example of a good personal statement for graduate school

Graduate school personal statements: Examples and tips for success

Step-by-step guide to crafting a strong personal statement.

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A personal statement, admissions essay or statement of purpose is a written essay that applicants submit when applying to college or graduate school .

Your personal statement is a key part of an application and can help determine whether you get an interview. It's an opportunity to introduce yourself to the selection committee and demonstrate your strengths, values and potential to contribute to the academic community.

In your personal statement you should include:

Opening paragraph : Draw in your reader
Academic background : What you studied, your GPA, any relevant coursework or research
Professional experience : Work, internships or volunteer work related to the field
Motivation for pursuing graduate studie s: Why you want to pursue this specific program and what drives you
Reasons for applying to this particular school/program : What stands out about the program and how does it align with your goals?
Career goals : What you hope to achieve with this degree
Closing paragraph : Pull it all together and share any final thoughts.

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Personal statement examples.

Below are a few personal statement examples for graduate school, each tailored to different fields and specific grad programs. These sample outlines will give you a general idea of structure and tone, but be sure to customize them .

Personal statement example for psychology graduate school

Opening : Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the way people think, feel and behave. My curiosity about human behavior led me to major in psychology during my undergraduate years, and over time, this fascination evolved into a commitment to understanding the underlying mechanisms that drive mental health conditions. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I am eager to contribute to the growing body of research on cognitive-behavioral therapies, and I believe your program at [university] is the ideal environment for me to deepen my expertise in clinical psychology.

Academic background : During my undergraduate studies at [undergrad school], I pursued coursework that ranged from abnormal psychology to research methods, each of which expanded my understanding of the intricacies of the human mind. I took particular interest in cognitive development and later worked on a research project investigating the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on adolescents with anxiety disorders. My senior thesis, which focused on how early childhood trauma influences emotional regulation in adulthood, received recognition at the university’s annual psychology symposium.

Research and experience : In addition to my coursework, I gained hands-on experience in a clinical setting, working as a research assistant under [researcher] in a lab focused on the neurological underpinnings of PTSD. My responsibilities included data collection, statistical analysis, and co-authoring a paper on the neural activity involved in trauma-related memory recall, which was later submitted for publication. This experience not only honed my technical research skills but also reinforced my passion for studying the intersection of mental health and neuroscience.

Why this program : The unique opportunity to work with [faculty member] at [university] is one of the key reasons I am drawn to your program. [Name]'s research on the efficacy of cognitive interventions in treating PTSD aligns perfectly with my own interests, and I am eager to contribute to ongoing projects while pursuing my own research in the area of trauma-informed therapy. Additionally, your program’s emphasis on integrating evidence-based practice with clinical training is exactly what I’m looking for as I seek to bridge the gap between research and real-world clinical applications.

Career goals : My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of more effective, accessible mental health treatments, particularly for individuals with trauma-related disorders. I envision myself working in a clinical research setting, where I can continue to study the effectiveness of various psychotherapies, contribute to clinical trials, and ultimately use research findings to guide therapeutic practices that improve the quality of life for people affected by trauma. [University]’s commitment to both rigorous academic training and applied clinical practice makes it the ideal place for me to achieve these goals.

Closing : The opportunity to join [university] would be both a privilege and a challenge, and I am confident that my academic background, research experience and passion for psychology will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the program. I look forward to the possibility of working with esteemed faculty and fellow graduate students who share my commitment to advancing the field of mental health research.

Personal statement example for MBA applications

Opening : I am excited to apply for the MBA program at [university] because I believe it will provide the knowledge, skills and network necessary to fulfill my long-term career aspirations of becoming a transformative leader in [industry/field]. My passion for business, coupled with my background in [your background: e.g., engineering, finance, marketing], has driven me to pursue an MBA to deepen my understanding of strategic decision-making, management and entrepreneurship.

