to help give you a better idea of how to start a personal statement.

College Personal Statement Examples

Example of personal statement for college: hook #1.

My life is as simple as a Rubik’s Cube: a child’s toy that can be solved in 20 moves or less IF and only if enough knowledge is gained.

In this personal statement introduction, this student intrigues the reader by comparing their life to a toy. Simply by reading this hook, we can see this student’s self-reflection as well as their creativity. And, most importantly, we’re intrigued to see the connection of how and why this person is fascinated by a Rubik’s cube. In this example, the Rubik’s cube is both unique and genuinely important to the writer. Moreover, by the end of the essay, we gain some valuable insight into how this person navigates the world. And, it all started with this hook. 

Example of Personal Statement for College: Hook #2

When I joined the high school swim team, I never expected to go to school dressed as Shrek.

After reading this hook, you’re probably left with more questions than answers. “What does having to be on the swim team have to do with dressing up as Shrek?” We don’t know yet! And, that’s the point. This surprising hook has the reader curious about the connection the writer will make. However, when figuring out how to start a personal statement, don’t go overboard with the shock factor. Keep in mind that personal essays can’t come from wild statements alone. Rather, they need to connect to a meaningful moment in the writer’s life. 

Example of Personal Statement for College: Hook #3

At six years old, most kids I know get excited to help Blue find clues or recite Elmo’s songs on Sesame Street. So you can imagine my family’s surprise when they saw me ignoring the other kids to go belt alongside my grandfather’s mariachi trio in the backyard.

Your hook doesn’t have to be just one sentence. Rather, it might be a couple of sentences or even the first paragraph, like in this example. Keep in mind that there are no definitive rules to how to start a personal statement—other than sharing important information about yourself that will stand out to admissions officers.

Students who want to master how to write a personal statement need to learn how to craft an engaging hook. This particular hook shows how the writer is different from their peers. As the reader, we can learn a lot from just these few sentences. We already know that this writer isn’t afraid to be themselves and do what they love from a young age. This college application essay gets into much deeper themes as the narrative continues. However, the most important part of the personal statement introduction—the hook—has already done its job of pulling the reader in to learn more. 

Using these examples

These are just a few successful hooks that students have used in their approach to how to start a personal statement. Each of these comes from a strong example of a personal statement for college. As you can see from each example of a personal statement for college, the best personal statement topics are unique. However, even the most quirky hooks always lead the reader into an essay of substance.

Use each example of personal statement for college to help inspire your “how to write a personal statement” journey. When considering how to write a great college essay, analyzing examples of what works can help. 

Want to see how others figured out how to start a personal statement? Check out these personal statement examples as well as these Common App essay examples for inspiration.

When to write your hook

Having a hook is a crucial part of how to write a personal statement that impresses. However, coming up with your hook won’t necessarily form the first step in your process. Just as there’s no one right way of how to write a personal statement, there’s no one right way to write a hook. 

When considering how to start a personal statement, you don’t need to dive into the hook right away. You may even write a whole draft of your essay before figuring out the best hook for your personal statement introduction. 

So, if a hook doesn’t jump to your brain as you consider personal statement ideas, just start writing! Sometimes, it’s best to write a straightforward beginning (maybe even dry!) and then work your way backward. Remember, it doesn’t matter when you come up with it. Just be sure to add that sparkly hook to your personal statement before submitting your final draft.

Do all colleges require a personal statement?

It’s more than likely that you will need to know how to write a personal statement during the college application process. However, not every college requires a personal statement—though most top schools do. 

So, before stressing about how to start a college essay, check the requirements of the schools on your college list . However, keep in mind that most of the nation’s top schools require applicants to submit a personal statement for college.

Additionally, you might want to adjust your personal statement for different programs. You’ll still submit the same personal statement for college for each school you apply to through the Common App. However, other specialized programs and applications might request a slightly different personal statement format. So, always check the admissions requirements and do your research on every school and each individual program. Your approach to how to start a college essay will depend on each program’s prompts and formats. You can also always look at an example of a personal statement for college for inspiration. 

33 Colleges Without Supplemental Essays

Do colleges care about the personal statement? 

A strong college application essay is extremely important in the admissions process. So, put simply, yes—colleges really do care about the personal statement. Understanding how to start a personal statement means understanding the weight that it carries. Of course, you shouldn’t let yourself get overwhelmed by the process. Rather, try to feel excited by the opportunity to truly show off your personality, skills, background, future goals, and more.

That being said, the extent to which your personal statement impacts your admissions decision will likely vary by school. For instance, some larger state schools may focus foremost on your grades or standardized test scores (due to the fact that they receive such a large volume of applicants and have more spaces available). While these schools will still care about your personal statement, other factors may have a more immediate impact on their admissions decisions. 

On the other hand, top universities with smaller enrollments often place a considerable amount of emphasis on the personal statement. These schools receive more qualified applicants than the places they have available. Your personal statement lets you highlight what makes you unique and how you’ll enrich their campus community. 

How to write a personal statement – Step-by-step guide

A successful personal statement for college will read as passionate and authentic. You’ll notice this in each example of personal statement for college that you read. But how exactly do you write a passionate and authentic essay?

To begin, you’ll likely brainstorm personal statement ideas and decide on your personal statement topic.  However, understanding how to write a personal statement will require more than simply knowing how to start a personal statement. And remember, you can always check out an example of a personal essay for college if you’re feeling stuck. 

How to write a personal statement isn’t a strict process—as seen in this personal statement webinar about rethinking your essay . However, you should follow certain key steps as you craft your essays. Following each step, and allotting yourself sufficient time to do so, will make the writing process all the better. (Tips about staying on track are just as important as the best college essay tips about writing!)

Next, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to write a personal statement. This includes brainstorming personal statement ideas, exploring personal statement topics, and reviewing and submitting your personal essays.

Ready to learn just how to write a personal statement? Let’s get started!

How to start a personal statement – First steps

Now, let’s dive into how to start a personal statement. The first steps to how to start a personal statement can be broken down into two parts:

During these steps, you’ll generate personal statement ideas and select your personal statement topics. Without a strong topic, you’ll struggle to write a genuine essay. So, let’s talk about how to generate an essay topic that highlights your passion. 

Step 1: Brainstorm

How to start a personal statement begins with brainstorming a list of ideas. Each stellar example of a personal statement for college likely came from a brainstorming session. But, why is brainstorming so important? 

While some personal statement requirements won’t provide specific prompts for applicants, many will, including the Common App essay. So, you should make sure to choose a great topic that directly answers the prompt. 

Let’s check out some brainstorming exercises that can help you get the great ideas flowing. 

The best way to choose a great topic for a personal statement for college is through your passions. If you’re stuck when it comes to pinpointing your passions, try answering this question: If you were going to host a TED talk, what would it be and why? We all know that TED talks are addicting—that’s because they’re engaging. And they’re engaging because the hosts are talking about their passions. 

So, think about something you would be excited to spend 30-40 minutes discussing in front of an audience. What would you say about it? You might find using voice notes and recording yourself is easier than writing out your ideas. For some students, talking about something may feel easier than immediately putting pen to paper. 

If a TED talk doesn’t get your creative juices flowing, try a classic essay brainstorming method: mind maps. You’ve likely done mind maps in your high school English class. But for those who haven’t, let’s break down the process. 

First, take the prompt for your essay. For instance, maybe it asks about a challenge you’ve faced. Set a timer for 10 minutes and write the prompt on a sheet of paper. Then, next to the prompt, start writing every experience you’ve had that relates to the prompt. This is not the time to get into the details—just focus on potential topics. Even if you’re not sure if something is a perfect fit, include it! At this stage, all ideas are fair game. Later, you can narrow them down to find the topic that you have the most to write about. 

Defining values

Another useful brainstorming exercise for a college application essay, especially when it comes to how to start a personal statement, has to do with defining your values. Most successful personal essays center around a value that students have. Think about the values that are most important to you (loyalty, kindness, empathy, honesty, etc.). Then, create a list of 4-6 values. After that, for each of your values, come up with a list of experiences that reflect them. You can even set a timer for each value. 

Alternatively, you might work backward by coming up with a list of experiences that you find were the most impactful in your life. From these experiences, you can identify values that they instilled or that you embodied. Make sure to focus on an experience that highlights something critical about who you are as a person, student, or community member. You might also consider doing this same activity for qualities or skills depending on the essay prompt. 

Step 2: Free-write

Once you have your topic, it’s time to flex your writing muscles. Don’t feel constrained by the word count at this stage. In fact, forget about a hook, a conclusion, and other literary details. Now is just the time to get your ideas on paper stress-free. 

Struggling with Step 2 in how to start a personal statement? You might benefit from doing a timed free write. Set a timer for 20 minutes and don’t stop writing about the topic until the time is up. Don’t stress about writing the perfect sentence or having the right flow–just keep writing on the topic at hand. You may want to do this step a couple of times if you’re still deciding on the best prompt to respond to. You won’t always find the perfect personal essay topic on the first try, and that’s okay.

However, keep in mind that some topics may read as inappropriate or cliché. If you end up choosing an overused essay topic, you may struggle to come up with a unique angle. (But that doesn’t mean these topics are entirely off-limits!) However, you should not talk about illegal or illicit behavior and never use explicit language. 

While you have free range to pick an essay topic, there are certain errors you can make. Make sure you don’t join the club of students who missed the mark with their personal essays. Learn from this personal statement webinar reviewing common mistakes that students make in their personal essays. Then, you’ll know what to avoid when deciding how to start a personal statement.

How to start a personal statement – Writing & editing

You’ve gotten some answers to the question “what is a personal statement?” and learned how to start a personal statement. Now, it’s time to start a draft. 

For some students, figuring out how to start a college essay is the most stressful part of writing their personal essays. Indeed, you may have to write four to six drafts of your college application essay before you’ve written a personal statement for college that makes you feel proud. 

This is why our top piece of advice for how to write a great college essay is to start early. If you start early, you’ll have plenty of time to learn how to write a personal statement. You’ll also have the flexibility to write multiple drafts of your personal essays. Additionally, you’ll be able to read an example of a personal statement for college. 

Time also allows you the freedom to try out multiple personal statement topics. That way, you can find the personal statement format that makes for a powerful college application essay.

In this section, we’ll provide some college essay tips for outlining your personal statement, an important step for how to start a personal statement.

One idea for how to start a college essay is to draft an outline. An outline is simply a list of the ideas that will go into each part of your essay. You can format your outline in any way that makes sense for you. 

