Getting a scholarship is often as stressful as getting in.
At Gurufi, we know that getting in is often only half the battle! Paying for it can be just as -if not more- stressful as applying. With the average cost of graduate school starting at nearly $50,000, getting a scholarship is an important way to defray costs and save a little money, as well as bolster your resume for the future. Writing an impressive scholarship statement is essential to your success, and keeping these tips in mind will put you on the right path.
Identify the key themes appropriately and use language that reinforces those themes. This can’t be stressed enough. Read the statement and make sure you understand exactly what they’re asking for. Most scholarship applications will explain precisely what kind of person they feel meets their qualifications, and all you have to do is interpret that correctly. While it will vary from essay question to essay question, you’ll typically see key themes related to leadership, community involvement, or milestones/successes in life. So that you don’t miss them, it’s a great idea to write these key themes on a notecard and brainstorm each one. Identify stories, successes, or key pivotal moments in your life or professional / academic journey that demonstrate these themes or attributes. Repeat the theme in your thesis statement and use it as the backbone for your whole essay.
Know your audience and cater to them. You’re not writing an essay that has to appeal to thousands of people. This is a targeted piece of writing designed to evoke a positive response from at most, a large committee, and at least, one or two individuals. This audience has a specific goal, and that goal is to find an applicant or applicants who they feel, in their completely subjective opinion, accurately and appropriately represent the organization, charity, company, group, estate, individual or other entity who will be providing the scholarship. Cater your language, your words, your stories, and your approach directly to this narrow audience. As long as you’re able to do this without pandering, your words will resonate with the committee in a positive way, and that can only help.
Make it personal. Your ultimate goal with a scholarship essay is to ask a committee of people to see you as something more than words on a page. You want them to see you as a person – a student, striving for success and overcoming burdens one at a time as you work hard and tire thanklessly to achieve your dreams. As you give examples in ways you’ve demonstrated leadership, or helped your community, or achieved certain goals in life, be specific. Show how these events impacted you emotionally and personally, and don’t be afraid to let your passion show through.
These three tips will provide you with some guidance as you tackle your scholarship essays. Remember, too, that sincerity and enthusiasm go a lot further than flattery and exaggeration, so be honest and transparent as you write. These committees don’t expect someone perfect – they want to find someone who they’ll be proud to call a scholarship recipient as you grow and succeed in life. Show them that you’re someone worth investing in.
For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Use these tips to nail your grad school personal statement!
Deciding to attend graduate school is a huge decision, and from the moment you begin this journey, it’ll be clear that your personal statement is the centerpiece of your application. More than any other single aspect, it signals your interests, describes your past, and advocates for your place and fit within the program you’re applying to. A compelling graduate school personal statement explains your intellectual journey, provides insights in your research interests, and offers a glimpse of what you aspire to do and become after completing graduate school. In this post, we address ten common questions about graduate school personal statements, offering guidance on how to craft a standout essay that effectively showcases your strengths and aspirations.
1. What is the purpose of a graduate school personal statement?
The purpose of a graduate school personal statement is to provide the admissions committee with a detailed understanding of your background, motivations, and goals. It allows you to explain why you are interested in the program, how your experiences have prepared you for graduate study, and what you hope to achieve. It is more than just a narrative version of your CV; it is the story that explains your personal and intellectual journey. This essay helps the committee assess your fit for the program and your potential for success in the field.
(note: many schools have both a personal statement and a statement of academic interest. This Essay is mostly for people applying to schools that have just the personal statement. If you want more information on tips for schools that ask for both, check this out)
2. How should I structure my graduate school personal statement?
There are many ways to do this, and so long as you cover the basics, it’s not necessarily required that you follow on particular structure. Here is one that you can use, at least as a starting point:
**Introduction:** Start with a compelling story that captures the reader’s attention and introduces the main theme of your essay. Avoid being too gimmicky or dramatic. People talk about “hooks” but to be honest, that’s high school writing. Mature writers know how to ease back and let your story do the work without all the silly fireworks and cheesy intros.
2. **Body:** Divide the body into several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of your background, experiences, and goals. Use this section to provide detailed examples and reflections.
3. **Conclusion:** Summarize the key points of your essay and reiterate how the program will help you achieve your career aspirations. End with a strong closing statement that leaves a lasting impression.
3. What should I include in the introduction of my personal statement?
The introduction of your personal statement should provide a clear and concise overview of your motivations and goals. Start with a compelling compelling personal anecdote or a significant experience, that captures the reader’s attention. Briefly introduce the main theme of your essay and provide a roadmap for what to expect in the rest of the document. The introduction should set the stage for your narrative and engage the reader from the outset. You will eventually transition (usually in the middle third of the text) into a detailed and granular engagement with the subject matter, your thoughts on it, and the questions you hope to explore… but I’ve found that the best essays first establish that you’re passionate about the subject and excited to explore it. It should feel meaningful to you.
