2016-2017 PTCAS Essay

[Mayomi]

Hello everyone I am currently applying to schools this cycle, the essay is the last thing on my list before submitting. I have written 2 essays now for the prompt provide but both essays I have written did not please me and I am working hard to write the best essay I can. With that being said I was just curious what everyone's thoughts were on the essay this cycle? It has been stumping me for weeks, and I am trying to figure out the best way to approach the prompt. I am uncertain whether to speak in first person or 3rd person throughout my narrative and also include personal experiences to help develop my narrative. Any advice or examples that you may have in writing your essay would be appreciated.

I'm sure you all know the prompt but here it is:

What is professionalism in the context of being a student in a doctor of physical therapist degree program?

Good luck to everyone else out there applying to schools this cycle as well.

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[astarblaze]

Hey Mayomi,

Despite this year's not-very-personal prompt, the personal statement is intended to be just that- a personal statement. So definitely speak in the first person and include personal experiences in your essay. I approached the prompt by discussing how I have come to understand what it means to be a professional through various experiences (different jobs I've held, seeing PTs behave in certain ways through my observation hours, etc). I've found books that include examples of grad school personal statements (especially medical-related ones) to be helpful. Some books you could check out include:

Grad's Guide to Graduate Admissions Essays- Colleen Reding
Graduate Admissions Essays- Donald Asher
How to Write the Perfect Personal Statement- Mark Alan Stewart

Good luck!

 

[Mayomi]

Hey Mayomi,

Despite this year's not-very-personal prompt, the personal statement is intended to be just that- a personal statement. So definitely speak in the first person and include personal experiences in your essay. I approached the prompt by discussing how I have come to understand what it means to be a professional through various experiences (different jobs I've held, seeing PTs behave in certain ways through my observation hours, etc). I've found books that include examples of grad school personal statements (especially medical-related ones) to be helpful. Some books you could check out include:

Grad's Guide to Graduate Admissions Essays- Colleen Reding
Graduate Admissions Essays- Donald Asher
How to Write the Perfect Personal Statement- Mark Alan Stewart

Good luck!

Thank you for the tips! I will look at the resources you provided, and good luck to you on your future endeavors!

 

[ccptrunr]

Question: Do you guys think the essay should be written in first person, or by defining professionalism you are defining yourself?

 

[dptwannabee1]

Question: Do you guys think the essay should be written in first person, or by defining professionalism you are defining yourself?

Mine was definitely in the first person.