*~*~*~*Official Personal Statement Guide and Reader List 2011-2012*~*~*~*

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theseeker4 said:
Are dramatic stories that attempt to grab attention really that advantageous, or would a well-written, matter-of-fact letter have a better chance of gaining notice and acceptance of my application? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...

If that style of writing doesn't come naturally to you, do not do it. The odds are that you will fail miserably. It's much easier to stand out negatively than it is to stand out positively.

I would try writing your statement in whatever fashion you feel most comfortable (and is most representative of /you/) and then solicit feedback from some of the volunteers in this thread.
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theseeker4 said:
I have a quick question regarding the direction to take my personal statement.

I am trying to decide between two styles for my personal statement; the first is easier for me to write, and that would be a matter-of-fact style explanation of the events and reasoning that led me to decide to apply now, as a non-traditional applicant. The second is less natural for me to write, and that would be a story in a dramatic tone, focusing on two key events influencing my decision with minimal transition material and explicit description of why I want to be a doctor.

Are dramatic stories that attempt to grab attention really that advantageous, or would a well-written, matter-of-fact letter have a better chance of gaining notice and acceptance of my application? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...

No drama, especially admitting that this type of writing is not your forte.


Dramatic stories are far from advantageous. When they are not perfectly executed, they come across as gimmicky. When they are perfectly executed, they are still clichéd.

You would be shocked how many people start with, "she was lying there in a pool of blood," or some other similar attempt at a hook. It isn't a hook if I've read a thousand variations of it already.

ETA: Samesies, mauberley!
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. You can embed the PS in the text or email me an attachment. PM for details. Will take several days (5-7) to read/return.

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I've read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I'm pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I'm old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like "I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer," I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don't think you're screwing with me.
 
Last edited:
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It is not a personal statement, but would anybody be willing to read my optional TMDSAS essay? Prompt: "Describe any personal characteristics and/or important or challenging experiences you have had that will contribute to the diversity (broadly defined) of/or provide educational benefits to the student body."

I've written it and have had it proof read a couple times, but not by anybody who is actually familiar with the medical school application process. I'm looking for someone to tell me how it "rings" in the ears of someone who reads a lot of these.
 
Morzh said:
It is not a personal statement, but would anybody be willing to read my optional TMDSAS essay?
Click to expand...

You've got a whole list of people above who would be receptive to your request. ;)
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | I've read a lot of personal statements. My strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I'm pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I'm old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). Along with your PS, send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like "I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer," I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don't think you're screwing with me.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)
CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I've read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I'm pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I'm old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like "I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer," I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don't think you're screwing with me.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)
CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I've read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I'm pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I'm old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like "I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer," I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don't think you're screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.
 
Last edited:
kcola:: B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts.: can edit for content and basic grammar. :)
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)
 
Members don't see this ad :)
srsly, do people pay attention when I reader says "I don't have any more time right now to add more personal statements to my pile - I'll let you know when I'm ready for more"?

OY, come on people. gimme a breather - I've got 10 to look at!

/rant

EDIT: I see what happened - someone didn't quote the most recent *cough appbuddy cough*

FIXING!
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)
 
glasshalfMD said:
EDIT: I see what happened - someone didn't quote the most recent *cough appbuddy cough*
Click to expand...
well great minds we thinking alike and so we just happened to be on the same thread at that moment. but sorry - I thought I had re-quoted properly.
 
I have a question, is it advisable to describe an event in one's life that shows some good qualities that one has? and how these qualities and that event will make someone a better doctor? Even though the event was kind of minor?

I was thinking of writing about this classmate of mine who got bullied a bit in high school and one day he got a bee sting (of which he started yelling that he was allergic) and started freaking out, I was able to calm him down and get him to the nurses office. I thought this would show my compassion/empathy and what not but I don't know if it is okay to talk about in a personal statement? To show how I have been a compassionate person?

I've been reading around and some people say that you don't need to go into your EC's for the sake of talking about them since they are described in the AMCAS activities section.

