how do you write a personal statement for drama school

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Being clear about the type of course you're applying for (especially the balance of practice and theory) is key to an impressive personal statement, according to admissions tutors. For more advice, take a look at our guidance on writing your personal statement . And here's how to prepare that all-important audition piece .  

What to include in your drama personal statement

We spoke to Nick Strong, Drama Admissions Selector at Aberystwyth University, to get an insight into what drama tutors are looking for you to demonstrate in a personal statement:

Drama basics:

• Genuine enthusiasm for drama, along with evidence that you've studied or read beyond the curriculum.
• Good analytical and critical skills – with examples of how you've used and developed these in practice.
• Skills gained from your critical and creative experiences, both within and outside your studies, or how you feel you’ve benefited from them.
• How any positions of authority, charity work, employment, hobbies or other relevant activities have benefited your development, or their relationship to drama.
• Your interest in the professional expression of the subject, such as theatre-going or the work of particular directors, actors, designers, film makers or theatre companies.

More about what drives you:

• Ensure your personality comes across in your personal statement – in particular your creativity, enthusiasm, energy or dedication to drama.
• If you can, articulate your career aspirations and how your degree will help you gain the experience, knowledge, and skills to help you prepare for it.
• Professor Anna Furse, Head of Theatre and Performance at Goldsmiths, University of London, advises applicants to be clear about whether they are looking for a course with a practice-theory ethos at an interdisciplinary university like hers, or a more practical course at a conservatoire or drama school. 'It’s fine to apply to both,' she says, 'but simply be aware and don’t write too generically'.
• For her kind of course, she is interested in applicants who are looking for a broader education in the range of creative, technical, and intellectual skills, that will prepare them for a wide range of careers in the performing arts.

Language and structure of your personal statement:

• Your personal statement should flow logically and be as engaging as possible, making the reader want to read on and show you can articulate your ideas in a succinct but interesting way.
• Get the right balance between subject-specific material and outside interests, which Nick Strong suggests should ideally should be 75%/ 25%.
• Check punctuation, grammar, spelling and syntax very carefully, as it may make the critical difference between two otherwise identical applicants.

What to avoid in your drama personal statement

• Overblown quotes: avoid starting your personal statement with a highbrow or pretentious quotation – tutors want to hear what you have to say, in your own words.
• Not expanding on your experience: don't just say 'I am captain of the football team'. Try ‘through being captain of the football team I have gained the following experience…’.
• Humour: a touch of dry wit can sometimes be effective and memorable, but equally, experimenting with jokes in your personal statement can be risky and backfire badly, so judge this with care.
• Giving the impression you haven't researched the course content: that's why Professor Furse at Goldsmiths would advise applicants for her particular course to avoid saying things like 'I simply love to perform and want to be a musical star'. 'It's fine to have a passion to perform', she says, 'but think also about why you want a university degree and tell us about this'.
• Irrelevant experience: as Nick Strong told us, starting with something like ‘I have wanted to be an actor ever since I was third shepherd from the left in a nativity play when I was three’ is a definite no-no. Focus on your most recent and relevant creative experiences.

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Writing the Perfect Drama School Statement

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Crafting an impactful personal statement for drama school can be quite a daunting task. It is disheartening to observe that many applicants often receive inadequate guidance, leading to the creation of lackluster personal biographies rather than compelling statements. In the pursuit of gaining admission, applicants frequently resort to the “pick me, pick me, pick me!” approach, which fails to make a lasting impression. What most schools fail to realize is that they often lack the expertise to guide students on how to write an effective personal statement. Thus, many candidates end up with a subpar submission that does not effectively showcase their true potential and passion for drama. Aspiring students need to recognize the tremendous impact a well-crafted personal statement can have on the admissions panel, and they must strive to make their submission stand out as a powerful testament to their abilities.

THE WEIGHT OF YOUR DRAMA SCHOOL STATEMENT

Undoubtedly, one of the most common misconceptions among auditionees is that the personal statement’s significance pales in comparison to their acting abilities. While it is true that acting prowess holds substantial weight in the evaluation process, discounting the influence of a compelling personal statement would be a grave mistake. The moment an applicant places that sheet of paper before the admissions panel, they essentially offer a glimpse into their personality, aspirations, and potential. Given that this piece of writing can significantly influence the panel’s decision, it is crucial to ensure that the personal statement is nothing short of remarkable. By infusing the statement with authenticity, passion, and confidence, candidates can increase their chances of leaving a lasting impression on the evaluators.

OPPORTUNITY

The task of writing a personal statement is not to be underestimated; it presents an unparalleled opportunity for an applicant to speak for themselves. However, this opportunity comes with great responsibility. As a prospective drama student, one must ponder over the message they wish to convey through their personal statement. The first step in this process is to ask oneself, “What do I want the reader to know, think, feel, and do after reading my statement?” By employing a thoughtful approach that aligns with the know/think/feel/do framework, candidates can strategically plan the content and structure of their personal statement. Articulating specific objectives for the reader’s takeaway ensures that the writing remains focused and impactful.

CREATE A NARRATIVE

Aspiring drama students should also consider a few essential questions to answer in their personal statements to create a well-rounded and compelling narrative. Firstly, why are they applying for a particular acting course at a specific school? If possible, candidates should conduct thorough research on the course and offer specific evidence to support their choice. A vague response such as, “It’s a practical course,” lacks depth and conviction, as every drama school typically offers practical training. Therefore, candidates must delve into the unique aspects of their chosen program and articulate their reasons for pursuing it.

Another critical question to address in the personal statement is the reason behind the applicant’s profound interest in acting and their aspirations for a future career in this field. While it is understandable that many have nurtured dreams of becoming an actor from an early age, it is essential to elucidate what aspects of acting and the profession particularly intrigue them. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the profession and the journey ahead is a powerful way to showcase one’s commitment and passion.

SHED SOME LIGHT

Furthermore, the personal statement should shed light on the candidate’s suitability for the chosen course. This goes beyond simply recounting high school experiences in a musical or theater production. Instead, applicants should focus on identifying and highlighting the specific qualities, skills, and background experiences that make them uniquely suited for the course. Admissions panels are interested in candidates who possess the qualities that align with the demands of a rigorous drama program.

PAST EXPERIENCE

In addition to discussing past experiences, the personal statement should provide insights into how the candidate’s current or past education relates to studying acting. This is an opportunity to demonstrate that the decision to pursue acting is not a spur-of-the-moment one. By illustrating the progression and commitment to acting thus far, applicants can provide a compelling narrative of their journey and showcase their genuine interest in the craft.

SHOW YOUR PASSION

A candidate’s passion and dedication to acting should be evident throughout the personal statement. To emphasize this commitment, applicants can detail the various steps they have taken to demonstrate their interest and devotion to a future in acting. Whether it involves reading plays for pleasure, attending theatre performances, delving into books on acting, or immersing themselves in documentaries related to the performing arts, showcasing their active engagement with the craft can strengthen the statement’s impact.

Finally, an exceptional personal statement should delve into the candidate’s unique personality traits that make them especially suitable for the chosen course. Whether it is maturity, creativity, imagination, resilience, or any other attributes, providing specific examples and anecdotes that highlight these qualities adds depth and authenticity to the statement. By showcasing these personal attributes, applicants can illustrate how they align with the requirements and expectations of a rigorous drama school program.

SELF-MARKETING

As applicants navigate the process of composing their personal statement, they must keep in mind that this piece of writing is, in essence, a marketing tool for themselves. Therefore, honesty, directness, and authenticity are paramount. While it may be tempting to craft a statement that caters to perceived expectations, such an approach often results in generic, wishy-washy content. Instead, the personal statement should reflect the applicant’s true self and provide the admissions panel with an intimate and genuine insight into their character and passion for acting.

In conclusion, crafting an exceptional personal statement for drama school is a multifaceted task that requires careful thought, introspection, and honesty. Aspiring students must seize this opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the admissions panel by showcasing their passion, commitment, and suitability for the chosen course. By addressing critical questions, highlighting relevant experiences, and infusing the statement with authenticity, candidates can create a compelling narrative that sets them apart from other applicants. As they embark on their journey into the world of acting, a well-crafted personal statement can be the key to unlocking the doors to their dreams. For those seeking guidance or coaching throughout the audition process, reaching out for assistance from professionals, such as those at [email protected], can prove invaluable in refining their personal statement and enhancing their chances of success.

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Mark Westbrook

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Creative Drama School Personal Statements to Consider

Table of Contents

Crafting a creative and captivating personal statement for drama school applications doesn’t have to be a difficult task.

It requires thought-provoking language that captures the reader’s attention and conveys your passion for theater. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By considering examples of previous outstanding submissions, you can draw inspiration from those who’ve come before while also exercising your creativity. We have some helpful tips on using dramatic flair to craft original and engaging personal statements for your drama school application.

In addition, we have drama school personal statement examples for you to read through for inspiration.

Simple Tips for Writing an Effective Drama School Personal Statement

Here are some simple tips that can help anyone to write a great drama school personal statement.

Keep It Concise

Writing a great personal statement for drama school does not require lengthy dissertations. Rather, it requires carefully worded paragraphs that convey your passion for the craft and demonstrate your unique talents. Aim to be succinct to grab the reader’s attention quickly and avoid excessive fluff or unrelated information. 

Be Original

Looking at drama school personal statement examples from past applicants can be helpful. However, remember that you must create a unique statement if you want to stand out. Use creative language to paint a vivid picture of yourself and your capabilities. You should do this while still being true to who you are as a person and an artist. 

Showcase Your Best Self

Dramatic flair is important, but don’t use overly-dramatic words or phrases. Stick to showcasing your genuine abilities in a way that will captivate the admissions committee. Highlight any training experiences or awards that you have and emphasize how they have shaped you into the actor you are today. 

Demonstrate Passion

Your statement should display your enthusiasm for theater and explain why this particular program stands out to you above all others. Explain what drew you toward this specific institution. In addition, express why their classes or professors would help hone your skills in ways other schools couldn’t. 

Embrace Adversity

In some cases, sharing stories about moments of difficulty or failure can help bolster your application. These types of stories can demonstrate resilience and growth. Discussing challenges faced in pursuit of success gives insight into the obstacles you have overcome. It allows readers to see the deeper human side of your story. 

Proofread and Edit

Don’t be in a hurry to submit the statement. Proofread and edit the statement to make sure there are no errors. Sometimes, you can ask another person to read through and offer suggestions. The ultimate aim is to make sure the statement is as perfect as possible.

Drama School Personal Statement Examples

If you need drama school personal statement examples , you’ll find a couple of them in this section.

I am excited to apply for admission into your prestigious drama school. I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the art of performing and playing with a subject that’s always been close to my heart. My enthusiasm for this craft has grown since childhood, leading me on an enriching path filled with unyielding ambition and resilience. 

I possess a diverse range of skills in acting, having honed them through countless workshops and courses. From musicals to plays, comedy to tragedy, I am always eager to learn more and expand my repertoire of techniques. Every performance is an opportunity to test myself and refine my strategies. 

My appreciation for theater extends beyond the stage, however. In recent years, I have discovered a burgeoning passion for writing and directing. I find immense fulfillment in constructing stories and characters from scratch, manipulating words and movements like pieces of a puzzle until everything fits together. This interdisciplinary approach provides a unique insight into the creative process, which I’m sure will serve me well at your esteemed institution. 

I pride myself on being able to collaborate effectively with others, evidenced by my work experience both onstage and off. As such, I am confident that I can make meaningful contributions within any production team or setting. Above all else, I am dedicated to making an impact in the world of dramatic arts. It would be an honor to do so in your drama school!

As I have come to understand over the course of my lifetime, theater is a craft that requires dedication and time for mastery. Through my career experience and natural affinity for this art form, I can say that I have amassed considerable skill in performance and production. During my recent decade-long foray into various theatrical roles, I’ve found myself immersed in various avant-garde performances. My experiences have only furthered my enthusiasm for this multifaceted profession. And now, it is time to hone these honed capabilities by furthering my studies at your esteemed drama school. 