Professional experience : Over the past [X] years, I have gained hands-on experience at [company], where I have contributed to [key projects, achievements or responsibilities]. In my role as [your current position], I have developed expertise in [relevant skills: project management, financial analysis, data-driven decision-making] and have worked with cross-functional teams to [describe key outcomes or contributions]. For instance, I led a team that [specific accomplishment], resulting in [impact: increased revenue, improved operational efficiency, cost savings]. This experience has deepened my understanding of the complexities of business and sharpened my problem-solving abilities.

Why MBA : While I have gained valuable practical experience, I recognize that an MBA will provide the strategic framework and leadership tools required to make more impactful, long-term decisions. I am eager to strengthen my understanding of topics like [finance, marketing, strategy, leadership, operations] and learn from esteemed professors and diverse classmates. The interdisciplinary approach of [university]'s MBA program, with its focus on [key aspects of program: innovation, sustainability, global business], resonates with my career goals and values. I also look forward to the opportunity to engage with the school’s vibrant alumni network and learn from the experiences of business leaders who have navigated similar challenges.

Career goals : Upon completing my MBA, I aim to transition into a leadership role at [company or organization] where I can leverage my skills to drive business growth and innovation. My long-term goal is to [specific career aspiration: manage a business unit, start my own company, lead sustainability initiatives in a multinational corporation]. I am particularly interested in how businesses can balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility, and I hope to be part of a movement that redefines success in business.

Why this program : The reputation of [university]'s MBA program for academic excellence, leadership development, and global perspective is what initially drew me to apply. I am particularly excited about the [specific program element: global immersion programs, consulting labs, entrepreneurial ecosystem] and how it will enable me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world business challenges. I believe that the collaborative, forward-thinking environment at [university] will foster my growth as a leader and allow me to contribute meaningfully to the community.

Closing : In conclusion, I am confident that the MBA program at [university] will equip me with the tools I need to achieve my career aspirations. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the diversity of thought and experience in the classroom while learning from faculty and peers who share my passion for business leadership. I am committed to leveraging my skills, experiences, and perspectives to make a positive impact in the business world, and I am excited to take this next step in my professional journey.

Personal statement example for Master of Engineering program

Opening : From a young age, I have always been fascinated by how things work — whether it was taking apart my computer to troubleshoot issues or participating in robotics competitions in high school. This natural curiosity evolved into a passion for mechanical engineering during my undergraduate studies at [undergrad school], where I excelled in courses such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and system design. With a desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable technology, I am eager to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at [university], where I believe I can acquire the advanced skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Academic background : During my time at [undergraduate school], I earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering, graduating with honors. My coursework allowed me to develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanical design, materials science, and energy systems. One of the most impactful experiences during my undergraduate years was my senior project, which involved designing a low-energy heating system for a small-scale residential building. I worked closely with a team to create a prototype and conducted simulations to test the system's efficiency. This hands-on project taught me how to apply theoretical principles to real-world challenges and further fueled my passion for sustainable engineering solutions.

Professional experience : After graduation, I joined [company], a leading firm in renewable energy systems, where I contributed to the design and optimization of solar panel arrays for commercial properties. My role included conducting energy yield assessments, performing structural analysis, and collaborating with engineers to improve the efficiency of our installations. I also gained experience working with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SolidWorks. My work on optimizing solar panel designs led to a 15% increase in energy efficiency for one of our client projects, which reinforced my interest in advancing renewable energy technologies.

Why this program : The Master’s in Mechanical Engineering program at [university] stands out to me because of its strong emphasis on sustainable energy systems and its cutting-edge research in the areas of thermal energy and energy storage. In particular, the work being done by [faculty member] on advanced thermodynamics and energy-efficient technologies aligns closely with my career aspirations. I am eager to collaborate with [name] and other faculty members to deepen my understanding of energy systems and contribute to projects that have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of industrial applications.

