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How to write a standout graduate admissions essay, article highlights.

• Reflect before you begin your application essays.
• Outline your ideas before you put pen to paper.
• Write freely, and then return to edit your essay on the second draft.
• Take your time. Break between writing and editing for a fresh perspective.
• Gather feedback from a trusted source.
• Read your essay aloud to identify needed edits.

Everyone has a story to tell, and we know there’s more to you and your talents than what’s on your resume.  But how will you stand out from the crowd when applying to Johns Hopkins Carey Business School?  

The essay portion of the application is your opportunity to expand beyond your transcript and resume. Share your unique strengths, your background, your growth, or whatever else makes you a strong candidate for Johns Hopkins Carey Business School.  

In this article, you will find a detailed explanation of how to write a standout admissions essay.  

How to prepare

Before you begin writing, read the essay prompts carefully.  Take a moment to reflect and explore why you’re pursuing a graduate business degree. Consider having a pen and notepad nearby as you participate in this reflection exercise. Think about your path thus far and pinpoint moments of growth and learning. Take note of how these moments have shaped you and how these experiences will guide you through your graduate business degree at Carey.  

Map your ideas: 

Now that you have an idea of how to share your story within the context of the essay prompts, it’s time to draft an outline . Map out your key points and outline the supporting examples. As you map the direction and flow of your essay through the outline, keep in mind your audience. Our admissions officers read thousands of application essays, so you want to find a creative hook to make your story stand out.  

Don’t overthink it! Start writing:  

As you start to write your first draft, let the words flow.  At this stage, don’t fixate on grammar or finding the perfect word– just get your thoughts on paper. You will finesse and polish your essay in the second draft.  

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Take a break: 

Once you complete your first draft, take a day or two before returning to edit it. Coming back to your writing with fresh eyes allows you to read it with a new perspective. Tackle the details of grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary during this second pass. Consider reading your essay backward to help catch typos. 

Get feedback: 

Once you feel your essays are in a good place, it is highly recommended that you share them for review.  Share them with your advisor, a trusted colleague, friend, or even  your recommender . Getting insights from a trusted source can help you make your essay stronger, as well as catch any typos or small edits.  

Finalize and submit:  

You are almost done. Before submitting your essays, do a final review. Run a spell check and read the essays out loud to yourself. This trick allows you to identify areas that may need clarification or tweaks. As you review your final draft, make sure that you actually answered the question posed on the application.  

Remember, the essay portion of your application is your chance to stand out from the crowd. By sharing who you are as a person, your growth thus far, your passions, your goals, and your voice, you can make a lasting impression. Best of luck with your application process!  

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Articles & Advice > Graduate School > Articles

3 Great Grad School Application Essay Examples

The grad school personal statement is an important part of your application. Here are a few good graduate admission essay examples to inspire you.

by CollegeXpress

Last Updated: Jan 3, 2024

Originally Posted: Jun 15, 2017

Graduate school application essays, personal statements, and letters of intent can be a major hurdle to overcome in the application process. Getting just the right words on paper to convey why you want to go to grad school and the impact you intend to have using your degree is a lot to ask. To help you get some inspiration and tell your story the right way, check out these three essay examples. Every essay here comes from a successful grad school application, and after reading the essay we break down just what makes it good. And you’re going to love their stories.

Daniel Masciello, Juris Doctor

University of Connecticut Class of 2015

T ry. To get. Some. Slee—it’s no use.

It’s 3:00 am, 90 minutes before our day at work in the landfills of rural Thailand is set to begin, and the 60-watt bulb is still shining bright overhead. It is radiant.

Directly on my left is one grown man’s bare armpit; to my right is more of the same. I keep my nose pointed at the ceiling. I can’t lift my arms because I am too big, a Caucasian beetle trying to fit into this Thai ant colony.

I’ve been lying still for the better part of six hours now, unable to determine exactly why my host family insists on leaving the brightest light in the house on all night (to this day, still a mystery). It is not for a child’s sake; I, at 22 years old, am the youngest in the home. I’m also the only American. Five grown men, lined up snugly on a queen-sized mattress, are soundly sleeping while I contemplate excuses for not working in the landfill that day.

Twelve hours later, over sticky rice and “fresh” vegetables (from the landfill), I try to call out some of my bunkmates for being afraid of the dark. Nobody laughs at my jokes, but they don’t stop smiling either. Perhaps they don’t understand my infantile Thai. From what I can understand of them, they enjoy talking about how grumpy I’ve been all day. No sleep for some 60-odd hours and putting in two grueling days in the landfill, filtering through mountains of trash from the nearby city of Khon Kaen, looking for yogurt containers and car batteries in the hot Thai sun—these things can change a man’s general disposition.

But I did wake up and go to work with my host family. No, I was not prepared physically or mentally, nor was I in the best of moods that day. But the smiling way of the Thai people is infectious, and it wasn’t long before I was smiling too that night, stomach full and ready for more...

That was back in the fall of 2008. The study abroad program I was participating in revolved around studying specific issues (damning rivers, mining minerals, razing slums, etc.), staying with a village that was negatively affected by an issue, and then working to help solve the problem. It was not uncommon to have sessions lasting eight or nine hours just to prepare for a town meeting the next day. Free time after exchanges and interviews would be spent working in the fields with the villagers or perhaps working on our program’s publications. It was not your typical study abroad experience. I have yet to learn of another like it.

It was also challenging at times. Thailand changed my view on a lot of things for the better, including what it means to truly work hard. As a waiter back home, it was a routine practice to work 40 hours a week in addition to going to class and studying. Still, sometimes I wonder if I used jobs outside of class as a crutch. I always had the excuse: I have to work to support myself. But so do a lot of people. And for some of those people, like many of the villagers in Thailand, working extra hours is not temporary. It's a way of life.

At the time I'm not sure I truly appreciated the privilege I had of going to college, as my undergraduate GPA might indicate. Part of that disappointing number is that I feel as if I was afraid of putting 100% of my effort into school. If I was to put all my effort in and still get mediocre grades, I would have considered myself a failure. Apparently I couldn’t or refused to handle that. How cowardly, not to mention foolish!

But while I was in Thailand, I developed a confidence in myself that I simply hadn’t been able to locate before. On multiple occasions I tasted the failure that comes with studying complex issues in a foreign land. Each time it tasted horrible. But I worked on these failures.

For example, I nagged my homestay families to help me with my Thai and forced myself to request constructive criticism in a group setting. Through these trials I discovered the sweetest feeling of them all: perseverance. That meal next to the landfill, described above, was one of the most deliciously memorable meals of my life for that same reason. I was exhausted and maybe a little bit grumpy, but I learned to work through it—and smile too.

I am well aware that law school will probably force me to even further revise my definition of hard work and present challenges and setbacks the likes of which I may not have yet experienced. But I would like to face these challenges, and most importantly overcome them, at your school. I hope my letters of recommendation and LSAT score give the indication that I am capable of doing so. This essay, lastly, is a chance for me to convince you that I can and will. I look forward to hearing from you.

Why this essay is great

Try to stop reading this personal statement, we dare you. The introduction grabs you and doesn’t let go. But besides spinning a great yarn that also says a lot about Daniel’s values, this application essay has an important function: it thoughtfully and maturely addresses any concerns the graduate admission committee might have regarding Daniel’s undergraduate academic performance. Showing rather than telling, he depicts a person who is prepared to do the work to overcome obstacles and learn from mistakes. And since he was admitted to the grad program, clearly it worked.

Related:  How to Know If Law School Is Right for You

Bridget Sullivan, Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration

Boston College Class of 2017                                                                                                    

I did not know higher education existed as a field until I came to college. Despite this, it has surprisingly been the field that has had the largest impact on my college experience. It has given me direction going forward.

College has been my most important experience so far, in that it has allowed me to better understand how I interact with my environment and how others experience the world around them. Without the Student Affairs professionals I have interacted with over the past four years, I would not be where I am today. I hope that in my future as a Student Affairs professional I can give students the great experience I have been privileged to receive. I will take the lessons I have learned and those that I will learn in the future to improve the college experience for many future generations going forward. 

I have enjoyed being a Resident Advisor, a Parent Orientation Leader, and an Assistant Resident Director while attending the University of Massachusetts Lowell for the past four years. All of these jobs fall under the Office of Residence Life. These opportunities have been cornerstones of my college education. They have taught me the long-term and transferrable skills of organization, conflict management, and supervision.

I have most enjoyed being an Assistant Resident Director, as I get to work with the Resident Advisors and Resident Director in a more administrative capacity. The ARD works closely with the RD to get the work done and hold RAs accountable. I think my favorite part of being an ARD this year has been working with the RAs to make sure they have the best experience they can, while at the same time making sure they complete their work well and on time. I enjoy helping RAs and other students reach their full potential, and I feel that it is a learning process for me too. The ARD position has shown me how much I value helping others on the path I have set for myself through my experiences with the RAs I supervise.

Because of the ARD role I have been afforded, I have had the opportunity to see how this potential career may play out. I feel confident about my ability to transition to the professional side of the field because the ARD position has already forced me to take on many of these steps. I tested the waters of the potential career in my RA role last year; this year as an ARD has shown me that I know I can succeed. 

I am passionate about student affairs and higher education because it is an opportunity to work with college students and help them grow and develop. I truly believe that there isn’t a more rewarding career than one that allows you to help others. This field allows me to assist others every day at a time in their lives when many students need it most. It was my developmental path, and I want to give that support to others.

So far my academics and daily practice have not been linked nor intentional. I am excited to be able to make this so by starting a graduate program in higher education. Understanding my former responsibilities in terms of theory and learning how to turn new theories into practice is a process I cannot wait to begin. 

I know the Lynch School of Education can assist me in achieving this goal through their program in Higher Education Administration. The opportunity to study in the Boston area will give me a multitude of professional development opportunities that would be hard to find anywhere else. If I am admitted, I will work hard to maximize my time at the Lynch School and become a young professional who can innovate and improve upon current practices in the field.

This personal statement takes you on a journey, as Bridget discovers her calling as an undergrad, gets all the hands-on experience in it she can, and figures out the perfect way to make it her career: grad school. And not just any grad school—Boston College in particular! There’s no doubt in your mind that she’s going to take advantage of everything BC’s master’s program has to offer, and she has the real-world experience to back her claims up.

Related:  Great Alternative Jobs for Education Majors Who Don't Want to Teach

Haviland Johannesson-Forgit,  Master of Arts in Arts Administration

Vermont State University , formerly Castleton University Class of 2018

While contemplating how I should approach my personal and professional goals and how earning an advanced degree will support them, I came upon my application essay for Goddard College that I wrote close to three years ago:

“Oftentimes, children who lack positive, authoritative figures and emotional support end up making unwise choices that stay with them and induce prejudice and judgment from other people who may be ignorant to what caused these children to make the choices in the first place. This cultural stigmatism that exists in our society often leads to these children being segmented into a disenfranchised group as adults. The misunderstanding and neglect that occurs in communities towards socially disenfranchised children goes against everything that I was raised to take in regard when attempting to understand a person.

I envision my studies reaching children and young adults in many different communities. It is my goal to immerse myself in rural, inner-city, and lower-income communities and meet these children before or in the midst of their time when the decisions they make can influence where their life may lead. I believe that the teachings of dance as a holistic lifestyle will provide outlets of knowledge and self-expression for these children and young adults that will lead them in positive directions.”

In this essay we were expected to write about our intentions and ambitions for our studies; to address the passions that acted as the drive for our work during our attendance at the college as well as after graduation. In returning to this essay, I was pleased to discover that my ambition and dedication to using the performing arts as a source of structure and reliability for youth in this country has not changed. When applying to Goddard College for my undergraduate degree I knew that I would want to continue on to pursue my graduate degree afterwards to enhance myself as a qualified candidate working in my field. Earning my advanced degree will enable me to go forth in the world as a confident and learned individual prepared to create the positive opportunities I envisioned years ago.

While earning my advanced degree, I intend to learn the details and structure that is needed to successfully run arts organizations. The closeness that Castleton University has with the Association for Arts Administration in developing its program for the MA in Arts Administration encourages me; it assures me that the quality and rigor of the program at Castleton is the right fit for my personal and professional aspirations. The efficacy of the program combined with the professional portfolio of projects demonstrating a mastery of skills in a range of areas in the arts and the six-credit culminating internship is exactly what I am looking for in an advanced degree program.

My background in the performing arts is broad. Not only have I have spent many years performing in productions of theater and dance, but I have also devoted my time and learning to other aspects of performance arts, whether it be technical, political, or social. My time attending Goddard College has proven to be extremely educational in training me in areas of social justice and cultural realizations of privilege, class, and human rights. With an accomplished and culturally diverse faculty and staff, the College requires its students to incorporate this training into their degrees, which makes for globally conscious citizens.

What I stand to bring to Castleton University’s campus is a vibrant love for the performing arts accompanied by acute social awareness training. My dedication to improving myself as an individual in my career is resolute; earning my advanced degree is vital to my continuing as a professional in a field so important to the foundation of our culture. I look forward to the opportunity of earning my Master of Arts in Arts Administration at Castleton University. 

Haviland draws a remarkable line from her undergraduate studies and goals to the present day . She’s been on a clear path for a long time, and grad school has always been part of the plan and the logical next step for her career. Her unwavering commitment to arts education and dance as a means for furthering social justice will serve her well professionally—and it probably impressed the graduate admission folks too. Haviland also references specific features of Castleton University’s graduate program, showing she’s genuinely interested in the school and its unique strengths.

Related:  Careers for People Who Want to Use Their Creativity

We hope these essay examples helped you get a better idea of where to take your grad school personal statements. The most important part of writing your essay is ensuring every word you put on the page is authentically you and true to your goals. You can write a great essay and get into a good grad school; just give yourself the time and flexibility by starting early and focusing on your story. Good luck!

Need help getting the ball rolling on your graduate essays? Check out these  Good Strategies for Writing Grad School Personal Essays from the experts at GradSchools.com.

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Grad school personal statement examples.

Get accepted to your top choice graduate school with your compelling personal statement.

You are a thoughtful, intelligent, and unique individual. You already know that – now you just need to convince top grad school adcoms that you’re a cut above the rest.

By reading the sample graduate school essays provided above, you should get a clear idea of how to translate your qualifications, passions, and individual experiences into words. You will see that the samples here employ a creative voice, use detailed examples, and draw the reader in with a clear writing style. Most importantly, these personal statements are compelling – each one does a fine job of convincing you that the author of the essay is a human being worth getting to know, or better yet, worth having in your next top grad school class. Grad school statement of purpose sample essays should be engaging and attention grabbing.

Here are the 5 things to include in a grad school personal statement:

• Engaging opening
• Consistent use of opening imagery
• A clear theme that ties the essay together
• Solid structure
• Good use of transitions

Grad school essay example #1: The environmental studies student

Two scenes stand out in my mind from my visit to Brazil’s Wetland: Forests burning before seed planting and trees as hedgerows. Before the planting season, I could see the leafless remnants of burnt trees still standing.  READ MORE>>>

• Attention-grabbing opening: The author immediately grabs your attention by placing them in the midst of the scene and vividly conveying what the author saw.
• Vivid, visual opening: You can almost smell the burnt trees and see the ranches and farms thriving behind their protective forests.
• A clear theme that ties the essay together: The writer clearly states an interest in the clash between economic and environmental concerns throughout the essay. Discussion of coursework taken and how it influenced the author’s decision to pursue both master’s and PhD in Environmental Studies also flows through the essay.
• Solid structure: Thanks to the continued theme of the clash between economic and environmental concerns, this is a very easy essay to read. Mentions of different courses that piqued the writer’s interest also help to hold this essay together.
• Good use of transitions: Transitions help your reader move from one topic to the next as you connect the topic in the preceding paragraph to the topic in the next. They can consist of a few words or a phrase or simply the repetition of the topic by name as opposed to using a pronoun.  The writer used the terminology connecting economics and the environment at the end of the first paragraph, and uses the same words at the beginning of the second one.

Grad school essay example #2: The engineering student

A simple bridge truss was the first structure I ever analyzed. The simple combination of beams that could hold cars, trains, and trucks over long spans of water fascinated me. Having the tools to analyze the loads on the truss further increased my interest in structures.  READ MORE>>>

• Attention-grabbing opening: This writer immediately shared his fascination with bridge truss designs and makes the reader want to learn more about structural engineering.
• Consistent use of opening imagery: The writer begins his essay with the image of the first structure he ever analyzed – a simple bridge truss. This bridge truss becomes the basis for all of his future study of structural engineering and design. Toward the end of the essay, he states that design structure has fascinated him since he saw that first image of a bridge truss for his first engineering class.
• A clear theme that ties the essay together: The theme of structural design runs throughout the essay. It is mentioned right at the beginning of the essay, in following paragraphs and in the final paragraph as well. Toward the end of the essay, the writer discusses how a grad degree in engineering will help him reach both his short- and long-term goals. 
• Solid structure: Since the theme of structural design and engineering are so strong throughout the essay, it is easy to follow along as the writer talks about different classes he has taken, an internship he did, and even an experience as a student volunteer. 
• Good use of transitions: The author ends his first paragraph talking about the textbook for his first engineering class, and continues on this theme in the next paragraph. He then transitioned from classes he took to student volunteer research he participated in. When discussing what he plans to study in grad school, the same terminology is used again, joining the whole essay into one cohesive whole. 

Grad school essay example #3: The public health student

What if people lived healthier lives, practiced preventive medicine, and took precautions against illness and disease? My days in the physical therapy department often made me think about the prevention of injuries as well as the injuries themselves. I was already doubting my future career choice as a physical therapist.  READ MORE>>>

• Attention-grabbing opening: The author of this essay makes an early case for why he wants to leave the field of physical therapy and move to the public health arena. You can almost feel the writer’s frustration with physical therapy and their need to find a way to reach a broader population, provide primary care to them, while challenging and motivating the writer to improve.
• Consistent use of opening imagery: The idea of providing primary care to large populations and the benefits the population could get from this care are woven through the whole essay. Finding ways to improve the health of underprivileged populations is also found throughout the essay.
• A clear theme that ties the essay together: Provision of primary care to large communities is a theme that runs throughout the essay. The author’s work at a county health clinic cemented this idea and led to him choosing to pursue an education and career in public health.
• Solid structure: The theme of providing primary care to large underprivileged populations is a theme that ties this personal statement together.
• Good use of transitions: The words “public health” occur in every paragraph. The author ends the second paragraph talking about work in the field, and begins the next paragraph by mentioning field experience. This makes it easy to follow the flow of the essay.

Grad school essay example #4: The physician assistant student

I was nine years old and in the middle of Mrs. Russell’s third grade class when my stomach began to itch uncontrollably. I remember thinking to myself, “Did I get bitten by a bug?” Completely distracted by the incessant itching, I asked Mrs. Russell if I could go to the nurse’s office. When the nurse lifted my shirt, I saw the biggest “bug bites” I had ever seen covering the majority of my stomach.  READ MORE>>>

Note:  The character limit for the CASPA PS is 5,000 characters with spaces. You need to keep this limit in mind as you write your personal statement.

