What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a piece of writing where a person explains why they feel they are suitable for a job, college or university course or a work opportunity.

• it is not a C.V. that tells others what you have done
• its aim is to five the reader a sense of who you are
• to demonstrate why you want to become a hairdresser / work in the construction industry / food and drink industry
• rather than listing your attributes, traits and skills, you write so that the reader comes to these conclusions based on what you have done

Let your actions speak for you. To do this, you may choose to describe the experiences and events that shaped your personality, values and goals.

The personal statement enables you, the writer, to:

• make a positive first impression
• enable you to relate past experiences to your present future goals
• allow  you to describe your special attributes to demonstrate your match for your chosen profession
• give you an opportunity to present your personal values and to reveal how your interest in your chosen career developed

You should reflect on your interest in your vocational area, be biographical, giving an account of your life and provide relevant information about your achievements.

Remember the personal statement is the place to be:

• positive and constructive - no excuses, no buts and no complaints about events in your past
• its purpose is to learn about you, your character, your attitude, your values, your motivation, your knowledge and your priorities

Common topics in a personal statement can include:

• previous personal experiences that have motivated you towards your vocational area
• influences and experiences of your family or friends
• influences of work experiences and extracurricular activities, hobbies and interests
• your long-term goals and their basis in your life experiences
• your own personal philosophy and how it developed the way it did

Do not expect to create a personal statement overnight. It may need several attempts before you create a winner. Remember the first paragraph should be about your interest in your vocational area, how it stated and where it led you.

Subsequent paragraphs should highlight an activity you took part in, what it involved and then what you learnt from that experience.

Often learners do not know where to start, so here are some opening sentences:

"I have always been captivated by....."

"My curiosity started....."

"I gained a wealth of knowledge whilst....."

"I learnt that it was okay to....."

"Further projects I have undertaken have included:......"

"The idea for this venture was to....."

"I have gained work experience with....."

"I was involved in....."

"This experience has taught me....."

"Through this experience I gained an insight into......."

"It also confirmed that I definitely....."

"Along with (name interest) I have a passion for....."

"I also enjoy....."

You last paragraph should relate back to the first and reaffirm your desire to pursue your chosen career path. It should be punchy and uplifting to leave the reader with a positive impression of you.