4. How can I highlight my research interests in my personal statement?
To highlight your research interests, discuss specific projects or topics you have worked on and how they have influenced your academic and career goals. Explain why these areas of research are important to you and how they align with the program you are applying to. Mention any relevant coursework, research experiences, or academic achievements that demonstrate your commitment and expertise in your field of interest.
5. What are common mistakes to avoid in a graduate school personal statement?
Common mistakes to avoid in a graduate school personal statement include:
1. **Being Vague:** Provide specific examples and detailed descriptions rather than broad generalizations. Remember, your readers are usually professors who work in this space, so feel free to “nerd out” on hyper-specific questions and convey how excited you are to dig into these subjects.
2. **Lack of Focus:** Ensure your essay has a clear and coherent narrative. Avoid jumping between unrelated topics.
3. **Neglecting to Proofread:** Spelling and grammatical errors can detract from your professionalism. Proofread your essay multiple times and consider having others review it.
4. **Overemphasis on Achievements:** While it’s important to highlight your achievements, balance this with reflections on your growth and areas for improvement. In the end, you’re telling the reader why you want to search for more answers in this space, so begin from the perspective that you DO NOT have all the answers, but are eager to look for them.
5. **Ignoring the Prompt:** Ensure your essay addresses the specific question or prompt provided by the application. Most personal statements are open-ended, but if they’re not, it’s because the school specifically wants to know something. Tell them.
6. How can I make my graduate school personal statement stand out?
To make your graduate school personal statement stand out, focus on authenticity, clarity, and compelling storytelling. Here are some tips:
1. **Be Yourself:** Let your unique voice and personality shine through your writing.
2. **Tell a Story:** Use a narrative structure to make your essay more engaging. Share specific anecdotes that highlight your key qualities and experiences.
3. **Show, Don’t Just Tell:** Use concrete examples to illustrate your points rather than making broad statements.
4. **Connect the Dots:** Clearly link your past experiences, present motivations, and future goals.
5. **Tailor to Each School:** Customize your personal statement for each program, highlighting why you are a great fit for their specific offerings.
7. What role do extracurricular activities play in a personal statement?
For a graduate school application, I’d mention only those activities relevant to the field you’re applying to. Unlike college applications (and to a lesser extent law, MBA, or medical), the admissions committee isn’t looking for all-around well-rounded people with diverse interests… their primary question is “are you super-interested in a relatively narrow set of questions within this field?”)
8. How do I address a lack of experience in my personal statement?
Addressing a lack of experience in your personal statement involves focusing on your potential and willingness to learn. Highlight transferable skills from other areas of your life, such as academic projects, internships, or volunteer work. Discuss any relevant coursework or independent study you have undertaken to prepare for graduate school. Emphasize your passion for the field and your commitment to gaining the necessary experience and skills.
That said… sometimes you have to recognize if you just haven’t done enough or aren’t sufficiently experienced in an area. This might mean taking on additional coursework, working in a lab or on another project, or otherwise delaying your application for a year or two so that you can acquire the relevant experience.
9. What should I include in the conclusion of my personal statement?
The conclusion of your personal statement should reinforce the key themes of your essay and leave a lasting impression. Briefly recap the main points, emphasizing how your experiences have prepared you for graduate study and how the program will help you achieve your goals. End with a strong closing statement that conveys your enthusiasm for the program and your readiness to contribute to the academic community.
Look to the future, be positive, and return to the ideas, words, stories, and themes that you had in your introduction so that you bring the essay full circle.
10. How can I convey my passion for the field in my graduate school personal statement?
To convey your passion for the field, share personal anecdotes and experiences that illustrate your dedication and enthusiasm. Discuss moments that sparked your interest in the field and how they have influenced your academic and career goals. Reflect on what excites you about the subject and how you plan to contribute to the field in the future. Be genuine and heartfelt in your writing, allowing your passion to come through naturally.
Crafting a compelling graduate school personal statement requires careful thought, reflection, and planning. By addressing these common questions and incorporating the advice provided, you can create a personal statement that authentically represents your background, highlights your strengths, and demonstrates your readiness for graduate study. Remember to be genuine, specific, and reflective in your writing, and you will create a compelling narrative that resonates with admissions committees.