Career goals : Ultimately, my goal is to develop and implement innovative engineering solutions that promote environmental sustainability while meeting global energy demands. I aspire to work at the forefront of renewable energy technology, designing systems that optimize energy efficiency for large-scale industrial applications. I am confident that the master’s program at [university] will equip me with the tools and knowledge to achieve these goals and make a lasting impact on the field of sustainable engineering.

Closing : The opportunity to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at [university] is an exciting step toward achieving my professional goals. With my background in mechanical design, my passion for sustainability, and my professional experience in the renewable energy sector, I am eager to contribute to your program and grow as an engineer. I look forward to the challenge of advancing my expertise and making meaningful contributions to the field.

Personal statement example for Public Health MPH program

Opening : My passion for public health was sparked during a volunteer trip to [country], where I worked alongside local health officials to improve sanitation and nutrition in rural communities. Witnessing firsthand the challenges that underserved populations face in accessing basic healthcare motivated me to pursue a career in public health. With a background in biology and a deep commitment to improving health equity, I am eager to advance my education in public health at [university] and contribute to global efforts in disease prevention, health education and health policy reform.

Academic background : I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from [undergraduate school], where I developed a strong foundation in the life sciences, including microbiology, epidemiology and biostatistics. During my coursework, I became particularly interested in the social determinants of health, which led me to take an independent study course in global health. My academic experience also included internships with local health organizations, where I assisted in health surveys and data collection efforts to identify risk factors in vulnerable populations.

Professional experience : After graduation, I joined [organization], a nonprofit dedicated to improving maternal health in underserved communities. As a program coordinator, I worked on a project aimed at increasing awareness of prenatal care and reducing maternal mortality rates through educational workshops and access to healthcare resources. My responsibilities included developing educational materials, conducting needs assessments, and evaluating program outcomes. This experience highlighted the importance of health policy and community-based interventions, and reinforced my desire to pursue an MPH to develop more effective public health strategies.

Why this program : I am particularly drawn to the MPH program at [university] because of its interdisciplinary approach to public health and its focus on global health, health policy and epidemiology. I am excited about the opportunity to work with [faculty member] and other faculty members whose research on maternal and child health aligns with my interests. The program’s emphasis on practical experience through field placements and internships is another reason why I believe it is the ideal fit for my career goals.

Career goals : My long-term goal is to work with international health organizations to design and implement public health programs that reduce health disparities, particularly in low-income countries. I aim to specialize in global health policy, focusing on how policy reform can improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities. I believe the MPH program at [university] will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to make a tangible impact on global public health.

Closing : The opportunity to study public health at [university] is one I approach with enthusiasm and dedication. I am eager to contribute to the program’s community of scholars and practitioners while gaining the expertise necessary to drive meaningful change in global health. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, peers and community partners to create lasting health improvements around the world.

In conclusion

These are just a few examples of different personal statements, and each is tailored to the specific field and career goals of the applicant. Be sure to personalize your statement to your field of interest, experiences and goals to make it more specific and compelling.

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Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School: Good, Bad, & Everything In Between

Your personal statement should demonstrate that you have thought deeply about why you are making the decision to go to grad school and that you are an excellent fit for your target school. Sound a little challenging? Don’t worry, these personal statement examples will break down the strategy of writing a strong graduate school application.

Comparing Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

Below I will share two examples of personal statements. The first has a strong writing approach, but the second lacks clarity and may cause confusion for its reader. Then I will describe the strengths and weaknesses of each example.

Introduction Paragraph Examples:

Ex. 1-Strong) The ocean is as fundamental to our lives as any other ecological habitat, so why don’t we have systems in place to treat it that way? Growing up in Monterey, California I was first introduced to marine biology through my advanced placement biology class. While in community college I helped form a student-led monthly beach clean-up team. This rewarding experience led me to pursue an undergraduate degree in Biology with an emphasis in ocean preservation. My passion for developing innovative and culturally informed approaches to marine preservation on a global scale have led me to pursue a doctorate in the field of marine biology. My desired research focus will explore solutions to the impacts of micro plastics in our ocean.

