Задание
Read the text and choose the correct option.
Tips for writing your personal statement
Personal statements may seem formulaic, but they can be critical to the decision-making process, and admissions tutors do read them.
If you’re applying for a high-demand course, your personal statement could be the deciding factor on whether or not you get an interview.
The Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment at the University of Gloucestershire, James Seymour, shares some top tips on how to write a personal statement.
What makes a good personal statement?
Explain the reason for your choice and how it fits in with your aspirations for the future
Give examples of any related academic or work experience
Show that you know what the course will involve and mention any special subjects you’re interested in
Demonstrate who you are by listing any positions you’ve held, memberships of teams or societies, and interests and hobbies
Don’t just say: I am a member of the college chess club. I also play the clarinet in the orchestra.
What to write in a personal statement
Your personal statement is your chance to really show why you deserve a place on your chosen course.
Remember to keep these in mind:
Do
Be clear and concise – the more concentrated the points and facts, the more powerful
Use positive words such as achieved, developed, learned, discovered, enthusiasm, commitment, energy, fascination…
Avoid contrived or grandiose language. Instead use short, simple sentences in plain English
Insert a personal touch if possible, but be careful with humour and chatty approaches
Use evidence of your learning and growth (wherever possible) to support claims and statements
Plan the statement as you would an essay or letter of application for a job/scholarship
Consider dividing the statement into five or six paragraphs, with headings if appropriate
Spelling and grammar DO matter – draft and redraft as many times as you must and ask others to proofread and provide feedback
For 2022–23 applications, refer to the challenges you've faced during the pandemic in a positive way
Don’t
Waffle
Over-exaggerate
Come across as pretentious
Try to include your life history
Start with: "I’ve always wanted to be a…"
Use gimmicks or quotations, unless they're very relevant and you deal with them in a way that shows your qualities
Be tempted to buy or copy a personal statement – plagiarism software is now very sophisticated and if you're caught out you won’t get a place
Make excuses about not being able to undertake activities/gain experience – focus on what you were able to do positively, e.g. as a result of coronavirus
adapted from The Complete University Guide
1. Your personal statement can be a deciding factor when choosing the best applicant.
2. Choose the most positive adjective to include in your personal statement: .
3. When applying, you should use sentences in English.
4. Demonstrating a sense of humour is absolutely necessary.
5. How many paragraphs (on average) should you include in your letter?
6. It's necessary to include gimmicks or quotations in your personal statement.