Understanding the Personal Statement
What is a personal statement?
A written document that provides insight into an individual's personal experiences, motivations, and goals beyond academic grades and test scores.
What is the purpose of the introduction in a personal statement?
To hook the reader and set the tone for the rest of the narrative.
What should your academic and professional achievements convey?
Reflect on any major academic or professional projects you have completed.
What is Step 1 in developing your narrative
Introduction: Hook the Reader
When was FSU founded?
1851
What role does a personal statement play in college applications?
It helps admissions committees understand who the applicant is beyond their academic records and demonstrates their fit for the college.
How should the body of a personal statement be structured?
Around 2-4 main themes or experiences, each supported with specific evidence and examples.
What does it mean to discuss "Overcoming Academic Challenges"
Describe challenges you faced in your academic journey and how you overcame them.
What is a helpful practice when proofreading your personal statement?
Reading it aloud to catch errors and ensure clarity.
What is the name of FSU's Official Mascot?
Chief Osceola and Renegade
What is one key purpose of a personal statement in a job application?
To explain why the applicant is interested in the position and how their skills and experiences make them a strong candidate.
What should the conclusion of a personal statement include?
A summary of key themes, reflection on their significance, and a connection to your future goals or the opportunity you are applying for.
What are some examples of Leadership roles you can discuss in your essay?
President of ...
Community chair of ...
Vice President of ...
Why is it important to avoid jargon in your personal statement?
Because jargon can make your statement difficult to understand and may alienate readers who are not familiar with the terminology.
What is the name of the FSU sports and event complex where the Seminoles play basketball? Typically where graduations are held
Donald L Tucker Civic Center
What prompt question helps explore personal growth and challenges?
"What are some significant challenges you have faced, and how did you overcome them?"
Why is it important to take breaks between drafts of your personal statement?
This can help you identify areas for improvement that you might overlook when reviewing immediately after writing.
How would you explain your career aspirations?
Outline your career goals and explain why you are passionate about them.
Name the 4 don'ts of Revising your essay?
Dont use Jargon, no generic statements, repetition of information, lack of focus or structure
Which major event in the history of FSU occurred in 1901?
The institution became a women’s college, known as the Florida State College for Women.
What does “show, don’t just tell” mean in the context of writing a personal statement?
It means using specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points rather than making general statements.
What is a common mistake to avoid when revising a personal statement?
Repetition of information, which can make your statement feel redundant.
What are the top 4 academic and professional achievements?
Significant projects, Awards and Honors, Leadership Roles, Overcoming Academic Challenges
Why should you get feedback from peers or mentors?
For input or clarity to ensure writing makes sense and to be open for critics
When did FSU become a coeducational institution?
When did FSU become a coeducational institution?