By outlining, you can remove some of the pressure around how to start a personal statement. Instead of putting pen to paper to write a whole essay , you just have to jot down what order you want your ideas to go in. Think of an outline as a sketch of a picture you want to draw. Once you have that sketch, drawing the rest of the picture is usually easier.

However, outlining is not for everyone. Some students find outlining stressful, limiting, or confusing. If you’d rather jump into writing your personal statement on a blank page, do so. At the end of the day, when figuring out how to start a personal statement, you should follow the writing process that works best for you.  

Drafting Your College Essay

Regardless of whether you choose to outline your ideas, here are some tips for how to start a college essay draft:

Find a beginning, middle, and end to your story.

As we’ve shared, a strong personal statement for college tells a story about who you are and demonstrates what you would bring to a college campus. 

To write a strong example of a personal statement for college, you must have a beginning, middle, and end. By this, we mean that your essay should introduce and build upon ideas until they lead to some kind of resolution usually related to your personal growth. Think about your favorite book or movie – how did the story develop and resolve itself? Make sure your personal essays do the same.

Develop your hook.

The key to how to start a personal statement is with a hook. As we shared above, a hook is an engaging personal statement introduction that catches the reader’s attention. In your outline, consider adding some ideas for potential hooks. 

A hook can include, but is not limited to, any of the following types of opening sentences:

• A piece of dialogue (i.e. “Do you remember the summer we went to Turkey?” said my mother.)
• A description of a scene (i.e., The Alaskan lake was warm that summer, the sun gleaming off its gentle ripples.)
• A thought-provoking question (i.e., What makes a house feel like a home?)
• A relevant and powerful quote (i.e., When Steve Jobs said “You can’t connect the dots looking forward, you can only connect them looking back,” he gave words to a struggle I have long faced.) 
• An unexpected thought (i.e., I am the fourth of eleven children in my family and the first one to dream of going to college.)

Each of the above personal statement introductions is unique and original. Additionally, all of these hooks make the reader wonder what else is coming in the essay. Indeed, each of these hooks is a great idea for how to start a college essay. 

When thinking about how to start a college essay, avoid using cliché or generic personal statement introductions. In general, don’t directly answer college essay prompts like “A challenge I have faced is…”. These types of personal statement introductions are so common that they tend to lose the reader’s attention quickly.

Jot down details.

After identifying a hook, begin telling your story. In your outline, include any details that make your story unique. While some students assume that personal statement topics must be very rare or ground-breaking, in most cases the details are what set essays apart. 

What do you remember that can help the reader experience your story vividly? How can you evoke their senses or emotions in a way that makes them feel and remember your story? Keeping these questions in mind will unlock many tools for how to write a great college essay.

Identify reflections.

Stories are powerful not only for how they make us feel but for what they teach us. When you jot down your outline, consider what reflections or lessons you have to share. Why does your story matter? What does it demonstrate about who you are? 

Your essay should be descriptive and show us what you were experiencing. However, you can also include a few lines that tell the reader what you want them to take away. Usually, these reflections come towards the end of the essay, but they can also be sprinkled throughout. 

How to Write a Personal Statement – Polish and Revise 

Now that you’ve learned how to start a personal statement, let’s discuss what some consider to be the most critical part of writing an essay – revising. Polishing and revising an essay are the keys for how to write a great college essay. When you look at an example of a personal statement for college, remember that the student probably spent many hours revising that essay.

When revising your personal essays, avoid getting frustrated by how long the process takes. The key for how to write a personal statement without getting too overwhelmed is to be gentle and compassionate with yourself. Just like living your story takes time, energy, and resilience, so does writing your story in a college application essay. Rather than getting frustrated, celebrate how much you have learned about how to start a college essay.

In the next section, we’ll dive deeper into college essay tips for revising your personal essays. 

Step 4: Revise

If you’re wondering how to write a personal statement for college, you’re probably also wondering how to revise one. Revision is the process during which you review what you have written for errors and to check whether the ideas make sense. You might also revise to find ways to shorten your essay if it is too long or expand on ideas that you didn’t fully flesh out. 

Here are some college essay tips for revision:

College Essay Revision Tips

1. take breaks.

After you write your first draft, step away from it for at least 24 hours. When we spend a long time working on a piece of writing, sometimes our brains find it hard to focus. Stepping away will give you time to let your brain rest and return to it with fresh eyes.

We also recommend taking breaks whenever you feel stuck, a condition sometimes called writer’s block. While you might feel that pushing through is the best option, stepping away for a glass of water or a stretch can rejuvenate your body and give new energy to your mind as well. Taking care of yourself is actually one of the keys for how to write a personal statement that represents your best work. 

2. Make a revision checklist

Create a list of items to look for as you revise. That way, you won’t miss anything. Here are some ideas for what how to start a personal statement revision checklist:

• Structure/flow – Does the structure of my essay support its meaning? A structure can refer to the length of paragraphs, the order of ideas, or the format. Maybe your essay has a lot of dialogue, but now you have realized the dialogue is distracting. 
• Repetitive language – Do you use the same words or phrases over and over again? While you may have fallen into repetition when figuring out how to start a personal statement, try varying vocabulary or rephrasing sentence structure to keep the reader interested.
• Spelling/grammar/syntax – Run your essay through an app like Grammarly and always use spell check. Look for ways to remove unnecessary words or shorten sentences. Generally, the fewer words you use to express an idea, the easier it will be for the reader to understand.
• Narrative voice – This refers to the voice you use to tell your story. Is it very informal? Do you sound like you are texting with friends? One of the keys for how to write a personal statement is to use your own voice while still remembering that you are speaking to a college admissions officer. As experts in how to write a great college essay know, avoid slang and spell out contractions for added formality.

3. Read your essay aloud

Reading your essay out loud can help you find mistakes. Even more importantly, it can also help you feel if the essay captures your voice. When you read it out loud, does your essay sound like you? Are there words in your essay that you would never use in real life? These questions can help you determine if you need to adjust the narrative voice of your essay. After all, admissions officers want to hear what you sound like, not a parent or friend.

4. Get help

Whether you’re stuck on how to write a personal statement or not, it’s always a good idea to get another set of eyes on your essay. Just be careful who you select. Make sure you are asking someone who knows how to write a personal statement and can give you the right kind of feedback. 

Also, consider asking both someone who knows you well and someone who does not know you well. The person who knows you well, like a teacher, parent, counselor, or college advisor (like our team of experts at CollegeAdvisor) can make sure your voice comes across. A person who does not know you well can provide input from an outsider’s perspective. Ultimately, when you submit your college essay, you will be sending it to someone who has never met you. As such, it should make sense to people who don’t know you as well.

5. Don’t be afraid to start over

Sometimes, during the revision process, you may realize that your topic doesn’t work for you. Perhaps you realize that you were so worried about how to start a personal statement that you chose a topic you thought others wanted to read instead of one that really resonates with you. Or, maybe you just thought of a new idea for how to start a personal statement that you like a lot better. It is totally normal to redraft entire paragraphs or simply throw out the essay and start over . Even though it may seem like you have wasted time, you were learning throughout the entire process about how to write a personal statement. 

Starting over might be the best approach for you and allow you to write an essay that feels more authentic . However, do not simply start over because you are being hyper-critical of yourself. Focus as much on what you like about your essay as the parts that you do not. Do not let perfectionism cause you to throw away a perfectly good essay.

On average, students learning how to write a great college essay need to write four to six drafts until they are ready to submit. However, if you have done your research on how to write a personal statement, it may take you less. After six drafts, ask yourself if you really need to keep working on the essay, or if you are letting perfectionism get the best of you. Remember, no essay is perfect. As long as your personal statement reflects your true voice and shares a compelling story about how you became who you are, you’re likely ready to submit it.

In the next section, we will dive deeper into the final steps for how to write a great college essay that you should take before hitting submit.

Step 5: Final Review & Submit

Congratulations! You’re almost ready to submit your personal statement for college. You’ve learned how to write a personal statement, brainstormed and drafted one, and revised it. Before you hit submit, here is a final checklist of questions to ask yourself: 

1. Did I answer the prompt fully?

Just like you plug your answer back into a math equation to see if it works, plug your essay back into the prompt. Make sure each part of the question is being answered.

2. Did I meet the word or character count?

While it is okay to be a bit under the word count, as long as you answer the question fully, going over the word count will usually mean you cannot submit your essay. 

3. Does my essay paste neatly into the application?

Before pasting your essay into the online application, we recommend pasting your essay into a Word document or Google document. Make sure to remove any formatting like bolding, italics, or comments. Left-align your essay so that it is easy to read. And, double check that spacing between sentences and paragraphs is uniform. 

While these might seem like small details, they all add to the impression you make upon admissions officers about how prepared you might be to attend their school.  Take advantage of the option to download the PDF summary of your application, if it exists, to ensure everything looks neat before you submit it.

If you can answer all these questions with a yes, you’re probably ready to submit your essay. Now, you can teach others how to write a personal statement, too. 

How to start a personal statement

At this point, you have reviewed all the steps for how to write a personal statement for college. We’d like to remind you of some important parts of this process that will help ease any stress related to writing your college essays.

First, try brainstorming first. Writing a college essay is a lot different than most academic writing you’ll have done, and it’s natural to face some writer’s block. By taking advantage of brainstorming exercises, you can get used to the idea of writing about yourself in a low-pressure environment. Some students want to skip brainstorming because they find this step unnecessary or a waste of time. 

In fact, brainstorming can help you write your essay faster because your personal statement ideas will already be on paper. Brainstorming can also help you avoid writing an essay and then realizing you do not like your topic, leading to you having to write a whole new draft.

Another key point in how to start a personal statement is to write a good “hook.” However, this doesn’t need to be the first thing that you write as you begin the drafting process. Just like writing a title sometimes is easier after you have written a paper, it can be easier to find your hook after you have fleshed out other parts of your essay.

Starting early

Regardless of what approach you take, remember that the most important piece of advice for how to start a personal statement is to start early. If you begin the process early, you’ll have time to learn about personal statement format and personal statement meaning, brainstorm essay ideas, watch personal statement webinars, and review sample essays. All of these steps will help you learn how to write a personal statement that is strong and clear.

Below, we’ll help you learn more about how to start a personal statement by providing brainstorming exercises to come up with personal statement ideas.

Generating personal statement ideas

The first question many students ask when learning how to start a personal statement is how to come up with personal statement ideas. As we have mentioned, brainstorming forms a key part of this process.