• Attention-grabbing opening and consistent use of opening imagery: The writer of this essay immediately grabs the reader’s attention by making them feel her fear and frustration of having an undiagnosed medical condition. You can also feel her relief when she is finally diagnosed – and treated – by a PA.
• Vivid, visual opening and consistent use of opening imagery: Your heart beats a little faster as you read how a 9-year-old girl’s medical condition couldn’t be diagnosed until a visit with a PA who helped her discover her passion. She continues to illustrate her love of all things medical throughout the essay.
• A clear theme that ties the essay together: Her essay has a clear theme – her interest in medicine and healthcare, and her connection with PAs. This theme is touched upon in every paragraph of her personal statement. Whether discussing her love of learning or the skills learned through sports, the ultimate goal of becoming a PA comes through. 
• Solid structure: The author’s themes of love of learning and medicine, and the desire to become a PA to help others flow through this essay. They make it cohesive, readable, and interesting. 
• Good use of transition: The writer shows how her interest in being a PA grows throughout her life through a series of events – her illness, attending a youth leadership forum where she first saw infected human organs, and finally her mother’s own illness and the care given by the same PA who diagnosed the author at the age of 9. The imagery of the “itchy little” girl from the first paragraph appears again in the last paragraph, pulling the entire personal statement together.

5 FATAL FLAWS TO AVOID

In your grad school statement of purpose, get expert help with your graduate school application.

Our world-class team helps you stand out from the competition and get accepted.

APPLICATION STRATEGY / PRIMARY AND SECONDARY ESSAY REVIEW / INTERVIEW PREP

TOP 10 GRADUATE SCHOOLS

HAVE AN ACCEPTANCE RATE OF UNDER 20% 

AN OUTSTANDING GRADUATE SCHOOL STATEMENT OF PURPOSE IS CRITICAL IN THE APPLICATION PROCESS

You want to get accepted to a top school, but you need to show you're more qualified than other applicants. U.S. News reports the average graduate school acceptance rate is 20% for the top 10 engineering programs and 15% for the top 10 education programs, but our grad school clients enjoy an  85% ACCEPTANCE RATE.  How can you best your competition? By writing an excellent statement of purpose.

Accepted has been helping graduate school applicants gain acceptance to top programs since 1994.

Get accepted speak with an admissions expert today.

Guide To Writing Your Grad School Admission Essay

Updated: Jan 2, 2024, 5:46am

You’ve made a big life decision: applying to grad school . The transcripts are ordered, the letters of recommendation requested, and the interview is on the books. Now you just have to complete what might be the hardest part: write the perfect grad school admission essay. How do you get started? What should a grad school admission essay include? Follow our guide below to get started.

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What Is a Statement of Purpose for Grad School?

A grad school college essay , otherwise known as a statement of purpose, is a required part of the grad school admissions process that tells school officials who you are, your academic and professional interests, and how you might contribute to the program.

A statement of purpose should generally be between 500 and 1,000 words, but check with your individual program for length, font size and spacing preferences.

Why Does It Matter?

Most graduate schools require a statement of purpose as part of the application process because it allows them to learn more about you in a personal way and decide if you will be a good fit for the program.

Applicants should convey that they have a decent amount of experience in their desired field of study and will be successful in a graduate school program. If there’s anything lacking or missing in your GPA or transcripts, you can briefly address it in your statement of purpose and explain why it won’t be an issue. Schools also like to see that applicants are resilient and can overcome challenges, so bring up any personal anecdotes that pertain to that as well.

What Makes a Good Personal Statement?

A good personal statement should include information about your work and academic experience. It should be detailed but concise. Your statement also provides a chance for you to share a personal side of yourself with the admissions committee, explain why you’d be a good fit for the program and showcase how you could add value if accepted.

Shows You’re a Good Fit for the Program

Above all, your personal statement should demonstrate that your interests would fit in the program and that you would do well there. For example, if applying to a master of business administration program, you might want to talk about your undergraduate studies in business, internships with high-profile companies, past jobs you’ve held, or even future entrepreneurial ideas that you’re passionate about.

Demonstrates How Well You Handle a Challenge

Graduate school is no easy task, and admissions officers want to know that you’re up for the challenge. Talking about other times in your life when you’ve struggled but persevered through hard work and dedication can assure school officials that you’ll rise to the occasion at their program if given the chance.

Indicates How You Respond to Criticism

Receiving positive and negative feedback is important, especially in an environment of growth like grad school. Including experiences like rewriting a paper after getting a bad grade or stepping it up at a job after getting tips from a boss can show an admission committee that you’re able to hear hard things and learn from them.

Exhibits Open-Mindedness and a Desire to Learn

Convey that you’ve had previous academic success, while also admitting that you still have more learning and growing to do. Admissions departments often find these qualities appealing when assessing candidates.

How To Write a Strong Admission Essay

You’ve researched and brainstormed, but now it’s time to actually write the admissions essay. Make sure your personal statement is strong and stands out by understanding the prompt, outlining your essay, including a clear thesis statement, personalizing your essay and making it relevant to your desired program.

Understand the Prompt

Most schools will want to know about your academic and professional experiences as well as how you will add value to the program. However, every program and application is unique and your school might have a unique prompt or specific questions they want you to answer in your statement of purpose. Be sure to read the prompt carefully several times so you answer all of the questions it asks.

Outline Your Essay

Before you start writing, make a plan for your personal essay by creating an outline. Not only will this make the writing process easier and faster, but it will help you thoroughly address the prompt in a clear and cohesive way.

Include a Clear Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the central idea or argument of your personal statement. Essentially, your thesis statement should preview the arguments for why you would be a good candidate for a particular program.

Personalize Your Essay

Applying to veterinary school? Be sure to include your lifelong love for animals or your time spent working in an animal shelter. Or perhaps you’re pursuing graduate studies in psychology. Experience with, say, a peer counseling program in high school or college, will help you stand out. The point is to make your essay so personal it only could have been written by you.

Make It Relevant

Admissions officials for a healthcare administration program will be perplexed if you talk about the time you set up a lemonade stand as a child. Similarly, a graduate engineering program probably isn’t too concerned about your recent dance recital. Make sure the information you include in your personal statement is relevant to the program and school you’re applying to.

Finalizing Your Grad School Admissions Essay

After writing your statement, it’s time to perfect and refine it before you attach it and click submit on your application.

Edit the Essay

Now it’s time to edit. Editing is different from proofreading as it focuses on structural changes and even content revisions. Read the prompt again. Make sure you’ve addressed all questions asked by your program. Then, look at the structure. Try reading it out loud. Does the information flow in a way that makes sense? Are there parts that should be moved up or down? Could sections be cut and new parts added?

Proofread for Grammar, Punctuation and Style

Run a spelling and grammar check in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. You can even use a program like Grammarly to make sure your personal statement is free of typos and errors and adheres to the formatting required by your application.

Get Feedback From Peers and Mentors

Fresh eyes will only improve your writing. Ask classmates and professors to read your personal essay and provide you with feedback. They might see something you missed or have ideas for ways to improve. Make sure you give any readers enough time to go over your personal statement before it’s due.

Revise as Needed

Writing is really all about editing and rewriting. No one gets it right on the first try and sometimes not even on the second try—don’t be afraid to revise your statement of purpose as needed before your grad school application deadline.

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Ryah Cooley Cole is an award winning writer and a high school English teacher based on the Central Coast of California. She is most interested in bringing diverse stories to her readers and students.

How to Prepare for Your Written and Video Essays

Monday, October 18, 2021

Carlson School Graduate Programs

There are many crucial steps in the MBA application process, and one that can sometimes be overlooked is the essay or personal statement portion. While all application materials are taken into consideration, this portion of the process allows you to highlight your authentic self and connect all the components of your application into one cohesive story.

When you apply to a business school, they want to know about you. You’re more than a GMAT score and a resume, and the essay or personal statement portion of your application is the best way for you to showcase who you are and what you would bring to a business school program. Below are some examples of what might be included in this portion of the application as well as some tips to get you started.

Written Essay and Personal Statement

A written essay or personal statement is a chance for the business school to get to know you more closely. Most universities will give you a prompt, some guidelines, and the rest is up to you. Each prompt will likely be different for this written portion, with some business schools asking about your career goals, how you can add to their school’s community, your previous experiences, or more.

For example, the Carlson School’s MBA and Master's programs personal essay statement could ask you to address the following (or something similar):

• Why are you choosing to pursue a graduate at this time in your career? What are you hoping to accomplish by doing so?
• What excites you about being part of the Carlson School graduate program? Do you have an enterprise program that you are currently interested in and why?
• Can you tell us about how you have participated in and/or advocated for building more inclusive communities in your career?  

So what makes for the best-written essays? Here are five tips to get you started.

• Be authentic. Business schools want to learn about YOU. Schools aren’t looking for just one answer, so make sure your personality shines through in your writing.
• Talk about real-life examples. Adding specific anecdotes and details can have a tremendous impact.
• Don’t just repeat your resume. Business schools have already seen your resume and your other materials, so use the essay as a way to expand on why you would be a great fit for the school. You can build on things that are mentioned on your resume, but make sure it’s additive to the rest of your application.
• If you’re a unique applicant to a business school, play it up. Business schools across the country are looking to diversify their programs, and that includes people from unique backgrounds or who have an unorthodox path to getting an MBA.
• Sell yourself. Ultimately, the essay portion of your application is your chance to sell yourself to a business school. Offer a convincing argument about why you would be a great fit for a particular school. Be sure to highlight what you will bring to the table and make sure your can-do attitude shows through.

Video Essays

In addition to written essays, some business schools also include a video essay portion of the application process. Think of this as a short elevator pitch where you’re answering a 'getting to know you' question with a member of the admissions team.

For instance, at the Carlson School, you will be asked one impromptu question from a bank of imaginative or behavioral questions selected by the school’s admissions team. You will then be given two minutes to prepare for an answer and then two minutes to record an answer.

