stupid personal statement

[megmermaid]

Yes, I'm new to this forum...I've been reading old posts and just signed on.

Anyway I'm in the process of applying to CRNA school for next fall and am no good at writing the personal statement. My strengths are the sciences, not English 101 essay writing.

Do you guys think I should just write an extremely boring statement and let my GPA, GRE, and references do the talking -or will it look too badly if my statement is too simple? I just really am not good at essay writing and am afraid if I try to get too creative I'll just sound stupid. I'd rather do an interview any day to explain my reasons for applying than have to try to write them.

I appreciate any insight.

[researchrabbit]

Depends on how competitive the school is. If it's very competitive, get a friend who likes to write to help you. If it's not so competitve, and you're pretty sure you'll get in on the strength of your grades, then write something simple (BTW, simple is not always a bad thing and in some areas is seen as a strength).

[WntrMute2]

Originally posted by megmermaid

My strengths are the sciences, not English 101 essay writing.

Do you guys think I should just write an extremely boring statement and let my GPA, GRE, and references do the talking -or will it look too badly if my statement is too simple? I just really am not good at essay writing and am afraid if I try to get too creative I'll just sound stupid.

Remember this is about doing new things, most people have trouble with that essay. Do the best that you can, go to a tutor, help from a friend is also OK. Nothing in these programs is supposed to be easy, and you never know what step will make you look bad and another candidate look better. Also consider you will be doing a fair amount of presentations and writing research proposals, informed consents, and a final research project of one sort or another. The application process is a pain but nothing compared to the first few semesters. DO NOT BLOW IT OFF!

It wouldn't suprise me if you get differing opinions here as I do not seem to be in the majority these days at least in regards to dress, apperance, health care or political views. I did get accepted at 4 schools despite holding the minority opinion.

[nilepoc]

Another way to look at this, is .....

This is just the beginning of your writting career. I have written more since entering school, than I ever have before. (blog not included) Unfortunately graduate school involves a great deal of writing so if this is your chosen course, learn to at least tolerate it.. I think the rest of the SRNA's here would agree.

Start with an outline about yourself, and you goals. Then flesh that out and have many people read it. Once done submit it. I believe I posted mine in my blog if you would like to see an example.

Craig