Want to write a personal statement that will leave a lasting impression —and get you accepted — to PA or Med school?
In today’s competitive PA and Med school admissions world, strong personal statement and curriculum vitae profiles are essential. But look, it can be difficult for many students — don’t feel like you alone — to write these stellar admissions essential documents.
Let us help you get noticed by admissions officers with our personal statement, CV and cover letter writing and editing services. Our writers and experts also offer their best advice to help you write a personal statement that will make you shine.
Here are 10 tips for writing captivating statements and making your personal essay stand out and gain acceptance to these very competitive programs. Plus, our expert writers are here to help you when you need a little help finding the right words!
1.Get a jump start
It’s hard to find time for writing when you are immersed in studying scientific subjects and cramming for exams, but make time for your essay. Begin crafting your personal essay early and don’t be afraid to revise, revise and revise. You don’t want to submit a lackluster statement. That can translate into disinterest or a lack of reflection. A well-written statement will tell a story that details your specific goals and accomplishments, and it will convey your personality.
2.Show, don’t tell
You can assert that you’re a great fit medical or PA school. But if you can cite a real-life example of an experience that makes that case for you it’s going to go much further. Try to use that story to convey your goals, desires, skills and passion for a career in medicine. This is the place to share your reflections, experiences and goals that will convince admissions reviewers why you want to be a physician or PA. Consider these questions for reflection:
- What did you learn from the experience?
- How did you change as a result of the experience?
- What insight did you gain?
3.Express Yourself
When it comes to making your personal statement extraordinary, think passion. The key is answering the questions “why medicine?” and “why me in medicine?” Your personal statement is an opportunity to convince the admissions committee you are going to make a difference in healthcare, according to the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges).
4. Go for the tears
The difference between a good personal statement and a great statement is the emotional connection the essay makes with the admissions committee, according to HealthcareerCERTS partner, MyPABox.
5. Highlight your individuality
Make sure your essay is unique and not clichéd, recommends U.S. News & World Report. Instead of listing everything you’ve done, write about what you are really good at, what you really value and how this will drive your medical career.
6. Follow guidelines
Pay strict attention to the guidelines.. Make sure your essay is interesting, follows a logical and orderly flow, relates to your reasons for choosing medicine, and describes why you believe you will be successful as a physician. Proofread and pay attention to formatting and word or character counts.
7. Don’t oversell yourself
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is trying so hard to appear perfect that you don’t seem human. Create a genuine snapshot of who you are, and that requires demonstrating vulnerability. Admissions committees want to know that your journey to medicine has been transformative.
8. Review, review, review
Be prepared to spend many hours writing, rewriting, rearranging, editing, cutting, and polishing your essay, says the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Give yourself at least a month to write and edit before you plan on submitting your personal statement and – this is key – have several proofreaders. Allow enough time for them to make suggestions, and for you to consider and incorporate their advice.
9. We’ve Got the Write Stuff
Got writer’s block? Don’t stress. HealthCareer CERTS has writers available to help you craft memorable statements that are your golden tickets to PA and Med school. Our tailored personal statement editing service for pre-health students is designed to polish and refine your narrative, ensuring your unique experiences and aspirations shine through. Our team of seasoned editors, well-versed in the intricacies of the medical application process, provide comprehensive feedback and guidance to help you craft a compelling and authentic personal statement. By meticulously reviewing content, structure, and tone, we aim to elevate your story, enabling you to present a powerful and cohesive representation of your journey into the healthcare profession.
10. Additional Resources
Healthcareer CERTS partner, MyPABox.com offers a tailored personal statement editing service for pre-health students that helps you highlight your experiences and personality. You also can receive a critique of your content style and grammar and flow to craft the best personal statement possible.
