PREPARING FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL
Writing The Personal Statement
Most graduate school application processes require a personal statement or statement of purpose.
Individual schools determine the format. Some require the applicant to address specific information while
others give the applicant freedom to address a chosen topic. Your statement should include the following
information:
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Your eligibility and preparedness for graduate study
Your purpose for graduate study
How you plan to use your graduate study
Your research interests
Previous experience and academic work
Tips for Success
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Follow the format determined by the school
Begin with an outline to help with flow
Provide good transitions between paragraphs
Research the university and provide examples of your knowledge of the program
Narrow your focus to one or two ideas or experiences
Visit the ACU Writing Center for proofreading and writing assistance
Common Mistakes
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Spelling and grammatical errors
Telling too much of your life story. (Focus on your interests and goals)
Discussing finances as motivation
Dwelling on negative situations or giving excuses
Using an unprofessional format
Sample Statements at
Purdue OWL