A personal statement supports your application to study at a university/college or apply for a scholarship. It’s a chance for you to articulate why you’d like to study a particular course or subject, and what skills and experience you possess that show your passion for your chosen field. It should paint a picture for colleges/scholarships to understand who you are and what you bring to the table. This is why it’s often better to tell a story, or give examples, rather than just list accomplishments. It may also indicate why you’re deserving of the scholarship. This often means making sure your essay relates to the scholarship provider’s goals. The personal statement should showcase your strengths. Here are some topics to help you get started: 

• Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback or failure? How did it affect you and what did you learn?

• Do you have a background, interest or talent that is so meaningful that you believe your application would be incomplete without? 

• Can you think of an accomplishment, event or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others? 

• Include your ambitions, as well as what interests you about the subject, the course provider, and higher education

• Think about what makes you suitable – this could be relevant experience, skills, or achievements you’ve gained from education, work, or other activities

• Include any clubs or societies you belong to – sporting, creative, or musical.
  Mention any relevant employment experience or volunteering you’ve done

• If you took part in a higher education taster course, placement, or summer school, or something similar, include it.

• If there are any personal circumstances which have affected your educational performance, outline them in your personal statement. For example, this might be something that caused you to miss school  - such as a physical or mental health condition, or caring for a family member.

• If you have suffered financial hardships