Ex. 2-Weak) Yea sure, the ocean is in a devastated condition, but what are we going to do about it? Well, with my degree in bio I plan to get a PhD in marine biology to help figure out how to address micro plastics in our ocean. I know so much already, and I just know that with a PhD I will be able to contribute on a greater scale. I know the PhD is a lot of work, but I am pretty sure I will be able to complete the program and have a great time doing so. I have always wanted to live in Santa Barbara, and that is definitely a part of my decision to apply to your program.

Diving Deeper Into Personal Statement Introductions

So, let’s discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the example introductions above!

Introduction Paragraph “Strong” Example:

Throughout the paragraph the applicant demonstrates that they have been involved with marine biology since high school. This is important because it demonstrates their commitment to the field early on in the essay.

Introduction Paragraph “Weak” Example:

The applicant mentions a desire to live in Santa Barbara. While it may be true, it is not a strong enough reason to pursue a PhD and signals to the admissions committee that you may be pursuing the program for the wrong reasons. Keep details like this out of your personal statement and focus on reasons for applying that are academically motivated.

Conclusion Paragraph Examples:

Ex. 1-Strong) As a first generation college student, and an English language learner, my journey to receive my bachelors of science in marine biology has been tough. Along the way I have developed leadership skills, research and lab experience, as well as a refined passion for the work that marine biologists are able to do when informed by the local community members. I desire to continue my studies with an emphasis on ocean preservation research through the innovative and unique PhD program offered at UC Santa Barbara. It would be an honor to work with Dr. Jonas Mendoza and Dr. Raquel Pacheco, two professors whose work aligns with my research interests and who have been welcoming and encouraging through our email correspondence. While my research goals are ambitious, I am confident that your program offers the resources and mentorship required for a unified effort to resolve the impact that microplastics have on not only human life, but all marine animals and ecosystems.

Ex2. -Weak) I think it’s a miracle that I even completed my B.S degree! That’s how I know that with the funding and laid back atmosphere at UC Santa Barbara I can definitely complete the PhD. I’m not so interested in the teaching part, or the amount of course work I would be required to take, but I just know that once I get out there and get into the water, it will all be worth it. My research experience is competitive and top-notch, I am a great person to work with and easily make friends. I am hopeful to hear back and excited for the next steps! Thanks for reading this far.

Conclusion Paragraph “Strong” Example

The applicant concludes by mentioning the importance of a “unified effort” for their research goals. This goes a long way to demonstrate that they understand how important collaborative effort is. This helps make an applicant more attractive in the eyes of an admissions committee that must also consider the work ethic of all applicants.

Conclusion Paragraph “Weak” Example:

The applicant describes their research experience as “competitive and top-notch”. Even if you have the most impressive CV, focus instead on listing what you have done, with who and what the outcomes were. Let the admissions committee decide how they interpret it.

Putting it all Together: Successful SOP Examples

Here are two SOPs from graduate students who are embarking on distinct academic adventures. Their stories are annotated with expert feedback from our seasoned admissions consultant.

Statement of Purpose #1: First, this SOP for SUNY Buffalo explores finance, showcasing a passion for financial markets and their global impact. It recounts overcoming challenges and making innovative contributions to financial econometrics, highlighting resilience and curiosity. Our experts spotlight its strengths, including a strong narrative and detailed examples, and suggest areas for refinement to enhance clarity and impact.

example of a good personal statement for graduate school

Statement of Purpose #2: Secondly, this statement of purpose for Tufts explores international affairs, showing a dedication to ethical global development and security. It traces the applicant’s journey from a pivotal experience in Nicaragua to a dedicated career in development and security. Our experts emphasize the engaging storytelling and focused narrative, recommending adjustments for consistency and depth to boost its persuasive impact.

So, what makes a good personal statement?

Your personal statement is one of many that an admissions committee will read, all to identify the strongest applicants. Remember, the committee members haven’t met you yet. They rely solely on your application materials to form their first impression. Leaving out crucial details is not an option.

