Tips for Writing a Personal Statement

Jul 9, 2024

Tips for Writing a Personal Statement

General Advice

  • Personalize it: Tailor the statement to your own experiences and personality.
  • Do Not Copy: The content shared is for guidance; it should not be copied verbatim because each person's experience is unique.

Key Tips

1. Use Simple English

  • Avoid complicated words: The evaluators may not be native English speakers, making it challenging to read complex vocabulary.
  • Focus on clear communication: They are more interested in your experiences and achievements rather than testing language skills.

2. Use Empathy

  • Include empathy sparingly: It should be used in reasonable places to show your personality without overdoing it.
  • Example: Relating personal experiences to show emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.

3. Mention Specific Memories

  • Include personal anecdotes: For example, a memory that motivated you to pursue your field of study.
  • Example: The speaker mentioned their dad's support for their art as a critical motivator.

4. Reason for Choosing Korea

  • Explain your choice: Why you want to study in Korea specifically.
  • Include this even if it’s covered in interviews: This provides further context about your interests and goals.

Example Personal Statement Highlights

  • Personal motivations: Desire to learn more about South Korean culture and arts.
  • Educational background: Bachelor’s degree in Multimedia and Graphic Design, combined with personal struggles and achievements (e.g., working freelance to support education, high GPA).
  • Supportive family: Emotional and practical support from family members, especially the dad and grandma.
  • Inspirations: From Korean artists and personal mentors (e.g., grandma’s passion and resilience).

Final Advice

  • Certifications: Prepare translations of your certifications if required.
  • Engage with viewers: Encourage questions and provide assistance in the comment section.

  • Closing Notes: Wrap up by highlighting the need to be sincere and clear in your personal statement.

Example Personal Statement Summary

  • Interest in Korea: Focused on learning Korean culture and enhancing art skills.
  • Background: Battled financial and academic hurdles to achieve a 4.0 GPA.
  • Family Support: Key motivator for artistic and academic growth.
  • Career Goals: Aspire to use Korean scholarship for career advancement in art and multimedia.
  • Inspirational Figures: Family members who instilled work ethic and passion for education.
  • Final Thoughts: Gratitude for opportunities and aspirations to leverage them for future success.