I am an experienced veteran in the arena of theater, yet never content with complacency. As such, I embrace a journey of perpetual learning while cultivating an atmosphere of creativity and good faith among cast mates and peers. In addition to demonstrating strong organizational skills, I bring leadership abilities to projects in need. Whether writing scripts or hosting workshops, I seek out ways to propel those around me toward success. 

No challenge has been too daunting for me. I thrive on moving forward within complex situations, even if it involves extensive travel plans and the establishment of new networks. With my passion for collaboration, I have been able to accomplish many feats during my time as an actor thus far. Yet, I know there is still so much more to learn. 

The prospect of studying in a distinguished program like yours puts a sparkle of joy in my eye. A place where excellence and innovation intersects is what I hope to find in the pursuit of knowledge and advancement of my career goals. The theater is ever-evolving, and I feel strongly that investing in my education will give me the tools needed to stay competitive. 

I have a long-standing passion for the performing arts and have had the opportunity to explore many facets of this field. My experience has taught me that theater is an amalgamation of ideas, music, movement, and, most importantly, emotion. It is a way of connecting with others through creative expression. I am eager to pursue a degree in drama at the university to improve my understanding of the craft while broadening my theatrical knowledge. 

This desire has been further stoked by my involvement in various community-based organizations that focus on creating art out of everyday experiences. I have come to think of these activities as channels for self-discovery. They have allowed me to identify and explore novel ways of interpreting life’s tribulations. Through this exposure, I have learned how to project feelings and convey emotions more effectively. 

I am confident that acquiring a formal education will enable me to hone my skills and become well-versed in all elements of theater. For instance, I plan to take classes in costume design, musical performance, scriptwriting, improvisation techniques and stage direction. Each of these could help shape my thinking around the nuances involved in becoming a professional performer. In turn, I believe such courses would empower me with the confidence needed to think critically about any artistic challenge that comes my way. 

My ultimate ambition is to demonstrate my growth as an individual while making meaningful contributions to the theater community. With this goal in mind, I’m certain that furthering my studies at your esteemed institution would help me reach new heights in my career.

A personal statement is an essential statement of intent and is, thus, something that must be written with care. No matter what school you are applying to, students must write strong, bold, and catchy applications if they want to stand out. If you can follow the tips in this article, you can easily write a personal statement that stands out.

For those that want to write their personal statements faster, you should consider using the new Hey INK tool . This tool can write different types of content for you in a split second. You only need to enter your instructions or prompts for the tool to create amazing outputs like the examples above.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Undergraduate Personal Statement Example: Drama and Theatre Studies

Reading examples of personal statements can be valuable when applying to a university or college course. 

After all, personal statement examples can teach you how to write and structure your application, and you can quickly learn how to write a personal statement by examining others.

But with so many university personal statement examples available, how do you know if you’re reading a good one?

Undergraduate personal statements should highlight relevant academic and practical experience, academic skills, ambitions and suitability for the degree field. This undergraduate personal statement example for Drama and Theatre Studies clearly illustrates these three critical elements.

Undergraduate degree personal statement examples are sometimes referred to as personal mission statements or statements of purpose , so if you’re tasked with writing a personal mission statement, the following example will work for you.

I’ve broken down this personal statement example section by section, with a commentary on each element. 

That way, you’ll see its strengths and weaknesses and get some inspiration for your own personal statement .

Once you’ve read the personal statement example and analysis, you can download a pdf of the whole document to use as inspiration for your own!

Personal Statement Example: Introduction

“Performance holds a mirror up to the world and asks questions that we may be too scared to ask individually. It will always be integral to society, and part of that power comes from the force of the ensemble. Studying drama has made me observe life through a different lens and harness the vital tool of the imagination. My secondary school had a theatre in the round with lighting rigs and the opportunity to create varied set designs with a devoted staff team. It was here that I learnt so much of what I know and where my inspired appreciation for performing arts became something I never wanted to stop doing.”

My Commentary and Analysis 

There are lots of different elements present in the first couple of sentences of this undergraduate personal statement example. The writer quite succinctly offers their own definition of drama and links this to an element of the subject inherent in most degree courses.

They go on to give a sense of their personal connection with the subject and then reference some quite generalised experiences. This allows them to sow the seeds of their long-term engagement and reiterate their commitment to the subject.

However, I would suggest that this is a relatively vague opening. There are very few specifics of terminology or experience, and this would have been an excellent opportunity to connect their views with an artist or practitioner they admired. This would have shown a bit more depth of knowledge and engagement.

The term ‘much of what I know’ is also quite vague. The writer could have identified some practical skills or techniques and discussed the value of what they’ve learned.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that Drama and Theatre Studies is largely a practical and experiential subject. Any personal statement should make some reference to the writer’s acting skills, as this is a key indicator of suitability for most courses.

If you’re struggling with your personal statement introduction, check out my article on how to write perfect opening paragraphs here .

Personal Statement Example: Section 2

“I learnt how to balance a full schedule through participating in extracurricular opportunities. Directing a play at fourteen exposed the complexities of preproduction roles and how an impact is achieved through different mediums. Around the same age, I began duo Vanguard acting lessons, where I was first introduced to the idea of exploring characters and how to portray them. I later progressed onto solo LAMDA examinations, achieving grade 8 with honours. I was beginning to learn the practice of ensemble work, and joining the local theatre youth group allowed me to expand my horizons beyond the curriculum. This bought to light the uniting force of theatre, a safe space for everybody which nurtures growth in creative spirit and confidence.

In year two of BTEC performing arts, with a cast of five, I curated an immersive Oedipus adaptation that propelled the audience into ancient Greece. This was a tumultuous project, where a new challenge seemed to arise after the last was solved. I poured an abundance of energy and care into the process, and it’s my proudest performance. This collaborative process was special to be part of, and I harnessed the skills I learnt for film projects on Art and Design Foundation. Acting in seven student films in spring familiarised me with on-set practices, and I often offered direction or design ideas. Used to working with a variety of people, I quickly improvised and built dynamics with cast members on the day of production. I have since been asked back to act in more recent projects.”

My Commentary and Analysis

The writer has done a good job of summarising their experience within the subject. Showing a range of experiences within directing, acting and studying show a breadth of engagement over time, which is another strong indicator of their suitability.

It would have been even more effective if the writer had outlined the value of these experiences in relation to their ambitions for a degree. They could also have used these elements to outline how suitable they were for a degree course by making links between their skills and typical course demands.

Referring to their BTEC course makes it clear that the candidate has a good range of experience at a higher level. Again, however, there is no real indication of the skills the writer used. Devising, editing, improvisation, directing, design? Which practitioners were used as inspiration? What academic research was carried out in the project, and why is this useful in relation to a degree?

The reader won’t really be very interested in whether it’s the writer’s proudest performance, and in an undergraduate personal statement, which is limited to a low number of characters, this is a bit of a waste of space. They want to know how it has inspired the writer or given them skills that will allow them to be successful in relation to the courses they’re applying for. 

A good way for the writer to communicate this is to write about how they overcame the challenges they mentioned.

If you’d like to learn more about how to structure your personal statement or statement of purpose , check out my awesome Personal Statement Template eBook here . It’s full of detailed examples of what to include!

Personal Statement Example: Section 3

“I explored the breadth of my creativity on the foundation but focused on photography, film, and textiles. In film classes, I learned more about production by trying out directing, scriptwriting, and cinematography. I frequently discussed TV and film analysis with an interest in the symbolism of cinematography. The creative environment changed my perception of artistry. I now use art as personal documentation, amongst other things, such as the sketchbook I took interrailing in summer, and beginning to create my own clothes. Another form of self-care I indulge in is yoga, where diligence and consistency in practice are vital.”

It’s always sensible to reference related aspects of your previous courses of study, but only if they are relevant. Here, the courses taken are largely relevant to a Drama and Theatre Studies degree, but the outcomes don’t particularly develop the reader’s understanding of the writer’s suitability for the course.

Many of the elements referenced are valuable components of an actor’s preparation, but I don’t see significant justifications made between these and how they make the writer a suitable candidate.

There is little tangible sense of what’s been learned or its value.

References to self-care are welcomed, and certainly, the yoga practice speaks to the writer’s level of physical fitness and stamina, but it is all quite vague and undeveloped.

This is beginning to drift from a personal statement about Drama to a general description of accomplishments, preferences and experiences. Given the highly competitive field, it’s unlikely that the content so far would result in an offer being made, although the practical audition process is critical in this discipline.

Check out lots more examples of personal statements here , and see how they can inspire your application!

Personal Statement Example: Section 4

“Now taking a year out, I am a full-time waitress and planning my route for solo travelling around Asia. Taking three essay subjects at A-level developed my critical analysis skills and written voice. In English Language, I thoroughly enjoyed cross-examining articles from different decades for an independent research project. Amongst other topics in Classics, I studied the origins of theatre from religious practice to the earliest examples of tragedy in the late 5 th century. I am an avid reader and have continued to learn through books such as Stanislavksy’s An Actor Prepares , Stephen Fry’s Mythos and Bill Bryson’s Mother Tongue.”

My Commentary and Analysis: 

There is some reference here to the value of related studies, as mention is made of transferable skills. In that sense, the content has a degree of merit. Gap year plans are only worth including if they have a direct and positive bearing on the courses being applied for. 

What the reader really wants to understand about a gap year is how that time will be spent building skills, knowledge or contacts that will increase the applicant’s chances of successfully completing the degree courses (and hopefully adding value to the experiences of their peers).

There’s mention here of undertaking a research project, but no clarity on which skills or techniques were used, which lessens the impact. 

Published works are referenced, which is positive, but no arguments are made, and there’s no discussion of the contents. Nothing here is developed, and there’s no evidence that the writer has actually read the books. 

If you mention having read books, don’t just write a list. Pick a couple and explain their impact on you, how your thinking has been altered or how valuable you find the knowledge they contain. 

The one thing that all successful personal statements have in common is that they are concise, engaging and accurate in spelling, punctuation and grammar. Consequently, I always recommend Grammarly to my students and clients. 

It’s an outstanding tool for ensuring your personal statement is rich with detail whilst hitting those all-important word limits. Check out the free version of Grammarly here , or hit the banner for more information.

Personal Statement Example: Conclusion

“Through academic learning and practical development, I have built a strong foundation of knowledge about the Performing Arts industry. In this industry, one never stops learning. Every individual you meet or place you go to is an opportunity for a fresh perspective. Immersion in performance studies would help me realise how I can bring my varied skills into what I offer as an artist. The next stepping stone towards my career is a multidisciplinary course allowing me to explore pathways whilst sharpening my academic and performance skills.”

The writer uses some relevant vocabulary here, summarising the importance of the course to their ambitions. This is a sound idea, but quite limited in detail.

What are the writer’s actual ambitions beyond the course? How will the course be ideal for bridging the gap to a creative career? What kind of areas might the writer want to work in, and how might some of the general modules of the courses be of value?

In summary, I feel there needs to be a far stronger focus on the writer’s acting work, the precise skills developed and exactly how these will be of value on the course. For a Drama application, there’s not much actual evidence of engagement or an understanding of the industry or the creative sector as a whole.

For more great advice, check out my article on writing an excellent final personal statement paragraph here .

Click here or on the banner below to get your free download of this complete personal statement example . 

Whether you’re looking for personal mission statement examples or an example of personal purpose statement, I hope this personal statement example has been helpful. Above all, I wish you every success in your academic career. 

If you’d like to work with me to develop your personal statement 1:1 and write a powerful mission statement, I’d be delighted to hear from you. 

Find out about my personal statement support services by clicking here or on the image below.

Research and content verified by Personal Statement Planet .

David Hallen

I've worked in the Further Education and University Admissions sector for nearly 20 years as a teacher, department head, Head of Sixth Form, UCAS Admissions Advisor, UK Centre Lead and freelance personal statement advisor, editor and writer. And now I'm here for you...