For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
As with all parts of your application, you need a smart strategy for Letters of Rec
In the competitive world of applications—whether for college, graduate school, or a new job—a strong letter of recommendation can be a deciding factor in your favor. At Gurufi, where we specialize in personal statements, CVs, and letters of recommendation, we have seen firsthand how a well-crafted letter can make a substantial difference. Despite the fact that they play a pivotal role, far too many people simple hand them off to letter-writers and don’t have a thoughtful plan to ensure they get the most of their letters. Here is a 10-part guide to writing a strong letter of recommendation.
recommendation.
Ask for a STRONG Letter of Recommendation
When I worked as a professor, I would write a letter for anybody who asked… but not everybody got a strong letter. If you earned a B-, my letter would basically say, “Johnny was in my class, completed the assignments on time, and earned a passing grade.” I told people beforehand, “I’ll write you a letter because it’s part of my job, but you haven’t earned a strong one.” By contrast, a great student got a longer, more specific and detailed, and effective letter.
What’s the lesson here? Don’t just ask if somebody will write you a letter; ask if they’ll write you a STRONG letter. They may say “no,” or otherwise, hedge, which indicates that you need to find somebody else. And, if they were going to write you a strong letter beforehand, it helps to set the expectation that you are seeking a letter that highlights your strengths and capabilities in a compelling way.
Provide Your Personal Statement and CV
The best letters of recommendation are details, specific, and align with the core themes of your application. As such, to write a strong and detailed letter, your recommender needs to know about your achievements, goals, and experiences. Providing them with your personal statement and CV offers a comprehensive view of your background. Your personal statement will give them insights into your motivations and aspirations, while your CV will highlight your accomplishments and relevant experiences. This information helps them write a letter that is specific and tailored to the opportunity you are seeking.
When I wrote letters, having these documents was quite helpful in terms of making sure that I included details that complemented their application.
Offer to Meet with Them to Discuss Your Application
A face-to-face or virtual meeting can be incredibly valuable. During this meeting, you can discuss the specific points you would like them to mention in the letter. Share your goals, why you’re applying for this particular program or position, and any specific achievements you want to highlight. This conversation can also help you gauge their willingness and enthusiasm for writing the letter, and it provides an opportunity for them to ask questions to better understand how they can support your application.
Be Judicious About Who You Are Asking
Choosing the right person to write your letter of recommendation is crucial. Ideally, your recommender should know you well and be familiar with your work. This is FAR MORE important than simply choosing a big name. They should be someone who has observed your skills, achievements, and character firsthand and can write extensively about them. A letter from a well-known person may carry weight, but only if they truly know you and can provide a detailed and personal account of your abilities. Academic advisors, professors, direct supervisors, or mentors who have worked closely with you are often the best choices.
Provide Them with Plenty of Time
Respect your recommender’s time by asking them well in advance of your application deadline. A rushed letter may lack the detail and thoughtfulness of one that was written with ample time. Asking somebody at the last minute might, frankly, also really annoy them, and “annoyed” isn’t the state of mind you want your writer to have. Aim to ask at least a month before the deadline, and be clear about when you need the letter. This allows your recommender to plan their schedule and gives them the time to craft a well-considered letter.
Follow Up Politely and Be Sure to Thank Them Afterward
Once your recommender has submitted the letter, express your gratitude. A hand-written thank-you note is a courteous way to acknowledge their effort and support. Let them know how much you appreciate their help and keep them informed about the outcome of your application. A sincere thank you not only shows your appreciation but also leaves a positive impression for any future requests you may have.
If the deadline is approaching and you haven’t received confirmation that the letter has been submitted, it is appropriate to follow up politely. A gentle reminder can ensure that your application is completed on time without causing undue stress to your recommender.
Lastly, if you earn admission or get the job, be sure to forward that information to your letter-writer and thank them for it again.
Provide Context and Details
If there are specific experiences or projects you want your recommender to mention, provide them with details. For example, if you worked on a significant project under their supervision, remind them of the specifics and the impact of your work. This helps them include concrete examples that can strengthen your letter.
I always appreciated it when students said, “please emphasize my work on X, Y, or Z…” as it gave me clarity about what to include.
Stay Organized
Keep track of who you asked, when you asked, and the deadlines for each letter. This organization ensures you don’t miss any important dates and allows you to follow up as needed without appearing disorganized or forgetful.
Offer to Write a Draft
In some cases, your recommender might appreciate a draft letter that they can edit and personalize. This can save them time and ensure that the key points you want to be included are covered. However, this should be offered tactfully and only if you believe it will be helpful.
Letter writing is highly individualized, and different people will ask you for different things. Remember that you’re the one asking for a favor, so do whatever you can -within ethical boundaries- to help them help you.
