A good Personal Statement

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DAT24

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What is the definition of a good personal statement? Is it style, writing ability, grammar, a good story, the ability to present ones self in a way that the adcoms will remember you? I see this term being used a lot but I am unclear as to what makes a personal statement better than any other in a general sense. I apologize if this sounds naive.
 
What is the definition of a good personal statement? Is it style, writing ability, grammar, a good story, the ability to present ones self in a way that the adcoms will remember you? I see this term being used a lot but I am unclear as to what makes a personal statement better than any other in a general sense. I apologize if this sounds naive.

Kind of like short stories; read, compare and you will know.
 
I agree with doc.

They are short stories about you. All the writing rules apply (grammar, sentence structure, spelling).

Just remember you are selling yourself to the adcoms, what makes you special and desirable for these dental schools.
 
Mine went...1) This is what I want in life. 2) This what my current career path is missing. 3) This is why dentistry is the answer. 4) this is why I'd make a great dentist. 5) this is what I know about dentistry to show you I've actually done my homework and thought about this. 6) in case you missed it, this is why I'd be a great dentist.

These don't apply to everyone, but I think if you break it down to the things you find important, it helps you organize it into a better read.
 
The big key I think a lot of people miss is make it interesting. Telling a story is the best way of keeping interest. Relate an experience(not necessarily about dentistry) that makes you unique. I've seen some excellent personal statements about helping a grandmother with fighting a terminal disease or about a summer job on a fishing boat in Alaska. What sets you apart from others? But make it interesting. You will make a bigger impression and they will remember your application much more easily. But of course, proper punctuation, spelling, and formating is essential.
 
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