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Drama Personal Statement Examples

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Ever been moved by the magic of the theatre and the transformative power of performance? Fascinated by the opportunity to bring characters to life and tell compelling stories through drama?

If so, a degree in Drama could be your perfect pathway. This vibrant field will immerse you in the art of dramatic storytelling, helping you hone your performance skills and understand the cultural and social significance of theatre.

Drama is an interesting and relevant choice for students because it provides them with the opportunity to explore their creative potential, develop communication skills, and gain insight into the human experience. Through the study of drama, students can learn how to express themselves through movement, dialogue, and character development.

They can also gain an understanding of how theatre works, and how to use it to tell stories and engage audiences. Additionally, drama can help students develop their critical thinking skills, as they analyze and interpret plays, characters, and stories.

Finally, drama can help students better understand the complexities of human relationships, and how to effectively communicate with others. All of these skills are essential for success in any field, making drama an important and relevant choice for students.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in drama can open up a variety of career opportunities. Depending on the individual’s interests, they may pursue a career in the performing arts, such as acting, directing, or producing. They may also find work in the film and television industry, as a scriptwriter, editor, or production assistant.

In addition, a degree in drama can be used to pursue a career in education. Drama teachers are in high demand in both public and private schools, and many universities offer drama courses.

Those with a degree in drama can also pursue a career in the music industry, as a music director, choreographer, or sound engineer.

Finally, those with a degree in drama may find work in the corporate world, as a public speaker, corporate trainer, or event planner. They may also find work in the marketing and advertising industry, as a copywriter or creative director.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to get accepted into the university course drama, applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English Language and Maths. Additionally, applicants must have a minimum of two A-Levels in related subjects, such as English, Drama, Theatre Studies or Music. Other qualifications, such as BTECs, may also be considered.

The entry criteria for this course is quite similar to other courses in the same field, such as Theatre Studies or Music. The main difference is that applicants for the university course drama must have a minimum of two A-Levels in related subjects, whereas applicants for other courses may only need one A-Level .

UK Earnings Potential For Drama

The average earnings for someone with a degree in Drama can vary greatly depending on the individual’s career path. Those in the performing arts, such as actors, dancers, and singers, typically have lower salaries than those in technical or administrative roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for actors was $20.21 per hour in 2019. The median annual wage for directors and producers was $71,680 in 2019.

In terms of trends, the job market for those with a degree in drama is expected to grow in the coming years. According to the BLS, employment of actors is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, while employment of directors and producers is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses in the UK include Drama and Performance, Theatre and Performance Studies, and Creative Writing.

Drama and Performance focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of theatre and performance, while Theatre and Performance Studies focuses more on the history and analysis of performance. Creative Writing is more focused on the craft of writing, rather than the performance of it.

All three courses involve elements of creative expression, but the main difference between them is the emphasis of the course. Drama and Performance places more emphasis on the practical elements of theatre and performance, while Theatre and Performance Studies focuses more on the academic aspect of the subject. Creative Writing focuses on the craft of writing, rather than the performance of it.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a university course in drama typically include:

• Theatre History and Theory: Students learn about the history of theatre, from its origins to the present day, and explore the theoretical foundations of theatre and drama.
• Acting: Students learn the fundamentals of acting, such as improvisation, character development, and scene work.
• Directing: Students explore the role of the director in theatre, from casting and staging to blocking and rehearsal.
• Playwriting: Students learn the fundamentals of playwriting, from structure and form to dialogue and character development.
• Design: Students explore the various design elements of theatre, such as lighting, sound, and set design.
• Performance: Students have the opportunity to take part in a range of performance activities, including student-directed plays, improvisation, and scripted readings.
• Research and Analysis: Students learn how to research and analyze plays, as well as how to critically evaluate theatre and drama.

Practical experience is an integral part of any university course in drama. Students have the opportunity to take part in a range of hands-on activities, such as rehearsals, performances, and workshops. These activities allow students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice and gain valuable experience in the field.

Alumni Network

One notable alumnus from the university course drama is Academy Award-winning actor and director, Tom Hanks. Tom Hanks graduated from the university in 1974, and has since gone on to become one of the most successful and beloved actors in Hollywood. He has starred in numerous iconic films such as Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, and Cast Away. He has also directed several films, including That Thing You Do! and Larry Crowne.

The university offers several alumni events and networking opportunities for drama alumni. Alumni can attend the annual Drama Alumni Reunion, which is a social gathering for alumni to reconnect and reminisce about their time in the program. Additionally, the university hosts an annual Alumni Networking Night, where alumni can meet and network with other alumni and faculty in the drama department.

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By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 18 August 2023 | 22 min read

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Stand out from the crowd: here's how to write a good personal statement that will get you noticed

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Your personal statement forms a core part of your university application, and the sooner you get going, the better you can make it. You may think that your personal statement won’t matter as much to unis as your grades and experience but a great personal statement could make all the difference between you and a candidate with the same grades. Sure, your application might not reach that deal breaker stage. But is it something you want to leave to chance?  Here we’ll take you through the process of planning, writing and checking a good personal statement, so you end up with something you can submit with confidence. And to make sure the advice we're giving you is sound, we’ve spoken to admissions staff at loads of UK universities to get their view. Look out for video interviews and advice on applying for specific subjects throughout this piece or watch our personal statement playlist on YouTube .

• Are you looking for personal statement examples? Check our library of hundreds of real personal statements, on The Student Room

Personal statement deadlines

You'll need to make sure you've got your personal statement written well in advance of your application deadline. Below are the main university application deadline dates for 2024 entry.

2024 entry deadlines

16 October 2023: Deadline for applications to Oxford and Cambridge universities, along with most medicine, dentistry, and veterinary courses.   31 January 2024: Deadline for applications to the majority of undergraduate courses. After this date, universities will start allocating places on these courses –   but you can still apply after the 31 January deadline , as this article explains . 30 June 2024:  Students who apply after this date will be entered into Clearing .

• Read more: Ucas deadlines and key application dates

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a central part of your Ucas application, where you explain why you’ve chosen a particular course and why you’ll be good at it. It's your chance to stand out against other candidates and hopefully get that all-important offer. You only write one personal statement which is then read by each university you apply to, so if you are applying for more than one subject (or it's a combined course) it's crucial that you include common themes or reference the overall skills needed for all subjects. Personal statements are especially important if you’re trying to get on a very competitive course, where you need to do anything you can to stand out to admissions tutors. Courteney Sheppard, senior customer experience manager at Ucas, advises that your personal statement is "the only part of the application that you have direct control over. Do lots of research to demonstrate your passion, curiosity and drive to pursue your chosen subject." There’s a limit on how much you can write: your personal statement can be up to 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines of 95 characters (including spaces); whichever is shorter. This may appear generous (read: long) but once you've got going you may find yourself having to edit heavily.

• Read more: teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

1. Plan what you want to cover

The first thing you need to do is make a plan. Writing a personal statement off the top of your head is difficult. Start by making some notes, answering the following questions:

• What do you want to study?
• Why do you want to study it?
• What is there about you that shows you’re suited to studying this subject at university? Think about your personality, as well as your experiences.
• What are your other interests and skills?

These few points are going to form the spine of your personal statement, so write them in a way that makes sense to you. You might want to make a simple bulleted list or you might want to get all arty and use a mindmap. Whatever you choose, your aim is the same. You want to get it clear in your own head why a university should offer you a place on its course. Getting those details down isn't always easy, and some people find it helpful to make notes over time. You might try carrying a notebook with you or set up a memo on your phone. Whenever you think of something useful for your personal statement, jot it down. Inspiration sometimes comes more easily when you’re thinking about something else entirely. It might help to take a look at The Student Room for some sample personal statements by university and sample personal statements by subjects , to give you an idea of the kind of thing you want to include. 

• Read more: personal statement FAQs

2. Show off your experience

Some things are worth adding to your personal statement, some things are not. Firmly in the second camp are your qualifications. You don’t need to mention these as there’s a whole other section of your personal statement where you get to detail them very precisely. Don’t waste a single character going on about how great your GCSE grades are – it’s not what the admissions tutor wants to read. What they do want to see is: what have you done? OK, so you’ve got some good grades, but so do a lot of other applicants. What have you done that’s different, that shows you off as someone who really loves the subject you’re applying for? Spend some time thinking about all the experience you have in that subject. If you’re lucky, this might be direct work experience. That’s going to be particularly appropriate if you’re applying for one of the more vocational subjects such as medicine or journalism . But uni staff realise getting plum work experience placements is easier for some people than others, so cast your net wider when you’re thinking about what you’ve done. How about after-school clubs? Debating societies? Are you running a blog or vlog? What key skills and experience have you picked up elsewhere (eg from hobbies) that could be tied in with your course choice? Remember, you’re looking for experience that shows why you want to study your chosen subject. You’re not just writing an essay about what you're doing in your A-level syllabus. Use this checklist as a guide for what to include:

• Your interest in the course. Why do you want to spend three years studying this subject at university?
• What have you done outside school or college that demonstrates this interest? Think about things like fairs/exhibitions, public lectures or voluntary work that is relevant to your subject.
• Relevant work experience (essential for the likes of medicine, not required for non-vocational courses such as English )
• Skills and qualities required for that career if appropriate (medicine, nursing and law as obvious examples)
• Interest in your current studies – what particular topics have made an impression on you?
• Any other interests/hobbies/experiences you wish to mention that are relevant either to the subject or 'going to uni'. Don't just list your hobbies, you need to be very selective and state clearly what difference doing these things has made to you.
• Plans for a gap year if you’re deferring entry.

Read more: 6 steps you need to take to apply to university

3. Be bold about your achievements

Don't be bashful about your achievements; that’s not going to help you get into uni. It's time to unleash your inner Muhammed Ali and get all “I am the greatest” with your writing. Do keep it focused and accurate. Do keep your language professional. But don’t hide your qualities beneath a layer of false modesty. Your personal statement is a sell – you are selling yourself as a brilliant student and you need to show the reader why that is true. This doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and if you’re finding it difficult to write about how great you are it’s time to enlist some help. Round up a friend or two, a family member, a teacher, whoever and get them to write down your qualities. Getting someone else’s view here can help you get some perspective. Don’t be shy. You are selling your skills, your experience and your enthusiasm – make sure they all leap off the screen with the way you have described them.

• Read more: the ten biggest mistakes when writing your personal statement  

4. How to start your personal statement

Type your personal statement in a cloud-based word processing program, such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word and don’t copy and paste it into Ucas Hub until it’s finished.  One of the benefits of doing it this way is that you can run spell check easily. (Please note, though, that Word adds "curly" quotation marks and other characters (like é or ü) that won't show up on your Ucas form, so do proofread it on Ucas Hub before submitting it to ensure it is how you typed it.)  Another big benefit is that you'll always have a backup of what you've written. If you're being super careful, you could always save your statement in another place as well. Bear in mind that extra spaces (eg adding spaces to the beginnings of paragraphs as indentation) are removed on Ucas. In your first sentence, cut to the chase. Why do you want to do the course? Don’t waste any time rambling on about the daydreams you had when you were five. Just be clear and concise – describe in one line why this course is so important to you. Then, in the rest of your intro, go into more detail in demonstrating your enthusiasm for the course and explaining how you decided this is what you want to do for the next three or more years. However you choose to start your statement, just avoid the following hoary old chestnuts. These have been some of the most used lines in personal statements over the years – they are beyond cliche, so don’t even think about it.