Video essays are another great way for you to show a business school your individuality. Here are three tips for this portion of the process:

• Be yourself. Programs are using this format as a way to get to know you, your personality, and how you would fit at the school. The best video essays reveal the applicant’s personality.
• Practice, practice, practice. While students applying for the Carlson School only get one attempt at recording themselves, you can practice responding to the impromptu questions offline with a friend or colleague. Make sure you’re answering the questions directly and staying within the timeframe.
• Don’t study too hard. The video essay questions are assigned at random, so while you should practice cadence and timing, it is not recommended you memorize all of the questions. Remember, you want to share your experiences, not a script!
• Relax. The video essay is often one of the last pieces of your application. Your GMAT, letters of recommendation, and most of your application is finished. All the hard work is done, so take a deep breath to help you not come across as nervous in your video.
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Sample Statement of Purpose in Marketing (Integrated Marketing Communication)

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In statement of purpose.

The following statement of purpose is written by an applicant who got accepted to several top graduate programs in marketing. Variations of this SOP got accepted at UT Austin, Vanderbilt, and Rice University. Read it to understand what a top essay in marketing should look like.

Example Statement of Purpose in Marketing

I have been fascinated by brand marketing. I used to track innovative advertisement campaigns and often looked up their corporate histories. Creating a brand from nothing more than an idea, the promise of delivering something of value to customers, and the long, arduous road to fruition have always intrigued me. So naturally, I preferred business subjects at school and studied Marketing & Media Studies as my undergraduate degree. This introduced me to the industry, and I further delved into my passion by joining Coca-Cola in Istanbul. While I have learned a lot from my 2.5 years of marketing there, I now wish to enhance my capabilities by pursuing a master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communication with a specialization in Brand Strategy & Communication.

My career at Coca-Cola has helped me become a young professional. In my initial role, my primary responsibilities included performing data analysis for ongoing business strategy reviews. As part of my work, I collated inter-department updates to analyze the national marketing landscape. I also worked on the company’s Annual Business Plan and customer loyalty programs from strategy to execution. This aided my understanding of the business and developed me for my next role in the Trade Marketing division.

As a Trade Marketing Executive, I looked after the Organized Trade channel, which contributes 5% of Coca-Cola’s volume & outlets. In addition, I worked on and executed the first-ever structured National Modern Trade Program, ‘Walk In,’ which delivered 3.9mn total volume and 78% Growth year on year. This channel ownership allowed me to meet and interact with renowned retailers, experienced sales personnel, and creative ad agencies.

The learning curve has been steep but very enjoyable. I have worked on some of Coca-Cola’s most notable projects, including Coke Zero, and some of the most challenging ones. One such complex project was the New Year Campaign because of its significance and short turnaround time. This exposure to multi-varied content, varying from music to ethnicity, is what I lacked in my prior role and have learned the most from. My main concern in my first role was that although it gave me an excellent platform to understand the business, it lacked strategy-making. This was an obvious disadvantage, as I had many creative ideas but needed help to see them take shape. This situation improved when I started my next role. However, I still need to find complete comfort in contributing to the business as I had imagined. Most of Coca-Cola’s marketing campaigns are designed by the company side, and we, as bottlers, are responsible only for the on-ground execution.

During the last few years, there has been a drastic shift in the perception of marketing from merely a support function to a core function. In many organizations, it now holds the responsibility of volume delivery too. Such significant commitment requires a well-thought-out brand strategy with effective communication, which most FMCG companies need to develop. For example, despite an improved retail landscape and favorable economic conditions, Coca-Cola spent $50M on marketing activities and gave discounts worth $119M but still needed to deliver its target volume. After spending 2.5 years in this organization, I have concluded that this failure is due to a disconnect in strategy and execution. With no budget constraints, resource shortage, or a lack of mediums available for execution, the issue is undoubtedly one of capability.

As part of the marketing team, I had undertaken a few cross-functional projects, two of which were with the Public Affairs & Communication department. During this time, my interest partially shifted away from the corporate sector. ‘Clean Water Initiative’ was the first project I worked on to provide clean water to 500,000+ people. Working on this project has been immensely rewarding and has taught me the power of well-allocated resources. Giving back to society and making it a better place seemed more worthwhile than any corporate venture.

The second project I helped develop is called ‘321 Run Away, which harnesses the power of sports as a platform for youth to build safer, stronger, healthier communities. This program was introduced in 25 schools and achieved phenomenal results regarding teachers’ training, youth grants, projects, and the appointment of trained coaches at schools. During the development phase, I met a lot of children from different backgrounds with immense potential and dedication to pursue their passion but no platform to channel that energy. As responsible citizens of a developing country familiar with marketing, one thing became apparent: the burden to empower the underprivileged falls on our shoulders.

While working on these, it also dawned on me that many nonprofit organizations are working on critical social issues with constrained budgets and no strategy. They can only project their causes by partnering with larger organizations such as Coca-Cola. Therefore, their work must be showcased for national welfare to raise donations and charities. Still, more prominent companies’ hefty investments in advertising and media strategy hinder the development sector. High-end organizations can only use mainstream media, leaving many development projects almost unnoticed and NGOs bankrupt, adding to another economic problem: unemployment.

I aim to be part of or set up a company that empowers smaller organizations by creating practical, low-cost strategies with vast outreach. This can be achieved by innovative approaches incorporated into the brand strategy, such as digital marketing, online web journalism, and effective communication. Such solutions would benefit both sectors and contribute to the economy. Moreover, it would encourage the partnership of NGOs with large companies to position a product/service positively and simultaneously give media mileage to the NGO by spreading awareness for its cause. This would be the practical application of the degree I wish to pursue and would support the rectification of poor strategy-making that affects retail and development sectors.

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Sample SOP for Business Analytics

The following SOP was written by an applicant who was admitted to top MSBA (Masters of Science in Business Analytics) programs in the US. Variations of this essay got accepted at Duke, UT Austin, and UCLA. This statement of purpose is intended to provide an example...

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The following statement of purpose is written by an applicant who got accepted to Harvard's master’s programs in public health. Harvard's MPH program requires a 600-word statement of purpose that covers the following points: Academic and/or professional preparation...

Sample Statement of Purpose in Public Health (MPH)

The following statement of purpose is written by an applicant who got accepted to several top master's programs in public health. Variations of this SOP got accepted at Rutgers, and Chicago. Read it to understand what a top SOP in MPH should look like. Example...

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The following statement of purpose was written by an applicant who was admitted to top MSN (Masters of Science in Nursing) programs in the US. The applicant aspires to specilize in the field of nursing informatics. Variations of this SOP got accepted at Johns Hopkins...

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How to Write a Professional Statement for Your Application Essay

Good news for graduate school applicants: The required application essay is a great way for you to share your story and your interest in Medill’s MS in IMC Professional program .

Think about it: This is your opportunity to craft your own narrative, to put into writing the kind of professional you aspire to be, to trace the steps that have brought you to where you are and to set the stage for your next accomplishments. Follow these five tips to write a graduate school application essay that stands out from the crowd.

Respond to the prompt.

The application for the Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications Professional program directs applicants to compose an essay that describes their interest in the program while addressing these questions:

• What professional experiences have led you to pursue an IMC degree? What professional experiences and/or opportunities informed your decision to apply to the program at this time?
• How will the IMC program help you achieve your professional goals?

It may be helpful to begin composing your Medill professional statement with an outline addressing each element of the prompt. Create a bulleted list of responses for each and then expand your bullets into paragraph form.

Be specific and personal.

Your story is uniquely your own, and it deserves to be framed in a way that shows you as a strong candidate for Medill’s graduate program. Try to avoid descriptive cliches such as, “I am an ideal candidate because …,” which can make your essay feel flat. Focus instead on using active language that makes your passion and energy apparent to your reader.

Try to include examples to emphasize major points throughout your essay. This will help your reader connect your story to specific experiences and build a vibrant image of you as a person and a professional. If possible, spend some time discussing the obstacles you have overcome on your journey to this point. Admissions professionals want to see candidates who have the strength and perseverance to face any challenge they encounter. You want to make it clear that you are the type of committed individual who will be an asset to your classmates and to your program as a whole.

Highlight your goals.

The best application essays are clear about what you will bring to your graduate program to enhance the experience of those around you, and what you expect to learn from your peers’ knowledge and experience. In addition, be specific about where you hope your educational experience will take you professionally. Think about where you would like to end up and detail how Medill’s graduate education will help you get there.

Are you looking to pivot your career into a particular field? Is there a specific job title to which you aspire? Do you want to gain a concrete set of digital or other professional skills that you know would improve your performance in the workplace? Highlight each of your goals of this nature, and discuss how the Medill MS in IMC Professional program is the right choice to help you achieve them.

Focus on your audience.

Not all master’s programs are the same, and you want to make it clear to the admissions committee why Medill’s MS in IMC Professional program is the only one that can take you where you want to go. Research the program before you write your essay, and then focus on particular aspects of the program to give your professional statement the specificity it requires.

Does Medill offer elective courses that you can’t find anywhere else? Does its alumni network feature connections in organizations or industries that are high on your list of desired landing spots for future employment? Does the faculty bring specific expertise or experience that will help you on your chosen career path? If any of these apply, or if any other elements of the program are uniquely tailored to your goals, be sure to mention them in detail.

Revise and perfect.

One of the goals of a professional statement is to frame yourself as a conscientious, polished professional. A major part of this is the attention to detail you demonstrate in the quality of your writing, through your tone and word choice.

Proofread your application essay for grammar, punctuation, capitalization and word choice. Make any needed changes and then leave it for a couple of days. Come back to it after that break and give it another thorough review, this time with fresh eyes, and make the necessary edits. After that, enlist the help of a trusted friend or colleague to read it once more. A second set of eyes is often what you need to make sure any lingering typos or grammatical errors are caught.