I actually became really good friends with him after that lol.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.
 
glasshalfMD said:
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.


medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=389318
ladybug1122 - Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.
Click to expand...
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.
 
mauberley;10949004]DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow
Currently swamped with the batch I have. Not accepting anymore until I clear the ones I have. 5/6/11

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.
 
gujuDoc said:
Ladybug2012

You erased mine from the list. Please edit it or have someone else add you to the most recent list so there's no confusion. Thanks in advance. :) :)

I'd fix it but I don't know how to do these things. lol
Click to expand...

Oh my gosh, sorry about that. I'm glad they could fix it! whew!
 
hiyaman said:
I have a question, is it advisable to describe an event in one's life that shows some good qualities that one has? and how these qualities and that event will make someone a better doctor? Even though the event was kind of minor?

I was thinking of writing about this classmate of mine who got bullied a bit in high school and one day he got a bee sting (of which he started yelling that he was allergic) and started freaking out, I was able to calm him down and get him to the nurses office. I thought this would show my compassion/empathy and what not but I don't know if it is okay to talk about in a personal statement? To show how I have been a compassionate person?
Click to expand...

Well, you certainly wouldn't list it as an EC. :p

Ask yourself what the narrative is you wish to write. How does this anecdote support its theme? How strong a piece of evidence is it?

On its face, it sounds like a one-off event that I wouldn't put much stock in as truly reflective of your fundamental nature. You'd need to establish it as a pattern of behavior for it to be meaningful.

hiyaman said:
I've been reading around and some people say that you don't need to go into your EC's for the sake of talking about them since they are described in the AMCAS activities section.
Click to expand...

You certainly don't want to be redundant, but sometimes your PS and your ECs go hand-in-hand.
 
mauberley said:
Ask yourself what the narrative is you wish to write. How does this anecdote support its theme? How strong a piece of evidence is it?
Click to expand...
+1

Based on the advice I was given when I wrote my PS, I have been telling everyone to try to think of 3-4 distinct characteristic/qualities about you that explain why you want to be a physician and why you will be a good physician. From there, go on to figure out a good experience/story that provides evidence for that quality. (Hopefully most of the other editors agree with this piece of advice.)

hiyaman - I mentioned several of my ECs in my PS, because they explain who I am as well as why I want to go into medicine. They do go hand in hand at times. But usually I would mention the EC and then tell about "One time when I was volunteering" or "As a TA," ect.
 
Avoidthetiger said:
(Hopefully most of the other editors agree with this piece of advice.)
Click to expand...

I took the "thousand monkeys" approach. I think my PS started "It was the best of times, it was the blurst of times..."

Stupid monkey.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. You can embed the PS in the text or email me an attachment. PM for details. Will take several days (5-7) to read/return.

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international healthcan't work on any more right now, will update when I get through the ones I have


ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | I’ve read a lot of personal statements. My strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). Along with your PS, send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow
Currently swamped with the batch I have. Not accepting anymore until I clear the ones I have. 5/6/11

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health can't work on any more right now, will update when I get through the ones I have

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow
Currently swamped with the batch I have. Not accepting anymore until I clear the ones I have. 5/6/11

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

8 May 2011: I am not accepting any new requests until I clear out my queue.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health can't work on any more right now, will update when I get through the ones I have

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow
Currently swamped with the batch I have. Not accepting anymore until I clear the ones I have. 5/6/11

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

8 May 2011: I am not accepting any new requests until I clear out my queue.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health can't work on any more right now, will update when I get through the ones I have

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.


medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow
Currently swamped with the batch I have. Not accepting anymore until I clear the ones I have. 5/6/11

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

8 May 2011: I am not accepting any new requests until I clear out my queue.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

Overwhelmed! Please do not send new PSes for time being - 05/08

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health can't work on any more right now, will update when I get through the ones I have

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.


medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content, tone, flow -- and minor grammar and spelling mistakes. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.
 
Etorphine said:
On my PS, I *really* want to put this key example from my life that relates specifically and succinctly to the point I’m trying to make, but it took place in high school.

I wouldn’t base the whole PS around it, it is more just a 2-sentence throw-away example that would be included toward the middle-end.

Now, I know it’s generally not advised to put things from high school on your extracurriculars (and note, this is not on my extracurricular), but will it be in bad taste to include this? It is not something related to high school, it just happened to take place during that period of my life.
Click to expand...

