How to Write a Personal Statement That Sets You Apart

Introduction

Do you know there’s nothing more disheartening than being denied admission because of a poorly written personal statement? Personally, I would rather be denied admission due to missing documents or subpar academic qualifications than because of a weak or improperly composed personal statement.

A compelling personal statement is not just another requirement, it’s your voice, your pitch, and your only chance to stand out before the admissions committee, especially when interviews are not granted.

What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement; also known as a statement of purpose is a written essay that every admission seeker must submit as part of their application. I often liken it to a cover letter, accompanying your academic credentials.

Your personal statement should provide a concise overview of your professional and academic journey, past and present avoiding unnecessary personal history.

A strong personal statement should include:

1. All academic qualifications and certificates obtained
2. Relevant work experience
3. What sparked your interest in the chosen field
4. Your career goals and what you hope to achieve with the degree
5. How you plan to contribute to academia and society

This single document could determine your success or failure, it may be your only opportunity to speak directly to the decision-makers.

Tips to Write an Excellent Personal Statement

1. Create an Outline for Your Personal Statement

An outline is the framework on which your personal statement is built. Summarize your key points into short sentences that will later be developed into paragraphs.

Here’s a guideline for outlining:

1. What inspired your interest in this field of study?
2. When did you realize this was the right path for you?
3. Is this program related to your previous education and experience?
4. What relevant work experience do you have?
5. How can your experience contribute to your chosen department or university?
6. How is this career relevant to your home country or community?
7. In what ways do you intend to contribute to society or academia?
8. How do you plan to demonstrate leadership in this field?

2. Develop Your Outline into Flowing Paragraphs

Now that you have your outline, begin writing your essay. Each point should be expanded into a paragraph, written in clear and concise language.

For example:

1. What inspired your interest in this course?

“Working as a medical laboratory scientist, I realized that many unanswered health questions could be addressed through medical biotechnology…”

2. When did you recognize the need to pursue this field?

“I didn’t strongly consider this path until the COVID-19 pandemic, when I worked with a team of biotechnology experts on a recombinant DNA research project…”

3. Is your course of study aligned with your previous academic background?

“As a holder of a Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science, with years of clinical experience, I am confident that I meet the academic and practical requirements for this program…”

4. What work experiences support your application?

“My professional journey includes laboratory work in infectious disease diagnosis, which has equipped me with practical knowledge relevant to this course…”

5. How do your skills and experiences add value to the university?

“With a strong foundation in laboratory procedures and research, I intend to contribute to the university’s ongoing research projects and collaborative efforts…”

6. What is the relevance of this career to your country?

“Pursuing a Master’s degree in Medical Biotechnology aligns with the developmental goals of my country in science, technology, and healthcare innovation…”

7. How will this program help you contribute to academia or society?

“After graduation, I plan to work with research institutions in my country to advance medical biotechnology and mentor upcoming scientists…”

8. How will you demonstrate leadership in your chosen field?

Let your leadership vision be clear and inspiring. State how you plan to mentor others, engage in academic research, or lead initiatives in your field.

3. Key Facts to Note

1. Ensure coherence between paragraphs. Use transition words and coordinating phrases unless you’re using headings.
2. Your introduction should be strong and engaging enough to hook your readers from the start.
3. Maintain a logical flow of ideas from beginning to end.
4. A personal statement should ideally be between 500 and 1,000 words, depending on the university’s guidelines.
5. Use headings if necessary, especially to emphasize key parts of your story.
6. Always back your claims with verifiable experiences or achievements. Let it align with your CV.
7. Use clear, error-free language, proper punctuation, and avoid ambiguous phrases.
8. Edit and proofread repeatedly. You may also share your draft with trusted friends or mentors for honest feedback.
9. Avoid AI-generated content: admissions officers can spot robotic phrasing or generic statements. Make your voice original and authentic.

Sample SOP

Personal Statement: MSc Medical Biotechnology
Applicant: Mamman Abubakar
Program: MSc Medical Biotechnology
Institution: Edinburgh Napier University

From my early training as a Science Laboratory Technologist to my service as a Medical Assistant with the Nigerian Navy, my journey in healthcare has been shaped by a commitment to precision, discipline, and a deep curiosity about the science driving medical progress. It is this curiosity refined by academic and professional exposure that has inspired me to pursue an MSc in Medical Biotechnology at Edinburgh Napier University.

I hold a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Science Laboratory Technology from Federal University of Technology, Minna, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in addition to medical laboratory technician certificate obtained from Kwara State College of Health Sciences and Technology. These academic credentials, combined with my hands-on experience in both civilian and military medical settings, have laid a solid foundation for advanced studies in medical biotechnology. As a Medical Laboratory Technologist, I have conducted diverse diagnostic tests, maintained laboratory equipment, and ensured accurate sample analysis. My time with the Nigerian Navy further exposed me to unique clinical situations that underscored the need for advanced molecular techniques in diagnosis and treatment.

My professional experiences have sparked a deep interest in molecular diagnostics, genetic research, and therapeutic innovation, key components of medical biotechnology. I am particularly fascinated by gene editing, recombinant DNA technology, and biomarker discovery. These areas hold immense potential in addressing the diagnostic and therapeutic gaps prevalent in many developing nations, including Nigeria.

The MSc Medical Biotechnology program at Edinburgh Napier University stands out for its applied learning approach and industry relevance. The opportunity to engage in real-world research, combined with the university’s strong reputation for innovation and global impact, makes it the ideal environment for my academic and professional growth. I am especially excited to gain hands-on training in advanced techniques such as proteomics, immunotherapy, and stem cell applications.

Upon completing this program, I plan to return to Nigeria to help drive the adoption of affordable biotechnology solutions in public health. My long-term vision includes establishing a biomedical research institute focused on molecular diagnostics and training the next generation of scientists through academic collaboration. I also hope to influence policy and investment in biotechnology research in Nigeria.

With a background in laboratory science, postgraduate studies in biochemistry, and a disciplined military work ethic, I believe I am well prepared to thrive in this program and contribute meaningfully to the academic community at Edinburgh Napier University. I am passionate about science, driven by purpose, and committed to using knowledge to solve real-world health problems.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Mamman Abubakar

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