Importantly, there are many ways to brainstorm. So, even if you think you do not like to brainstorm, consider revising these brainstorming methods. One of them might open up ideas for how to start your personal statement that you had never considered.

One important note is that you do not have to use college essay prompts as the starting point for your brainstorming process. While they can certainly jog your thinking, sometimes they can also limit your creativity. Since most of the Common App and Coalition App prompts are open-ended, you can usually turn most ideas into a great response to college essay prompts.

Keep reading for activities that can help you brainstorm your personal statement for college. 

Here are some ideas for brainstorming personal statement topics:

Brainstorming Activities

1. make a timeline of important life events.

Students who ask “what is a personal statement?” are often concerned that they have to tell their entire life story in 650 words. While this is not true, your personal statement should highlight key life events. A life event can include a big change, an accomplishment, or a time of deep personal growth. 

For this activity, consider making a timeline of important life events. Do so without judgment or filtering. No event is too small to include. After you have completed your timeline, consider if any event is one that you want to share in your college application essay. One of these events might be a great hook for your personal statement introduction and give you ideas for how to start a personal statement.

2. Make lists

Lists are an excellent way to brainstorm personal statement topics. Try making lists of accomplishments, challenges you have faced, people who have taught you important life lessons, values, fears, hobbies, or mistakes you have made. Remember that it is perfectly fine to talk about times when you feel you failed or made mistakes if you can show how you learned and grew from the experience.

3. Ask trusted people for ideas

Brainstorming does not have to happen alone. Ask friends, family, mentors, teachers, classmates, or others who know you well to tell you what your most important character traits are. You’d be surprised what people will share. Perhaps one of your friends sees you as adventurous because you like to take new routes to school every day, and you had never considered that to be a noteworthy trait of yours. This feedback could be the inspiration you need for how to start a personal statement.

4. Free-write

Rather than trying to find an idea, allow yourself the freedom to free-write. Set a timer for 10 minutes and write without stopping. Write a response to any of the following questions :

• What matters to you?
• What do you want others to know about you?
• What is the hardest thing you have ever gone through? How did you get through it?
• What brings you joy?
• How have you grown or changed in the past few years?

If you feel at a loss for words, write “I don’t know” over and over until a new idea pops into your head. The idea is to allow your brain to flow without restriction or pressure. Do not judge what you write, just allow it to be. When you have completed your free-write, look through what you wrote looking for meaningful stories or learnings you might want to share.

Undoubtedly, these are just a few ideas for how to start a personal statement and find a good personal statement introduction. If none of these work, do not despair. Instead, try a different route for coming up with personal statement topics. For instance, you may try reading an example of a personal statement for college or checking out this personal statement webinar. 

In the next section, we’ll discuss how to use sample essays when figuring out how to write a personal statement.

Using personal statement examples

When looking for answers to questions like “What is a personal statement?” or “How to start a personal statement?” college application essay examples can be very helpful. In this section, we’ll look at how to write a personal statement for college and identify college essay tips with the help of sample essays .

Sample Personal Essays

In this article , we review ten essays that provide ideas for how to start a personal statement. Whether writing about books or gymnastics, each example of a personal statement for college highlights a unique important aspect of a student’s life. In addition, each student provides meaningful insights into how their thinking developed over time.

How to Write a Personal Statement: 5 Personal Statement Examples

Check out this resource to see five excellent responses to the Common App college essay prompts. Note how each essay has a unique hook that captures the reader’s attention.

College Essay Examples: 10 Best Examples of College Essays and Why They Worked

Wondering how a personal statement format impacts the essay’s meaning? This essay compilation answers that question and much more, providing college essay tips based on what worked in these personal essays.

How to Analyze an Example of a Personal Statement for College

If you’re looking for ideas on how to start a personal statement, then reading sample essays is an excellent idea. However, be careful not to copy others’ work. In this section, we’ll discuss how to use these samples when you develop your own personal statement meaning and personal statement format.

First, be authentic. While it is important to find inspiration in others’ work, copying topics or phrases is dangerous. At best, it will come across as disingenuous to admissions officers, who read thousands of essays. At worst, it can get you into serious trouble. 

Instead, use these samples to learn about how to write a personal statement. As you read them, ask yourself questions such as:

• Why did the writer choose this topic?
• How does the first sentence of the essay engage the reader?
• What structure does the personal statement use?
• How does this personal statement format add to the essay’s intrigue?
• What does this essay teach us about the writer?
• In what ways might this essay be an expression of the writer’s personal brand ?

Take notes as you read each example of a personal statement for college. In your notes, identify general thoughts regarding the questions “What is a personal statement?” and “How to start a college essay?” If you can answer these questions fully after reading sample essays, you’re on your way to acing your college essay.

How to Start a Personal Statement: Final Thoughts

With this article, we answered the question: “What is a personal statement?” By breaking the personal statement meaning, we found tips for approaching many kinds of college essay prompts. We also identified why personal statement meaning is important to colleges and how to write a great college essay that will help your application shine.

Even skilled writers struggle with how to write a personal statement. Personal essays are difficult not only because they require a certain level of vulnerability , but also because the personal statement format is not something we use often in our day-to-day lives. For that reason, it is difficult to know how to start a college essay.

Throughout this guide, we provided resources like personal statement webinars and sample essays. We also highlighted how to use an example of a personal statement for college in your own process. Within these samples, you’ll find lots of ideas for how to start a personal statement.

Whenever you feel overwhelmed by thinking about how to start a personal statement, remember that you are not alone. Our team can provide you with additional insights and individualized coaching about how to write a personal statement for college. With support, you will be able to express who you are and ace your personal statement. Good luck!

This article was written by Sarah Kaminski and senior advisor, Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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How to Write a Personal Statement with Examples

IvyWise On-Demand: College Admissions 101 Series: Common App and Essays

In this webinar, IvyWise college admissions counselors walk event attendees through each step of the Common App and also share tips on brainstorming essay topics, beginning the first draft, being mindful of word choice and tone, carefully editing the final essay, and using supplemental essays to demonstrate their interest in each college on their list.

By IvyWise College Admissions Counselors

It’s one of the most critical, confusing, and stressful parts of completing the college application process: the personal statement. As a component of the Common Application, the personal statement gives students the most control and the best opportunity to let the university get to know a little more about them. The predetermined prompts are broad enough that students can write about whatever they want — as long as it relates to their chosen essay question.

How to Write a Personal Statement with Examples: Table of Contents

What Is a Personal Statement?

Why the personal statement is important, what are the three parts of a personal statement, 7 questions to ask oneself before writing a personal statement, 6 tips to writing a great personal statement, how do i start off a personal statement, how to write the body of my personal statement: 6-step foolproof strategy, what is a good last sentence for a personal statement, should i use ai and chatgpt for my essay, examples of a good personal statement, how ivywise can help me with my personal statement.

The personal statement is an important part of the  admissions committee review process . This essay is short but impactful, allowing the admissions committee to get to know more about you beyond your grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters. 

It should provide a compelling narrative that expresses your authentic voice and helps the committee understand who you are and how you would contribute to the campus community. Other parts of the college application don’t provide much insight into your personality, which is why the personal statement matters.  

When students think about what it takes to get into college, the first thing that usually comes to mind is good grades and test scores. While those “hard factors” are critical, the  college application evaluation also takes into account “soft factors,” or the application elements that aren’t so easily quantified — like essays, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and more. The essay is the most important soft factor that colleges consider, according to  NACAC’s State of College Admissions report .

The personal statement, when used properly, can give admissions officers additional insight into who a student is as a person, what motivates them, and, more practically, how that student communicates and follows directions. An amazing personal statement isn’t going to guarantee admission, but it can positively impact a student’s application, while a poor personal statement can really hurt a student’s chances of getting in. This is  why college essays matter and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Students need to put a lot of effort into writing a great essay to enhance their chances of admission.

A personal statement typically consists of three main parts:

• Introduction : This section should grab the reader’s attention and introduce who you are. It’s often effective to start with a personal anecdote, a memorable experience, or a brief overview of your background and what has inspired your interest in continuing your studies at the college level.
• Body : This is the main part of your statement where you detail your experiences, achievements, and qualifications. This section should highlight relevant academic, personal, and extracurricular experiences that demonstrate your character, skills, and strengths. Discuss specific experiences that have prepared you for the challenges of college life and any unique contributions you can make.
• Conclusion : This section should summarize your main points, reiterate your enthusiasm and readiness for college, and restate your long-term goals. It’s an opportunity to leave a lasting impression.

Each part should flow naturally into the next, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative that effectively showcases your qualifications and interests.

Asking yourself the following questions can help you reflect on your experiences, motivations, and goals to create a compelling and personalized narrative:

1. Why am I interested in this field? What experiences sparked my interest? Have I had any defining moments that solidified my decision?

2. What are my long-term career goals? How does earning a college degree align with those goals? What do I hope to achieve in the future?

3. What are my relevant experiences and achievements? What academic, professional, or personal experiences have prepared me for college? What specific skills or knowledge have I gained from these experiences?

4. What unique qualities or perspectives do I bring? How do my background, culture, or personal experiences contribute to my perspective? What sets me apart from other applicants?

5. How have I demonstrated commitment and passion for this field? Have I participated in relevant extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or research? What projects or initiatives have I been involved in that show my dedication?

6. What challenges or obstacles have I overcome? How have these experiences shaped my character and resilience? What lessons have I learned from these challenges?

7. What contributions can I make? What unique perspectives or skills can I offer?

Reflecting on these questions can help you gather the content and focus needed to write a compelling and authentic personal statement.

Don’t rush the process of writing a personal statement. It can be intimidating — especially since the admissions committee is your audience — so allow yourself plenty of time to draft and revise. These six tips can help college-bound high school seniors write a great personal statement essay.

#1 Reveal Something New About Yourself

We say this every year because it’s one of the essay tips students struggle with the most. In an attempt to show a specialty or passion, students can often be redundant and spend the length of the essay reiterating something else that’s already in the application. If marching band is on your activity list, the college already knows you enjoy music, so don’t spend your essay writing about what it means to play flute in the band.

Take this opportunity to give the admissions office insight into something new about you. Whether it’s how your religion impacts your education, how a mentor helped you realize your potential, or an event that’s shaped who you are today, write about something with substance that adds another dimension to your application.

#2 Spend Time Brainstorming Topics

To reveal something new about yourself, choose a meaningful and original essay topic. While the Common App essay questions are helpful, it’s up to you to choose a personal topic that ties in with the Common App prompt you’ve selected. Take time to think about what’s important to you, what people or events have shaped you, and what you think is interesting about yourself.