• From a young age I have (always) been [interested in/fascinated by]…
• For as long as I can remember, I have…
• I am applying for this course because… 
• I have always been interested in… 
• Throughout my life I have always enjoyed… 
• Reflecting on my educational experiences… 
• [Subject] is a very challenging and demanding [career/profession/course]… 
• Academically, I have always been… 
• I have always wanted to pursue a career in… 
• I have always been passionate about…   

5. Focus your writing on why you've chosen that subject

So you’ve got your intro done – time to nail the rest of it. Bear in mind that you’ve got to be a little bit careful when following a personal statement template. It’s easy to fall into the trap of copying someone else’s style, and in the process lose all of your own voice and personality from your writing. But there is a rough order that you can follow, which should help keep you in your flow. After your opening paragraph or two, get into any work experience (if you’ve got it). Talk about extracurriculars: anything you've done which is relevant to the subject can go here – hobbies, interests, volunteering. Touch on your career aspirations – where do you want this course to take you? Next, show your enthusiasm for your current studies. Cite some specific examples of current work that you enjoyed. Show off your relevant skills and qualities by explaining how you’ve used these in the past. Make sure you’re giving real-world examples here, not just vague assertions like “I’m really organised and motivated”. Try to use examples that are relevant.   Follow this up with something about you as a person. Talk about non-academic stuff that you like to do, but link it in some way with the course, or with how it shows your maturity for dealing with uni life. Round it all off by bringing your main points together, including a final emphasis of your commitment to studying this particular course.

• Read more: how to write your personal statement in an evening  

6. How long should a personal statement be?

You've got to work to a very specific limit when writing your personal statement. In theory you could use up to 4,000 characters – but you’re probably more likely to be limited by the line count. That's because it's a good idea to put line breaks in between your paragraphs (to make it more readable) and you only get a maximum of 47 lines. With this in mind, 3,500 characters is a more realistic limit. But when you’re getting started you should ignore these limits completely. At first, you just want to get down everything that you feel is important. You'll probably end up with something that is far too long, but that's fine. This is where you get to do some polishing and pruning. Keep the focus of your piece on the course you’re applying for, why you want to do it and why you’re perfectly suited to it. Look through what you’ve written so far – have you got the balance right? Chop out anything that goes on a bit, as you want each point to be snappy and succinct.

• Read more: universities reveal all about personal statements  

7. Keep it simple

8. Smart ways to end your personal statement

Writing a closing line that you’re happy with can feel as tricky as coming up with your opener. What you’re looking for here is a sign-off that is bold and memorable. The final couple of sentences in your statement give you the opportunity to emphasise all the good stuff you’ve already covered. Use this space to leave the reader in no doubt as to what an excellent addition you would be to their university. Pull together all your key points and – most importantly – address the central question that your personal statement should answer: why should you get a place on the course?

• Read more: universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang  

9. Make sure your personal statement has no mistakes

Now you’ve got a personal statement you’re happy with, you need to make sure there are no mistakes. Check it, check it a second time, then check it again. Once you’ve done that, get someone else to check it, too. You will be doing yourself a massive disservice if you send through a personal statement with spelling and/or grammatical errors. You’ve got months to put this together so there really is no excuse for sending through something that looks like a rush job. Ask your teachers to look at it, and be prepared to accept their feedback without getting defensive. They will have seen many personal statements before; use what they tell you to make yours even better. You’ve also got another chance here to look through the content of your personal statement, so you can make sure the balance is right. Make sure your focus is very clearly on the subject you are applying for and why you want to study it. Don’t post your personal statement on the internet or social media where anyone can see it. You will get picked up by the Ucas plagiarism checker. Similarly, don't copy any that you find online. Instead, now is a good time to make your parents feel useful. Read your personal statement out to them and get them to give you feedback. Or try printing it out and mixing it up with a few others (you can find sample personal statements on The Student Room). Get them to read them all and then try to pick yours out. If they can't, perhaps there's not enough of your personality in there.  

10. Don't think about your personal statement for a whole week

If you followed the advice at the very start of this guide, you’ve started your personal statement early. Good job! There are months before you need to submit it. Use one of these weeks to forget about your personal statement completely. Get on with other things – anything you like. Just don’t go near your statement. Give it a whole week and then open up the document again and read through it with fresh eyes. You’ll gain a whole new perspective on what you’ve written and will be well placed to make more changes, if needed.

• Read more: how to write your personal statement when you have nothing interesting to say  

10 steps to your ideal personal statement

In summary, here are the ten steps you should follow to create the perfect personal statement.  

Personal statement dos and don'ts

• Remember that your personal statement is your personal statement, not an article written about your intended field of study. It should tell the reader about you, not about the subject.
• Only put in things that you’re prepared to talk about at the interviews.
• Give convincing reasons for why you want to study the course – more than just "enjoying the subject" (this should be a given).
• For very competitive courses, find out as much as you can about the nature of the course and try to make your personal statement relevant to this.
• Be reflective. If you make a point like 'I like reading', 'I travelled abroad', say what you got from it.
• Go through the whole thing checking your grammar and your spelling. Do this at least twice. It doesn’t matter if you’re not applying to an essay-based course – a personal statement riddled with spelling mistakes is just going to irritate the reader, which is the last thing you want to do. If this is something you find difficult then have someone look over it for you.
• Leave blank lines between your paragraphs. It’s easier for the reader to get through your personal statement when it’s broken into easily digestible chunks. Remember that they’re going to be reading a lot of these! Make yours easy to get through.
• Get someone else's opinion on your statement. Read it out to family or friends. Share it with your teacher. Look for feedback wherever you can find it, then act upon it.
• Don’t write it like a letter. Kicking off with a greeting such as "Dear Sir/Madam" not only looks weird, it also wastes precious space.
• Don’t make jokes. This is simply not the time – save them for your first night in the union.
• Don’t criticise your current school or college or try to blame teachers for any disappointing grades you might have got.
• Be afraid of details – if you want your PS to be personal to you that means explaining exactly which bits of work or topics or activities you've taken part in/enjoyed. It's much more compelling to read about one or two detailed examples than a paragraph that brushes over five or six.
• Just list what you're doing now. You should pull out the experiences that are relevant to the courses which you're applying to.
• Mention skills and activities without giving examples of when they have been demonstrated by you or what you learnt from them. Anyone can write "I have great leadership skills" in a PS, actually using a sentence to explain when you demonstrated good leadership skills is much rarer and more valuable.
• Refer to experiences that took place before your GCSEs (or equivalent).
• Give explanations about medical or mental health problems. These should be explained in your reference, not your PS.
• Apply for too many different courses, making it difficult to write a convincing personal statement which supports the application.
• Write a statement specific to just one institution, unless you're only applying to that one choice.
• Copy and paste the statement from somewhere else! This means do not plagiarise. All statements are automatically checked for plagiarism by Ucas. Those that are highlighted by the computer system are checked manually by Ucas staff. If you’re found to have plagiarised parts of your statement, the universities you apply to will be informed and it could jeopardise your applications.
• Use ChatGPT or another AI program to write your personal statement for you. Or, if you do, make sure you thoroughly edit and personalise the text so it's truly yours. Otherwise you're very much at risk of the plagiarism point above.

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Education and drama personal statement example (oxbridge).

"I shall have poetry in my life. And adventure. Unbiddable, ungovernable, like a riot in the heart, come ruin or rapture." Perhaps one should not begin with the words of another when presenting oneself, but as an actress, utilising the words of others is something that has become second nature.

Stoppard's words ring true within me: I know that this is all I will ever want to do: immerse myself in something 'poetic,' 'riotous' and full of 'adventure'.

Having experienced first-hand the stimulation of theatre, both academically and emotionally, I feel 'Theatre in Education' (TIE) has a vital role to play.

From an academic perspective it can promote analytical and interpretational skills but, on a more visceral level, it can provide students with an emotional outlet during their developmental years. It's also brilliant fun.

This is where I must disagree with Stoppard's "disinterest in educating people." The prospect of teaching has always excited me: I decorated my childhood bedroom with a whiteboard and a variety of textbooks to deliver lessons to toys and (unsuspecting) friends.

Since then, my interest in the science behind learning has deepened. During work experience at a local primary school, I was introduced to the ideas of Piaget and Vygotsky in order to understand the way in which children of differing abilities can be taught.

These educational theorists have influenced my EPQ where I am exploring the ways in which children learn. By accumulating case studies and research I aim to create my own piece of TIE that is not only educationally informative, but also theatrically engaging. Evaluation will reveal how successful I have been.

Having performed in amateur productions from a young age, my love of theatre has blossomed. My first performance, as a villager in the Christmas Pantomime 'Cinderella' soon lead to playing Maria (West Side Story) on the same stage. Attending Stagecoach Theatre Company for seven years furthered my experience.

I played Billy's Mother in Billy Elliot and the Red Queen in Alice in Wonderland; both at the West Yorkshire Playhouse. I have also performed as an extra in professional, touring productions of La Boheme and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. A highlight was my West End debut in an abridged, musical adaptation of Romeo and Juliet.

Co-directing Stagecoach's recent shows has built my own teaching techniques, which I have since utilised. In our annual school drama competition I wrote and directed an adaptation of Beauty and the Beast, working with cast members aged from 11 to 18. This required a great deal of patience and commitment to the exploration of both teaching and theatrical styles.

Last year I launched a 'Musical Theatre Society' at school where students of different ages gather to learn songs and choreography each week. I have gained slick organisational and planning techniques which allow me to nurture each member of the group, whilst working to strict time constraints.

Integral to my love of theatre and performance is the enjoyment I gain from the academic study of Literature.

The academic rigour of studying different styles and genres of writing has helped me to develop strong analytical skills and confidence in literary criticism.

While some would say that the analysis of a Shakespeare play, for example, can detract from spontaneous enjoyment, I disagree: delving into authorial intents and subtext only broadens understanding and can revitalise and re-invigorate performance.

Performing professionally has always been my dream yet experiences of directing have highlighted the rewards of working with children. T

hrough spending time with children of all abilities and personalities, I have found my perfect career. I am looking forward to the opportunity to pursue a degree that reflects my future ambitions and to becoming a positive contributor to university life more broadly.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by rebb_xX for application in 2014.

rebb_xX's university choices The University of Warwick Cambridge University

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

rebb_xX's Comments

Got me interviews at all my five choices! From there I withdrew from two courses and got one rejection :)

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

A great personal statement,.

Mon, 16/06/2014 - 13:19

A great personal statement, well written and engaging, very well done on your offers. I'm planning on applying to similar courses next year, is there any chance I could PM you about the interview process? :)

To Dramadreamer:

Sat, 21/06/2014 - 23:52

I'm not very apt with this so I can't figure out how to message you myself but of course PM me and I'll do all I can to help! :)

Add new comment

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• Knowledge Base
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• How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples

How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples

Published on February 12, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 3, 2023.

A personal statement is a short essay of around 500–1,000 words, in which you tell a compelling story about who you are, what drives you, and why you’re applying.

To write a successful personal statement for a graduate school application , don’t just summarize your experience; instead, craft a focused narrative in your own voice. Aim to demonstrate three things:

• Your personality: what are your interests, values, and motivations?
• Your talents: what can you bring to the program?
• Your goals: what do you hope the program will do for you?

This article guides you through some winning strategies to build a strong, well-structured personal statement for a master’s or PhD application. You can download the full examples below.

Urban Planning Psychology History

Table of contents

Getting started with your personal statement, the introduction: start with an attention-grabbing opening, the main body: craft your narrative, the conclusion: look ahead, revising, editing, and proofreading your personal statement, frequently asked questions, other interesting articles.

Before you start writing, the first step is to understand exactly what’s expected of you. If the application gives you a question or prompt for your personal statement, the most important thing is to respond to it directly.

For example, you might be asked to focus on the development of your personal identity; challenges you have faced in your life; or your career motivations. This will shape your focus and emphasis—but you still need to find your own unique approach to answering it.

There’s no universal template for a personal statement; it’s your chance to be creative and let your own voice shine through. But there are strategies you can use to build a compelling, well-structured story.

The first paragraph of your personal statement should set the tone and lead smoothly into the story you want to tell.

