Crafting a compelling personal statement is a critical step in the university application process. That said, a person has a chance to tell more than meets the eye, than could only be conveyed by the scores one gets. Many students who wish to pursue their education in the UAE universities know that a good personal statement can really turn the tide for them. 

Let’s learn how to write an excellent essay, what not to do and excellent examples of personal statements.

Tips for a Compelling Essay

Following are some tips for writing a compelling university application. 

Understand the Prompt

First of all, it is necessary to read the details of the particular essay given by the university. Make sure that you know what the admissions committee wants to see—this is the goal and the main priorities and why the program of choice was selected, or a personal description of obstacles that were faced. Having done so it is now most effective to respond to the topic of the personal statement directly.

Start with a Strong Opening

The initial sentences in a personal statement must create interest in the reader as to the rest of the write up. Never begin writing an essay without some sort of introductory hook that can be an interesting story that you read somewhere or a question that you think is interesting or something that you want to state to hook the readers.

Be Authentic

The statement ought to be as unique as you are. Don’t lie, tell the truth about yourself and focus on what you love, and would like to pursue in the future. You will notice that honesty goes a long way with the admissions committees who seek to identify the real you and your potential.

Highlight Your Achievements

Although people do not like to brag, it does not mean that you should not talk about them and , by the same token… It is better to avoid mentioning any achievements which are no longer important if related to the program to which you are applying; and when mentioning such experiences state why they make you fit for university studies.

Showcase Your Fit for the Program

University and program directors wish to understand that you took time to reflect upon your decision of applying to that particular university and the specific program of your interest. Explain courses, faculty members, or opportunities that interested you in the program and show that they fit perfectly with your goals.

Demonstrate Growth and Resilience

This means that universities appreciate students with ‘stiction’ and that means readiness to learn. These wonderful tips include: Describe how you have dealt with a problem, how you have grown after a failure, or how you have managed to engage with change. It also brings out the maturity that is needed for university life and also shows that one is capable of handling the challenges that come with the new unis.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Do not assume that readers are familiar with writing definitions, academic and professional terms or complicated language. Your personal statement should not be complicated in any way and everyone should be in a position to understand it. Try to avoid using very long sentences; stick to the purpose and do not wander off from your points. This is going to make your essay compelling and memorable when you are through with the same.

Proofread and Edit

No informal features: A civil and concise personal statement has no grammatical mistakes and spelling mistakes at all. After writing your essay, it is equally important that you should invest some of your time in order to be able to read through it carefully. Perhaps, you can share it with your teacher, your mentor or a good friend and get their opinion. Revision will also be carried severally to enhance the flow of the essay to make it look the best version it can be.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing essays for university. 

Being Too Generic

Don’t write an essay that can be used for almost any university or line of study. However, it is recommended that all your essays should be tailored towards the particular institution you are applying to and the course you wish to pursue, as a way of showing that you have a clue about the institution and course of your desire.

Clichéd Language

Such things as “I have dreamt to become …” or “I am an aficionado of …” sound rather banal and unstimulating. The best way is to demonstrate it where one can exhibit unique qualities of passion by providing real related experiences.

Overemphasising Academics

It is also important not to overemphasise one's academic accomplishments, as your personal statement should give an Idea of the whole you. List contributions of activities featuring sports, teams, clubs, volunteer organisations, or interests that define your character or passion.

Lack of Structure

Disorganisation in an essay can be troublesome as they may put the reader off should that be the general impression he gets. Make sure that the structure of your Personal Statement includes an introduction, main body and conclusion. One should be able to follow from one para to the next.

Neglecting Word Limits

More often than not, universities give the acceptable number of words allowed for a personal statement. It is, therefore, not advisable to write beyond the word limit because it may make the admissions committee conclude that you go against their instructions. Avoid use of large words and write to the point as well as within the stipulated word limit.

Creating good personal statements for universities in the UAE needs time, good thinking and proper focus on all basics of writing. Taking into account these tips, students will be able to create an excellent, subjective indicator that will help to attract the attention of the admissions committee and give an indication of your true potential. Just always bear in mind that this is your opportunity to sell yourself to the admissions committee apart from your scholastic achievements –so seize the day!