Include it. If it lends support to your narrative, go for it.
 
Etorphine said:
On my PS, I *really* want to put this key example from my life that relates specifically and succinctly to the point I’m trying to make, but it took place in high school.

I wouldn’t base the whole PS around it, it is more just a 2-sentence throw-away example that would be included toward the middle-end.

Now, I know it’s generally not advised to put things from high school on your extracurriculars (and note, this is not on my extracurricular), but will it be in bad taste to include this? It is not something related to high school, it just happened to take place during that period of my life.
Click to expand...

To yourself and others,

Highschool things CAN be included in Personal statements, Just NOT the EC section.

Caps is for emphasis, not yelling. So please take note of that. :D

High school things and even childhood experiences are often a key device used in introduction stories to what piqued ones interest in medicine i.e. a death of a loved one or friend, illness of a loved one or friend or your own healthcare experience, an internship in high school or volunteering experience in teenage years, etc. etc.

So it is more then fine to include it.

Just make sure that if it is in the middle that the flow makes sense with the rest of the story.
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow
Currently swamped with the batch I have. Not accepting anymore until I clear the ones I have. 5/6/11

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

8 May 2011: I am not accepting any new requests until I clear out my queue.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

Overwhelmed! Please do not send new PSes for time being - 05/08

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.
Need a break for the time being - have several PSs to catch up on. Will update when I am ready for more! Thanks!

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. PM for my email address and more details. As of 05 May 11, I cannot accept any more PS until I finish up the current batch I have now..It's difficult balancing this reading plus a full time job that leaves me with headaches every day :)

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health can't work on any more right now, will update when I get through the ones I have

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.


medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I've read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I'm pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I'm old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like "I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer," I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don't think you're screwing with me.

Avoidthetiger | Incoming MS1, non-trad (grad school 2-years in biology), biology and history major in undergrad, S on the MCAT writing section. Received 13 interview invites with average stats (32, 3.6/3.5) | Can edit for content and flow. I let you know if your paper is overall excellent, needs work, or would toss it. I got a lot of good feedback when I was applying, so I want to give back.
May 10th - Unable to accept anymore personal statements for the time being - unless I have already given you the OK to send it to me, or if I have already proofread your essay and you would like me to relook at it.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.
 
(not quoting the previous because I'm not changing the list, just adding a comment)

I'm thoroughly enjoying reading these personal statements. I like reading about people and helping them move forward in this process. A few of these have been absolutely fantastic, and most of them have potential to be excellent essays.

However, it's getting a little disheartening when an applicant sends back second/third/fourth/beyond drafts that ignore all the suggested changes. I spend 45 minutes to an hour reading and commenting on an essay, and my criticism is entirely constructive and never derogatory. I don't expect you to apply every single change I suggest, but I would appreciate if you would consider some of them before sending me another asking me my opinion.
 
I'll ask/beg of one thing to people sending me personal statements - PLEASE READ THE GUIDELINES BEFORE SENDING THE ESSAY. I have read some essays in which they have either completely ignored or never looked at the first page to see things they can do to avoid making their essays have downfalls. Please look at the first page! :)
 
+1 to the above.

The only thing I disagree about in the guidelines is this:

"J) Stay away from cliche. That is... "I want to become a doctor because I want to help people", "I am compassionate", "I am a hard worker" are things that are cliched and are better demonstrated by storytelling and through examples rather than explicitly saying so. Actions speak louder than words."
Click to expand...
While actions speak louder than words, you clearly want to say what quality you are trying to demonstrate with the action/experience/story. You don't want to have the ADCOMs second guessing what you are trying to tell them regarding some story -- especially if they are reading the essay very quickly (even skimming it). You want the cliche words there - compassion, serving others, ect - the qualities that drew you to medicine and the characteristics that will make you a good physician --so that they can quickly know the point of each paragraph. But don't forgot to leave out the evidence to back up those words.

Also - I think it's OK to be cliche. It's better to have a good, honest Personal statement with cliche words but with your own experiences to support those cliche words... than to try to be different and end up having a personal statement that the admissions committee just can't relate to or understand what you are trying to tell them about yourself.

