Goal Statements

[NPAlby]

I'm in the process of applying to a Psych NP program and have put off the dreaded goal statement/essay long enough. Just need some advice on how you guys started yours. How long was it? What in particular did you include? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

[elizabells, BSN, RN]

I picked out things that were specific to the specialty (in my case, NICU) and wrote about why I felt they were important, and how my personality suited me to the field. Showing you have an understanding of what you're getting yourself into is a good thing, I think.

[NPAlby]

thanks!

[romie]

A resume writer once suggested carefully analyzing a company's job ad and the position description. Underline key words--Jargon, descriptives, ect. Then be sure to use those words in your resume and cover letter. For example-- the ad said something about improving patient outcomes. Make sure your objective statement says something about wanting to improve patient outcomes.

Now apply this to your application goal statement! Carefully analyze the schools website and literature--examine the program description, mission statement, outcomes expected. Notice the descriptive words, jargon they use and be sure to use those words in your statement.

Of course, be sincere about what you want and why you want to do what you want to do. Then apply the above method for grammar and pizzaz. The admission committee can detect fakes and insincerity and they will probably vomit if you write about how nursing is "a calling" and how you "want to help people", so avoid that too.

My nursing school statement was pretty much outlined by the school's requirements. I had to state what program I wanted to apply to, purpose in applying for graduate study, my future professional plans, describe what I have done to develop a realistic picture of the practice role I have chosen and any additional information which may be useful in evaluating me for graduate study, including working with underserved populations.

[bics]

One little thing to keep in mind--when I was applying to schools I was about to send in my application to one of them which included just the bare necessities and on a whim I called the school and asked if I could also send in my resume. The recruitment officer said "oh yeah! you can send in whatever you want!" So then I threw in my resume, an article written about me and this program i was in in undergrad, a part of my undergraduate thesis, etc. I loaded it up! Anything for them to see how awesome you are, send it along!

When I flew out for an interview, my interviewer had totally read everything I sent and really knew who I was.

Just something to keep in mind!