I went to a professor from an optometry school to ask about my Personal statement and some of the key points he made were:
1. Keep it short, about 1 page double spaced because admissions looks through so many that they immediately dread when they see a personal statement longer than that.
2. Don't dwell too long on any one point, especially if it's something like how you became interested in optometry because you had amblyopia as a child. Mention it briefly then move on. DON'T mention how the first time you wore glasses you saw the leaves on the trees. Be original.
3. DO include your experiences that make you unique. Show that you took the time to volunteer, work, and shadow at multiple types of practices. It shows that you did your research and you learned enough to really confirm that optometry is for you.
4. When discussing your future goals, make it sound confident... I plan to vs. I want to
5. Demonstrate how you are ready for optometry school. Include your time management skills, mention that you understand it's 24hr course loads each semester and you're ready to take on the challenge.
6. And of course... try to show your personality through it. Think of what makes your situation unique and how to draw the attention of the school... Remember that this is the short glimpse that the committee gets that aren't just numbers on a paper. Try to land that interview!
Hope this helps!
