personal statement advice-University of Washington

[Jlady]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hi all-
I am currently working on my personal statement for OTCAS because my first application is due soon. However since OTCAS locks your statement after the first application is submitted, I want to get it right ! My top school choices are in WA state, and my top choice is UW.

I have been told over and over how important it is to make sure you observe in a variety of settings and not spend too much time in one setting. However, as far as the personal statement goes- is it best to write that I see myself/am driven to work with adults versus pediatrics? Seems like UW produces a lot of OT's that work in the school system. I do not want to make myself seem limited in that I want to work with adults, but it states to write about future goals in the field so I feel having more focus is best?

Can anybody tell me their ideas?

 

[OTPanda]

Hi all-
I am currently working on my personal statement for OTCAS because my first application is due soon. However since OTCAS locks your statement after the first application is submitted, I want to get it right ! My top school choices are in WA state, and my top choice is UW.

I have been told over and over how important it is to make sure you observe in a variety of settings and not spend too much time in one setting. However, as far as the personal statement goes- is it best to write that I see myself/am driven to work with adults versus pediatrics? Seems like UW produces a lot of OT's that work in the school system. I do not want to make myself seem limited in that I want to work with adults, but it states to write about future goals in the field so I feel having more focus is best?

Can anybody tell me their ideas?

My best advice would be to write your personal statement as the most honest reflection of who you are and not to tailor it to what you think they want to hear. That being said, if you are considering applying to Puget Sound, when you write the separate personal statement for them, MAKE SURE you address each question that they have listed on their website. When I visited UPS the year before I applied, they explained that they ask for a separate personal statement because they really want to know if you are a good match for the program.

If you haven't done the rounds and visited the schools, that is another thing I highly recommend. Prior to visiting, UW was my #1 choice but after visiting 4 different campuses, UPS was hands down my #1 choice because it was the best match for my needs.

I am currently a student at UPS (I was also waitlisted at UW and USC) so if you have questions feel free to private message me. Good luck!!

 

[Joe3333]

Hello- I am an incoming student at UW and would suggest being sure your essay shows you are thoughtful and your passion for OT is evident. If you have broad volunteer experience and you've found a particular area of OT you are interested in, I think it shows you've been thoughtful about your career choice. I don't think it's a negative. Just make sure that your passion for OT comes out in the essay- that's the #1 thing. When I spoke to the admission counselor before I applied that's what she told me. I think you'll be fine.

 

[Jlady]

Thanks Joe. I am going to send you a message, pick your brain a little more if that is ok...

OTPanda- same to you!