There’s no doubt that writing the personal statement that accompanies your college application and other paperwork is a challenge. It can be rewarding, however, too. This is the place to give the admissions office a feel for you as a person, as well as a student. You have the opportunity here to put the data about your experience as a student into context. Here are some basic steps you need to take to get started:

1. Make your introductory paragraph unable to ignore. Grab attention with an example from your life that illustrates why you are interested in pursuing your education. This anecdote is the skeleton to your personal statement something to be referenced as you go along.

2. Use your supporting paragraphs to discuss why your personal qualifications will enable you to succeed the college program that you are interested in. Keep in mind that every paragraph needs one topic sentence and make sure that every message that follows falls under it.

3. The conclusion ties it all together. This is where you differentiate the personal statement from the accompanying application letter. The personal statement isn’t in business letter form, nor does it refer to the resume or ask the reader for an interview. Simply reiterate — without sounding like a broken record, why your life experience and unique qualities have lead you to the realization that your next step is to study your chosen field at their university.

4. There are tonal differences in the personal statement. Honesty is a big part of your message here. Confidence, too, is key in making a strong argument for success. You’ve certainly overcome obstacles in your life, right? Show how you’ve created opportunities in your own unique way.

This is your chance to reflect about your life and what you want it to become. Don’t let time become a hindrance, allow enough of it to revise, reflect and then revise some more. Get opinions from others who know you well and benefit from a fresh pair of eyes. Your personal statement is, after all, personal and not simply an application. Show the world who you are.

Allen Ross is an independent college counselor with special interest in online degree programs, online colleges and financial aid for adult students.

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