Random question about PS

[vlct0ria]

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Ok, this might be silly, but I'm working on my PS, and I was just wondering if there are any grammar "guidelines" regarding using contractions in our essay...I know a lot of formal essays tell you not to use first person or contractions and whatnot, but it seems like we would want it to represent our own voice, and if our voice means using more casual language, that it should be okay, right?....What do you guys think?

 

[Stephie3]

no, definitely do NOT use contractions. sounding proper is more important than that. trust me, they will not see "he ain't nothin but a hound dog" as your own voice...it will look unprofessional.

its more important to be professional than unique. after you get accepted, you can write your thank you notes with as many contractions as you want. 🙂

 

[Stephie3]

also, it sets a precedent for the future. are you going to advertise your dental practice using contractions? i think not using contractions just sounds way more articulate as well.

 

[Stephie3]

one more tip...i think its important to maintain the highest level of professionalism throughout the entire admissions process. for example...during interviews, don't be overcome by the friendliness of the interviewer and start joking about your college. stand up straight, keep your posture and demeanor, dress to the nines, and act like you're at a rich people dinner party.

the reason is because they are more likely to say "wow that kid wasn't very professional" then "he was too professional." you really can't be too professional in your writing, appearance, speech, and mannerisms during this process.

 

[ralex333]

Ok, this might be silly, but I'm working on my PS, and I was just wondering if there are any grammar "guidelines" regarding using contractions in our essay...I know a lot of formal essays tell you not to use first person or contractions and whatnot, but it seems like we would want it to represent our own voice, and if our voice means using more casual language, that it should be okay, right?....What do you guys think?

In addition to not using contractions, you should avoid using a passive voice in your PS. In other words, don't tell them but SHOW THEM by writing down specific experiences. Also, don't write down a "laundry list" regarding your achievements or extracurricular activities. They already see that in another section in your AADSAS. Rather, write down WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM THEM.
And remember - everything that you write down in the PS needs to be connected to your central theme of why you wish to become a dentist.
Last, but not least - DO A SPELLCHECK!!!

 

[vlct0ria]

Ok, thanks...what do you think of mentioning a movie in the PS? It's only a brief mention in the intro, but I have definitely made a point of it and related it back to the general thesis of my essay, so I would think it should be fine, but I am not completely sure....

 

[ralex333]

Ok, thanks...what do you think of mentioning a movie in the PS? It's only a brief mention in the intro, but I have definitely made a point of it and related it back to the general thesis of my essay, so I would think it should be fine, but I am not completely sure....

That's fine as long as you related it to your thesis. It's good, b/c you are making your essay interesting, which is important to catch the adcom's eye. Yet, at the same time make sure that you are "to the point."

 

[y0ssarian]

one more tip...i think its important to maintain the highest level of professionalism throughout the entire admissions process. for example...during interviews, don't be overcome by the friendliness of the interviewer and start joking about your college. stand up straight, keep your posture and demeanor, dress to the nines, and act like you're at a rich people dinner party.

the reason is because they are more likely to say "wow that kid wasn't very professional" then "he was too professional." you really can't be too professional in your writing, appearance, speech, and mannerisms during this process.

This didn't seem to be an issue at all during my interviews; all my interviewers definitely made an effort to put me at ease. Dressing appropriately is important though, if for nothing else than a sense of self image. There was one dude at my Columbia interview who went to Dartmouth, which I remember because he was the only one without a suit jacket, and he stuck out.

Ok, thanks...what do you think of mentioning a movie in the PS? It's only a brief mention in the intro, but I have definitely made a point of it and related it back to the general thesis of my essay, so I would think it should be fine, but I am not completely sure....

That really depends on the specific situation and it's hard to say without reading that part of the essay. I would be cautious about such mentions, since movies are one step away from the taboo topic of video games.

 

[cybermech]

If you have a favorite English professor who is willing to comment constructively about your PS, this is a good idea. Health professionals are good about getting the facts across, but usually are weak on the delivery. English professors should know how to deliver your message in a professional manner.

But anyway, as stated above, DO NOT use contractions or colloquialisms. Appearing "laid-back" may be good for patient-interactions, but is not good for interacting with professors, academics, and dentists.

And yes, exemplify when possible. Don't expect your reader to "read between the lines." Lay out all out succinctly.