The Personal Essay (Part 3)

3. What does a common statement consist of? A typical personal statement will consist of the following:◙ An introductory paragraph in which you can provide the main theme of the essay: the course of study you are applying, how you got interested, what motivates you. The first sentences are very important; whether the tone and message are provoking you might grab attention from the start. You might start by talking about how you began interested in your discipline, about some activities you got involved in and how they motivate you.◙ 2-4 body paragraphs (according to the required length of the essay from 250 to 1,500 words) that develop your theme through examples and experiences. It is here you can give a summary of your educational background: your interests, skills, prizes, awards, your future goals.
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