Tl;dr - Have a purpose for each paragraph. A quality/characteristic about yourself. Say this. Then provide an example from your experiences to confirm it.
 
Last edited:
There are statements where cliche sticks out like a sore thumb, and statements where the reader hardly notices it. I generally forgive the single cliche so long as the statement isn't overusing it. :)

Also, wouldn't it be awesome if people included a tl;dr paragraph? :laugh:
 
mauberley said:
There are statements where cliche sticks out like a sore thumb, and statements where the reader hardly notices it. I generally forgive the single cliche so long as the statement isn't overusing it. :)
Click to expand...
I had one person clearly write that she wanted to help people in her PS. And yet, the way she did it was awesome. But yes, some cliches are sore... so don't overuse them... but don't try to shy away from giving a reason for your paragraph because you don't want to say you want to serve/help people in order to avoid the cliche (sometimes they are neccessary).

Also, wouldn't it be awesome if people included a tl;dr paragraph? :laugh:
Click to expand...
That's what the the conclusion paragraph is for! haha. But it would be awesome. I want to add it to my thesis.
 
Kaustikos said:
I'll ask/beg of one thing to people sending me personal statements - PLEASE READ THE GUIDELINES BEFORE SENDING THE ESSAY. I have read some essays in which they have either completely ignored or never looked at the first page to see things they can do to avoid making their essays have downfalls. Please look at the first page! :)
Click to expand...

lol I feel poorly that you posted this around the time you sent back my essay =P
 
If you do NOT see someone's name in the most recent post, please do NOT send them a message asking them to read a new PS.

For readers: Come back and add your name when you have more time and are able to read more personal statements.

DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=160353

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=262715

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=326979http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=351015

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=297091

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.http://forums.studentdoctor.net/member.php?u=364028

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.


medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.
 
CougarMD said:
If you do NOT see someone's name in the most recent post, please do NOT send them a message asking them to read a new PS.

For readers: Come back and add your name when you have more time and are able to read more personal statements.

DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

ComradeDino | Incoming MS-1, Bio/Chem Double major, Summa Cum Laude, published thesis and working on research publication, will edit for any aspect of PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.



medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.

startswithb Incoming MS-1 with a strong writing/English/language arts background. I have taken Honors writing classes from grade school through college. I believe my essays were a strong point in helping me through this application cycle. I can assist with grammar, flow, and conciseness. I will take what you want to say and make it more readable.
Click to expand...
 
DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

2050vlsb | Incoming MS1, social science double major (lots of essays/writing), "T" on MCAT writing sample, 5 on AP Eng Lang, Lit, edited essays for friends applying to MD, MPH, DDS programs, strong writer | Content and grammar (let me know what you're looking for!)
Currently swamped with quite a few PS'es, so I can't accept any more for the moment ... will update once I catch up on the ones I have!

dragon529 | Incoming MS1, Bio major, edited for friends who applied to MD programs, used this service when I applied so I'm just trying to give back my share | will edit mainly for content and flow

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

mauberley | Non-trad incoming MS1, EE major, reviewing technical documents for the better part of my 7+ year career in industry. Grammar nazi. Edited a friend's PS for last cycle and she was complimented by an adcom member. | Will edit for content, organization, grammar, and spelling. I won't tell you what to write, but I will ask you what you're trying to tell me and I will in turn let you know if that message is coming through. Expect 1-2 week turnaround from receipt to first comments.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

karayraisu | Incoming MS1, double major in science and humanities, 13S on verbal+writing, 5 on AP Eng Lit, keeps a fairly popular online blog =p | Will edit only for content - my grammar is actually not the best, but I have a pretty good eye in reading for voice, structure, and message. You can always start with me and then move on to a grammar-oriented person once you're happy with the structure of your PS. Please allow one week for responses, so no rush orders (or use me as a second/third/fourth/nth opinion).

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

glasshalfMD | Incoming MS1 (S on writing section of MCAT); non-trad (two years clinical research between undergrad and medical school matriculation - including publications); degree in psychology with a second major in Spanish | Willing to edit grammar, sentence structure, word choice, flow, etc. - please specify. I generally have some time during the work day, but turnaround time of 1+ weeks should be expected.

