Tuesday Tips with Apply Point: Craft the First Draft

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After you’ve selected the stories you want to write about, and created an outline for your personal statement, it is time to start writing. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you create your first draft:
  • Go deep, not wide. In contrast to your Work and Activities, which provides a general overview of your experiences, your personal statement should go deep into a story that demonstrates some of your character traits and abilities in action.
  • Show, don't tell the reader who you are. Invite the reader into your life and allow them to come to their own conclusions about your abilities in critical and creative thinking, problem solving, empathy, leadership, and/or teamwork.
  • Engage your readers emotionally. Sprinkle in humor (if you feel comfortable doing so) or hit a poignant note. Allow the reader to see how you’ve struggled, triumphed, learned, and how these experiences have developed you into the person you are now.
  • If you feel stuck, start by writing anything. Expand upon an anecdote in your brainstorm document, or write about a totally unrelated topic (your perfect day or a dream you had last night).
  • Remember, your first draft is only a starting point. Don't overwhelm yourself by seeking perfection. Just write. You will have time to revise.

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