How to Write a Winning Personal Statement 3rd ed

by Richard J. Stelzer

35 sample essays to help the creative juices flow Admissions officials provide tips on what works and what doesn't.

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing

142 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Kathleen Seal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I realize that non-fiction books aren't the norm on Good Reads, but thought I'd share this instructional guide. Writing a general statement about oneself is more daunting then you would think. This book was particularly helpful in giving a set of questions to ask yourself in preparing the writing of a personal statement for grad/professional school. These include finding what's special, unique, distinctive or impressive about yourself and thinking about experiences that might have influenced you into becoming interested in a particular field to name a few. The book also gives insightful perspective from admission committee members comments on reading personal statements and what their school are looking for. Plenty of examples of winning statements.

[LibraryEnthusiast · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book for anyone who is preparing to apply to professional school. It provides an overview, samples from a range of schools and insights from the people who make admissions decisions.

[Julie Holland · Rating 3 out of 5]

Similar to a lot of other books on personal statements, but this one does definitely provide the most examples which was great.

[Christian · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ultimtely a helpful book. However, too many of the sample statements are from promising people who don't need to worry about this book. I eventually lost count of the number of decorated veterans with multiple masters degrees who were applying to medical school. If that sounds like you, and you haven't already mastered the art of the personal statement, then this book is definitely for you.

Also, many of the statements date to the 1980s or early 1990s. I know the range of human experience hasn't expanded significantly since then, but some more up-to-date essays would be a plus.

In the end, it is still a useful guide, and I recommend that grad-school applicants spend an hour or two flipping through it (and photocopying a page or two) prior to sending in a half-assed statement.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stelzer's book has been an enlightening read for me. I knew little about what is expected in personal statements before now; though it's not a hand-holding, step by step how to, this provides an overall perspective of what's accepted and expected. I'd say this is a must-read for anyone new to academia; I now have at least a good direction for what to write in the often required personal statement.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful.

[Sara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Did not apply to our needs, but interesting to leaf through.

[Chris · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sucked.

[Sasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll give this 5 stars if I get into grad school.