DancingThruLife | Incoming MS1, non-trad (research in between), went to a top 3 liberal arts college (lots of writing) | Willing to edit for some gross errors in grammar, but mainly will give feedback on tone, content, flow. If there is something that I am not understanding/is not clear, I will let you know. If you have a section in your PS that you are committed to and that talks about being a URM/extenuating circumstances/being disadvantaged/LGBT, etc., I can help with making it sound neutral and not whiny/controversial. 7-10 days for turn-around. Can only commit to having a max. of 5 on my plate at a time.

Unable to edit any more PSs for the time being. Will update when I get a chance to read some more. :luck:

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

Asyouwereatrio | Incoming MS-1. Received my degree in Bio Sci. | I will holistically read for content--looking specifically for a "good reason" (unique) to enter medicine. Will also read for grammar mistakes. Let me know what you want me to look for via PM. You can embed the PS in the text or email me an attachment. PM for details. Will take several days (5-7) to read/return.

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

MSFbound | Incoming MS1, Political Science major at an Ivy + got an A+ on my 60 pg senior thesis (lots of writing!!), got 11 interview invites with pretty average stats (33Q, 3.6/3.4) but many of my interviewers commented on my PS, wrote for high school newspaper | will edit for content, flow, grammer, etc...just let me know. Now that the app cycle is over, I've got some time on my hands...especially have experience in topics surrounding international health

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | I’ve read a lot of personal statements. My strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). Along with your PS, send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.
 
Cougs: please delete the above post due to ComradeDino quoting a less recent post.

ComeradeDino: please quote the LAST (i.e. most recent) post when you are adding your information. many of us have said "don't send us anymore" and you just copied an old one, getting rid of that information.
 
If you do NOT see someone's name in the most recent post, please do NOT send them a message asking them to read a new PS.

For readers: Come back and add your name when you have more time and are able to read more personal statements.

DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.

startswithb | Incoming MS-1 with a strong writing/English/language arts background. I have taken Honors writing classes from grade school through college. I believe my essays were a strong point in helping me through this application cycle. | I can assist with grammar, flow, and conciseness. I will take what you want to say and make it more readable.
 
Quick question. Is it OK to not explicitly state "I want to be a doctor because of X and Y." I am having difficulties with my PS, I feel as it doesn't truly answer why I want to be a doctor. It more describes what I think makes the "perfect doctor" through specific experiences I have had and how I fit those characteristics. But after reading it I don't have the feeling "that guy wants to be a doc because of X, Y, Z. Thanks!
 
Wisco said:
Quick question. Is it OK to not explicitly state "I want to be a doctor because of X and Y." I am having difficulties with my PS, I feel as it doesn't truly answer why I want to be a doctor. It more describes what I think makes the "perfect doctor" through specific experiences I have had and how I fit those characteristics. But after reading it I don't have the feeling "that guy wants to be a doc because of X, Y, Z. Thanks!
Click to expand...

I think you've hit on a lot of what people tend to do in their personal statements, which is to discuss a lot about how much they understand of the profession through their experiences and extracurricular activities but not relate it to their motivation. I could say the same of various roles I've been exposed to in my job (for the sake of this discussion, let's use sales, marketing, and human resources as examples) and I could say that I understand what it takes to be successful in those roles, but that doesn't mean that I want to pursue any of them as a career. If you'll recall in other personal statement advice threads on SDN (that I hope you've taken the time to consult), one thing that your personal statement should not be is a simple rehash of your work/activities resume.

To get back to your question, while you wouldn't want to state "I want to be a doctor because of X and Y" using that phrasing, you do want to build a narrative around your reasons for pursuing a career as a physician and offer up arguments in support of this.

So why do you want to be a doctor?
 
I'm an incoming MS1 and would be happy to read some statements. A couple of requests:

-Please don't send me a first draft. If you send me crap, I will send you editing that isn't all that great. Your draft should be as good as you can make it before sending it to anyone (myself included).

-Please give me a couple of days to get back to you. I'll go as fast as I can!
 
