Personal Statement-subheading

[Student2222]

Hi there,

I am wondering about how others have formatted their personal statements. Would it be appropriate to use subheadings? For example, starting with an introduction then to dividing the remainder of the statement into sections such as education and experience, research interests, and future directions. Would this make it easier to read or be frowned upon? Thanks!

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[neuronic]

It would come off as unusual, but would not be a deathblow. Given that the usual length is 2-3 pages, subheadings really should not be needed, as readers should be able to quickly read the statement for the information that they are seeking. Additionally, if the statement has a logical flow (e.g., education before future directions) then it will be right where they expect.

 

[paramour]

Keep in mind that you have a letter/word limit. There are some electronic applications that will not accept your submission if you are over that limit. If you start adding headings, this is going to detract from actual informative material that you could be sharing within your statement. You should be able to organize your statement by paragraphs; and without the use of headings.

 

[applyingtograd]

I wouldn't use subheadings. I think some type of transition sentence or word would be much better.

 

[Student2222]

On a separate note, how specific do you think one should be with regard to research interests in the statement of intent. For example (not my research interest-just throwing something out there), would it be better to state more broadly that you are interested in exploring cognitive behavioural therapy to treat PTSD in a military population . Or is it better to get more specific and state that you are interested in how interpersonal factors such as X Y and Z moderate treatment outcome using Prof. A's model.

Kinda lost here- any help would be great!

 

[applyingtograd]

So I would say it depends on the school a bit. I think if your specific research interests is a really good match for your potential mentor go specific, but if not then you should be broader. What you might want to do is write a middle part of the statement where you describe your research projects and use this for all schools and then maybe state your research interests in the first paragraph and use the last paragraph to point out the match between your work and your potential mentors work. Then you could just tailor the first and last paragraph...just a thought...

 

[ResearchGirlie]

On a separate note, how specific do you think one should be with regard to research interests in the statement of intent. For example (not my research interest-just throwing something out there), would it be better to state more broadly that you are interested in exploring cognitive behavioural therapy to treat PTSD in a military population . Or is it better to get more specific and state that you are interested in how interpersonal factors such as X Y and Z moderate treatment outcome using Prof. A's model.

Kinda lost here- any help would be great!

If you are applying to research oriented programs, the 'broad' statement example above won't cut it. I'd definitely go more specific but not so specific that you appear set on this one question and nothing else.

 

[Marissa4usa]

If you are applying to research oriented programs, the 'broad' statement example above won't cut it. I'd definitely go more specific but not so specific that you appear set on this one question and nothing else.

I agree. I usually try to phrase it like something along the lines of "I'm interested in Dr. X's work on XYZ, specifically, based on my previous experience with ABC I would be excited to further explore how DEF relates to XYZ (in the context of GHI). Also appealing to me is Dr. Xs work on UVW...."

This way, I'm showing how and why I'm interested in the professor's research, but I'm also 1) saying that I 'would be interested' instead of 'I want to research thing one thing' (especially important because something what you think a prof is currently researching may be a project he finished several years ago, but didn't update the website), 2) expressing interest in multiple and potentially different projects.

 

[compassionate1]

1. Is it safer to mention several research interests which would match with several faculty without specifically mentioning a faculty member / potential mentor's name ( to avoid a situation where you will not get accepted as the mentor alluded to no longer takes on new students, moved to Paris but still listed etc.)

The above question is regarding applying to a program where having a POI is not a requirement and students are accepted first; matches done later.

2) A more specific question given my particular situation: I did not get to take the Psych GRE this Nov date due to Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath. I plan to take it in the spring but the program's web site states that you are expected to take it in Nov ( although you may apply without the scores which will become available by the time they review your application.).

Is it sufficient to apply while providing an explanation for the lack of GRE score and express the understanding that your acceptance ( if you get accepted) would be pending until this score is in? Or is it still disrespectful to apply without having met all application requirements? Should I call the program first to find out if they would be willing to review my application despite the temporary missing score?

If providing an explanation in writing is the way to go, where would be the appropriate place to mention it? Integrating it into the Statement of Purpose will break the flow of the narrative, I am afraid. The application is submitted electronically, so not sure if writing a cover letter ( where I would explain the situation) would be a good idea and how I should go about adding a cover letter online to the Statement of Purpose ( Unless it is written as the first page?)

Thanks very much for you help,
Compassionate1

 

[compassionate1]

Thanks, and yes -- the school I am applying to does require the psych GRE.

Any other opinions / ideas about this?

Thanks,
Compassionate1

On question one, I would say generally yes, unless you are set on working with a particular researcher at the school.

On question two, I would just email the school and explain the situation re: Psych GRE--most programs don't even require it. If the school has section in application for addendums, you could include it there. If you are applying to schools that REQUIRE psych GRE I think it will be more of an issue, in which case I would call the school to find out what you should do.