Strategy 1: Open with a concrete scene

An effective way to catch the reader’s attention is to set up a scene that illustrates something about your character and interests. If you’re stuck, try thinking about:

• A personal experience that changed your perspective
• A story from your family’s history
• A memorable teacher or learning experience
• An unusual or unexpected encounter

To write an effective scene, try to go beyond straightforward description; start with an intriguing sentence that pulls the reader in, and give concrete details to create a convincing atmosphere.

Strategy 2: Open with your motivations

To emphasize your enthusiasm and commitment, you can start by explaining your interest in the subject you want to study or the career path you want to follow.

Just stating that it interests you isn’t enough: first, you need to figure out why you’re interested in this field:

• Is it a longstanding passion or a recent discovery?
• Does it come naturally or have you had to work hard at it?
• How does it fit into the rest of your life?
• What do you think it contributes to society?

Tips for the introduction

• Don’t start on a cliche: avoid phrases like “Ever since I was a child…” or “For as long as I can remember…”
• Do save the introduction for last. If you’re struggling to come up with a strong opening, leave it aside, and note down any interesting ideas that occur to you as you write the rest of the personal statement.

Once you’ve set up the main themes of your personal statement, you’ll delve into more detail about your experiences and motivations.

To structure the body of your personal statement, there are various strategies you can use.

Strategy 1: Describe your development over time

One of the simplest strategies is to give a chronological overview of key experiences that have led you to apply for graduate school.

• What first sparked your interest in the field?
• Which classes, assignments, classmates, internships, or other activities helped you develop your knowledge and skills?
• Where do you want to go next? How does this program fit into your future plans?

Don’t try to include absolutely everything you’ve done—pick out highlights that are relevant to your application. Aim to craft a compelling narrative that shows how you’ve changed and actively developed yourself.

My interest in psychology was first sparked early in my high school career. Though somewhat scientifically inclined, I found that what interested me most was not the equations we learned about in physics and chemistry, but the motivations and perceptions of my fellow students, and the subtle social dynamics that I observed inside and outside the classroom. I wanted to learn how our identities, beliefs, and behaviours are shaped through our interactions with others, so I decided to major in Social Psychology. My undergraduate studies deepened my understanding of, and fascination with, the interplay between an individual mind and its social context.During my studies, I acquired a solid foundation of knowledge about concepts like social influence and group dynamics, but I also took classes on various topics not strictly related to my major. I was particularly interested in how other fields intersect with psychology—the classes I took on media studies, biology, and literature all enhanced my understanding of psychological concepts by providing different lenses through which to look at the issues involved.

Strategy 2: Own your challenges and obstacles

If your path to graduate school hasn’t been easy or straightforward, you can turn this into a strength, and structure your personal statement as a story of overcoming obstacles.

• Is your social, cultural or economic background underrepresented in the field? Show how your experiences will contribute a unique perspective.
• Do you have gaps in your resume or lower-than-ideal grades? Explain the challenges you faced and how you dealt with them.

Don’t focus too heavily on negatives, but use them to highlight your positive qualities. Resilience, resourcefulness and perseverance make you a promising graduate school candidate.

Growing up working class, urban decay becomes depressingly familiar. The sight of a row of abandoned houses does not surprise me, but it continues to bother me. Since high school, I have been determined to pursue a career in urban planning. While people of my background experience the consequences of urban planning decisions first-hand, we are underrepresented in the field itself. Ironically, given my motivation, my economic background has made my studies challenging. I was fortunate enough to be awarded a scholarship for my undergraduate studies, but after graduation I took jobs in unrelated fields to help support my parents. In the three years since, I have not lost my ambition. Now I am keen to resume my studies, and I believe I can bring an invaluable perspective to the table: that of the people most impacted by the decisions of urban planners.

Strategy 3: Demonstrate your knowledge of the field

Especially if you’re applying for a PhD or another research-focused program, it’s a good idea to show your familiarity with the subject and the department. Your personal statement can focus on the area you want to specialize in and reflect on why it matters to you.

• Reflect on the topics or themes that you’ve focused on in your studies. What draws you to them?
• Discuss any academic achievements, influential teachers, or other highlights of your education.
• Talk about the questions you’d like to explore in your research and why you think they’re important.

The personal statement isn’t a research proposal , so don’t go overboard on detail—but it’s a great opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the field and your capacity for original thinking.

In applying for this research program, my intention is to build on the multidisciplinary approach I have taken in my studies so far, combining knowledge from disparate fields of study to better understand psychological concepts and issues. The Media Psychology program stands out to me as the perfect environment for this kind of research, given its researchers’ openness to collaboration across diverse fields. I am impressed by the department’s innovative interdisciplinary projects that focus on the shifting landscape of media and technology, and I hope that my own work can follow a similarly trailblazing approach. More specifically, I want to develop my understanding of the intersection of psychology and media studies, and explore how media psychology theories and methods might be applied to neurodivergent minds. I am interested not only in media psychology but also in psychological disorders, and how the two interact. This is something I touched on during my undergraduate studies and that I’m excited to delve into further.

Strategy 4: Discuss your professional ambitions

Especially if you’re applying for a more professionally-oriented program (such as an MBA), it’s a good idea to focus on concrete goals and how the program will help you achieve them.

• If your career is just getting started, show how your character is suited to the field, and explain how graduate school will help you develop your talents.
• If you have already worked in the profession, show what you’ve achieved so far, and explain how the program will allow you to take the next step.
• If you are planning a career change, explain what has driven this decision and how your existing experience will help you succeed.

Don’t just state the position you want to achieve. You should demonstrate that you’ve put plenty of thought into your career plans and show why you’re well-suited to this profession.

One thing that fascinated me about the field during my undergraduate studies was the sheer number of different elements whose interactions constitute a person’s experience of an urban environment. Any number of factors could transform the scene I described at the beginning: What if there were no bus route? Better community outreach in the neighborhood? Worse law enforcement? More or fewer jobs available in the area? Some of these factors are out of the hands of an urban planner, but without taking them all into consideration, the planner has an incomplete picture of their task. Through further study I hope to develop my understanding of how these disparate elements combine and interact to create the urban environment. I am interested in the social, psychological and political effects our surroundings have on our lives. My studies will allow me to work on projects directly affecting the kinds of working-class urban communities I know well. I believe I can bring my own experiences, as well as my education, to bear upon the problem of improving infrastructure and quality of life in these communities.

Tips for the main body

• Don’t rehash your resume by trying to summarize everything you’ve done so far; the personal statement isn’t about listing your academic or professional experience, but about reflecting, evaluating, and relating it to broader themes.
• Do make your statements into stories: Instead of saying you’re hard-working and self-motivated, write about your internship where you took the initiative to start a new project. Instead of saying you’ve always loved reading, reflect on a novel or poem that changed your perspective.

Your conclusion should bring the focus back to the program and what you hope to get out of it, whether that’s developing practical skills, exploring intellectual questions, or both.

Emphasize the fit with your specific interests, showing why this program would be the best way to achieve your aims.

Strategy 1: What do you want to know?

If you’re applying for a more academic or research-focused program, end on a note of curiosity: what do you hope to learn, and why do you think this is the best place to learn it?

If there are specific classes or faculty members that you’re excited to learn from, this is the place to express your enthusiasm.

Strategy 2: What do you want to do?

If you’re applying for a program that focuses more on professional training, your conclusion can look to your career aspirations: what role do you want to play in society, and why is this program the best choice to help you get there?

Tips for the conclusion

• Don’t summarize what you’ve already said. You have limited space in a personal statement, so use it wisely!
• Do think bigger than yourself: try to express how your individual aspirations relate to your local community, your academic field, or society more broadly. It’s not just about what you’ll get out of graduate school, but about what you’ll be able to give back.

You’ll be expected to do a lot of writing in graduate school, so make a good first impression: leave yourself plenty of time to revise and polish the text.

Your style doesn’t have to be as formal as other kinds of academic writing, but it should be clear, direct and coherent. Make sure that each paragraph flows smoothly from the last, using topic sentences and transitions to create clear connections between each part.

Don’t be afraid to rewrite and restructure as much as necessary. Since you have a lot of freedom in the structure of a personal statement, you can experiment and move information around to see what works best.

Finally, it’s essential to carefully proofread your personal statement and fix any language errors. Before you submit your application, consider investing in professional personal statement editing . For $150, you have the peace of mind that your personal statement is grammatically correct, strong in term of your arguments, and free of awkward mistakes.

A statement of purpose is usually more formal, focusing on your academic or professional goals. It shouldn’t include anything that isn’t directly relevant to the application.

A personal statement can often be more creative. It might tell a story that isn’t directly related to the application, but that shows something about your personality, values, and motivations.

However, both types of document have the same overall goal: to demonstrate your potential as a graduate student and s how why you’re a great match for the program.

The typical length of a personal statement for graduate school applications is between 500 and 1,000 words.

Different programs have different requirements, so always check if there’s a minimum or maximum length and stick to the guidelines. If there is no recommended word count, aim for no more than 1-2 pages.

If you’re applying to multiple graduate school programs, you should tailor your personal statement to each application.

Some applications provide a prompt or question. In this case, you might have to write a new personal statement from scratch: the most important task is to respond to what you have been asked.

If there’s no prompt or guidelines, you can re-use the same idea for your personal statement – but change the details wherever relevant, making sure to emphasize why you’re applying to this specific program.

If the application also includes other essays, such as a statement of purpose , you might have to revise your personal statement to avoid repeating the same information.

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

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How to Write a Powerful Personal Statement for Medical School

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The personal statement can make or break your medical school application. Learn how to write it and strategies to make it stand out to admissions committees in this expert guide.

Essays are one of the most important parts of any graduate school application. Whereas your resume, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores speak to your achievements and academic potential, your essays are where you can make a human argument based on your unique candidacy; they tell the story of a person rather than of numbers.

Typically, aspiring MD candidates will need to submit several essays. The personal statement or personal comments essay is submitted through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), a centralized application that most medical schools use (outside of Texas), similar to the Common App. This application opens for submission around the end of May or the beginning of June. After you submit your AMCAS application, you’ll also need to submit a secondary application that goes directly to the schools you’re applying to. Depending on the program, this may be open to everyone or extended on an invitation-only basis. This secondary application usually includes several other essays or short-answer questions that are more specific to what the school is looking for.

Though there is a standard that your scores, GPA, and experience need to meet, the essays really can make or break your chances of admission. In this article, we’ll go over what makes a good personal statement, how to get started on yours, and some actionable strategies for success.

What is the Personal Statement?

The “personal statement essay” can be found in section eight of the AMCAS application. The simple, vague prompt is as follows:

“Use the space provided to explain why you want to go to medical school.”

This prompt is purposefully left broad–the admissions committees want to see where applicants go in their responses. In short, they really want the answer to two things:

• Why should we admit you , specifically?
• Why medicine?

On its website, AMCAS says that this essay “provides an opportunity to distinguish yourself from other applicants and provide admissions officers with more insight into why you have chosen to pursue a career in medicine.” In other words, your response should make a compelling case for what you will bring to the table and clearly outline how your path so far has led you to medical school.

Med School Personal Statement Length

The personal comments essay has a character limit of 5,300, which includes spaces. This translates to about a page and a half worth of words. TMDSAS, the Texan equivalent of AMCAS, has a character limit of 5,000.

How Long Will My Personal Statement Take?

Like with any part of the application, timing is everything. Thankfully, medical school applications don’t require too much writing. Still, we recommend giving yourself at least a month on the personal statement (several if you’re able to) so that you have time to iterate on a few different drafts, sit on it, and get feedback.

For more advice on timing the application process, read The Ultimate Guide to the Medical School Application Process .

How to Write a Med School Personal Statement

Often, the most difficult part is getting started; but, it’s hard to do so without a plan. Before you begin writing, it can be helpful to have an idea of your overarching narrative and the role that you want the essay to play. At a foundational level, you also just need to have a really solid understanding of who you are and what your motivations are for pursuing medicine. After all that, you’ll get to writing. Here’s a step-by-step playback for getting from start to finish on your personal statement.