If you do NOT see someone's name in the most recent post, please do NOT send them a message asking them to read a new PS.

For readers: Come back and add your name when you have more time and are able to read more personal statements.

DO NOT ERASE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
1) Click "quote" on the most recent post.
2) Add your SDN screen name, your credentials, and specific things you are willing to edit for (content only, grammar only, etc). DO NOT post your email address.
3) Delete the quote tags at both the top and the bottom.
4) If you are unable to read any more personal statements, please come back and remove your name from the list.

Lil Mick | Honors humanities student in college, Phi Beta Kappa, >95% MCAT writing & GRE analytical writing, wrote for my school paper/published in literary journals, tutored college students in introductory/writing classes, volunteered with my college's personal statement writing course, pre-med mentoring program during medical school, annoying person who always corrects others' grammar, and helpful person who edits my friends' college humanities papers.. | Content and grammar; willing to help with other essays required by AMCAS for MD/PhD applicants (research and MD/PhD essays)

BullDog4Eva | Incoming MS1, Bio major, had my PS proofread by many people and did my fair share of editing others. I realized I enjoy very much tightening up paragraphs and making them sound stronger. I can edit for content, grammar, and/or style. Make sure you let me know as I will get the essay back much sooner if I only have to focus on one.

SimplyMars9 | Incoming MS1, Biology major. I have taken many writing intensive classes (including two honors classes) and I have done very well in all of them. I have edited many essays for family, friends, classmates, etc and so far I have had no complaints, just satisfied customers. I can edit for both content and grammar.

tlaloc87 | Incoming MS1, 2 years out of undergrad; English/Comp Lit major [yes, jocks read/write too.]; former columnist for college paper; favorite book is "Elements of Style"; several interviewers commented on my PS--take that as you will | Will edit for grammar, style, voice, conciseness, etc. with pretty quick (~2 day) turnaround.
No longer accepting wholesale content edits. Feel free to use me to polish a well constructed PS.

painmd87 | Incoming MS1 with 2 years healthcare clinical experience. Dual journalism/biology major, correspondent for multiple major metropolitan newspapers | Will advise on content, grammar, conciseness (get to the point!) and especially opening grafs. Can turn it around quickly. .doc .doc .doc! That little x at the end kills me.

Nwilkes | Incoming MS1, Chem/Bio double major. I was a student journalist for my college newspaper and was the editor in chief of my high school newspaper. I have some very non-trad job and living experience, although I am a traditional applicant. | Will edit for grammar, flow, content, and whatever you prefer - but you must tell me first. The faint of heart may not want to apply.

taylormade2006 | Incoming non-trad MS1 pursuing a second career in medicine, although my prior work experience was in a medically related field. Multiple bio related degrees. | Willing to help edit content and flow. I do not recommend myself for grammar checking. I am direct and to the point. I can accept almost all formats, including mac .pages documents. Please don't send pdf because I can't easily edit the text on a pdf.

mafunk | Non-trad premed applying in 2012 for 2013 matriculation. 14 years as Marketing/Pr manager. Philosophy degree, summa cum laude. Published (newspapers, not academic). Extensive experience in writing for PR and marketing. | Will read for content/message, but not for grammar or spelling.

CaptainSSO | Incoming MS-1, 39 MCAT, Phi Betta Kappa. I'm a good writer, but more importantly, I read a TON and can recognize quality writing. | Can help with any aspect of the PS.

Kaustikos | Incoming MS1, Pharmacology M.S., I've read Personal Statements from both Med School/Grad School, edited numerous journals/manuscripts.| Will edit for grammar/sentence structure as well as content.

acb88 | Incoming MS1, Biology Major, I have a lot of research and international experiences, I have dont a lot of editing in the past and I enjoy it. | Will edit for content and grammar, and style.

