Need to write a personal statement for grad school.

[dani9206, BSN, MSN, APN]

Hello everyone. I am applying for graduate admission into a Nurse Practitioner program.

As part of the admissions package, they are asking for a personal statement.

Does anyone have any advice on what makes a really good personal statement?

Thanks!

[KarmaWiseRaven]

There will be no foolish wand-waving or silly incantations in this class. As such, I don't expect many of you to appreciate the subtle science and exact art that is potion-making. However, for those select few.. Who possess, the predisposition... I can teach you how to bewitch the mind and ensnare the senses. I can tell you how to bottle fame, brew glory, and even put a stopper in death.

That personal statement always seems to work or they will think of your crazy. Either way there's a lesson here.. And the lesson is... Wait for it!.. Wait for it !. Ok here's the deal no one can really help you with a personal statement that has to come from your heart its the passion you have and something you stand by. And it's your belief. It has to be a part of you... Understand? These are my thoughts use them as you wish...

[Woodenpug, BSN]

The post turned out to be commercial. It had a good article when I visited it at the time of posting. Bad post, My apologizes.

[SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN]

Really good personal statements are well though out, well written, and make you look unique. If you want to read a few check out a book on personal statements at your local library. Afterwards write your own and have someone read it to be sure that the essay sounds good and describes you and your goals well.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

A trick I learned in grad school was to give them back what they seem to want. For instance, in this case I would look at the school's mission and vision statements (probably online) then create a statement addressing those concepts but not using the same words. Basically, what are your goals and how to do think this program will help you achieve those goals?

[llg, PhD, RN]

1. Start with the truth. Sketch out why you want to go to grad school, what you hope to do with the degree you will obtain, etc. You need to do this (yourself) because if what your write isn't based on truth, it will sound fake and you will sound fake when asked to discuss it in an interview.

2. Then look at how it "fits" with the school's mission statement and curriculum. Modify your statement as needed to make it fit well with what the school has to offer. You application is more likely to be accepted if your goals and interests are compatible with what the school has to offer.

By doing both of those things, you are forced to do some good assessment/evaluation and planning. You look at yourself, the school, your future career goals, etc. and are forced to think through how it all fits together. That's why personal statements are required for many applications. Those doing the selecting want to be sure that you have gone through that process and are indeed a good match for their program.