dreading the personal statement

darienblythe79 · May 8, 2006

So the GRE is done, my apps are done and my transcripts are ordered. I'm just waiting for my recommendation letters to arrive. All that is left is the dreaded "personal statement" I never know what to say in these things as I really hate talking about myself. Thoughts? Should I mention that what got me into nursing was my encounter with a CRNA when my wife was in the hospital? Many say that you shouldn't mention that you "only" went to nursing school because of anesthesia school. Should I talk about all of the drips and types of sedation that I use routinely in the ICU - or is that assumed? Not sure which direction to go with it.
Thanks for reading and for any suggestions!
-S

I would definitely mention your experience with a CRNA. Leave out the talk about drips. They will get that out of your interview. Expound on your reasons to become a CRNA, and share what you have done to make yourself a prime applicant. Have you participated in extracurricular activities and organizations? Have you shadowed a CRNA? Best of luck.

gasmn2b · May 8, 2006

Some ask specific questions that they want answered about yourself. I found it easiest to just answer the questions that were asked in a nice essay form that followed the questions in order. It makes it easier for them to see that you have done what they have asked of you. If you were to give a synopsis of your entire nursing career and in the process answer weveral questions that they have asked of you in a random order they might think that maybe this person can't even follow simple instructions or get bored with all the extra that you have to say. Best of luck to you.

ICUDOUCME? · May 11, 2006

I agree with gasmn2b. Do exactly what they ask you to do. Just copy/paste the exact wording used by the school for the undertitle to your essay. I usually use a smaller font in italics and put the school's wording in parenthesis under the heading. For instance:

Personal Statement

(Please give your reasons for wanting to become a CRNA and any preparations you have made towards this goal)

This is centered on the top of the page. Then you give your reasons in the first paragraph or two and your prepartions in the following paragraphs. Sorry if this is simplistic. I'm just sharing what worked for me.