Writing a Personal Statement
March 24, 2025
by Kimberly Rochin
Applying to graduate school was no joke! It took lots of planning, researching, asking questions to both professors and students, and writing (and LOTS of rewriting) my personal statement.
Like many others, especially first-generation college students pursuing a graduate program, I did not have a clue of how to write the “perfect” personal statement for an OTD program. Leveraging the style I had once used for undergraduate writing, I wrote in a very fluffy manner. Too many metaphors, unnecessary filler words, and honestly a bunch of story-like conjugations.
At first, I approached the personal statement through an extensive metaphor of a broken landline, where I highlighted different discrepancies in healthcare within my family, where health and seeking therapeutic measures are often seen as taboo. But this version, while creative, did not allow me to delve into my journey as a prospective OTD student.
Although when I had sought out advice, my ego took somewhat of a strike, I realized that the writing style that had once worked would not make the cut in admissions. Application readers do not necessarily want to read metaphor-filled narratives but rather understand what prompted you to pursue a career in OT, why OT, and what you plan to contribute to the growing field.
Here are some tips that worked for me:
1. Be direct and concise: OT programs receive hundreds of applications. Make your points clear without excessive storytelling.
2. Connect personal experiences to professional goals: Instead of just telling a story about healthcare disparities, explain how those experiences shaped your specific interest in occupational therapy.
3. Show, don’t just tell: Rather than stating “I’m passionate about OT,” demonstrate this through concrete examples of relevant experiences or observations. I started my statement with a conversation or setting up a scene to intrigue the reader to continue reading.
4. Highlight your unique perspective: For instance, I am a first-generation student, so my background provides me valuable insights, not many may encounter. Make sure to frame this as a strength rather than a limitation.
5. Research each program thoroughly: Tailor your statement to address specific aspects of each program that align with your goals. Generic statements are easy to spot!
6. Get feedback from multiple sources: Seek input from professors, current OT students, and writing centers. Be open to constructive criticism (even if it hurts your ego!)
7. Demonstrate understanding of the profession: Show that you comprehend what OTs do and how the field impacts healthcare.
8. Balance personal and professional: While your statement should be personal, it should also demonstrate professionalism and readiness for graduate-level work.
9. Revise, revise, revise: My final statement looked nothing like my first draft, and that’s a good thing! Give yourself time for multiple revisions. I found that roughly writing my ideas on a scratch piece of paper and connecting my experiences and identities, helped me create my narrative/brand.
10. Stay authentic: Find the balance between professional writing and your authentic voice. Admissions committees want to know the real you.
Remember, the personal statement is your opportunity to showcase not just your writing abilities but your critical thinking skills and genuine commitment to the field of OT. Good luck with your applications!
⋯
Next by tag Admissions ⟩
⋯