Understand the Format and Requirements
Different institutions may have specific requirements for letters of recommendation. Make sure your recommender is aware of these requirements, whether it’s a particular format, length, or topics that need to be covered. Providing this information upfront can help them write a letter that meets all necessary criteria.
This is especially important if letters have to be uploaded to particular portals. Make sure that you provide clear instructions and perhaps even offer to set it up for them if they haven’t already.
Conclusion
Securing a strong letter of recommendation requires careful planning, clear communication, and consideration for your recommender’s time and effort. By following these steps, you can ensure that your letters of recommendation are compelling, detailed, and tailored to support your application. At Gurufi, we’re here to help you through every step of the process, ensuring that your application stands out for all the right reasons. Good luck!
For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top Masters and Ph.D. programs in STEM, humanities, fine arts, and social sciences. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Selecting your most compelling activities to highlight in your AMCAS takes thought
Medical school applicants often worry about which activities to select as their “most significant” on their AMCAS Work & Activities section. Over the last 17 years, Gurufi editors have helped hundreds of successful applicants craft this vital part of their medical school applications, including providing insights into which activities they should highlight. Since you can only select three, you should invest careful consideration into which accomplishments you elect to emphasize and showcase. When done thoughtfully, the right three activities can round out your application nicely and showcase the breadth and depth of your background.
Since every application is different, there is no simple and easy formula for selecting the ideal three, but there are some basic principles you should follow. Here’s how to choose your “Most Significant” activities thoughtfully.
Integrate with Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement and Work & Activities section should complement each other, creating a cohesive narrative about who you are and why you want to pursue medicine. If the personal statement provides depth, character, and nuance into one or two pivotal moments in your life, then the W&A should complement through breadth of experience. Thus, when selecting your “Most Significant” activities, ensure they add depth to your story without duplicating content from your personal statement. If your personal statement focuses on a specific event or life experience, use your “Most Significant” activities to shed light on other dimensions of your journey.
Highlight Leadership, Service, and Commitment to Social Justice
Medical schools value applicants who demonstrate leadership, a strong sense of service, and a commitment to social justice. Indeed, the revised formatting of the W&A section makes clear that this is a priority. When choosing your “Most Significant” activities, consider those that showcase these qualities. Did you lead a project, organize an event, or serve as a mentor? Did you volunteer extensively or work with underserved communities? These experiences not only highlight your skills but also reflect your commitment to making a difference, an essential trait for future physicians.
Focus on Long-Term Involvement and Growth
Activities that demonstrate sustained commitment and personal growth are highly valued. Prioritize those that span a significant period, where you gained new skills, earned promotions, or took on increased responsibilities. These experiences show your ability to commit and evolve, which is crucial for a successful medical career. Consider including activities where you played a long-term role in research, led a team, or made a lasting impact through community service.
Link Activities to Your Aspiring Medical Career
If possible, choose activities that connect with your aspirations as a future doctor. For example, if you aim to specialize in pediatrics, highlight your work with children. If you’re interested in medical research, discuss your research projects and their outcomes. By linking your “Most Significant” activities to your future career goals, you demonstrate a clear vision and purpose, qualities that medical schools seek in applicants.
Fill in the Gaps
Think of your application as a series of buckets to fill: science/research, service, your “origin story” explaining “why medicine?”, leadership, and clinical experiences. Your personal statement should not cover all five; it should focus on one key aspect. Use your “Most Significant” activities to fill in the gaps. If your personal statement primarily discusses your origin story, use this section to highlight your leadership or research experiences. This approach ensures a well-rounded application that captures various facets of your journey.
Tell a Compelling Story
With an additional 1,325 characters, you have the opportunity to share a compelling story about each “Most Significant” activity. Think about moments that had a profound impact on you or others, challenges you overcame, or lessons you learned. Craft a narrative that captures the essence of the experience and its relevance to your medical journey. By telling a captivating story, you engage the admissions committee and leave a lasting impression.
Selecting your “Most Significant” activities for the Work & Activities section of your AMCAS application is a strategic process. Focus on experiences that complement your personal statement, demonstrate leadership, service, and social justice, and showcase long-term involvement and growth. By linking these activities to your future aspirations in medicine and filling in the gaps, you’ll create a compelling narrative that reflects your readiness for medical school and beyond.
For more help with your personal statement, check us out at Gurufi.com. Our personal statement editors and consultants have decades of experience helping clients get into top medical schools. Our specialty is helping you craft compelling personal statements that move the needle in your admissions process! For questions, shoot us an email at service@gurufi.com. Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
