Student Resources
Impactful Personal Essays
Personal essays are a vital component of an application, explaining who you are, why you are applying, and what you plan to accomplish with the opportunity. These essays offer you the chance to let the reviewer get to know you on a deeper level. By explaining your future goals, you help the reviewer understand your vision and the impact the opportunity will have on your aspirations.
Focus on Fit
Reflect on your personal experiences, challenges, and achievements that have shaped your aspirations and motivation. You want some backstory for context, but it shouldn't be the main focus of the essay. It is also essential to be genuine and honest, as authenticity resonates strongly with reviewers. Remember that you are not trying to impress them with the amount you have done in the past. You are demonstrating your commitment, the steps you have taken on the path to your goals, and how this opportunity is the best fit to help you reach those goals. It should not be a retelling of your resume.
Do Your Research and Be Specific
Here's an example for a study abroad application:
Vague Response: The France program is offered by my department. I will be taking some science courses and electives that fit in my major.
Detailed Response: I chose the University of South Florida (USF) Microbiology in France Program because it offers an advanced genetics course which includes an important site visit to the French Institute of Genetics, where we will hear from scientists doing active research projects. We will tour their labs and see an example of one of their professional conference presentations. I plan to work in a genetics lab in my career, so this will provide important networking and growth opportunities.
Remember that this is a general guide, and for national scholarship applications, your ONS advisor can provide much more specific guidance.
For additional assistance, we recommend the following resources: