General Admissions & OTCAS Personal statement help!

[therapist2be]

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Hey everyone!

So I've been seriously agonizing over writing my personal statement. I've started several drafts but end up deleting them because I think they're too cliché, too boring or just not good enough. I'm having serious writer's block. I know why I love OT but I'm having a hard time putting it into words. Also I don't have some amazing background story about a family member or someone who received OT and therefore I decided to become one. I just simply love helping and empowering people (cliché), which is my altruistic reason, and I love the diversity of practice settings and the ability to pay my bills, my practical reasons. Any helpful tips?


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[harmcharm]

I found that having a lot of shadowing hours in different settings helped me think of things to write about in my personal statement. I would think back to a therapy session that involved a meaningful interaction with a patient/OT, or anything that really stood out to you and made you remember why you love OT. Small anecdotes like that, especially in your introduction, can make your essay a little more memorable and can get the ball rolling in my opinion!

 

[OTApp0117]

I agree - If nothing in your own personal life can inspire a story then start thinking of your experiences shadowing. Those stories can be powerful tools in your personal statement, and it can often lead to evidence of your passion and expressions of why you love the field. I would think of a few specifics and focus on those and why they stood out to you. Don't overthink it - it should show your personality! Hope this helps.

 

[OTrealsoon:D]

I agree with what has been said already. And try writing about experiences while observing or doing an internship that will really set you apart. Personal experience can never be clichés!