Many students find it hard to talk about themselves, often worrying it might seem like bragging. But overcoming that discomfort is essential. Think of your personal statement as your first chance to introduce yourself to the committee. Make it count by addressing the following key points:

Who are you?

While your personal statement should personalize and humanize you as an applicant, remember that you’re more than just your GPA and transcripts. Admissions committees know this. However, every detail you include must work towards crafting a profile that appeals to the committee.

Are you a good fit?

What makes you prepared for the program? When discussing your academic background, be specific about what has prepared you for this program. Don’t miss the chance to showcase what sets you apart from other applicants by highlighting your years of hard work.

Demonstrating your fit can be challenging, especially if you’re changing careers or pursuing a new field. However, if you qualify to apply, ensure your writing clearly connects your current experience to your goals within the program. Don’t assume the committee will understand how your work relates—spell out every connection and detail for them.

Demonstrate that you understand appropriate and professional boundaries:

One of the most common questions my undergraduate students ask when applying to graduate school is, “How much personal information should I include in my application?” The answer: only as much as you’re comfortable sharing and only information that intentionally shapes the profile of an ideal candidate.

I advise against taking risks by including jokes, controversial opinions not already addressed by the program, or references that might cause confusion or be off-putting. Keep your focus on crafting a strong, professional profile.

What do you intend to accomplish/contribute to the field?

The admissions committee wants to know: if you’re admitted to the program, then what? Be clear about your goals and don’t shy away from specifics. What’s your “end goal”? If you know it, include it in your essay. If you’re still figuring it out, describe what you’re working towards more broadly.

However, avoid language that suggests uncertainty about whether graduate school is right for you. Always write with confidence, showing that you’re sure of your decision, even if you’re still considering your options for after graduation.

Admissions committees have been through graduate school themselves. They know it’s not a choice made just because “you don’t know what else to do.” Show that you’re ready for the commitment and hard work by clearly explaining why you’ve decided that graduate school is the best option for you right now. Highlight how your current and past experiences align with your intentions if admitted into the program.

A strong personal statement will address all these questions while respecting appropriate boundaries. Ultimately, it will show the committee that you are prepared for the program, likely to succeed if admitted, and deeply committed to a career where the training and degree you’ll receive are crucial to your future goals.

The importance of a clear narrative:

A clear narrative helps the admissions committee easily extract the necessary information about you. Remember, you’re one applicant among many. Don’t assume your reader will understand the significance of any detail or context unless you provide it. Keep these tips in mind when writing:

Do not overestimate the importance of proofreading! Read your essays out loud and record the audio while doing it. Does it flow? Does it answer every question provided in the prompt (if provided one)? I recommend finding at least one person who is in graduate school and preferably within your field to read your essay.

Summary and Tips

The personal statement is usually just 1-2 pages. With a document this short and with so much importance towards your chances of admission, every word matters! Consider these takeaways and do your research at every stage of the writing process.

Before you start writing, gather all the information you’ll need. Pull details from this blog post, the program’s official website, and any correspondence with professors or graduate students at each program you’re applying to. Create a document listing every experience and detail you want to include. Use this as a reference while writing to ensure you cover every important point.

Don’t skip this step! Reach out to current graduate students or a writing service for feedback. Double-check your work for any language that’s too casual or might be off-putting or concerning to those reviewing your application.

Remember, admissions committees are made up of real people who read countless applications. Do your best to stand out by highlighting what truly sets you apart and the skills you’ve developed that are relevant to the program. Once you have your first draft, refine your language to be both professional and captivating. Don’t forget to add a little flair!

Getting More Help

The graduate application process is a stressful one and can seem overwhelming if you don’t have the right support. We’re here to help guide you through all steps on your journey to graduate school. Check out our blog for more information and tips on the GRE and graduate admissions . If you haven’t taken your GRE yet, take a free practice test to jumpstart your test prep. Consider a Magoosh Premium Plan to access expert support, real ETS questions, and real application essay examples. We’re here to help!