Don’t just choose the most obvious topic, like the soccer team captain writing about winning the championship game. Instead, think of events, themes, life experiences, and more that are somewhat unique to you and how they’ve impacted you. Investing in brainstorming is key to writing a stellar personal statement.

The topic you ultimately choose must make for a strong narrative. To give you an example, Robin , an IvyWise college admissions counselor, shares what she wrote about in her personal statement.

#3 Be Mindful of Word Choice, Tone, and Voice

Your essay should sound like you wrote it, so avoid this  college application mistake and don’t overload it with long vocabulary words, complex sentence structure, or a lofty tone if that’s not how you normally write or speak. However, don’t be afraid to stretch your writing skills.

The personal statement should demonstrate your best writing, so take your time to carefully craft an essay that clearly conveys your story and your voice. Avoid redundant words or phrases, filler words that don’t add any value, or confusing language that muddles the message.

#4 Practice, Practice, Practice!

It’s rare that anyone’s first draft is the perfect personal statement. Just like with anything else, you get better with practice. Write often, whether in a journal, blog, or another outlet, to improve and evolve your writing skills. When it comes time to pen your personal statement, practice that, too. Revise, revise, and then revise again. It often takes students many drafts before they have a personal statement that demonstrates their best writing and clearly conveys the essay’s message.

#5 Don’t Procrastinate

A stellar essay isn’t usually written in a day. We advise students to get a head start on their personal statements by brainstorming topics and writing the first draft as early as the summer before the school year starts. That way, some of the most difficult work — choosing a topic and starting the writing process — is done before you head into a hectic senior year. 

However, we realize this isn’t always the case for students. No matter where you are with your personal statement, don’t wait to get feedback or help from your college counselor. The earlier you can get this essay done, the better!

#6 Expand on Relevant Skills and Experiences

Your personal statement is an opportunity to expand on your skills and experiences. Weave these details into your narrative — how you developed and honed these skills and how they helped you personally and professionally. Did you learn more personal responsibility? Did you gain more self-confidence? Did you realize that you are a natural leader? These are all details you can include.

These are just a few tips that can help you get started with writing a great personal statement. Remember, be yourself and write about what’s important to you — not what you think the college wants to read. 

IvyWise counselors Rachel and Zach share their top tips on how to brainstorm and write college application essays, and what admissions officers are looking for when they read them on the Just Admit It! college admissions podcast. Listen now to learn how to brainstorm and write college essays and what admissions officers are looking for when they read them.

An effective personal statement introduction contains a “hook” — an opening that grabs the reader’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of your essay. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

•   Share an anecdote or personal story.
•   Pose a thought-provoking question.
•   Use a quotation.
•   State a compelling fact or statistic.
•   Reflect on a defining moment or experience.
•   Describe a challenge or obstacle you overcame.
•   Introduce a passion or interest.

A compelling introduction provides a glimpse into your motivations and personality and tempts the reader to want to know more.

Like your high school essays, the body of your personal statement builds on the idea or theme you presented in your introductory paragraph.

#1 Start with Strong Topic Sentences

Each paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. It’s important to keep in mind that your topic sentences should support the overall theme or idea from your introduction. 

#2 Be Specific

The admissions committee wants to get to know you, so don’t be afraid to write about your life in detail. Describe what you did, how you did it, and the impact of your actions. Specific examples make your personal statement more engaging, authentic, and credible.  

#3 Reflect on What You Learned

Explain the lessons you learned from your experiences and how they contributed to your personal and professional growth. For instance, detail how overcoming a particular challenge taught you resilience and problem-solving skills, and explain how these qualities helped you grow as a person.

#4 Connect Experiences to Your Goals

Link your experiences to your goals by highlighting how your past achievements and challenges have prepared you for the academic and professional path you aspire to follow. For example, describe how your participation in a high school science club fueled your passion for biology and inspired your goal to pursue a career in medical research.

#5 Maintain a Cohesive Narrative

Ensure each paragraph flows logically from one to the next, reinforcing your central theme. Use clear transitions and consistently relate your experiences and goals back to your overarching story, creating a seamless and engaging progression from your introduction to your conclusion.

#6 Be Authentic

Write like you speak. Don’t use vocabulary you wouldn’t normally use or stuff your essay full of words you think will impress the admissions committee. That said, your essay should also be relatively free of grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors — though you aren’t expected to be perfect.

Ideally, you want your personal statement to make a lasting impression on the admission committee. A strong conclusion connects to the beginning of your essay, reinforces your key points, and makes the case for why you should be admitted. Check out the personal statement samples below from our IvyWise students for inspiration.

College admissions committees value authenticity and uniqueness, which is why we do not recommend using  ChatGPT for essay writing — AI tools lack the personality and emotional intelligence that should shine through in your personal statement. That said, ChatGPT and other AI tools can provide suggestions and help you generate ideas. Your essay is an opportunity to highlight what makes you special — not to mention, it shows off your written communication skills. So, if you use these tools at all, use them sparingly.

These examples of good personal statements come from IvyWise students. Each responds to a different personal statement prompt on the Common App and provides insights into themselves that wouldn’t appear elsewhere in their applications.  

Personal Statement Example 1

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? (650 words max)

“What is utopia?” Dr. Cohen challenged my junior-year English class while we discussed Chang-Rae Lee’s dystopian novel On Such a Full Sea.

“A world without poverty and war!” “No discrimination or injustice!” “A four-day school week!”

As my classmates described their “perfect” worlds, I struggled for my own. In Qingdao, my home until I was eight, I’d been taught that the People’s Republic was the ideal society. Yet, the surveillance cameras in our classrooms defied a sense of freedom, and the songs we recited at assembly praising the Party felt mechanical and forced. When my family moved to California, I anticipated a freer, more just country, but disappointment followed. A sixth-grade classmate asked how I could see through my slanted eyes; our neighbors mimicked my mom for saying “sanks” instead of “thanks;” and last year, I encountered threats of censorship when I submitted a newspaper article about microaggressions against students of color.

As I sat in Dr. Cohen’s class mulling over these thoughts, I couldn’t hold back. I raised my hand. “Utopia doesn’t exist,” I stated firmly.

Sir Thomas More titled his paradisical satire from the Greek word ou-topos, which literally means “no place, nowhere,” and I was beginning to understand his irony: How could utopia exist in a world plagued by so much injustice and distrust? Because we humans are imperfect, I rationalized, no place inhabited by us could ever be perfect. In fact, all the authors we had explored in class–Atwood, Orwell, Ishiguro–affirmed this grim reality.

I am, by nature, an optimist, so for days after the utopia dilemma, I was bothered by my unexpected cynicism. Struggling to formulate a universal truth that would define the perfect world, I pored over utopian philosophies–those of Plato, St. Augustine, Owen. As I sought an answer, I found myself drawn to moments in my own life: cooking baozi with my grandmother, sharing sugar cookies with fellow newspaper staff during Saturday layouts, singing Adele’s hits with my mom driving home with fresh strawberries from the farmers’ market, and laughing hysterically with Kate and Ben while watching our mockumentary about Halloween. Though these moments weren’t documented in treatises, they were my utopias, my souvenirs of unblemished happiness.

But how could my everyday moments possibly approach the grand worlds posited by renowned philosophers? My utopias didn’t fit the model of the detached island that More had envisioned; my idylls depended upon close relationships and camaraderie, not solitude. Nor did my visions of ideal existence involve the propaganda and censorship upon which Plato’s Kallipolis was founded; my utopias rested on honesty, compassion, and companionship. Connection, I reasoned, is essential to utopia because our very nature is relational, a deep longing within each of us to seek the comfort of another.

I realized then that utopia isn’t one place or condition; it’s every small moment of engaging with others, of feeling known and letting others know they too are seen and understood. It’s not just gathering for celebration; it’s bolstering during injustice, sharing over grief, forgiving despite betrayal. It was marching with fellow Black Lives Matter protesters, mourning with my childhood playmates when our friend Kairan died, forgiving Anna for divulging my secret, and Anna’s forgiving me for divulging hers.

In class, I’d vehemently agreed with More that utopia existed nowhere. I recognize now that it can–it must–exist everywhere, especially in a challenging world where sometimes all we have is each other.

I’m still convinced there is no perfect world; I’m not sure it was even fair for me to expect one when I know that I myself am far from perfect. But my acceptance of human flaws, including my own, has not diminished my optimism. Instead, I’ve become even more determined to create for myself and others those special moments that give life meaning and purpose.

Why This Essay Works

This essay stands out because the student demonstrates their ability to think critically, question their own beliefs, and come to a new understanding about themselves. The student provides a window into their personality, and their experiences as an ethnic minority helps the admissions committee understand the diverse perspective this student can contribute to the campus community.

Personal Statement Example 2

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design. (650 words max)

As a sailor, I revel in the piercing wind, the sound of my boat tearing through the water, and the periodic ice-cold splashes in my lap. But my head is always filled with questions. Why do we set the sail at certain angles? To find the answer, I went home and filled my beloved chalkboard with trigonometry and calculus, deriving that the sail’s optimal angle is half the bow’s angle to the wind. And how does a sailboat sail? Bernoulli’s principle in AP Physics answered that.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve learned best by asking questions and exchanging ideas. A simple question can lead my mind to go out for a stroll… and fall down a rabbit hole, like the one I found myself in during an elective on Nazi Germany. Every few sentences I read sparked a question to Google: What was the history of IG Farben? What obscure facts can I learn about Berchtesgaden? This happens with everything I read; when I need to move on to other work, I create a long list of questions to research later. Every answer sparks more questions and more articles saved in open tabs, running me up against the 500-tab limit on both web browsers on my phone. To paraphrase JFK: As my knowledge grows, my ignorance unfolds.

But seeking answers goes beyond gathering information. In Mock Trial, my moral and political views often lead me to quickly conclude which side is “right.” Building two opposing arguments, arguing passionately for both, and asking questions to poke holes in my own arguments allows me to understand different perspectives. I’ve learned that no issue is as clear-cut as it seems. For example, I always saw student debt as a matter of personal responsibility. Then a conversation with my English teacher while on a field trip made me waver. Hearing about the weight of her monthly payments and her struggles to make ends meet, I saw that the student debt crisis requires a societal response. She dedicated her life to teaching students like me, and I was benefitting from her burden. I now find myself interested in questions with purpose: How do issues like student debt impact people’s lives? What can be done about it?

