7 Things to Avoid in Your Personal Statement

Applying to universities can be an exciting yet daunting task, and one of the most crucial components of your application is the personal statement. This essay is your chance to showcase your personality, achievements, and aspirations. However, there are several common pitfalls that students often fall into when writing their personal statements. Here are seven things you should avoid to ensure your statement stands out for all the right reasons.

1. Clichés and Overused Phrases

Using clichés like "I've always dreamed of becoming..." or "Since I was a child..." can make your personal statement blend into the crowd. Admissions officers read hundreds of essays, so aim for originality. Instead, focus on specific experiences and unique aspects of your journey.

2. Lack of Focus

A personal statement that jumps from one topic to another without a clear direction can be confusing. Take your time and organise your essay with paragraphs that build a coherent and compelling story. Ensure your essay has a clear thesis, and each paragraph should contribute to this unified narrative.

3. Too Much Detail on Extracurriculars

While extracurricular activities are important, avoid dedicating too much space to listing them. State only those activities which are important for your chosen degree and show your enthusiasm, skills, or passion. Don't forget to link the given extracurricular activity to the main idea of your personal statement, elaborating on how they shaped your personal growth and future goals.

4. Check Course Details

Before writing your personal statement, thoroughly check the details of the course you are applying for. Sometimes students, fascinated by a subject (like history), might talk about the ancient history of Egypt in their personal statement, while the course focuses on modern European history. To create a well-structured and compelling personal statement, it is essential to align your interests with the structure of the course, ensuring there is no mismatch.

5. Lack of Proofreading

Grammatical errors, typos, and poor sentence structure can detract from the professionalism of your personal statement. Proofread your essay multiple times and consider having someone else review it to catch mistakes you might have missed. Additionally, avoid plagiarism and the use of AI for writing your personal statement. It's essential to understand that cheating on your personal statement by plagiarising or using AI undermines the authenticity of your application.

6. Exceeding the Word Limit

Universities set word limits for personal statements for a reason. Exceeding the word limit can indicate a lack of discipline and an inability to communicate concisely. It’s important to adhere to these guidelines to show that you can follow instructions and express yourself effectively within a set framework. Check the word count regularly as you write and edit your statement to ensure you stay within the limit.

7. Overuse of Quotes

Do not use quotes. Using a quote from a famous person can be effective, but only if it adds value to your statement. Overusing quotes can make it seem like you lack original ideas. Remember, all institutions want to hear your voice, not someone else's. Focus on your own experiences and research. Quotes are not needed in a personal statement and can detract from your unique perspective.

Conclusion

Crafting a compelling personal statement requires a balance of personal reflection and clear communication. Avoiding these common pitfalls will help ensure your essay is engaging, original, and professional. Remember, your personal statement is an opportunity to present yourself in the best possible light, so take the time to refine it and make it truly representative of who you are.

At UniEntry, we understand the challenges of writing a personal statement. If you need further assistance or personalised advice, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you every step of the way on your journey to university success.