Step 1: Ideate

Before you put pen to paper, think about the following questions and jot a few ideas down. If there are any that you’re struggling with, ask the people around you! Parents/guardians and close friends can be especially helpful in identifying your strengths and what makes you unique.

• What are the main life decisions I made in the last ten years and why did I make them? What values/thoughts/rationale remained consistent across these decisions?
• What character traits do I want to show the admissions committee? What are some examples of when I demonstrated these traits?
• What are my strengths and weaknesses?
• When did I first believe that I wanted to be a doctor? What experiences originally led to that and then later cemented it as a goal?
• What are the main takeaways from my clinical (and other relevant) experience? What did I learn? What stuck with me?
• What parts of my candidacy are not well represented in the other parts of my application?
• Why do I want to go med school? (get specific)
• What do I want my professional career to look like in 15 years? In 30?
• What motivates me–professionally and personally?

In any graduate school application, you’re trying to strike a balance between providing a comprehensive view of your candidacy and not overwhelming with unnecessary information. For this reason, it can be extremely valuable to have an idea of the overall story you want to tell. Think about your “elevator pitch” and use the essay to build on that. If you’re not sure what experiences or characteristics are the most impactful, you can also work with a coach . They’ll help you identify what’s most important to talk about, and to leave out, and can also work with you to draft an outline.

Step 2: Write a draft (it’s okay if it’s terrible)

Once you’ve got some direction, the next step is to just get your thoughts on paper. Sit down and force yourself to brain dump. It does not have to be pretty, it does not have to make sense, it does not have to be comprehensive. From there, leave it for a day. When you come back, highlight the parts that still resonate and make a note of anything missing.

Step 3: Review and edit, repeat

Based on the comments you left yourself on your preliminary thoughts, write a second draft. This time, pay a little more attention to the overall flow. Support your main ideas with real evidence in the form of stories and anecdotes. Be concise and get to the point–when your characters are limited, it’s important to not waste any on irrelevant details or extraneous verbiage. Once you’ve done this, set your draft aside for a bit. Come back to it later and make it better. Then, repeat the process. To get a really good personal statement, you’re going to want to go through many different drafts.

Step 4: Get feedback

Once you’ve got a draft that you feel good about, we highly recommend getting a second perspective. The ideal editor is someone who has a basic understanding of your background but does not know you in-depth, as this would make it difficult for them to judge the essay objectively. A friend-of-a-friend, friend-of-a-mentor, professor, or med school admissions coach are all great choices. It’s a bonus if they have any kind of writing or editorial experience.

This third-party review will help you figure out what’s working and what’s not. From this point, and depending on the feedback, you may be close to a final draft.

Step 5: Read it out loud

We know–this sounds weird, but do it. When you read your essay out loud, you hear it as the admissions committee member will. It’s easier to find the gaps, identify missing transitions, see where you’re rambling, and get an overall idea of the impression it gives.

Step 6: Review, final edits, and spellcheck

Once you feel really, really good about your response, read it for a final time. Make sure that there are no grammatical or spelling errors. Then, you’ll copy and paste it into section eight of the AMCAS application, and it’s ready to go!

Caution: Don’t overdo it

Though it’s better to err on the side of too much editing over too little, it is possible to overdo it. If you stare at your writing long enough, everything starts to sound the same. And, for those of us who are perfectionists, it’s easy to feel like it’s never good enough . In most cases, it probably is. There comes to a point where you’ve done all you can and it’s time to submit. A good coach can help you gauge when this is but it also takes knowing yourself. If you start to get overwhelmed or frustrated, it’s completely okay (and even beneficial) to step back for a few days. Then, when you return, you’re coming in with a fresh and slightly more removed perspective.

Medical School Personal Statement Tips

Now that we’ve covered what the personal statement is and how to get it written, we’ll dive into some specifics on how to make it great , including things to do and avoid .

Lean into what makes you different from the other applicants.

After reading your personal statement, you want the admissions committees to think, “If we don’t admit this person right now, we might never get another applicant like them!” No pressure, right? Just kidding, we know this is tough to do! You will come from the same schools as other applicants and have the same majors, the same work experiences, the same hometowns, and the same GPAs. What’s different is how you went through all of that. Your perspective, how you interact with the world, and what you take away are all unique to you.

In the examples you share and your overall argument for admission, make sure you address this and don’t be afraid to get specific. A good test is this: if someone else could have written your exact same personal statement, it’s not unique enough.

Know what your personal statement is not.

You’re applying to medical schools, not creative writing programs. With this in mind, your personal statement should not be an exercise in writing the most experimental personal statement. The power in personal statements comes from the applicant’s background and story, not their writing abilities. To be clear, your statement should still be written well; but, you don’t need to get too fancy.

Don’t lose sight of the prompt.

With broader topics like this, it’s easy to get sucked into a tangent and pretty soon, you’re giving your entire life story. And, while you do want to explain your path, you’re doing so with a specific reason in mind. Your personal statement should explain exactly why you want to be a physician . If your stories aren’t directly relevant to that purpose, take them out.

For this, it can be helpful to examine your personal statement paragraph by paragraph. Imagine your response without that section–does the primary message still get across? Is it contributing something valuable or is it extraneous?

Don’t recite your resume.

This is your classic “show, don’t tell” advice. Use examples to support the qualities that you want the adcom to see, rather than listing your accomplishments and what you think they demonstrate. Here’s an example:

• Applicant 1: For two years, I shadowed a family physician in my city where I learned the day-to-day responsibilities required to succeed in the field.
• Applicant 2: For two years, I shadowed a family physician in my city. This taught me how successful doctors in this field need to understand a variety of issues, problem-solve constantly, and develop real relationships with their patients.

Which one is more compelling? They’re essentially saying the same thing, but the second applicant explains what the first only claims.

Keep the focus on you.

You are the main character of the personal statement. While many stories will also involve other people–mentors, patients, friends, family members, etc…–make sure that the focus remains on what you demonstrated. That’s not to say you should only have stories that don’t include others. Tell the same stories but do so in a way that highlights the role you played.

When you’re reviewing any given anecdote, ask yourself: “What does the admissions committee learn about me from this?” If you can’t point to direct and specific things, it needs to be reworked.

Source: https://www.joinleland.com/library/a/medical-school-personal-statement-tips

Joe Biden's 2024 hopes were dashed in the first minutes of the debate. It took Democrats three weeks to convince him

Holed up in Delaware and down bad with COVID-19, Joe Biden decided to do something that no US president has done before: Step aside. 

American history is littered with presidents whose time in the Oval Office was cut short before they were ready.

Nixon resigned in disgrace. JFK and Lincoln were shot. Harrison caught a chill at his inauguration and died a month later. LBJ simply decided not to run again.

But no-one has launched a bid for a second term in office, handily won the nomination, and then been so swiftly abandoned by their own party that they had no choice but to step out of the way.

The political momentum pushing him out of office became too much as Democrat after Democrat in the House and Senate joined the growing chorus.

Despite vowing to return to the campaign trail in the last few days, by Sunday afternoon local time, Mr Biden was out.

Many of his own staff, including some of his closest advisers, were reportedly only given a few minutes' notice before his decision was announced to the world.

"It's been the greatest honour of my life to serve as your president," he said in a statement.

"And while it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for the remainder of my term."

Joe Biden's 2024 ambitions were dashed in the first 10 minutes of his calamitous debate against Donald Trump.

What followed was three weeks of chaos — shaky TV interviews, a Hollywood actor's defection, a near-assassination attempt on his rival, and an extraordinarily inconvenient COVID-19 diagnosis.

All of it only piled the pressure on Mr Biden's shoulders.

And as more and more senior Democrats turned, it was friends from Mr Biden's halcyon days in the US Senate and Obama's White House that finally convinced him it was over.

The 'worst debate performance in American history'

Is there anything more brutal in US politics than the presidential debate?

The modern equivalent of gladiator combat, presidential hopefuls march into the arena hoping for one good viral moment but risking humiliation, fumbles, and the decisive thumbs-down of the American electorate.

Richard Nixon may have cost himself the 1960 election when he showed up looking pale and sweaty.

Then-Texas-governor Rick Perry watched his own ambitions evaporate before his eyes in 2011 when he declared that as president, he intended to cut three government agencies, but failed to recall exactly which ones.

"Oops," he shrugged after an excruciating few moments during which his rivals attempted to help him remember.

But when Mr Biden faced off against Trump on June 27, he put in what was described as "the worst debate performance in American history".

At times whisper-soft, Mr Biden rambled through some answers, stammered and stumbled, occasionally lost his train of thought and, worst of all, failed to deliver a single blow against his opponent.

"I really don't know what he said at the end of that sentence, and I don't think he did, either," Trump declared when asked if he'd like to respond to Mr Biden's incomprehensible answer on immigration.

Mr Biden had rolled the dice on a pre-conventions debate, hoping it would allay concerns about his advanced age.

Instead it turned whispers in DC's halls of power to a deafening roar.

For months, there has been speculation that Mr Biden is a "well-meaning elderly man with a poor memory" who has good days and bad days.

The 81-year-old, who is open about the challenges of living with a stutter, has insisted that while his speech is sometimes impeded , his age makes him a better president.

"I'm elderly and know what the hell I'm doing," Mr Biden said in February.

But as soon as he opened his mouth on the debate stage , a Democratic rebellion against his leadership began in earnest.

"I know how this felt tonight: it felt like a gut punch," former Missouri senator Claire McCaskill said.

"President Biden can't win. This debate is a nail in the political coffin," an unnamed Democratic strategist told NBC.

The Democratic Convention, during which the presidential candidate and their running mate are formally confirmed as the nominees, is set down for August 19.

But a quirk of this election cycle meant that Democrats intended to hold a "virtual roll call" two weeks earlier to ensure Mr Biden and Ms Harris could legally appear on the ballot in Ohio.

Those who wanted Mr Biden gone knew they had to act fast.

The only problem? America's modern political system contains no obvious mechanism to strip him of the nomination.

That left Democrats just weeks to convince the most powerful man in the world to give up the job he spent his entire adult life trying to win, one he had long believed to be his destiny.

A campaign of persuasion

Both Mr Biden and the Democrats who wanted him gone knew the clock was ticking.

"He will not be dragged off the stage," an unnamed official told Axios, which quickly became the media outlet of choice for panicked Democrats to voice their concerns anonymously.

"The goal is to let him walk off the stage."

But Mr Biden, who ran for the presidency three times over three decades before finally winning in 2020, did not want to be ushered out of the spotlight just yet.

"I would not be running again if I didn't believe with all my heart and soul I can do this job, because quite frankly the stakes are too high," he said at a rally in North Carolina the day after the debate.

During a high-stakes interview with George Stephanopoulos a week later, he was asked how he would feel if he lost the White House to Trump.

"I'll feel as long as I gave it my all and I did as good a job as I know I can do, that's what this is about," he said, to the alarm of Democrats.

Famous for his strong bonds with members of Congress, his love of negotiation, and his eagerness to pick up the phone for a chat, Mr Biden suddenly went quiet.

Instead he sent a letter to congressional Democrats telling them it was time to fall in line.

And in a phone interview on MSNBC's Morning Joe, he railed against "party elites" who he said were trying to undo the will of the people.

Mr Biden was not just losing members of his own party. He was losing celebrities as well. 

Key Democratic fundraiser and actor George Clooney wrote a devastating column in The New York Times in which he declared: "We are not going to win in November with this president." 

Biden officials reportedly spent days pleading with the star not to go ahead with his opinion piece , but to no avail. 

On July 11, Mr Biden held a press conference designed in part to showcase his foreign policy chops, but misspoke several times, introducing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as Putin, and accidentally referring to Trump as his vice-president.

Mr Biden has always been famously bad with names and prone to verbal gaffes.

There was a time when his unpredictability and "Uncle Joe" persona were part of the Biden political brand.