Such questions about morality and effectiveness are at the heart of policy discussions. I’ve seen how policy questions affect real people, whether I’m talking to voters about the Cincinnati streetcar while working on a local campaign, writing about the national abortion debate, or advocating for STEM education funding on Capitol Hill. How should Cincinnati spend its transportation budget? What is the best way to bring robotics programs to disadvantaged communities? Asking such questions and hearing different perspectives is critical to crafting effective policies.

To inform my opinions on difficult questions, I absorb viewpoints from opposing sources and debate (often vigorously!) with my friends and family. I scrutinize problems with arguments in publications that align with my beliefs and carefully consider good points by authors I typically disagree with. I dive past the political zealotry tied to Supreme Court rulings, reading law review articles and referencing my course notes from Justice , where I read Kant, Mills, and Rawls. Using these resources, I examined the legal and moral questions around the 2021 case Cedar Point Nursery v. Hassid , writing an article weighing employers’ property rights and unions’ rights to organize workers. But not all questions are weighty: I love bickering with my best friend about whether Shakespeare was better than Marlowe (he was) or arguing with her over which Star Wars movie is best (clearly, The Force Awakens , not The Empire Strikes Back ).

Asking questions forces me to think, leading toa deeper understanding. While some questions are trivial, the answers are always interesting. More importantly, the answers to some questions can meaningfully impact people’s lives. This is what motivates me to keep learning, keep debating, and keep questioning.

This essay demonstrates the student’s critical thinking skills and what motivates them to learn both in and out of the classroom. The main idea flows seamlessly throughout the essay, from topics that pique the student’s interest in class to social and political issues and activities that inspire them to question, debate, and understand. It gives the admission committee a good idea of how this student will contribute to the class and the wider campus community.

At IvyWise, our team of former admissions officers works with students to help them brainstorm and identify compelling personal statement topics, provide feedback on essay drafts, and more. Our college counseling services and strategic admissions support can help you stand out in all aspects of your application.

Just looking for help with your personal statement? We offer customizable programs to fit your specific needs, goals, and budget, including smaller programs focusing on your college essay.  Contact us today for information on our counseling services.

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Stumped? Brainstorming Ideas for Personal Statements: How to Effectively Tap Into Your Inner Creativity

Categories: Brainstorming

So you have to write your personal statement, but about what exactly?

“I’m great. The End.” ­­­­If it were only that easy, you wouldn’t be reading this.  First things first:

Breaking Writer’s Block

We all have it. It happens.  Usually, the time we set aside to finish a task like writing a personal statement or essay isn’t the same time that our creative juices are flowing.  Duly noted, now what? I go into more detail about writer’s block in How to Overcome Writer’s Block ; however, now, the most important thing to do is to think about your process for writing.  It is much easier to come up with ideas once you have the groundwork laid out for the structure of your personal statement.

Personal Statement Structures (Examples)

Short Narrative (Single Experience):

Now, I’m not saying you need an outline. It is always helpful, but that isn’t what I mean by structure.  What I mean by structure is the angle at which you approach your writing.  For instance, you can write in a narrative style about a particular situation that demonstrates your best personal and professional qualities.  Maybe a company or firm you worked for, a volunteer organization or a business you started might provide a single set of succinct events that contain all the attributes you want to relay to the readers of your personal statement.

Personal Statements are short, so this approach of using a single set of interconnected events which create a concise narrative really takes full advantage of the limited space provided if done properly.  This method will allow you to give interesting details about a certain experience you would otherwise not be able to tell.  It is also an exceptional method for capturing a reader’s attention because inherently everyone enjoys a good story (key word being “good” in that previous sentence.)  A dull story will not help you.

Brief Experience-Building Chronological Timeline (Multiple Experiences):

Sometimes, you just do not have an experience that lends itself to being made into a short daytime Made-for-TV movie like the previous example, meaning it will not translate well into a narrative about a single situation.  In this case if you want to include multiple experiences in your personal statement, you should try the chronological experience-building timeline approach.  Using this method, you will show the reader what led you to the path you are on now, demonstrating reasons for your intentions along the way.  This timeline will not only include what you have done in the past and what you are doing now but also what you plan to do in the future with your degree while you are in school as well as after you graduate.

You will want to start with the first experience that logically began the path you are on now.  You do not want to start with: “Well, I was born, and then I went to grade school, junior high, high school, had my first job, blah, blah, blah…”  This is not interesting and is too much information.  Your personal statement must be short and to the point.

You also do not want to restate your resume; although, using this method, it might be tempting to do so.  Nevertheless, remind yourself that not everything on your curriculum vitae is relevant to the program you are applying to now.  Nor does it really make clear exactly what you got out of those experiences.  Using a brief experience-building timeline will not only show why you initially were interested in each step and what you got out of it but also how it led to the next logical step (aka your next experience on your chronological timeline).

So you might be asking: “Does this mean I need to include every job or experience that might have happened during that period of time?”  The answer is clearly no.  Realistically, for this type of personal statement, you want between two and four worthwhile experiences that transition into each other in a believable manner and all lead to where you are now in your decision to apply.

An example of this could be as follows in your brainstorming outline:

Experiences to use in personal statement about pursuing a law degree to practice intellectual property law in the maritime industry:

• Life Guarding – became interested in people’s safety swimming in the ocean at a young age because I knew someone that almost drowned (or my brother was a life guard, etc.)
• Volunteer Coast Guard – wanted to learn more about seafaring vessels while saving lives and doing my part as a volunteer.
• Sailing Club – as an undergraduate engineering student I became interested in the design of ships and their propulsion technology.
• Law Firm – as a legal assistant I worked for attorneys specializing in nautical technology patents, sparking my interest in law, and leading me down the path to becoming a lawyer to pursue intellectual property litigation in the maritime industry.

This example clearly shows the logical steps in the candidate’s path towards going to law school as well as what he wants to pursue during law school and on into his professional career afterward.  Your experiences might not be as clear cut, but many scenarios can work using this method.  The key is that the experiences mentioned build upon each other and lead the reader to believe not only will you be interested in the program for which you are applying but also that you have some experience in related fields.

Theme-Based Personal Statement (Multiple Experiences):

This type of personal statement is self-explanatory.  It can make use of personal as well as professional experiences.  They just all need to be wrapped together under one theme.  There are many themes to choose from such as: personal perseverance over hardships (e.g. financial, family/friend illness or death, prejudice, handicap, etc.), focus of interest (e.g. particular hobby, volunteer work, industry, craft, idea, etc. that can be related to the program or field to which you are applying in a meaningful way), innovative thinking (i.e. how attending the program you are applying for will help you achieve creating an innovative process, device, business, etc.), and many others.

Themes do not have to have any chronological order to their events; however, you may want to organize your ideas chronologically if that makes the most sense.  If not, you should order your experiences in a way that best supports your main theme.

These are just a few methods for structuring a personal statement.  They are not totally exclusive to each other, and they are not an exhaustive list.  They do and can overlap if the writer wishes so; however, they are a starting point for thinking about ideas to use to build your personal statement.  It is kind of like creating a sketch of a painting with a pencil and then filling it in by painting over it, using the lines as a guide to get you started.

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10 Tips for Brainstorming Great Personal Statement Topics

Rebecca Joseph, Ph.D. started a great website called Get Me To College . The material that Dr. Joseph and her colleagues post on this website is too good not to share with our readers. Whether you are applying to a college as a freshman or transfer student, your personal statement is an important piece of your college application.

10 Tips for Brainstorming Great Personal Statement Topics Here are some creative ways to help get started with writing active, engaging essays that truly communicate your stories to admissions officers.

• Write your resume. Include everything you can from community college. Categorize your activities, community service, work, internships, athletics, arts, and more. Include descriptions of your leadership and initiative. Maybe in writing the resume, you will remember some key event or story that will turn into a great application essay.
• Start first with three short activity paragraphs. In writing them, make them as interesting and exciting as possible. Start with a story. Keep them to 1000 characters. Maybe one of these can turn into a long. Shorts are easier to throw away than longs and very useful for the Common Application and supplemental essays. None will ever go to waste.
• Make a culture bag to help think of your unique stories. Bring in artifacts of your ethnicity, gender, nationality, school, community, major activities, religion, and goals for future. These may spark a story, quality or way to connect your experiences to your culture and community.
• Write a list of your most quirky features. I love Stanford and Harvard’s supplemental Letter to Your Future Roommate. These letters are often so much more interesting than the other essays. Makshya wrote about her fetish for making lists and provided her list. Every item from her list could turn into a great essay starter. Samples from her list include: “I have the ability to create and develop different fonts in my handwriting” and “One of my favorite words is “ubuntu,” which means humanity in Xhosa.” Start with a list of what makes you, you. Make that will spark an essay topic.
• Look at sample essays posted on actual college websites. Connecticut College  offers great samples as does Carleton College .  Johns Hopkins  even provides admissions officers’ feedback after each sample essay. Reading these, you can see the huge range of topics. At least, you can see how they all begin with an amazing in the moment first paragraph. You can do the same.
• Read George Lyon’s “Where I’m From” Poem.  Think of where you are from. Read the poem to get ideas to write your own and start an amazing essay. This may help with the fourth Common Application prompt.
• Read past and present supplemental essay topics from other colleges. The University of Chicago has great supplementary essay topics every year. A couple of years ago, one topic was: “It Isn’t Easy Being Green” by Kermit the Frog. That turned into a great long essay for several kids I know who never applied to U Chicago. This year’s topics are great as well. Go to https://collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu/apply/essays/ and read the topics. Tufts also has great prompts at  http://admissions.tufts.edu/apply/essay-questions/ . Perhaps one of these topics will spark an idea.
• Follow Dr. Joseph’s Into, Through, and Beyond Approach. With your INTO, grab us into the story with a moment in time. That moment must reveal a core quality. Then go into two levels of THROUGH. THROUGH 1 provides the immediate context of the INTO. THROUGH 2 provides the overall context. End with a BEYOND that is not sappy but powerful. Think of a metaphor that guides you and weave through your story and into your ending.
• Great, great essays can take us through an event and weave in core features. Do not feel confined by any rules other than to engage and stimulate the admissions officers to see you come to life before them. And yes, you must grammar edit your essays.
• Don’t be bound by five paragraph essays. Your story will guide the form of the essay. You can use dialogue, quotes, song lyrics, poetry. Let your story and message guide you.

Bonus Idea: Read what colleges recommend on their sites. University of California, Berkeley has great advice with a multi-tiered site: http://students.berkeley.edu/apa/personalstatement/index.htm  The University of Michigan also helps with its tips for writing a great essay: http://www.admissions.umich.edu/drupal/essays/tips

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How To Brainstorm An Effective Personal Statement Topic

Let’s discuss how to explore potential ideas for your law school personal statement. A good topic is the anchor of the essay, so how do you arrive at one that can put you in your best light?

Rather than hit you with silly advice (like “try to sit down with a piece of paper and fill it up with various ideas”), in this post, we are going to get to the heart of what makes effective essays, so you can get started on one of your own.

First things first, let’s remove some of the stress and pressure from the process. Finding an effective essay topic is not like finding a soulmate (or at least how people imagine finding a soulmate to be). There is not only one perfect essay topic out there for you. In fact, I would imagine everyone has many topics they could write about that could lead to an amazing essay. And, as with potential dating partners, the ones that seem really, really great on the surface might not really be the best match.

To understand why that might be the case, we have to talk about the purpose of a personal statement. Broadly speaking, the purpose is to let the reader get to know you. However, there is a specific way we want to do that. Here it is:

The primary purpose of an effective law school personal statement should be to show that you are a thoughtful human being, a person that is engaged with the world around you and thinking about your connection to the world and how what you do affects others.

From experience, I’ve found that most people run straight for a topic that we could call “the worst thing that ever happened to me.” There is a tendency for people to view their own life much like the plot of a movie, and it’s tempting in that context to focus on the scenes where some major action happened. Often people will write about a serious injury (I, for example, wrote about breaking my back). Having read many other essays on similar topics, I now question the wisdom of that choice.

That is because people under extreme duress often aren’t really thinking; they are just reacting. Unless some great insight into yourself or your world was wrung from this terrible incident, it is probably dead on arrival as a personal statement topic. If however, the incident was a catalyst for later change and personal growth, you might be okay writing about it as long as the focus is on that growth.

After all, merely facing adversity isn’t what makes someone interesting. What makes someone interesting is what they choose to do when faced with a range of options. What might sound at first like a banal topic, like taking a wrong turn on a road trip, might be an incredibly fruitful avenue for showing your readers who you are and how you think. For that reason, it is utterly wrong to dismiss out-of-hand less “flashy” topics. One of the best personal statements I’ve read was about what someone chose to do with an unexpected vacation. Another total home-run was about knitting.

So while you should not strain yourself to find a quirky or unusual topic, consider the merits of each topic you are thinking about in terms of how they will showcase your personality and show your thoughtful side. Do not think about which would make the best movie scene. A great topic will generally allow you to incorporate the following:

• An event, a series of events, or a change in your life that offered a challenge of some kind
• How you responded or continue to respond to that stimulus
• Your thoughtful analysis of how the events changed you, and why (think about answering the question “what do you understand about the world now that you didn’t before?”)

Ideally, you can address all this while coming across as a likable, interesting person. Find a topic that enables you to do this, and you have the makings of a game-changing essay.

Now that you have guidelines in mind for how to think about an effective essay topic, think about some likely winners over the next few days or week. Envision what you might say in the context of each topic. As you dwell on it, eventually, one you feel strongly about will likely emerge as the forerunner.

If however, you are feeling stuck or aren’t confident in your choice of topic, we are here to assist you. You can talk with myself and Josh and gain the advantage of our expertise with a personal brainstorming consultation .

learn more: Personal Statement Consultation & Editing

We are looking forward to working with you!

University of Chicago, J.D., 2012 Ready to Kickstart your LSAT Prep? Join the LSAT Mastermind Study Group

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Home » Career Advice » Professional Development » 3 Personal Statement Examples and Why They Work

3 Personal Statement Examples and Why They Work

A well-crafted personal statement can be the deciding factor in your application’s success. Admissions officers and hiring managers often sift through hundreds, if not thousands, of applications. Most applicants will have similar qualifications, so it’s your personal statement that can make you memorable. We’ll help you understand what makes a personal statement truly effective by showcasing three examples of personal statements that have worked well in different contexts.

A strong personal statement demonstrates not only your qualifications but also your passion and commitment. It shows that you’ve taken the time to reflect on your experiences and how they’ve shaped your goals. This reflection is key because it helps the reader understand your motivations and see how you’ll contribute to their institution or organization.

Moreover, a compelling personal statement helps you stand out from the crowd. It’s your chance to showcase your unique perspective, which can be especially important in fields that value creativity, leadership, or social impact. When written well, your personal statement can give you an edge, helping you rise above other applicants who may have similar grades, test scores, or work experience.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to approach your personal statement writing, what to include, and how to structure it for maximum impact.

You might also want to read:

• How to Write a Personal Statement for a University (with Example)
• The Dos and Don’ts of Personal Statement Writing
• How to Write an Excellent Personal Statement

Example 1: The career-driven personal statement

Our first personal statement example comes from an applicant applying to medical school. Their goal is to become a physician specializing in pediatric care. Below is their personal statement example:

“From a young age, I have been fascinated by the complexity of the human body and motivated by a deep desire to help others. This passion guided me towards a degree in biology, where I excelled in courses such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. These subjects deepened my understanding of how the body functions, but it was my experiences outside the classroom that truly solidified my decision to pursue a career in medicine.

During my time as a volunteer at a children’s hospital, I had the privilege of working closely with children facing serious health challenges. This experience profoundly impacted me, as I witnessed firsthand the resilience of these young patients and the vital role that compassionate, knowledgeable care plays in their recovery. It was here that I realized the profound difference a dedicated pediatrician can make in the lives of both the patients and their families.

I am committed to providing that level of care throughout my career. My volunteer work taught me that medicine is not just about diagnosing and treating diseases; it’s about understanding each patient as an individual, recognizing their unique needs, and offering care that addresses both their physical and emotional well-being. I am eager to bring this holistic approach to my future practice as a pediatrician, where I hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families. With a strong foundation in the sciences and a deep commitment to compassionate care, I am excited to take the next step toward my goal of becoming a physician.”

Breakdown of why it works

Clarity of purpose

This personal statement example is effective because the applicant clearly communicates their passion for medicine and their long-term goal of becoming a pediatrician. The reader immediately understands what drives this individual and how their experiences have shaped their career aspirations. The applicant’s purpose is evident from the start, and they maintain this focus throughout the statement, making it easy for the reader to follow their narrative.

Use of specific examples

The applicant strengthens their statement by including specific examples, such as their volunteer work at a children’s hospital. These examples not only demonstrate their commitment to the field but also provide concrete evidence of their qualifications and dedication. By highlighting particular experiences, the applicant shows that they have thoughtfully considered their career path and are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Professional tone and language

The tone of this personal statement strikes a balance between professionalism and authenticity. The language is formal enough to convey seriousness and respect for the application process, yet personal enough to reveal the applicant’s genuine passion for medicine. This combination helps build trust with the reader, as it shows that the applicant is both competent and sincerely committed to their chosen field.

Key takeaways

• Align your past experiences with your future goals in a clear, focused manner.
• Articulate your purpose and back it up with specific examples for a stronger impact.
• Maintain a professional tone that still reflects your personal passion.
• Craft a compelling personal statement that effectively showcases your strengths and aspirations.

Example 2: The personal growth narrative

“Growing up in a small town with limited resources, I often felt like my dreams were too big for my circumstances. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for our family, but despite their efforts, we struggled to make ends meet. As the oldest of three siblings, I assumed responsibilities at a young age, helping to care for my brothers while balancing school and part-time jobs. These experiences taught me resilience, time management, and the value of hard work. They also fueled my determination to pursue higher education.

Throughout high school, I dedicated myself to my studies, striving to excel academically while remaining active in my community. Volunteering at the local community center, where I mentor younger students facing similar challenges, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It serves as a constant reminder of where I come from and reinforces my commitment to achieving my goals. Mentoring these students has also deepened my understanding of the struggles many in our community face, and it motivates me to work even harder to break the cycle of poverty that has affected my family and others like us.

I am eager to continue my education and use it as a tool not only to better my own life but to make a lasting impact on my community. I believe that by earning a college degree, I can open doors that were previously closed to me and help others realize that their dreams are within reach, no matter their background. This scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies without the constant worry of financial strain, enabling me to fully dedicate myself to achieving my academic and personal goals.”

Engaging storytelling

This personal statement stands out because the applicant uses a narrative style that draws the reader in from the beginning. The story of their upbringing and the challenges they faced is compelling and relatable, making the reader want to know more about their journey. The applicant effectively uses their personal story to showcase their growth, highlighting how they overcame adversity through resilience and determination. By framing their experiences as a narrative, the applicant not only captures the reader’s attention but also makes their application memorable.

Emotional connection

The personal nature of this story creates a strong emotional connection with the reader. The applicant’s honesty about their struggles and their role within their family invites the reader to empathize with their situation. By sharing their vulnerabilities and the challenges they’ve overcome, the applicant demonstrates a level of honesty that resonates on a deeper level. This emotional connection is crucial because it helps the reader see the applicant as more than just a list of achievements; it allows them to understand the applicant’s motivations and the impact they aim to make in the future.

Demonstration of self-awareness

The applicant’s ability to reflect on their experiences and articulate the lessons they’ve learned shows a high level of self-awareness. They don’t just list their hardships; they analyze how these experiences have shaped their character, work ethic, and ambitions. This reflection reveals maturity and insightfulness, qualities that are highly valued by scholarship committees. The applicant’s understanding of how their past influences their future goals adds depth to their personal statement, making it clear that they are driven by a purpose beyond personal success—they want to uplift others who face similar challenges.

• Utilize the power of storytelling, emotional authenticity, and self-awareness to make your personal statement memorable.
• Share a personal story that highlights growth and resilience to engage your reader and create a lasting impression.
• Be honest about your challenges and reflect on the lessons learned to build an emotional connection and showcase maturity.
• Demonstrate your readiness for opportunities by connecting your unique experiences to your future aspirations.
• Consider how your experiences have shaped who you are today and how they align with your goals when writing your personal statement.

Example 3: The academic-focused personal statement

Our final example comes from an applicant applying for a research grant to pursue a Master’s degree in Environmental Science.

“My passion for environmental science began during my undergraduate studies in biology, where I was introduced to the intricate challenges posed by climate change. This initial interest evolved into a deep commitment during a summer research internship at the XYZ Environmental Research Institute. There, I conducted a study on the impact of rising temperatures on local ecosystems, focusing on the changes in species distribution and habitat health. This experience not only sharpened my research skills—such as data analysis, fieldwork, and report writing—but also ignited my desire to use scientific inquiry as a tool to tackle pressing global environmental issues.

In addition to my research experience, I have become increasingly interested in how scientific findings can be translated into effective environmental policies. My senior thesis, which explored the effects of urbanization on local biodiversity, allowed me to delve deeper into this intersection of science and policy. Through this project, I analyzed how urban development disrupts ecosystems and proposed strategies for mitigating these impacts. This work further solidified my commitment to pursuing a career where I can contribute to evidence-based policy-making that addresses environmental challenges.

I am eager to continue my academic journey at ABC University, where I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers in environmental policy. The university’s strong focus on interdisciplinary approaches will allow me to explore the connections between science, policy, and societal impact and contribute to research that drives meaningful, positive change. This research grant will enable me to fully engage in this work, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a significant contribution to the field of environmental science.”

Deep dive into academic interests

This personal statement example is successful because the applicant takes a deep dive into their academic interests and research. They clearly articulate their passion for environmental science and provide specific examples of how this passion has developed over time. By discussing their research experiences in detail, the applicant demonstrates a thorough understanding of the subject matter and a commitment to advancing their knowledge. This depth of interest is crucial for a research grant application, as it shows that the applicant is not only interested in the topic but also capable of contributing to the field.

Connection to the program

The applicant makes a strong connection between their academic interests and the specific program they are applying to. They mention their desire to work with leading researchers at ABC University and how the program aligns with their goals. This demonstrates that the applicant has done their homework and understands how the program can help them achieve their aspirations. By showing that they are not just applying to any program but one that is uniquely suited to their research interests, the applicant strengthens their case for being a good fit.

Evidence of academic achievement and potential

The applicant provides clear evidence of their academic achievements and potential by discussing their research experiences and academic work, such as their senior thesis. These examples serve to build credibility, showing that the applicant has a strong foundation in the field and is prepared to take on more advanced research. The balance between discussing past achievements and future aspirations is well-maintained, giving the reader confidence that the applicant has both the skills and the drive to succeed in the program.

• Showcase a deep academic interest in your personal statement.
• Make a strong connection to the specific program you’re applying to.
• Provide evidence of your potential and readiness to contribute to the field.
• Demonstrate your passion for the subject and align your academic interests with the program’s strengths.
• Highlight your past achievements to create a compelling narrative.
• Convince the selection committee of your suitability for the opportunity.

Common elements of effective personal statements

Crafting an effective personal statement involves more than just listing achievements and aspirations. The best personal statements share several key elements that make them stand out and resonate with the reader. By understanding and applying these elements, you can create a compelling narrative that strengthens your application.

Authenticity and honesty

All three examples we’ve discussed maintain a strong sense of authenticity and honesty, which is crucial for an effective personal statement. Each applicant shares their story in a way that feels genuine and true to their experiences. They don’t exaggerate or fabricate details but instead focus on their real challenges, achievements, and aspirations.

Authenticity is important because it allows the reader to connect with you on a personal level. Admissions committees and hiring managers can often tell when a statement is overly polished or insincere, which can weaken your credibility. Being honest about your journey, including any setbacks or challenges you’ve faced, demonstrates self-awareness and integrity. It shows that you are comfortable with who you are and confident in what you have to offer.

Clear structure and flow

A clear structure is another hallmark of effective personal statements. Each of the examples we reviewed follows a logical progression, guiding the reader smoothly from one idea to the next. This structure typically includes an introduction, a body that discusses experiences and goals, and a conclusion that ties everything together.

Having a clear structure helps the reader follow your story without getting lost or confused. It ensures that your key points are communicated effectively and that the overall narrative is cohesive. For example, starting with a strong introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and provides a preview of what’s to come can set the tone for the rest of the statement. Similarly, ending with a conclusion that reinforces your main message leaves a lasting impression.

Tailoring the statement to the audience

Tailoring your personal statement to the specific audience you’re addressing is crucial for making a strong impact. Each of the examples we discussed was carefully crafted with the target audience in mind. Whether it’s a medical school admissions committee, a scholarship board, or a research grant panel, understanding what the reader is looking for allows you to highlight the most relevant aspects of your background and goals.

When tailoring your statement, consider the values, goals, and priorities of the institution or organization you’re applying to. For instance, if you’re applying to a program known for its emphasis on research, you should highlight your research experiences and how they align with the program’s focus. Similarly, if a scholarship emphasizes community service, be sure to showcase your involvement in that area. By aligning your statement with the expectations of the reader, you increase your chances of making a positive impression.

Reflective and forward-looking

An effective personal statement strikes a balance between reflecting on past experiences and looking forward to future aspirations. In the examples we reviewed, each applicant thoughtfully reflects on their past, discussing how their experiences have shaped their character, skills, and goals. At the same time, they also focus on their future, outlining their ambitions and how the opportunity they’re applying for will help them achieve those goals.

This balance is important because it shows that you are not only aware of where you come from but also where you are going. Reflecting on past experiences demonstrates self-awareness and the ability to learn from your journey, while looking forward showcases your vision and ambition. Together, these elements create a narrative that is both grounded in reality and aspirational, which is compelling to any reader.

How long should your personal statement be?

The ideal length for a personal statement can vary depending on the specific application and its requirements. Always check the specific guidelines provided by the institution or organization, as they may have their own word limits or format requirements.

Here’s a general guide for different scenarios:

University Application:

• Undergraduate Applications : Typically, 500–650 words (approximately 1–2 pages). This is the standard length for many college applications, including those submitted through the Common Application.
• Graduate Applications : Usually 500–1,000 words (1–2 pages). Some programs may allow slightly longer statements, especially for research-heavy or professional degrees.

Scholarship Application :

• General Scholarships : Generally, 500–750 words (1–1.5 pages). Scholarships often require concise personal statements that clearly convey your goals and qualifications.
• Specific or Competitive Scholarships : May require 750–1,000 words (1.5–2 pages), especially if the scholarship is highly competitive or if it asks for a detailed explanation of your background and ambitions.

Grant Application:

• Research Grants : Often require more detailed statements, typically 1,000–1,500 words (2–3 pages). This allows for a thorough discussion of your research interests, methodology, and how the grant will support your work.
• Smaller Grants or Fellowships : May ask for 500–1,000 words (1–2 pages), depending on the nature of the grant and the amount of funding.

Job Application:

• Cover Letter/Personal Statement : Typically, 250–500 words (0.5–1 page). In job applications, candidates frequently include personal statements as part of the cover letter. Your personal statement should be concise and focused on showcasing your skills, experience, and how they align with the job you’re applying for.

What time of the year are personal statements needed for college and university?

During the application season, college and university applications in the United States typically require students to submit personal statements. Most colleges and universities have application deadlines in the fall or early winter. Personal statements are usually needed by November for Early Decision or Early Action applications and by January for Regular Decision applications. Some institutions may also have deadlines in December or February.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• August: The Common Application (used by many colleges and universities) usually opens on August 1st. This marks the unofficial start of the college application season. Students can begin filling out their applications and drafting their personal statements.
• September to November: During these months, students are usually finalizing their applications. Early Decision and Early Action deadlines often fall in November, with some as early as October 15th. This is a critical period for students who want to apply early to increase their chances of admission or to receive earlier decisions.
• December to January: This is when the Regular Decision deadlines typically fall, with many colleges having deadlines on January 1st or January 15th. Some schools have deadlines in December or February, but January is the most common.
• February to March: Some schools with later deadlines may accept applications during this time. Additionally, students applying to certain programs, such as fine arts or international students, might have deadlines that extend into the early spring.

So, while the college application season mostly occurs from August to January of a student’s senior year, the actual transition to college happens after graduation, with the new school year starting in late summer or early fall.

Crafting a personal statement that works

As you begin drafting your personal statement, remember that your unique story is your greatest asset. Be authentic, honest, and reflective in your writing. Show your personality without being afraid, and ensure that you structure your statement well and tailor it to your audience. Most importantly, approach the process with confidence, knowing that you have the tools and insights to create a personal statement that truly represents who you are and what you aim to achieve.

Now that you have a solid understanding of what makes a personal statement effective, it’s time to start writing your own.

Sara has been in the career development field for over 10 years and has a wealth of knowledge to share. She covers topics such as resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, career planning, and more. You can connect with her on LinkedIn . She has curated our free downloadable resume templates for Word  and  resume templates for Google Docs .

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How High Should Bathroom Wall Tile Go?

Recent posts, most popular.

How high should you really take your bathroom wall tiles? Should you stop halfway, go all the way up, or is there some magic number in between? The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, as the perfect tile height depends on a lot of factors. 

And to help you figure out what's best for your space, we've put together this handy guide. We'll cover everything you need to know, from the nitty-gritty details to eye-catching design ideas, so you can create a bathroom that's both beautiful and functional.  

Get ready to discover the perfect tile height for your dream space!

Where nature meets modern style. Our Luna Olive tile accent wall adds an artisan touch, while warm wood tones create a cozy, spa-like retreat.

Understanding the Basics

Ready to figure out the ideal height for your bathroom wall tile? Great! But first, let’s have a quick rundown of the basics you’ll want to consider when deciding on the perfect bathroom wall tile height. 

Standard tile height

A popular choice is a tile height of 36 to 48 inches. This height is practical, as it effectively protections the walls from splashes around sinks and tubs. Additionally, it’s typically a comfortable height for most people to reach during cleaning. 

But for those seeking a more contemporary and spacious feel, extending the tile all the way to the ceiling is a stylish option. This approach can create a seamless look, improve the visual aesthetic of the bathroom, and make it appear larger and brighter. However, it’s important to note that this choice might come with a higher cost and require additional cleaning tools. 

Factors influencing tile height

There’s no single ‘right’ answer when it comes to how high you should take your bathroom wall tiles. But there are a few key factors you can consider to help you nail down the perfect height for your bathroom walls. 

We love a good terracotta tile, and if you do too, then you definitely must check out our Sultana Stella Terra Cotta Porcelain Tile .

Bathroom size and layout

Think of it like this: a small bathroom can feel cramped if you tile all the way up to a high ceiling. On the flip side, a large space might look unfinished if the tiles stop too low. So, the size of your space plays a major deciding factor! The layout matters too. Got a shower stall or bathtub? You might want to tile higher around those areas to protect against splashes. 

Ceiling height

If your ceiling is on the lower side (around 8 feet or less), tiling all the way up might not be the best idea as it could make the room feel smaller. But if you have soaring high ceilings, going high with the tile can add a touch of drama and elegance. 

Moisture protection

If your bathroom tends to get steamy from hot showers or bath soaks, you might want to consider tiling higher than the standard height to protect your walls from moisture damage. The higher you get, the more protection you get. 

Maintenance

Tiles need TLC and if you’re not a fan of scrubbing or cleaning high surfaces, then maybe keep the tiles lower, ideally to a point you can comfortably reach. 

Budget considerations

Tiles aren’t free, unfortunately! The higher you go, the more tile you’ll need, and that can add up. So, factor in your budget when making your decision. Remember, there are tons of beautiful tiles at different price points, so you can definitely find something that will work for you. 

Personal style and design preferences

This is where your personal taste comes in. Before you start spalling tiles on the wall, close your eyes and visualize your dream bathroom. Are you dreaming of a sleek modern oasis with clean lines and a minimalist vibe? Tiling all the way to the ceiling could be your perfect match. 

Or perhaps you’re drawn to a more traditional or cozy feel, reminiscent of a charming European cottage. In that case, a lower tile height might be more your speed, allowing you to incorporate a painted wall or even a wallpaper above the tiles for added warmth and personality. 

Popular Tile Height Options

Half-wall tile.

Blue Mini Versailles Glass Mosaic Tile

The half-wall tile is a popular and practical choice for many bathrooms - not too much, not too little. This option involves tiling halfway up the wall, usually around 36-48 inches high, creating a middle ground that offers a balance of style and functionality. It’s also easier on the budget, leaving you more cash to splurge on other bathroom upgrades, like a fancy shower head. 

However, if not done right, half-wall tiling can look a bit dated or make the room feel chopped in half. To avoid this, try using a bold tile for the bottom half and a complementary paint color above for a modern look. Or, mix and match two different tile patterns for a more eclectic vibe, just make sure they harmonize! 

Three-Quarter Wall Tile

Picchetto Rustic Blue Ceramic Picket Tile

For those who want more tile coverage but aren’t ready to commit to a full floor-to-ceiling look, ¾ wall tile coverage is a great compromise. This option typically involves tiling up to about 72 inches or even higher, depending on your ceiling height and personal preference. This option provides ample protection against moisture and splashes, making it a practical choice for shower and tub areas. It also creates a more cohesive feel compared to the half-wall option. 

Floor-to-ceiling Tile

Emporio Pink Onyx Large-Format Porcelain Tile

If you’re looking to make a bold statement, floor-to-ceiling is the way to go. It creates a dramatic and sleek look, especially with large-format tiles. It’s also a practical choice for wet rooms or walk-in showers, as it offers maximum protection against water damage.

Word of caution, though:  if you go this route, be prepared to spend a bit more. It’s a bigger investment both for your wallet and your overall design. This is a commitment, so choose a tile you absolutely love, because you’ll be seeing a lot of it. And if your space is on the smaller side, large-format tiles from floor to ceiling might make it feel a bit suffocating, so keep that in mind. 

Custom heights

Agate Glass Penny Round Mosaic Tile

Breaking the rules isn’t always bad, especially when it comes to tiles. So if you’re feeling creative, why not go for a custom tile height? Some creative options you might want to try include: 

• The Wave: Start low on one side and gradually increase the height across the wall for a unique, eye-catching design. 
• The Ombre: Create a gradient effect by starting with dark tiles at the bottom and gradually lightening them as you go up. 
• The Frame: Use tiles to frame a standout feature, like a mirror or piece of art. 
• The Accent Strip: Add a thin strip of eye-catching accent tiles at eye level to break up the monotony. 

Tile Material Options and Their Impact on Height Choice

Believe it or not, your choice of material can actually influence how high you might want to take those tiles. Let’s go over some popular wall tile options and how they can impact your decision.

Ceramic Tiles

This is the go-to for a lot of folks because it’s budget-friendly and comes in a ton of colors and patterns. Ceramic is pretty easy to clean too, which is a bonus in a bathroom. Plus, they’re lightweight, so you can tile from floor to ceiling without worrying about your walls caving in. Just keep in mind that it’s not as durable as some other options. 

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain is super durable, boasting excelling water resistance, making it perfect for shower walls. It also gets bonus points for being able to mimic other materials like wood or natural stone that you wouldn’t normally use in a wet environment. 

While it’s pricier than ceramic, porcelain is still a great option for a floor-to-ceiling installation. Just double-check that your walls are sturdy enough to handle the extra weight. 

Natural Stone Tiles

If luxurious and timeless is your vibe, natural stone is where it’s at! Marble, travertine, granite - they all bring unique patterns and a serious wow-factor to your bathroom, not to mention potentially increasing your home value. 

But be prepared to pat a bit more for this high-end look, and remember that natural stone requires regular sealing to protect it from moisture and stains. What's more, these tiles can be heavy, so you might want to stick to a feature wall or lower height if you’re worried about putting too much strain on your walls. 

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are all about sparkle and shine. They reflect light beautifully, making your bathroom feel brighter and more spacious. They’re also waterproof and super easy to clean. If you’re worried about the tricky installation, you can always opt for mosaics that are already arranged on a mesh backing. Just be mindful that glass can show water spots, so frequent wiping may be necessary. 

Bathroom Wall Tile Design Styles and Inspiration

Let’s get to the fun part! Check out these bathroom wall tile installations that are guaranteed to make your creative juices flowing. 

A Splash of Style, Half the Hassle! 

Half-wall tiling doesn’t mean your design has to be half as exciting! 

Just take a look at how our Mallorca Blue Ceramic Subway Tile was used on the tub surround below. This zellige-style tile, with its subtle variations in color and texture, adds instant personality and dimension to any wall. The artisan charm is simply undeniable! 

To complete the look, make sure you finish the tile with a decorative trim or a simple bullnose edge. And if you’re feeling a little fancy, a chair rail will add a touch of elegance that’s sure to impress.  

This design, by the way, is called wainscotting - it’s a classic technique that involves tiling partway up the wall and adding decorative trim to finish the edge, and it’s currently having a major moment in interior design. 

Another design you can give a shot is this contrasting tile and wall combo. The textured black tile on the lower half injects a bold energy that beautifully contrasts with the plain white wall paint on the upper half. It’s the perfect balance of drama and simplicity that can make your walls look curated without going overboard. 

Get this sleek look with our La Riviera Lavanda Blue Ceramic Subway Tile - because who needs extra fuss when you’ve got effortless elegance?

But if you’re more into a no-frills, minimalist vibe, skip the trims and go for a clean, simple look like this vanity space. It’s proof that sometimes, a stylish design doesn’t need fancy extras. 

Or go geometric! This bathroom is a prime example of how a little pattern can pack a major punch. Our White Carrara Marble Hex Tile adds a touch of sophistication without the need for over the top design. And the raw unfinished edges? A simple, yet stylish detail that gives this tile installation an unexpected edge. 

Why Stop at Halfway When You Can Tile to the Top?

Double the impact of your design with full-wall tile installations. It’s a simple concept with a dramatic effect - just tile from floor to ceiling. 

Major bathroom envy alert! The Emporio Agate Geode Blue Porcelain Large-Format Tile on the walls is so mesmerizingly classy, we’re seriously considering a bathroom remodel just to have it. 

One of the best ways to do this is by using large-format tiles, especially if you have a spacious bathroom. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, large-format tiles offer a practical advantage for floor-to-ceiling installations. With fewer grout lines, cleaning becomes a breeze, ensuring your stunning bathroom remains effortlessly pristine. 

Pro tip: For this type of full-coverage tiling to truly shine, we generally recommend using it in bathrooms that get ample natural light. 

Tiling a single wall or your shower area is great, but if you’re extra like us, why not go all out and tile all four corners of your bathroom from floor to ceiling? If you have a spacious bathroom, this can work wonders. 

The key is to choose a simple yet captivating design, like the Kasai Fumo Kintsugi Porcelain Tile featured in this space. While it appears simple from afar, closer inspection reveals its intricate details, ensuring your bathroom feels airy and wide even with full-coverage tiling. 

You can also mix around tile designs in floor-to-ceiling installations. Since you have the full wall as your canvas, you have the freedom to go crazy and be creative. An easy design you can replicate for your space is this alternating pattern of white and navy blue button penny round tiles . This playful mix is a surefire way to bring vibrancy and personality even to the dullest of spaces. 

If you prefer a more straightforward approach, consider a split-wall tile design when mixing and matching tiles, like how it’s done in this bathroom space. Just choose two complementary tiles and divide the wall in half, covering one section with each. This eliminates the need for complex tile matching while still achieving a trendy look. 

For a truly cohesive look, consider extending your floor-to-ceiling tile design to the floor itself. This creates a seamless flow and visual continuity, as demonstrated in this stunning bathroom. 

Here, one wall in the shower area showcases a striking terrazzo tile design that seamlessly transitions to the floor, resulting in a harmonious and luxurious space. This approach not only elevates the aesthetics but also enhances the overall sense of spaciousness.

DIY Tips for Installing Bathroom Wall Tiles 

By now, we’re guessing you already have a tile height in mind and you’re ready to roll up your sleeves. But before you get onto tiling, here are a few tips for DIYers like you to keep in mind when installing bathroom wall tiles: 

• Measure Twice, Cut Once

This is the golden rule of any DIY project. Measure the height you want your tiles to go, and then measure again. And maybe one more time, just for good measure. Use a level to make sure your lines are straight, and don’t forget to account for any trim or molding that might affect the height.  

• Start Low and Go Slow

It’s easier to add more tiles than to remove them. Begin by tiling the lower section of your wall, then gradually work your way up. This way, you can adjust as you go and make sure everything is level and aligned. 

• Use the Right Tools

A tile cutter (electric or manual) is a must-have for clean, precise cuts. You’ll also need a notched trowel to apply the adhesive, a rubber float to press the tiles into place, and spacers to maintain consistent grout lines. 

• Clean As You Go

Trust us, you don’t always want to wait until the end to clean up dried adhesive and grout. Wipe away any excess as you work, and give the tiles a final clean once everything is finished. 

Remember: While DIY-ing your tile installation can be a rewarding experience and of course, budget-friendly, calling in the pros is often the best move. Pros will be able to provide expert advice, ensure proper installation, and potentially save you from costly mistakes/repairs down the line.

What’s Next?

We've spilled all the juicy details and served up some serious design inspiration, so now it's time to get those tiling dreams in motion! 

But if you’re feeling a little stuck or overwhelmed by the sheer amount of tile choices out there, no worries! Hit us up for a chat – we're always up for a good brainstorm sesh and geeking out over the latest tile trends.

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