| Year after year, students fear
writing their Personal Statement the most. It's the one where rules
aren't completely defined content-wise. Think of it as your interview.
It's the only way to show Admissions who you are because you don't
get the chance to sit and talk for a couple of hours.
The UC system has devised two prompts that narrow down the content
to what they're looking for. The maximum number of words that
can be
used is 1,000 word total. We suggest that you answer one prompt
in
greater length than the other. The suggested breakdown is to have
the
longer response to be at lease 750 words. We also encourage the
the
shorter response be no shorter than 250 words.
People worry so much about their content
that they forget the technicalities... and the truth of the matter
is, some readers might not think positively of a student who was
too "careless" to follow directions. Don't forget:
Prompt #1
(transfer applicants) – What is your
intended major?
Discuss how your interest in the subject developed and describe
any
experience you have had in the field – such as volunteer
work,
internships and employment, participation in student organizations
and activities – and what you have gained from your involvement.
Prompt #2
(all applicants) – Tell us about a
personal quality,
talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important
to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud
and how does it relate to the person you are?
More suggestions and tips on how to write these prompts will be
added shortly!
- Start writing early and revise your
statement several times with intervals in between. Write in
your own voice, speaking honestly about yourself and where you
have come from. UC wants to know who you are. Avoid lists of
accomplishments -- instead explain their relevance to your life.
Support ideas with specific examples.
- Don't repeat information. The personal
statement should be used to communicate information that is
not already evident on the application.
- Be careful with humor. And avoid being
cute! It's safer to be straightforward in tone.
- Remember no single perfect personal statement
exists. There is only the Personal Statement that is right for
the person submitting it.
- PASS is available to read and give
feedback on personal statements if you give us ample time. Another
words, don't email them to us the night before it's due! We
will also be holding application workshops in the fall.
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