Seven Tips to Help You Write a Strong Personal Statement

Writing your college personal statement can feel overwhelming. It’s one of the few parts of the application that allows you to speak directly to admissions officers in your own voice—and that blank page can be intimidating. But it’s also an incredible opportunity to share your story, reflect on your experiences, and show colleges what makes you you.

Here are a few tips to help you get started—and write a personal statement you’ll be proud of.

1. Share something they don’t already know

Admissions officers will already see your transcript, activities list, test scores, and course rigor. Your essay is your chance to show them what doesn’t show up in those numbers: Who are you? What kind of person are you? How would your friends or family describe you? This is your opportunity to share a story or reflection that adds depth to your application—and helps the reader see the human behind the stats.

2. Start with a story, not a résumé

Your essay isn’t a list of accomplishments—it’s a story only you can tell. Think of a moment, experience, or detail that reveals something personal and meaningful. It doesn’t need to be dramatic; it just needs to be real. A small moment—like helping a sibling with homework or making a tough decision during a group project—can be powerful if it reveals something important about your character. I always say it is like one photo, not an entire photo album.

3. Focus on the “why”

Once you’ve chosen your story, dig into why it mattered. What did you learn? How did the experience shape you? What values or qualities did it reveal about you? Be sure to reflect—this is where the essay becomes personal and powerful. The best essays not only show who you’ve been but also offer a glimpse of who you’re becoming. What will you bring to a college campus? Curiosity, kindness, resilience, leadership, humility—these are the kinds of qualities colleges want to learn more about.

4. Keep your voice front and center

This is your story—so it should sound like you. Don’t try to impress with big words or write in a style that doesn’t feel natural. I always tell students: If you left a typed draft of your essay in the hallway, would someone who knows you be able to tell it was yours? If not, go back and rewrite it in your own voice. Authenticity is more powerful than perfection. Aim to sound thoughtful and sincere—not like a thesaurus.

5. Tread carefully with common topics

Yes, you can write about sports, service trips, or a challenging class—but only if you make it deeply personal. Focus less on the event and more on your unique take or insight. The most memorable essays offer a fresh angle on a familiar topic.

6. Write first, revise later

Don’t worry about getting it right the first time. Write freely, then revise with fresh eyes. Focus on clarity, tone, and making sure every sentence reveals something meaningful about you. Getting words written is the first step!

7. Ask for feedback—but protect your voice

It’s helpful to get input from someone who understands college admissions, but be careful not to let others rewrite your story. English teachers are great for grammar and structure, but unless they have talked with admission officers they don't know what colleges are looking for. Be careful of getting imput from parents too. Admission officers know when an essay sounds like a forty year woman.

Final Thought

Your personal statement is a chance to connect with the admissions reader on a human level. Use it to show them something real, something personal, and something they won’t find anywhere else in your application. Be honest, be thoughtful, and be yourself.

And if you're not sure where to start, I’m here to help! Whether you're brainstorming a topic or polishing your final draft, I’d love to work with you one-on-one or see you at one of my upcoming summer essay workshops.