Video Tutorial: Crafting Compelling Professional Statements

Admissions Outreach Advisor Kayelyn Smith’s insights empower applicants to forge compelling professional statements for Northwestern University's IMC Professional Program application. This succinct video tutorial simplifies this part of the application process for aspiring students.

Video Transcript

Ace your application to northwestern’s ms in imc professional program..

With a winning professional statement in hand, now is the time to apply to the Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communications Professional program at Medill. Review our admissions requirements and application deadlines , and check out our tips for requesting letters of recommendation and refreshing your resume for your graduate school application.

Return to Marketing Innovation Resources

Northwestern University has engaged Everspring , a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.

Northwestern University reserves the right to change without notice any statement in this application or instructions concerning, but not limited to, rules, policies, tuition, fees, curricula and courses. Northwestern University does not discriminate or permit discrimination by any member of its community against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship or veteran status in matters of admission, employment, housing, or services or in the educational programs or activities it operates. Harassment, whether verbal, physical, or visual, that is based on any of these characteristics is a form of discrimination. This includes harassing conduct affecting tangible job benefits, interfering unreasonably with an individual's academic or work performance, or creating what a reasonable person would sense is an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. While Northwestern University is committed to the principles of free inquiry and free expression, discrimination and harassment identified in this policy are neither legally protected expression nor the proper exercise of academic freedom. For advice or assistance regarding this policy, see the Office of the Provost's website. ©2023 Northwestern University. All rights reserved.

Graduate Essay Examples

Examining 10+ Winning Graduate Essay Examples of Top Universities

19 min read

Published on: May 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

Share this article

Crafting a winning graduate essay is a daunting task for prospective students. With so many applicants vying for limited spots, standing out can be a challenge.

Without the right guidance, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the pressure to create a unique and compelling essay. Many applicants struggle to identify the key components that make an essay successful, leaving them feeling lost and discouraged.

Luckily, our analysis of successful graduate essay examples provides a roadmap for success. 

With our guidance, you can tackle the challenge of the graduate essay with confidence and increase your chances of admission to your dream program.

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Top Graduate School Examples 

Here are some example essays from some of the thousands of students we've helped get accepted to their dream schools.

Graduate School Essay Example For Yale

Here is a sample grad school personal statement for Yale. 

Here are three reasons why we think the above personal statement stands out: 

• Strong Introduction: The essay opens with a clear and concise introduction that sets the stage for the rest of the essay.
• Specific and Personalized: The applicant provides specific examples of their experiences and interests, demonstrating their knowledge of the field and their unique perspective.
• Coherent and Cohesive: The essay is well-organized and flows smoothly, with each paragraph building upon the previous one to create a cohesive narrative.

Graduate School Admission Essay Examples For Harvard

Three reasons why this example got the student into Harvard are: 

• Emotional Appeal: The essay uses personal anecdotes and emotional language to draw the admissions committees in.
• Clear Motivation: The applicant clearly articulates their motivation for pursuing graduate studies at Harvard's Education program.
• Specific Goals and Experiences: The essay includes specific examples of the applicant's experiences and goals, demonstrating their knowledge of the field.

Graduate school essay examples for MIT 

Here is a graduate school statement of purpose for MIT. 

Here is why we think this essay is a top fit :

• Clear Focus: The essay has a clear focus on the applicant's interest in materials science and renewable energy.
• Alignment with MIT's Values: The essay highlights how the applicant's personal goals align with MIT's commitment to solving global challenges.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: The essay emphasizes the applicant's interest in MIT's interdisciplinary approach to graduate education.

Graduate School Essay Examples For Stanford 

This essay stands out because : 

• Clear Motivation: The essay effectively communicates the applicant's passion for astrophysics and their desire to apply computer science to the field.
• Strong Fit for Program: The essay demonstrates a strong fit between the applicant's background and goals and the offerings and values of Stanford's graduate program in Computer Science.

Graduate School Essay Example for California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

We think this essay is a great fit because : 

• Passionate and Motivated: The essay demonstrates the applicant's passion for science and their desire to pursue a career in research. Their enthusiasm for Caltech's graduate program is evident, making them a great fit for the institution's academic environment.
• Values and Community: The essay highlights the applicant's appreciation for Caltech's ethos of collaboration and community. Their desire to be part of a supportive community of peers aligns with Caltech's values.

Graduate School Essay Example for Columbia University

This essay got accepted because : 

• Emotional and Engaging: The essay is written in a personal tone, drawing the reader into the applicant's journey. This helps to create a memorable and impactful essay.
• Clear Career Goals and Fit for Program: The applicant demonstrates a clear understanding of their career goals and how Columbia's graduate program and aligns with their interests. 

Graduate School Essay Example for University of Chicago

We think the essay stands out because : 

• Personal Connection: The essay conveys the applicant's personal connection to economics and their desire to make a positive impact.
• Academic and Professional Preparation: The essay highlights the applicant's research experience and academic achievements, demonstrating their readiness for graduate study at the University of Chicago.

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Graduate School Essay Example for Duke University

The two reasons that make this essay a top example are : 

• Compelling Storytelling: The essay features a personal story that engages the reader and highlights the applicant's unique experiences.
• Demonstrates Passion and Purpose: The essay showcases the applicant's strong passion and motivation for the field, which is a key factor in their potential success in a graduate program.

Graduate School Essay Example for University of Pennsylvania

The above essay has : 

• Strong alignment with the program's values and goals, as demonstrated by the applicant's passion for sustainability and commitment to environmental advocacy.
• Clear articulation of the applicant's academic and professional experiences. These are highlighted their potential for success in the program and their ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of environmental studies.

Graduate School Essay Example for Northwestern University

The essay has : 

• Strong alignment with the program's values and goals, as demonstrated by the applicant's passion for education.
• Clear articulation of the applicant's academic and professional experiences, which highlighted their potential for success in the program.

Here are a few more free downloadable graduate school essay examples for you to read and get inspired. 

Postgraduate Essay Example

Graduate School Essay Examples Mba

Graduate Scholarship Essay Examples

In conclusion, writing a standout graduate school essay is a challenging task, but it can be done with dedication and hard work. 

As shown by the examples above, a successful essay should be compelling, articulate, and demonstrate a strong alignment with the program's values and goals.

If you're struggling with your own graduate school essay, don't worry - our AI essay writing tools are available! 

CollegeEssay.org offers professional essay writing help . Our writers will craft a winning essay that showcases your unique qualities and potential for success.

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Gre prep online guides and tips, 3 successful graduate school personal statement examples.

Looking for grad school personal statement examples? Look no further! In this total guide to graduate school personal statement examples, we’ll discuss why you need a personal statement for grad school and what makes a good one. Then we’ll provide three graduate school personal statement samples from our grad school experts. After that, we’ll do a deep dive on one of our personal statement for graduate school examples. Finally, we’ll wrap up with a list of other grad school personal statements you can find online.

Why Do You Need a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a chance for admissions committees to get to know you: your goals and passions, what you’ll bring to the program, and what you’re hoping to get out of the program.  You need to sell the admissions committee on what makes you a worthwhile applicant. The personal statement is a good chance to highlight significant things about you that don’t appear elsewhere on your application.

A personal statement is slightly different from a statement of purpose (also known as a letter of intent). A statement of purpose/letter of intent tends to be more tightly focused on your academic or professional credentials and your future research and/or professional interests.

While a personal statement also addresses your academic experiences and goals, you have more leeway to be a little more, well, personal. In a personal statement, it’s often appropriate to include information on significant life experiences or challenges that aren’t necessarily directly relevant to your field of interest.

Some programs ask for both a personal statement and a statement of purpose/letter of intent. In this case, the personal statement is likely to be much more tightly focused on your life experience and personality assets while the statement of purpose will focus in much more on your academic/research experiences and goals.

However, there’s not always a hard-and-fast demarcation between a personal statement and a statement of purpose. The two statement types should address a lot of the same themes, especially as relates to your future goals and the valuable assets you bring to the program. Some programs will ask for a personal statement but the prompt will be focused primarily on your research and professional experiences and interests. Some will ask for a statement of purpose but the prompt will be more focused on your general life experiences.

When in doubt, give the program what they are asking for in the prompt and don’t get too hung up on whether they call it a personal statement or statement of purpose. You can always call the admissions office to get more clarification on what they want you to address in your admissions essay.

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What Makes a Good Grad School Personal Statement?

A great graduate school personal statement can come in many forms and styles. However, strong grad school personal statement examples all share the same following elements:

A Clear Narrative

Above all, a good personal statement communicates clear messages about what makes you a strong applicant who is likely to have success in graduate school. So to that extent, think about a couple of key points that you want to communicate about yourself and then drill down on how you can best communicate those points. (Your key points should of course be related to what you can bring to the field and to the program specifically).

You can also decide whether to address things like setbacks or gaps in your application as part of your narrative. Have a low GPA for a couple semesters due to a health issue? Been out of a job for a while taking care of a family member? If you do decide to explain an issue like this, make sure that the overall arc is more about demonstrating positive qualities like resilience and diligence than about providing excuses.

Specific Examples

A great statement of purpose uses specific examples to illustrate its key messages. This can include anecdotes that demonstrate particular traits or even references to scholars and works that have influenced your academic trajectory to show that you are familiar and insightful about the relevant literature in your field.

Just saying “I love plants,” is pretty vague. Describing how you worked in a plant lab during undergrad and then went home and carefully cultivated your own greenhouse where you cross-bred new flower colors by hand is much more specific and vivid, which makes for better evidence.

A strong personal statement will describe why you are a good fit for the program, and why the program is a good fit for you. It’s important to identify specific things about the program that appeal to you, and how you’ll take advantage of those opportunities. It’s also a good idea to talk about specific professors you might be interested in working with. This shows that you are informed about and genuinely invested in the program.

