Customer service centre 020 3286 5047
"If you write a good personal statement you will impress
the university and hopefully be made an offer".
Brunel University

goldoffer2

SilverOffer

Bronzeoffer

samples2

Politics 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.

Introduction

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 have always wanted to study politics”.
“ Politics is my calling’’.
“ My passion has always been for political matters”.

Below is an example of a powerful introduction:

“With an MA in Management and a covenant position with a Big Four accounting firm, I had impressive credentials. I had also gained substantial experience working with information systems and performing financial audits and reconciliations. Why, then, was I not satisfied?”

Notice how this statement grabs your attention immediately.

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 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.

"For years, I have maintained a firm devotion to politics. In the past, I have faced many challenges, but with my enduring desire to succeed, I can excel in this ever-exciting and evolving field".

Having reached the conclusion, admissions officers need to feel that they know more about you than when they started.

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.




top