But as some national polls suggested Trump edging ahead of Mr Biden , he had no room to manoeuvre.

A series of conference calls with congressional Democrats did little to quell the rebellion, with one meeting on July 14 described by some participants as "tense", "awful" and a "complete disaster".

The call went so badly that several Democrats were prepared to go public with their stance that Mr Biden needed to go, according to ABC America.

But just hours later, a bullet sailed across a field in Pennsylvania, tearing a bloody gash in Trump's ear, horrifying Americans, and up-ending the 2024 presidential race.

A shooting shocks a battered nation 

The moment he collapsed on the ground lasted only a few seconds.

But as a hush fell over his rally and a wounded Trump was hidden beneath a pile of burly Secret Service agents, it seemed to stretch out interminably.

Then he arose, bloody but defiant, urging his supporters to "fight".

That famous image of Trump standing up with his fist pumping the air just seconds after narrowly escaping death became a split-screen moment contrasted with a string of shaky Biden performances.

Everyone could see that the near-miss of an assassin's bullet had dramatically changed the race, but no-one could quite agree how. 

Some foreign diplomats told Politico they believed the shooting had only improved Trump's chances in November. 

"We've all resigned ourselves to a second Trump presidency," an unnamed senior Democrat told Axios on July 14.

In a country where four presidents have been assassinated, the moment was a delicate one for Mr Biden. 

He suspended attack ads, called for calm, and continued his speaking engagements to prove he was up for the job.

The incident also seemed to have a chilling effect on the Democratic rebellion against Mr Biden's candidacy. 

"An American is dead, a former president and others are wounded, and a shell-shocked country is left wondering how to restore reason and respect," Congressman Dean Phillips said.

"It would be unpatriotic and unprincipled to direct energy to anything other than yesterday's national tragedy."

But the reprieve for Mr Biden was short-lived. 

On July 16, reports emerged that the Democratic National Committee (DNC) might move up its virtual roll call to confirm Mr Biden as the nominee weeks earlier than anyone anticipated.

Democrats who wanted him off the ticket were outraged. 

"All of us … agree that stifling debate and prematurely shutting down any possible change in the Democratic ticket through an unnecessary and unprecedented 'virtual roll call' in the days ahead is a terrible idea," they wrote in a letter to the DNC.

While dozens of Democrats had already gone public with their call for Mr Biden to quit the race , one voice rose above the others. 

Congressman Adam Schiff, the most senior Democrat to speak out so far, said on July 17 that it was time for Mr Biden to "pass the torch".

The statement spelled doom to Mr Biden's allies. 

Mr Schiff's mentor is Nancy Pelosi, the former House speaker and party elder, who is perhaps the most powerful woman in the Democratic Party. 

"Nancy is all over this," a White House source told Reuters.

"She doesn't miss. Schiff wouldn't move without her approval." 

Biden retreats to Delaware as his inner circle shrinks 

On the campaign trail in Nevada with a worsening cough and fever, Mr Biden tried to crack a little joke. 

"If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog," he said, quoting former US president Harry Truman.

"After the last couple of weeks, I know what he means." 

Amid reports he felt abandoned and resentful towards the people he once considered his closest friends and allies , Mr Biden's luck went from bad to worse. 

He tested positive to COVID-19. 

Retreating to his picturesque beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Mr Biden could do little as his support crumbled. 

House Majority Leader Democrat Chuck Schumer reportedly had a blunt one-on-one conversation with the president during which he forcefully made the case for him to bow out of the race.

One internal poll obtained by The Wall Street Journal suggested an electoral wipe-out for Mr Biden, one which would see him losing not only the crucial swing states, but New Hampshire, Virginia and Maine as well. 

In a tense phone call with Ms Pelosi, Mr Biden insisted he had other data showing a path to victory. 

"Put Donilon on the phone," she reportedly shot back , referring to Mike Donilon, the president's longtime aide. 

"Show me what polls."

Mr Biden's former boss Barack Obama, with whom he has a complicated but loving bond , was mostly silent throughout the past chaotic few weeks. 

But Mr Biden reportedly become suspicious that Mr Obama was operating in the shadows to shuffle him out of the spotlight, adding what The New York Times called a "Shakespearean quality to the drama playing out".

But Mr Biden, who has walked the halls of power for more than half a century, is a politician who built a career on relationships and negotiation. 

"I believe all politics is personal," he wrote in his memoir Promise Me, Dad. 

"Because at bottom, politics depends on trust, and unless you can establish a personal relationship, it’s awfully hard to build trust." 

Mr Biden recognised that he no longer had the trust of his party to win against Trump. 

After talking to his family, he called his closest advisers and told them he had a statement to write. 

He was done. 

• X (formerly Twitter)

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27 Great Resume Summary Examples to Get Hired

20 min read · Updated on June 03, 2024

Your resume summary is the first impression you make on potential employers, so it's crucial to get it right

When it comes to job applications, your resume is often the first point of contact with prospective employers. It's essential to make a good impression right from the start and that's where your resume summary comes in. Your summary is a brief statement at the top of your resume that highlights your skills , experiences , and achievements , making it a key part of your job application.

In this article, you'll learn how to write the ultimate resume summary that will grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. You'll discover what makes a good summary and what to avoid, as well as how to sell yourself effectively to potential employers.

You may be wondering: what exactly is a resume summary and how do I write one? We'll answer these questions and provide examples of professional summaries for various industries.

By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a standout resume summary that will help you to land your dream job.

What is a resume summary?

To understand a resume summary, it's important to understand the challenge that good summaries are designed to overcome. Employers who are looking for new hires often need to compare many dozens or even hundreds of resumes to find the best candidates for the job. Few hiring personnel have the time needed to thoroughly examine every single resume that they receive.

Instead, employers typically spend no more than five or six seconds scanning any given resume. If a resume manages to capture their interest in those few seconds, they'll take the time to read it in greater detail. 

However, if your resume doesn't grab their attention, it's likely to be rejected without any further examination. So, the challenge is to find a way to quickly earn the reader's interest and inspire them to read the rest of the document.

That's where your resume summary comes into play. As you'll see from our resume summary examples, a good summary is the resume equivalent of a salesperson's elevator pitch. 

This brief statement should highlight your experience and job title, one or two key skills, and a couple of your most prominent achievements. When your summary is crafted well, it will provide the employer with a quick overview of your potential value as a new hire.

Once you've written your summary, you should place it right after your contact information and resume headline , so that it's the first thing employers see. If you've done your job properly, that summary will be compelling enough to make the reader want to learn more about the type of value you can bring to the job.

How should you start a resume summary?

After your headline, you should include a brief opening statement that summarizes who you are. This statement should be concise and compelling, and it should clearly communicate your unique value proposition. Here are some examples of strong opening statements:

Innovative Marketing Manager with over five years of experience in developing and executing successful campaigns for Fortune 500 companies

Results-driven Sales Executive with a proven track record of exceeding revenue targets and building strong client relationships

Skilled Customer Service Representative with expertise in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and communication

Tips for writing a resume summary

To make sure you get your summary spot on, follow our top tips:

Be specific

When writing a resume summary, it's essential to be specific and quantify your achievements wherever possible. Instead of saying, "Experienced marketing professional," try saying, "Experienced marketing professional with expertise in managing successful social media campaigns, resulting in increases of up to 30% in website traffic."

This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers.

Reflect on your career

When it comes to writing a strong resume summary, you should engage in some self-reflection. Before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), take some time to think about your key skills, experiences, and achievements. This will help you to identify the most important information to include in your summary. Review your past roles, responsibilities, and accomplishments, and think about how they relate to the job you're applying for. Ask yourself:

What have I achieved in my career?

What skills have I developed?

What makes me stand out from other applicants?

Identify your key skills

One of the most important things to include in your resume summary is your key skills. These are the abilities that set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your value to potential employers. Begin by making a list of your top skills, then prioritize them based on relevance to the job you're applying for.

Highlight your relevant experiences

Next, think about relevant experiences that you can include in your summary. This includes any previous jobs or internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that have given you valuable experience. Consider what you've learned and achieved in each role and how that relates to the job you're applying for.

You should focus on what is most relevant to your target job. Here are some examples:

Proven ability to increase sales revenue by 20% year on year

Expertise in project management and team leadership

Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft 365

Confident working with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders

Keep it concise

Remember, your resume summary should be concise and to the point. Stick to the most important information and avoid filler words or irrelevant details. A good rule of thumb is to keep your summary to 3-5 sentences.

Use action verbs

When describing your experiences and achievements, use strong action verbs and adverbs to convey a sense of accomplishment and momentum. For example, instead of saying, "Responsible for managing social media accounts," say, "Successfully manages social media accounts."

Quantify your achievements

Wherever possible, use numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements. This provides concrete evidence of your skills and demonstrates your value to potential employers. For example, instead of saying, "Helped to increase sales," say, "Helped to increase sales by 20% in the first year."

Tailor it to the job

Make sure your resume summary is tailored to the job you're applying for. This means highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. Look at the job description and identify the key requirements, and then make sure your summary addresses these points.

Professional resume summary examples

Since there's nothing quite like seeing an example of a great summary, we've compiled twenty-seven great resume summary examples that you can use as inspirational templates for your own perfect resume . Below, you'll find summary examples for a variety of different job roles, including:

Customer Service Representative

Sales Representative

Marketing Manager

Project Manager

Software Developer

Human Resources Manager

Graphic Designer

Registered Nurse

Financial Analyst

Administrative Assistant

Data Entry Clerk 

Business Analyst

Operations Manager 

Mental Health Counselor

High School Teacher

Event Manager

Digital Marketing Manager

Content Marketer

SEO Specialist

Bank Teller

Software Support Specialist

Data Scientist

Dental Assistant

1.     Customer Service Representative resume summary example

"Highly motivated Customer Service Representative with 5 years of experience in delivering service excellence. Skilled in conflict resolution and problem-solving, resulting in a 95% customer satisfaction rate. Proven ability to multitask in fast-paced environments while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience and skills while also showcasing their relevant achievements in ensuring customer satisfaction. It mentions how much experience they have and calls out a measurable success.

2.     Sales Representative resume summary example

"Dynamic Sales Representative with a track record of exceeding sales quotas by 20%+. Proficient in consultative sales techniques and relationship building. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills with the ability to close deals."

Why it works : This summary provides a quantifiable achievement to show the candidate's success in their previous sales roles while also highlighting their key skills in relationship building and communication.

3.     Marketing Manager resume summary example

"Strategic Marketing Manager with 7+ years of experience in developing and executing successful marketing campaigns across multiple channels. Skilled in market research and analysis, campaign optimization, and team leadership. Proven track record of driving revenue growth and increasing brand awareness."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's experience and leadership skills while also showcasing their ability to drive results through successful marketing campaigns. The candidate has also demonstrated their ability to grow revenues and raise brand awareness.

4.     Project Manager resume summary example

"Accomplished Project Manager, with confidence in leading cross-functional teams and managing project timelines, budgets, and resources. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's extensive project management experience and emphasizes their ability to successfully deliver projects while working with multiple stakeholders.

5.     Software Developer resume summary example

"Innovative Software Developer with 5+ years of experience in designing, developing, and implementing complex software applications. Skilled in programming languages including Java, Python, and C++. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in Agile environments to deliver high-quality code on time."

Why it works : This job seeker has taken the time to highlight some of the technical skills they possess, while emphasizing their ability to work in Agile environments. They also call attention to the fact that they can take a software development project from design to implementation.

6.     Human Resources Manager resume summary example

"Experienced Human Resources Manager specializing in talent acquisition, employee relations, and performance management. Skilled in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures that align with business objectives and values. Proven track record of building and managing high-performing teams."

Why it works : This summary highlights the candidate's experience in various HR functions and emphasizes their ability to build and manage teams. It also shows that they can perform managerial functions like developing policies and procedures.

7.     Graphic Designer resume summary example

"Creative Graphic Designer with particular expertise in developing and executing visually stunning designs for print and digital media. Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud, with a focus on typography and layout. Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously."