Strong Writing

Even quantitative and science disciplines typically require some writing, so it’s important that your personal statement shows strong writing skills. Make sure that you are communicating clearly and that you don’t have any grammar and spelling errors. It’s helpful to get other people to read your statement and provide feedback. Plan on going through multiple drafts.

Another important thing here is to avoid cliches and gimmicks. Don’t deploy overused phrases and openings like “ever since I was a child.” Don’t structure your statement in a gimmicky way (i.e., writing a faux legal brief about yourself for a law school statement of purpose). The first will make your writing banal; the second is likely to make you stand out in a bad way.

Appropriate Boundaries

While you can be more personal in a personal statement than in a statement of purpose, it’s important to maintain appropriate boundaries in your writing. Don’t overshare anything too personal about relationships, bodily functions, or illegal activities. Similarly, don’t share anything that makes it seem like you may be out of control, unstable, or an otherwise risky investment. The personal statement is not a confessional booth. If you share inappropriately, you may seem like you have bad judgment, which is a huge red flag to admissions committees.

You should also be careful with how you deploy humor and jokes. Your statement doesn’t have to be totally joyless and serious, but bear in mind that the person reading the statement may not have the same sense of humor as you do. When in doubt, err towards the side of being as inoffensive as possible.

Just as being too intimate in your statement can hurt you, it’s also important not to be overly formal or staid. You should be professional, but conversational.

Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

Our graduate school experts have been kind enough to provide some successful grad school personal statement examples. We’ll provide three examples here, along with brief analysis of what makes each one successful.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 1

PDF of Sample Personal Statement 1 – Japanese Studies

For this Japanese Studies master’s degree, the applicant had to provide a statement of purpose outlining her academic goals and experience with Japanese and a separate personal statement describing her personal relationship with Japanese Studies and what led her to pursue a master’s degree.

Here’s what’s successful about this personal statement:

• An attention-grabbing beginning: The applicant begins with the statement that Japanese has never come easily to her and that it’s a brutal language to learn. Seeing as how this is an application for a Japanese Studies program, this is an intriguing beginning that makes the reader want to keep going.
• A compelling narrative: From this attention-grabbing beginning, the applicant builds a well-structured and dramatic narrative tracking her engagement with the Japanese language over time. The clear turning point is her experience studying abroad, leading to a resolution in which she has clarity about her plans. Seeing as how the applicant wants to be a translator of Japanese literature, the tight narrative structure here is a great way to show her writing skills.
• Specific examples that show important traits: The applicant clearly communicates both a deep passion for Japanese through examples of her continued engagement with Japanese and her determination and work ethic by highlighting the challenges she’s faced (and overcome) in her study of the language. This gives the impression that she is an engaged and dedicated student.

Overall, this is a very strong statement both in terms of style and content. It flows well, is memorable, and communicates that the applicant would make the most of the graduate school experience.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 2

PDF of Sample Graduate School Personal Statement 2 – Musical Composition

This personal statement for a Music Composition master’s degree discusses the factors that motivate the applicant to pursue graduate study.

Here’s what works well in this statement:

• The applicant provides two clear reasons motivating the student to pursue graduate study: her experiences with music growing up, and her family’s musical history. She then supports those two reasons with examples and analysis.
• The description of her ancestors’ engagement with music is very compelling and memorable. The applicant paints her own involvement with music as almost inevitable based on her family’s long history with musical pursuits.
• The applicant gives thoughtful analysis of the advantages she has been afforded that have allowed her to study music so extensively. We get the sense that she is insightful and empathetic—qualities that would add greatly to any academic community.

This is a strong, serviceable personal statement. And in truth, given that this for a masters in music composition, other elements of the application (like work samples) are probably the most important.  However, here are two small changes I would make to improve it:

• I would probably to split the massive second paragraph into 2-3 separate paragraphs. I might use one paragraph to orient the reader to the family’s musical history, one paragraph to discuss Giacomo and Antonio, and one paragraph to discuss how the family has influenced the applicant. As it stands, it’s a little unwieldy and the second paragraph doesn’t have a super-clear focus even though it’s all loosely related to the applicant’s family history with music.
• I would also slightly shorten the anecdote about the applicant’s ancestors and expand more on how this family history has motivated the applicant’s interest in music. In what specific ways has her ancestors’ perseverance inspired her? Did she think about them during hard practice sessions? Is she interested in composing music in a style they might have played? More specific examples here would lend greater depth and clarity to the statement.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School 3

PDF of Sample Graduate School Personal Statement 3 – Public Health

This is my successful personal statement for Columbia’s Master’s program in Public Health. We’ll do a deep dive on this statement paragraph-by-paragraph in the next section, but I’ll highlight a couple of things that work in this statement here:

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• This statement is clearly organized. Almost every paragraph has a distinct focus and message, and when I move on to a new idea, I move on to a new paragraph with a logical transitions.
• This statement covers a lot of ground in a pretty short space. I discuss my family history, my goals, my educational background, and my professional background. But because the paragraphs are organized and I use specific examples, it doesn’t feel too vague or scattered.
• In addition to including information about my personal motivations, like my family, I also include some analysis about tailoring health interventions with my example of the Zande. This is a good way to show off what kinds of insights I might bring to the program based on my academic background.

Grad School Personal Statement Example: Deep Dive

Now let’s do a deep dive, paragraph-by-paragraph, on one of these sample graduate school personal statements. We’ll use my personal statement that I used when I applied to Columbia’s public health program.

Paragraph One: For twenty-three years, my grandmother (a Veterinarian and an Epidemiologist) ran the Communicable Disease Department of a mid-sized urban public health department. The stories of Grandma Betty doggedly tracking down the named sexual partners of the infected are part of our family lore. Grandma Betty would persuade people to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases, encourage safer sexual practices, document the spread of infection and strive to contain and prevent it. Indeed, due to the large gay population in the city where she worked, Grandma Betty was at the forefront of the AIDS crises, and her analysis contributed greatly towards understanding how the disease was contracted and spread. My grandmother has always been a huge inspiration to me, and the reason why a career in public health was always on my radar.

This is an attention-grabbing opening anecdote that avoids most of the usual cliches about childhood dreams and proclivities. This story also subtly shows that I have a sense of public health history, given the significance of the AIDs crisis for public health as a field.

It’s good that I connect this family history to my own interests. However, if I were to revise this paragraph again, I might cut down on some of the detail because when it comes down to it, this story isn’t really about me. It’s important that even (sparingly used) anecdotes about other people ultimately reveal something about you in a personal statement.

Paragraph Two: Recent years have cemented that interest. In January 2012, my parents adopted my little brother Fred from China. Doctors in America subsequently diagnosed Fred with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). My parents were told that if Fred’s condition had been discovered in China, the (very poor) orphanage in which he spent the first 8+ years of his life would have recognized his DMD as a death sentence and denied him sustenance to hasten his demise.

Here’s another compelling anecdote to help explain my interest in public health. This is an appropriately personal detail for a personal statement—it’s a serious thing about my immediate family, but it doesn’t disclose anything that the admissions committee might find concerning or inappropriate.

If I were to take another pass through this paragraph, the main thing I would change is the last phrase. “Denied him sustenance to hasten his demise” is a little flowery. “Denied him food to hasten his death” is actually more powerful because it’s clearer and more direct.

Paragraph Three: It is not right that some people have access to the best doctors and treatment while others have no medical care. I want to pursue an MPH in Sociomedical Sciences at Columbia because studying social factors in health, with a particular focus on socio-health inequities, will prepare me to address these inequities. The interdisciplinary approach of the program appeals to me greatly as I believe interdisciplinary approaches are the most effective way to develop meaningful solutions to complex problems.

In this paragraph I make a neat and clear transition from discussing what sparked my interest in public health and health equity to what I am interested in about Columbia specifically: the interdisciplinary focus of the program, and how that focus will prepare me to solve complex health problems. This paragraph also serves as a good pivot point to start discussing my academic and professional background.

Paragraph Four: My undergraduate education has prepared me well for my chosen career. Understanding the underlying structure of a group’s culture is essential to successfully communicating with the group. In studying folklore and mythology, I’ve learned how to parse the unspoken structures of folk groups, and how those structures can be used to build bridges of understanding. For example, in a culture where most illnesses are believed to be caused by witchcraft, as is the case for the Zande people of central Africa, any successful health intervention or education program would of necessity take into account their very real belief in witchcraft.

In this paragraph, I link my undergraduate education and the skills I learned there to public health. The (very brief) analysis of tailoring health interventions to the Zande is a good way to show insight and show off the competencies I would bring to the program.

Paragraph Five: I now work in the healthcare industry for one of the largest providers of health benefits in the world. In addition to reigniting my passion for data and quantitative analytics, working for this company has immersed me in the business side of healthcare, a critical component of public health.

This brief paragraph highlights my relevant work experience in the healthcare industry. It also allows me to mention my work with data and quantitative analytics, which isn’t necessarily obvious from my academic background, which was primarily based in the social sciences.

Paragraph Six: I intend to pursue a PhD in order to become an expert in how social factors affect health, particularly as related to gender and sexuality. I intend to pursue a certificate in Sexuality, Sexual Health, and Reproduction. Working together with other experts to create effective interventions across cultures and societies, I want to help transform health landscapes both in America and abroad.

This final paragraph is about my future plans and intentions. Unfortunately, it’s a little disjointed, primarily because I discuss goals of pursuing a PhD before I talk about what certificate I want to pursue within the MPH program! Switching those two sentences and discussing my certificate goals within the MPH and then mentioning my PhD plans would make a lot more sense.

I also start two sentences in a row with “I intend,” which is repetitive.

The final sentence is a little bit generic; I might tailor it to specifically discuss a gender and sexual health issue, since that is the primary area of interest I’ve identified.