medzealot | IF YOUR POST COUNT IS ZERO, OR LOW, I WILL NOT READ YOUR STATEMENT UNTIL YOU ANSWER THE QUESTIONS BELOW. SEND ME A REQUEST TO READ WITH THE ANSWERS TO THOSE QUESTIONS. I am getting bombarded with statements, so know that if you have zero (or low) post count on SDN, I am going to prioritize your statement below those who are actively contributing to our community. That said, I’ve read a lot of personal statements, and my strengths as an editor are:
  • Helping you get under 5300 characters
  • Telling you the truth about whether or not your personal statement is heinous
  • Relentlessly castrating your dangling prepositions
  • Correcting other, more important grammatical problems
  • Improving flow
My qualifications:
  • My high school English teachers were outrageously good.
  • I have a fair amount of editing experience.
  • I have scored in the eleventy-billionth percentile on all standardized English/Verbal/AP Composition tests and subtests, except for the English portion of the CAT test in second grade, on which I scored in the paltry 99th percentile. I’m pretty sure the scantron machine that graded my test was a communist.
  • I’m old. Old people should have their essays read by other old people.
My requests are simple. Tell me how you want me to help you improve your essay (grammar, content, flow, etc.). When you send me a request to read, also send me a couple of sentences describing who you are as a person, and what message you want to send adcoms through your PS. Answer these questions:

1. What three qualities do you want to demonstrate through your PS?
2. What (different) three qualities would your friends use to describe you?
3. Why you want to be a doctor, in one sentence.
4. What aspects of your PS do you want help with (grammar, content, etc?)

If you don't give me this information, I won't read for you. If you have no (or low) post count on sdn, I will scrutinize this information, but as long as you seem like you are using this service in a legitimate fashion, I will probably read for you. If your writing is so bad that I put your PS in Google Translator and it spits out something like “I found a Taco Bell wrapper in my underwear drawer,” I will not read for you. If English is not your first language, tell me that upfront so I don’t think you’re screwing with me.

kcola | B.S. Biology, wrote/edited 2 manuscripts. | can edit for content and basic grammar. :)

gujuDoc | I've read hundreds of PSes on these forums in the past. Especially was very active in this arena in both 2006 and 2007 summers when I was last a PS reader. I got an S on my last MCAT. | I will edit for content but don't expect wholesale grammar corrections from me, because I'm probably not best for it. But i can give you direction and ideas of how to approach PS using your experiences and talents to create a theme and content direction to give it structure.

But in making it sound pretty by rewording things I may not be so helpful. But can definitely help give content direction and help give ideas of how you can approach things to create a unifying theme and tell you if you are on the right track. That's where I work best.

I have a lot of time right now and will except for the period from May 19th-28th when I'll be out of town. So can give it a go til then and again after the 28th.

ladybug1122 | Avid reader. I can spot the difference between an outstanding paper and a mediocre paper. | I will edit for spelling, grammar, and being concise.

StudyShy | I am a nontraditional student with a backround in nursing and am currently halfway through a master's degree in history. I assist regularly in editing nursing papers for coworkers, and I tested out of English in high school. Since I have not applied to medical school yet, only use me if others who have achieved medical school acceptances are unable to take on more personal statements. I will edit for style, content, and grammar. Please tell me if English is not your primary language. Ideally, I want congently written personal statments that demonstrate that you have put some thought and time into your efforts.

startswithb | Incoming MS-1 with a strong writing/English/language arts background. I have taken Honors writing classes from grade school through college. I believe my essays were a strong point in helping me through this application cycle. | I can assist with grammar, flow, and conciseness. I will take what you want to say and make it more readable.

NickNaylor | I'm an incoming MS1 and would be happy to read some statements. A couple of requests:

-Please don't send me a first draft. If you send me crap, I will send you editing that isn't all that great. Your draft should be as good as you can make it before sending it to anyone (myself included).

-Please give me a couple of days to get back to you. I'll go as fast as I can!
 
Thanks maubs.


Also...it has come to my attention that people are again just sending personal statements without asking permission. Please don't do this. Also, please check the LATEST list of readers before asking someone to read.


If you do not see someone's name on the list, please do not ask them to read your PS unless you know them.

glasshalfMD said:
Cougs: please delete the above post due to ComradeDino quoting a less recent post.

ComeradeDino: please quote the LAST (i.e. most recent) post when you are adding your information. many of us have said "don't send us anymore" and you just copied an old one, getting rid of that information.
Click to expand...
I'll leave it since we now have a "new" most recent post:)
 
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