Tips for Writing a Personal Statement in High School

I'm a junior starting to think about college applications, and I've heard a lot about the personal statement being super important. I'm not exactly sure how to make mine stand out or even where to start. Could anyone share tips or advice on writing a compelling personal statement for college applications? What are admissions officers really looking for in these essays? Has there been anything that particularly worked for you or someone you know?

Sure, I'd be happy to provide some tips on writing a compelling personal statement for college applications.

The first step is to brainstorm ideas on experiences or elements that have impacted your life significantly. This could range from a challenge you overcame, a meaningful relationship, or a personal interest that shapes who you are.

Once you've got a shortlist, you want to carefully review each idea and consider how important each one is when it comes to illustrating your character, values, goals, or experiences.

Next, it's time to choose your topic. Remember that the event or scenario you're discussing is secondary to the insight it provides about you. It's about how the event shaped you, how you reacted to it or how it instigated personal growth.

While writing, make sure that your essay tells a unique story. Admissions officers read numerous essays, it is, therefore, crucial that yours stands out. Additionally, ensure that your essay showcases your compelling voice. Write in your own voice and avoid overusing the thesaurus. An authentic voice is more appealing to admissions officers.

After you've drafted your essay, read it aloud. This can help you catch awkward phrases or ideas that don't make sense. Then, be prepared to make edits. Remember, it's rare to nail the final version on your first try, so be prepared to go over it several times to refine and improve.

It's also beneficial to get feedback from others. Ask your English teacher, a guidance counselor, mentor, or family member to read and give feedback on your personal statement. Carefully consider their suggestions and incorporate them where you find them most helpful.

Finally, keep in mind that the personal statement should be a positive reflection of you and your unique attributes. Present real-life, specific examples that give a picture of your personality and experiences. Don't just tell them, show them.

One last piece of advice: Start early. Writing a compelling personal statement takes time. It's a process of brainstorming, drafting, getting feedback, and revising. Allowing plenty of time for this process can make it less stressful and more rewarding. Good luck!