This was a successful personal statement; I got into (and attended!) the program. It has strong examples, clear organization, and outlines what interests me about the program (its interdisciplinary focus) and what competencies I would bring (a background in cultural analysis and experience with the business side of healthcare). However, a few slight tweaks would elevate this statement to the next level.

Graduate School Personal Statement Examples You Can Find Online

So you need more samples for your personal statement for graduate school? Examples are everywhere on the internet, but they aren’t all of equal quality.

Most of examples are posted as part of writing guides published online by educational institutions. We’ve rounded up some of the best ones here if you are looking for more personal statement examples for graduate school.

Penn State Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School

This selection of ten short personal statements for graduate school and fellowship programs offers an interesting mix of approaches. Some focus more on personal adversity while others focus more closely on professional work within the field.

The writing in some of these statements is a little dry, and most deploy at least a few cliches. However, these are generally strong, serviceable statements that communicate clearly why the student is interested in the field, their skills and competencies, and what about the specific program appeals to them.

Cal State Sample Graduate School Personal Statements

These are good examples of personal statements for graduate school where students deploy lots of very vivid imagery and illustrative anecdotes of life experiences. There are also helpful comments about what works in each of these essays.

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However, all of these statements are definitely pushing the boundaries of acceptable length, as all are above 1000 and one is almost 1500 words! Many programs limit you to 500 words; if you don’t have a limit, you should try to keep it to two single-spaced pages at most (which is about 1000 words).

University of Chicago Personal Statement for Graduate School Examples

These examples of successful essays to the University of Chicago law school cover a wide range of life experiences and topics. The writing in all is very vivid, and all communicate clear messages about the students’ strengths and competencies.

Note, however, that these are all essays that specifically worked for University of Chicago law school. That does not mean that they would work everywhere. In fact, one major thing to note is that many of these responses, while well-written and vivid, barely address the students’ interest in law school at all! This is something that might not work well for most graduate programs.

Wheaton College Personal Statement for Graduate School Sample 10

This successful essay for law school from a Wheaton College undergraduate does a great job tracking the student’s interest in the law in a compelling and personal way. Wheaton offers other graduate school personal statement examples, but this one offers the most persuasive case for the students’ competencies. The student accomplishes this by using clear, well-elaborated examples, showing strong and vivid writing, and highlighting positive qualities like an interest in justice and empathy without seeming grandiose or out of touch.

Wheaton College Personal Statement for Graduate School Sample 1

Based on the background information provided at the bottom of the essay, this essay was apparently successful for this applicant. However, I’ve actually included this essay because it demonstrates an extremely risky approach. While this personal statement is strikingly written and the story is very memorable, it could definitely communicate the wrong message to some admissions committees. The student’s decision not to report the drill sergeant may read incredibly poorly to some admissions committees. They may wonder if the student’s failure to report the sergeant’s violence will ultimately expose more soldiers-in-training to the same kinds of abuses. This incident perhaps reads especially poorly in light of the fact that the military has such a notable problem with violence against women being covered up and otherwise mishandled

It’s actually hard to get a complete picture of the student’s true motivations from this essay, and what we have might raise real questions about the student’s character to some admissions committees. This student took a risk and it paid off, but it could have just as easily backfired spectacularly.

Key Takeaways: Graduate School Personal Statement Examples

In this guide, we discussed why you need a personal statement and how it differs from a statement of purpose. (It’s more personal!)

We also discussed what you’ll find in a strong sample personal statement for graduate school:

• A clear narrative about the applicant and why they are qualified for graduate study.
• Specific examples to support that narrative.
• Compelling reasons why the applicant and the program are a good fit for each other.
• Strong writing, including clear organization and error-free, cliche-free language.
• Appropriate boundaries—sharing without over-sharing.

Then, we provided three strong graduate school personal statement examples for different fields, along with analysis. We did a deep-dive on the third statement.

Finally, we provided a list of other sample grad school personal statements online.

What’s Next?

Want more advice on writing a personal statement ? See our guide.

Writing a graduate school statement of purpose? See our statement of purpose samples  and a nine-step process for writing the best statement of purpose possible .

If you’re writing a graduate school CV or resume, see our how-to guide to writing a CV , a how-to guide to writing a resume , our list of sample resumes and CVs , resume and CV templates , and a special guide for writing resume objectives .

Need stellar graduate school recommendation letters ? See our guide.

See our 29 tips for successfully applying to graduate school .

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Author: Ellen McCammon

Ellen is a public health graduate student and education expert. She has extensive experience mentoring students of all ages to reach their goals and in-depth knowledge on a variety of health topics. View all posts by Ellen McCammon

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Grad School 101: Tips for Writing Your Admissions Essays

Like any business professional knows, planning ahead and being prepared are key factors that contribute to whether or not a graduate student’s application is strong enough to potentially earn them a space in a rigorous and respectable program.

You’re not an undergraduate student anymore, and putting off all of your application materials until the night before simply won’t cut it in graduate school—especially not when it comes to those most frightening of application materials: your admissions essays .

Thankfully, regardless of how many essays you need to complete for your application, there are several steps you can take to ensure your essay is as strong as it needs to be.

Essays can play a major role in the university’s admissions decisions, so any way to give yourself the advantage can make all the difference. By following our steps above, you can ensure your essay is in stronger shape and is better able to differentiate you from the pool of other candidates applying to the program as well.

But, if you’re still in doubt, remember to reach out to your Admissions Advisor or school coordinator with any questions or concerns!

If you’ve submitted your graduate school essay already, you might want to get ahead in the game by reviewing how to prepare for the video interview for admissions.

And if you want to learn about the William & Mary’s online business degrees from someone in the program already, hear from some of our current students as they discuss the rigor of the W&M program and the flexibility of earning an MBA, MSBA or MSM online .

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Graduate School Application Essays

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Types of Essays

Regardless of the type of school you are applying to, you will be required to submit an admissions essay as part of the application process. Graduate programs want students with clear commitment to the field. Essay prompts typically ask applicants to discuss their previous experience, future professional goals, and how the program can help them in achieving those objectives. The essay gives the applicant the chance to articulate these goals and display strong writing skills. Remember to tailor your essay to each school and the faculty committee that reviews your application. But first, take note of what kind of essay is being requested of you. Here are the two main admission essays:

Personal Statement

A personal statement is a narrative piece describing how your character and experiences have formed you into someone who will contribute positively and effectively to not only the department but the academic discipline as a whole. This is often achieved by detailing social, educational, cultural, and economic obstacles you have overcome in your journey to get to where you are today and your future objectives. A personal statement is also an opportunity to highlight what is unique about you and how you will advance diversity within the institution.

Check out Personal Statement Resources for Graduate School Applications in the Resources section of Handshake for a brainstorming activity and essay samples that can help you get started on your personal statement.

Statement of Purpose

Interchangeably called a “research statement”, a statement of purpose will prompt you to describe your research interests and professional goals, how you plan to accomplish them, and why a specific program is best suited for you to do so. Be specific about your specialized interests within your major field. Be clear about the kind of program you expect to undertake, and explain how your study plan connects with your previous training and future goals.

Use the Outlining Your Statement of Purpose guide in the Resources section of Handshake to get started on your statement outline.

How to Write a Powerful Admission Essay

Whatever required format, your essay should be thoughtful, concise, compelling, and interesting. Remember, admissions officers read hundreds of personal essays. Below are some tips for your admissions essay writing process:

Before Writing

• Read the question:  Be sure you are aware of all aspects of the prompt. Failing to pay attention to details in the prompt won’t reflect well on you as a potential candidate.
• What is distinct, special, and/or impressive about me and my life story?
• Have I overcome any particular hardships or obstacles?
• When did I become interested in this field and what have I learned about it?
• What are my career goals?
• What personal traits, values, and skill sets do I have that would make me stand out from other applicants?
• Create an outline:  You might have a lot that you want to say, but you will need to whittle down your many thoughts and experiences to a concrete thesis with a select number of examples to support it. Create an outline for your draft, not only to organize your points and examples, but to help tailor your essay for your readers.
• Know your audience:  Consider how your narrative can best meet the expectations of admissions committee members. Will faculty be reading this? Administrators? Experts in the field? Knowing your audience ahead of time will assist you in addressing the prompt appropriately.

While Writing

• Grab your reader’s attention:  Start your essay with something that will grab the reader’s attention such as a personal anecdote, questions, or engaging depiction of a scene. Avoid starting things off with common phrases such as “I was born in…” or “I have always wanted to…” Consider the experiences that have shaped you or your career decision, and delve into them with a creative hook.
• Write well:  Your essay is a sample of your writing abilities, so it’s important to convey your thoughts clearly and effectively. Be succinct—you don’t need to write out your full autobiography or resume in prose. Exclude anything that doesn’t support your thesis. Gentle humor is okay, but don’t overdo it. Also, don’t make things up! Be honest about your experiences.
• End strong:  End your essay with a conclusion that refers back to the lead and restates your thesis. This helps unify your essay as a whole, connecting your detailed experiences back to the reason you are writing this essay in the first place—to show your qualifications for your graduate program of choice.

Final Touches

• Use resources: The MIT Communication Labs have a CommKit that collects all of the Comm Lab resources relevant to the grad application process , including recommendation letters & interviews
• Revise:  Give yourself enough time to step away from your draft. Return with a fresh pair of eyes to make your edits. Be realistic with yourself, not your harshest critic. Make a few rounds of revisions if you need.
• Ask for help:  Have your essay critiqued by friends, family, educators, and the  MIT Writing and Communication Center or our Career Services staff.
• Proofread:  Read your essay out loud or even record yourself and listen to the recording, to help you catch mistakes or poor phrasing you may have missed when reading to yourself. Also, don’t rely exclusively on your computer to check your spelling.

