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Just be honest as to why you are interested, etc. Typically most applications I saw wanted 12pt font, either Times New Roman or Arial, and one-inch margins (typical APA format).
Admissions committees really like personal stories...for example, how someone influenced your decision to become a CRNA, maybe a positive experience you had that a CRNA contributed to, etc.
Not sure if this works for everyone, but my personal statement dealt with a patient I took care of in the CSU. Most of the applications I read wanted a statement about why they should choose you, what experience you have (machinery, vasoactive gtt titration, patient type, etc.), and what makes you a better candidate compare to other applicants.
My "personal statement" told a story about a patient on about every form of life support imaginable, and then some. I didn't want to send in an essay listing the machines/lines/drugs I'm comfortable with because I didn't want it to sound like every other paper they read. Anyhow, it helped get me a few interview letters and was brought up at the interview of the school I'll be attending (in about 13 days!!!). I think it helped make my application stand out.
Good luck with your applications. Have a few people read it that you trust for an honest opinion. To tell the truth, I got the best critique from my father, who has no medical background.
Please mention patient care over technology and financial rewards. I read so many statements about how they have experience in intubating and ventilators and want to continue getting better at this. Taking care of self and family ie.. providing a good living is important but your personal statement is no place to put this. If patient care is important to you, you are a nurse aren't you, state it. Nurse anesthesia needs people who put their patients first and the financial rewards last.I am currently working the personal statement for my applications for next year. I was just wondering if any of you seasoned CRNAs or SRNAs had any pearls of wisdom as to important things to include/not include, etc... I feel like I have too much to say and I may need to trim it down a little.Also, it has been a while since I have actually written a paper and I can't remember what that generally accepted font size to use is...
Any input would be appreciated, Thanks!!
meg228
17 Posts
I am currently working the personal statement for my applications for next year. I was just wondering if any of you seasoned CRNAs or SRNAs had any pearls of wisdom as to important things to include/not include, etc... I feel like I have too much to say and I may need to trim it down a little.
Also, it has been a while since I have actually written a paper and I can't remember what that generally accepted font size to use is...
Any input would be appreciated, Thanks!!