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Media Writing Guide
Getting The Structure Right
Now you have completed the questionnaire, the next process is to review the results and get your structure right. It is important to remember that this is a short personal statement, not an autobiography. Focus on your results from the questionnaire, and be particular about each element that you wish to include. If you are lacking practical experience, demonstrate your interest and ability to study your topic. Below is our recommended structure.
Giving your personal statement a strong opening will engage the reader's attention from the outset. Common mistakes include the use of clichéd and overused sentences in the introduction. For example, you should avoid starting your sentence with the following:
“ I always wanted to study media”.
“ I want to study media because”.
“ My passion has always been for media”.
Below is an example of a compelling introduction.
“Whenever I have set a goal in life, my mind has always drifted to the example set by Lester Wunderman. Growing up poor amidst the Great Depression, he went on to become a marketing mastermind, responsible for innovative direct media techniques such as the insert card and "Gold Box". Wunderman was never content to accept setbacks. When faced with a struggle, I have always sought to emulate him by emerging from obstacles - not with a sense of defeat - but with a renewed sense of determination and greater problem-solving skills”.
Notice how the student has used Lester Wunderman as a business icon to introduce their character.
The Body
People often forget about the body of the personal statement. It is important to remember that your personal statement must proceed in a logical succession from one thought to the next. The body of the personal statement should lead in a convincing way from the introduction to conclusion. The paragraphing can be used as a planning tool. The beginning of each paragraph should introduce the topic and the paragraph must end in a “hook” to the next paragraph. Whenever possible give the first sentence an interesting angle.
Each paragraph should follow this general structure.
Make sure your sentence is supported by actions.
1. Specific detail (action that supports the point).
2. Specific detail (action that supports the point).
3. Specific detail (action that supports the point).
The Conclusion
Conclude the personal statement with an attention-grabbing sentence. You may find it helpful to reflect on your main accomplishments and experience. The main point of the conclusion is to underline your desire to study. Read the sample conclusion below.
“In pursuing a degree, I seek to advance my knowledge of the media and perfect my journalistic skills. I have established the strong academic foundation necessary for success, excelling in A level courses in business, physics, and design technology. Through my intensive schoolwork, hands-on work experience, and prolonged personal interest, I have demonstrated my considerable commitment to media”.
Having reached the conclusion, admissions officers need to feel that they know more about you than when they started.
The fact that you have been swimming every day is impressive, but what is more interesting is the inspiration behind it: the fact that you had met Olympic winner Duncan Goodhew, and why he inspired you.
Remember to keep the discussion personal. How much you revel about yourself is up to you. Many students fall into the trap of keeping the reader at arms length.
Next: Draft Structure Outline.
Note: This guide is not intended to replace the advice of tutors, admissions officers, or teachers; Get Into Uni simply provides advice and exercises to help you write a compelling personal statement.
