MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Abstract: Personal statements are an integral part of the application to most graduate school and professional school programs. They are what separates those who have similar test scores and GPA's. The purpose of this document is to provide a guide on how to write personal statements for medical school. This writer first explains the requirements from the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Association of College of Osteopathic Medicine. The purpose of the document and the technical requirements are discussed. The writer then explains how to start the brainstorming process with writing down experiences and doing self-reflection. Resources that contain advice for starting personal statements and self-reflection questions are given. The document provides an annotated example and explains how to start the writing and editing process. Advice for simple, effective writing is given. The document concludes with common mistakes and important things to keep in mind.

Readers Profile: I imagine readers who are stressed and think that the personal statement is not as important as other aspects of the application.

Readers Response: I know I can get this essay done in a night or two. Three pages? I’ve written longer papers in a night and have done fine. I do really like the examples here about using anecdotes to show experiences and personality traits. Maybe I should try to do what this writer said about and keeping track of stories that have been impactful to me. That could be something that can help me later on.

K, the journal idea might be helpful to this reader. Audio note function on phone to keep an idea bank:

What sections do you plan?

Overview
Medical committee audience
"Job" of the essay
Pair with short answers (anticipate summer supplementals?)
Opening ideas
Not saying I/Me overmuch
Avoiding trite effect

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I think you can put sample phrases and ideas in some tables. Very audience friendly for the busy and stressed reader.