Personal Statements

Good personal statements work for a reason. They show who you are, explain weaknesses in your file, and tell a good story. A great personal statement does all three. The admissions officer who reads your personal statement should not just feel informed; she/he should feel entertained.

No one can tell you what should be in your personal statement without knowing your entire personal and family history. Personal statements are often sent in conjuction with other essays. The set of essays must tell a unified story.

Dr. Linda Scoville holds a graduate degree in writing and is available to help students with their personal statements. Please contact her at (518)442-3223 or lscoville@uamail.albany.edu.

Walk-in Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2pm-4pm

Very Important - Please email your essay prior to meeting with Linda.

Pitifalls to Avoid When Writing the Personal Statement

What makes a good personal statement? Here are some starting points.