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The graduate application essay is generally 1-5 pages and is your opportunity to share relevant information about yourself, your goals and why you would make a good match for the particular graduate program to which you are applying.

First, check if your program of interest is listed below with a program-specific application essay question. If so, answer your program-specific essay question.  

If not, the following essay question must be answered by all other graduate applicants.

Standard essay question (unless your program is listed below)*

Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them. Some areas of discussion might include: Specific attributes of the program at UD that lead you to believe that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives. Within the area of study you have selected, are there areas of special interest to you?

African American Public Humanities (AAPHI Interest Only)

Application Essay 1 (600-800 words):

• What does the “public” in African American Public Humanities mean to you? Why is this scholarly activity important to you?

Africana Studies (M.A.)

Application Essay 1 (800-1200 words):

• Applicants must submit a written statement of the reasons for their interest in Africana Studies, their motivation to pursue a graduate degree, and their professional goals and objectives. The Africana Studies Graduate Program Committee will review the essay part of the application carefully.  The Committee wants to know why applicants are interested in applying to the program and how the degree will make sense in the overall career path. 

Africana Studies (Certificate)

Application Essay 1 (800 to 1200 words):

• Applicants must submit a written statement relaying your interest in Africana Studies and its relationship to their graduate course of study or their current vocation.  If you are currently a UD graduate student, please indicate that in the statement.

Applied Bioinformatics (Certificate)

Application Essay 1:

• What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepared you for this bioinformatics graduate certificate program? 
• What are your long-term professional objectives?
• What specific attributes of the program make you feel that this certificate is appropriate to help you achieve our professional objectives?

Applied Physiology (Ph.D.)

• Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them.
• Some additional areas of discussion might include s pecific attributes of the program at UD that lead you to believe that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives.
• Within the area of study you have selected, please identify the faculty member you would like to work with as well as any areas of special interest to you.

Art Conservation (M.S.)

Short Answer Questions (300 to 500 words each) - draw on your personal experiences.

• How do you define material culture, and why do you believe it should be preserved?
• How do you deal with adversity or challenges? This could be academic, professional, or personal.
• Describe a situation when the knowledge you gained in one context proved valuable in a different setting. 

Art History (M.S., Ph.D., D.Ph.D)

• What are your research interests and professional objectives?
• How will studying at the University of Delaware help you to pursue them?
• How have your education and extra-curricular experiences prepared you for graduate studies in art history?

In your response, you may wish to discuss a recent book you read, a museum exhibition you visited, or a work experience you had and explain how it shaped your ideas about art history and your interest in pursuing a graduate degree.

Athletic Training (M.S.)

Application Essay 1 (no more than 2 double-spaced pages):

A personal statement or essay. The purpose of this statement is to introduce yourself to the admission committee and discuss your academic and career interests and goals as they stand now, and how you think the graduate program aligns with your interests and a career in athletic training. 

Bioinformatics Data Science (Certificate)

• What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepare you for this certificate program?
• What specific attributes of the Bioinformatics Data Science certificate program make you feel that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives?

Bioinformatics Data Science (M.S.)

• What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepare you for this degree program?
• What specific attributes of the Bioinformatics Data Science program make you feel that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives?

Biological Sciences (M.S. and Ph.D.)

• What scientific research experience have you had?
• What are your research interests and long-term professional objectives?
• What specific attributes of our department make you feel that it would be a good place for you?
• Are there any special circumstances related to your academic record that you feel we should know about?

Biopharmaceutical Sciences (M.S.) with Concentration in Bioprocess Development

• What is your motivation for considering the Biopharmaceutical Sciences Master’s program? What do you wish to get out of the program? Where do you see yourself in the future? What makes you a great candidate for this program? (250-500 words)
• What excites you most about the biopharmaceutical industry? How would a career in this field enable you to make a difference? (250-500 words)

Biotechnology (P.S.M., Certificate)

• What scientific research/employment experience have you had? Please be specific about the field of work and job responsibilities
• What specific attributes of our Department and the PSM/Certificate in Biotechnology make you feel that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives?

Business Analytics and Information Management (M.S.)

Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them. Some areas of discussion might include specific attributes of the program at UD that lead you to believe that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives. Within the area of study you have selected, are there areas of special interest to you?

Application Essay 2:

Please answer one of the two following questions for Essay 2.  Be sure to identify which question you have selected within the essay.

• Describe an obstacle you have faced in your professional or academic life. How did you overcome this obstacle and how did it foster your development?
• Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what lessons did you learn?

Business Fundamentals (Certificate)

• Please upload a personal statement of how a Certificate in Business Fundamentals can assist the candidate in professional practice or voluntary endeavors.
• Additionally, candidates should answer the following prompt: “What are the specific attributes of this certificate program at UD that led you to believe that this program is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives?”​

Childhood Education in Languages, Literatures and Cultures (M.A.)

Note: Your personal statement is a very important part of the application and is read with great care. It is highly recommended that you invest ample time in composing this statement and include enough detail to communicate your fit with our program.

• It should describe why you have selected our program (MAFLL, MAFLP or MACFLE) and how you intend to use the degree to fulfill your career goals or further educational aspirations.
• It should provide any other information about you (your experience, specific interests, talents or abilities, and/or your academic record) that you believe is important for the admission committee to know. If you are currently registered in a graduate program at this or another university, please explain why you wish to leave.
• If you are an MAFLP applicant intending to pursue the certification track, please mention this in your essay.

Civil Engineering (M.C.E., M.A.S., Ph.D.)

• Default essay question
• Describe what research area(s) interest you and which research groups might be a good match for your background and interests. (Answer NA if applying for a non-thesis degree)
• Describe how your past coursework, research experiences (if any), and extracurricular experiences have prepared you for our program.
• Give an example of your creative solution to a problem. This needs not be in a class; it can be something you solved at home, at work, etc.
• Is there anything else about you would you like us to know as we evaluate your application?

Clinical Exercise Physiology (M.S.)

• In 500 words or less, explain how being accepted in the clinical exercise physiology master's degree program at the University of Delaware will help you achieve your career goals.
• In 500 words or less, explain what three qualities are most important to being a successful graduate student. 
• In 500 words or less, explain your greatest weakness as a student and how you will overcome that weakness in a graduate program. 

Climatology (Ph.D.) and Geography (M.A., M.S., Ph.D.)

In geography and spatial sciences we are looking to admit graduate students who are passionate about human-environment interactions, geographic information systems and science, and/or climate science. We encourage prospective applicants to consider available research opportunities in the department and contact faculty they are interested in working with BEFORE they submit an application. We are committed to conducting a holistic admissions process and we evaluate files based on research experience, academic excellence, diversity, equity and inclusion, motivation and goals, as well as fit with the research programs in the department. Strengths in any one area do not preclude strengths in another and we consider files as a whole.

Note: The Statement of Interest should directly answer each of the following questions. Any statements that exceed the limit or attach additional samples of writing will be rejected without review.

Application Essay 1 (no more than 3 pages):

• Why are you seeking a graduate degree at the University of Delaware? What specifically about our program(s) makes you a fit? We are looking for evidence that the research and teaching in the department is appropriate for the skills you want to build and research you want to pursue.
• What knowledge and skills do you hope to gain from the graduate program that will be useful to your long-term career goals? We are looking for evidence that you are passionate about the field and why a research-based graduate degree will help you to achieve your goals.
• The graduate student experience and life in general involves a range of challenges. Describe your motivation for pursuing your academic and career path goals. We are looking for evidence of clear and achievable goals.
• The University of Delaware is a top-tier research university, please describe any prior research experience and the research ideas you wish to develop at UD. We are looking for evidence of experience, intellectual curiosity, and critical thinking, as well as, demonstrated knowledge of proposed research topic.
• Finally, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts are an essential endeavor in our department, please describe how DEI factors into your current or planned work. We are looking for evidence of understanding of DEI as it relates to undertaking academic work.

Communication (Ph.D.)

• What specific area of communication are you interested in exploring and which of our faculty member(s) do you consider most appropriate to mentor you in your academic work and why?
• What is one communication-related question or concept that keeps you up at night with curiosity?
• What are you interested in studying communication from a quantitative, social scientific perspective (as opposed to from a more critical cultural or interpretive perspective)?
• Describe how your research interest relates to the research expertise of the department's faculty.

Communication (M.A.)

• What specific area of Communication are you interested in exploring and which of our faculty member(s) do you consider most appropriate to mentor you in your academic work and why?
• What are you interested in studying Communication from a quantitative, social scientific perspective (as opposed to from a more critical cultural or interpretive perspective)?

Communication Sciences and Disorders (Ph.D.)

• Describe your research experience, include length and type of experience and designate your preference of a primary and secondary advisor from the department's faculty.

Computer Science M.S./MBA Dual Degree

• Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them. What are the specific attributes of the program at UD that lead you to believe that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives? Within the area of study you have selected, are there areas of special interest to you?

Data Science (M.S.)

• Describe how your academic, professional and personal background has prepared you to be successful in this program and explain how the completion of this degree will contribute to your professional goals.

Disaster Science Management (M.S. and Ph.D.)

• What are your vocational objectives and how will your proposed plan of graduate study relate to them and allow you to achieve them?
• Within your major field, are there special areas of interest to you? Please explain.
• Are there any special circumstances related to your academic record that you wish to explain or that we should know?

Education (Ph.D.)

Application Essay 1 (2-5 pages):

• Applicants should introduce themselves and discuss educational and career goals related to the Ph.D. in Education program and how this program is a good match for their interests. Applicants should identify their area of specialization and potential research interest. 

Education Leadership (Ed.D.)

• Explain why you are applying to this particular program, that is, why do you want to be admitted to the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership?
• The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership requires that candidates be involved in planning and implementing a series of initiatives targeted at specific improvement needs that candidates identify and in which they may exercise leadership. