How to Write a Grad School Personal Statement

How to Write a Grad School Personal StatementIn today's competitive society, being competitive is essential to graduating from college and landing a lucrative job. This fact is often an advantage in that many employers are also striving to be more attractive, less elitist, and more able to bring in applicants who share the company's standards. Thus, the personal statement is not only important for your resume, but it is equally important for your future employer, because it makes you a whole lot more desirable than other applicants, and therefore the employer will be more likely to hire you.Now, if you have never written a personal statement, or you're having trouble coming up with something to write, here are some guidelines to get you started. First, it is imperative that you read the personal statement guidelines when it comes to the use of verbiage. A resume that has used inappropriate or misleading language may not get you the job, but it will most certainly lose you a great dea l of interviews.Second, after you have picked out the topic of your personal statement, you will want to choose a style of writing that suits you and fits your personality. It is recommended that you do not write your personal statement as if you were on a job interview. Remember, your essay is intended to introduce yourself to your prospective employer and gain their attention, not to win a job.Third, remember that the personal statement is for you, not for your interviewer, so you should avoid phrases like 'I will be meeting with (or hiring) your department'I would like to meet with your human resources department'. It is a non-threatening document and would make your interviewer nervous, as it seems a little adversarial. A better approach would be to say 'I am writing this personal statement to introduce myself to you; and, I am particularly interested in pursuing a position in (whatever department you are in).Fourth, it is important to begin writing, but it is no longer 'its tim e to speak'. Rather, it is time to present yourself to your prospective employer as a future colleague. Be sure that your essay captures not only your educational background but also who you are as a person.Fifth, remember that your personal statement is a statement about who you are as a person, not just as a student. It is appropriate to use alliteration, as long as it is appropriately modified to fit your work setting. Be careful, however, that your usage of alliteration does not serve to underscore your lack of a broader skill set. For example, if you are writing a biographical essay, it is best to avoid the alliteration 'artist' instead of an artist who has an interest in art.Sixth, while graduation from grad school is probably still a few years away, it is not too early to consider a career change. There are many fields that can benefit from your skills. For example, if you are a computer programmer, you might consider a move to a position in the field of consulting, or even i nto the field of accounting. Take the time to think about what you would be looking for in a new career before you declare yourself a grad school graduate.Finally, remember that the personal statement is meant to tell your story. However, take your story seriously. In addition to learning what they need to know, you will also be improving your chances of landing a great job by making yourself a more attractive candidate.