Why it works : This summary works well because it showcases their technical skills and experience while also emphasizing creativity and an ability to work collaboratively.

8.     Registered Nurse resume summary example

"Compassionate Registered Nurse with over 10 years' experience in providing high-quality patient care. Skilled at patient assessment, medication administration, and treatment plan development. Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with patients and their families."

Why it works : This summary emphasizes the candidate's clinical and patient care experience and highlights their key nursing and interpersonal skills.

9.     Financial Analyst resume summary example

“Detail-oriented Financial Analyst with a strong background in financial modeling, data analysis, and forecasting. Combines advanced Excel skills with the ability to create and manage financial reports. Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.”

Why it works : This summary showcases the applicant's specific skills and experience in financial analysis and highlights their proficiency in Excel, a crucial tool for the role.

10.  Administrative Assistant resume summary example

“Skilled Administrative Assistant with 8 years of experience in administrative support and office administration. Resilient, detail-oriented, and able to work under extreme pressure in a team environment. Excellent interpersonal, client management, and interdepartmental liaison skills. Committed to successful management of multiple simultaneous projects, strict adherence to deadline requirements, and accurate maintenance of schedules, meeting obligations, and records.”

Why it works : An Administrative Assistant wears many hats and experiences many challenges. This resume summary covers a lot of ground to demonstrate that the candidate understands those obstacles and knows how to overcome them.

11.  Data Entry Clerk resume summary example

“Task-driven and results-oriented professional with more than 10 years of experience in data entry, project coordination, and customer service. Uses interpersonal skills including effective communication to build rapport and positive relations with customers, gather vital information, and ensure rapid and accurate entry of data into designated software programs.”

Why it works : This resume summary is effective because it gets right to the heart of the job: dealing with customers and entering data into databases. The candidate also emphasizes their results-focused mindset, project skills, and key soft skills.

12.  Business Analyst resume summary example

“Results-driven Business Analyst with a proven record in expanding profitability by 55% in the retail industry.  Confident carrying out data-focused analysis that provides key insights and recommendations for growth strategies. Strong interpersonal and team building skills, innovative approach to problem-solving , and resolute commitment to efficiency and productivity.”

Why it works : Business analysis is all about using data and research to deliver key insights that result in improved operations and greater business success. This summary hits all the right notes as it focuses on key skills, a solutions-oriented mindset, and notable achievements that reflect real value for employers.

13.  Operations Manager resume summary example

“Results-oriented Operations Manager with more than 10 years of supervisory experience in high-level operational environments. Adept at coordinating both large and small teams, outside consultants, and mid-level management personnel. Successfully introduced Lean manufacturing principles that reduced costs by 32% via waste elimination and process revitalization.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary emphasizes key skills that the employer wants to see in any managerial candidate, while also showcasing their knowledge of best operational practices and a commitment to cost reduction.

14.  Mental Health Counselor resume summary example

“Compassionate Mental Health Counselor with more than a decade of experience addressing mental health issues and behavioral concerns. Proven success in both individual and group counseling environments, assisting clients in gaining insight and understanding of their unique conditions. Specialized focus on working with young adults and families, with an emphasis on addressing substance abuse root causes and other social factors involved in mental health.”

Why it works : This resume summary is notable for citing important skills like empathy and compassion. It also focuses attention on the candidate's experience in dealing with common mental health concerns and hints at their preferred approach to assisting patients.

15.  High School Teacher resume summary example

“Dynamic high school teacher with 12 years of experience developing approved curricula for more than 500 students in grades 9-12. Proven track record of helping students to achieve a 98% passing rate in both Western Civilization and World History instruction. Actively engaged in every aspect of education, at the district, local, and parent-teacher level.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary highlights their vast experience, while illustrating their success in ensuring that their students learn what they need to know to pass the class. They also demonstrate their commitment to the educational process by highlighting their involvement in every area of education.

16.  Accountant resume summary example

“Diligent and detail-oriented CPA with seven years of experience in accounting, process improvement, and problem-solving. Skilled at identifying inefficiencies and using reporting to offer insights that can guide employers to better practices and greater profitability. At XYZ Corp., identified labor usage inefficiency that motivated management to introduce new scheduling that eliminated $300,000 in labor waste.”

Why it works : In addition to highlighting a wide range of valuable skills, this candidate also focused on a quantifiable achievement that illustrates real value. This type of summary would certainly capture a hiring manager's attention and make them want to read more!

17.  Event Manager resume summary example

“Resilient and creative Event Manager with 6 years of corporate experience. Detail-oriented perfectionist with experience in project management, team leadership, and customer relations. Successfully organized and executed more than 40 major business conferences, hosting thousands of guests. Major clients have included three Fortune 500 firms with multi-million-dollar event budgets.

Why it works : As Event Managers go, this one has certainly made the rounds. That summary of achievements highlights their ability to manage even large-scale events, dealing with every aspect of the project. How could a serious hiring manager not want to learn more about this candidate?

18.  IT Manager resume summary example

“Dedicated IT Manager with significant experience in an innovative and growing tech firm. Skilled leader with experience in systems analysis, database architecture, problem-solving, and troubleshooting. Superior client satisfaction rate of more than 99%. Created and implemented IT troubleshooting process that reduced internal client service time by 30%.”

Why it works : This IT professional focuses attention on their key leadership skills , while also mentioning the hard skills that any hiring manager is likely to be looking for. There's also a nice nod to their history of satisfying clients, as well as a notable and measurable achievement.

19.  Product Designer resume summary example

“Innovative Design Engineer with 5 years of experience in the development of products and packages. Skilled in market research, brand development and alignment, and design elements. Led team of seventeen Designers in the creation of industrial products that yielded $20 million in sales in the first month after launch.”

Why it works : This resume summary uses some important keywords, action verbs, and descriptive language to describe the candidate's key skills and experiences. It also cites an impressive product design achievement, along with real numbers that showcase value.

20.  Content Marketer resume summary example

“Creative marketing professional with 7 years' experience as a Content Marketer. Skilled writer who understands how written communication empowers business growth and expansion. Expertise in development of compelling content that drives activities across multiple media channels. Adaptable , detail-oriented, and focused on a brand-building approach to content strategy that drives real results. Developed a cross-platform content strategy that boosted sales conversion rates by 37%.

Why it works : This Content Marketer focuses on their key skills and keen insights into how content impacts business profitability. They even included a measurable result that demonstrates their focus on adding value to their employer's bottom line.

21.  SEO Specialist resume summary example

“Results-focused SEO expert with 6 years of experience in keyword mastery, the promotion of sustainable content, and growing organic website search engine rankings. Proven track record of SEO success, using content development and link outreach to expand website traffic activity from 10,000 daily visitors to more than 2,000,000 per year.”

Why it works : Many hiring managers may not fully understand SEO, but they will understand the need to get more eyes on their digital content. This candidate speaks to that need by focusing on website rankings, content, and overall web traffic - while including a quantifiable achievement that demonstrates their ability to make things happen.

22.  Copywriter resume summary example

“Website Copywriter with 5 years of experience in developing content that creates real conversions. Cross-channel expertise including website content, advertising, newsletters, press releases, email, and podcast / video scripts. Proven track record of increasing social traffic by 36% and driving a 22% boost in landing page conversions.”

Why it works : This candidate's summary is focused not only on the type of things they write, but how those content pieces directly contribute to the company's online presence and sales conversion rate. This illustrates the writer's understanding of how their work aligns with their employer's business needs and goals.

23.  Bank Teller resume summary example

“Empathetic and personable Bank Teller with more than 4 years of experience in client interactions at First Bank. Detail-oriented customer management approach, focused on superior customer experiences and client retention. Strict adherence to bank policy, including safety deposit guidelines, customer account security, and due diligence. Efficiently and effectively processed more than 200 client account interactions each day.”

Why it works : For a Bank Teller, much of the role's value lies in the employee's ability to serve as the face of the branch. This summary is effective because it showcases the Teller's knowledge of bank procedures, while also highlighting their commitment to creating an excellent customer experience.

24.  Software Support Specialist resume summary example

“Problem-solving Software Support Specialist with 8 years of experience in customer-facing user assistance. Provided key problem resolution services for hundreds of customers, with a focus on maximizing their satisfaction with the company to increase loyalty and retention. Experienced in both customer and B2B interactions, with a specialized talent for explaining technical problems in language that is easily understood by the average layperson.”

Why it works : This resume summary focuses not only on the candidate's specialized skills in solving computer issues, but also highlights their ability to simplify their explanations to customers.

25.  Data Scientist resume summary example

“Committed Data Scientist focused on analytical insights that can drive company growth and development. More than eight years of experience providing data-driven analysis to Fortune 500 executives, based on comprehensive statistical models and detailed historical data patterns. Successfully provided insights and recommendations used to increase company profits by 32% over a two-year period.”

Why it works : Data science may not seem like the most exciting field, but hiring managers are always on the hunt for candidates who understand why data matters. This candidate's focus on providing insights that can translate into real value for the employer is something that is likely to earn a hiring manager's interest.

26.  Dental Assistant resume summary example

“Dental Assistant with 5 years of experience with patient preparation, processing, and administrative support. Keen attention to detail and a commitment to dental health and aesthetics. Skilled in dental impressions, hands-on assistance during procedures, x-rays, and record maintenance. Fully committed to developing rapport with patients that creates a welcoming environment and a joyful experience.”

Why it works : This candidate's resume summary not only highlights key Dental Assistant requirements, but also conveys their personal approach to teamwork and patient care.

27.  Architect resume summary example

“Creative Architect experienced in high-end architectural design and development oversight. Ten years of proven success in creating sustainable designs that earn rave reviews and commendations from clients. Skilled in adapting to new challenges and working under pressure to achieve every client's vision. Consistently produces designs and project plans that come in on time and under budget, at 10%-30% less cost than industry competitors.”

Why it works : In this summary, the candidate highlights key skills that employers will want to see, while also emphasizing quantifiable results that demonstrate competitive value for the employer. They also showcase their ability to not only design architectural structures but to do so with a conscious awareness of critical factors like budgetary concerns, deadlines, sustainability and market competition.

Bonus: how to write a resume summary if you have no experience

Of course, it's also important to know how to write a resume summary if you have no experience. Here's a quick resume summary example that you can adapt if you are just entering the job market:

“Recent Marketing graduate, seeking an entry-level position to kickstart a career in the field. Demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork skills gained through involvement in various extracurricular activities, including volunteering at local events and leading group projects. Proficient in Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud. Passionate about using marketing strategies to create engaging content and drive brand awareness.”

Why it works: This summary works because it highlights the candidate's relevant hard and soft skills and qualifications, even though they don't have direct career experience. The use of action words such as "demonstrated" and "proficient" shows the candidate's confidence in their abilities, which can be attractive to potential employers, showcasing the candidate's potential for success in an entry-level marketing role.

Key takeaways

A well-written resume summary can make a significant impact on a job application. A good summary should highlight relevant skills and experiences, use clear and concise language, and avoid unnecessary information. Feel free to customize any of the resume summary examples we've provided to help ensure that your resume captures the attention of potential employers.

We know it can be difficult to condense a whole career full of skills and achievements into a paragraph of only a few sentences. If you're unsure about the document you've crafted, why not send it for a free resume review by our team of expert resume writers? 

Recommended reading:

Ask Amanda: How Are a Resume Objective and a Resume Summary Different?

How to Write a Standout Career Summary

Business Acumen: What It Is and How You Can Showcase It On Your Resume

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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Helen Coster is a U.S. Presidential Election Correspondent at Reuters, where she writes a mix of spot news, enterprise and analysis stories, with a focus on the Republican Party and conservative media. Prior to 2024 she covered the media industry for Reuters, and was also a Senior Editor on Reuters’ Commentary team. A graduate of Princeton University, she has reported from six countries, including Pakistan, India, and Greece.

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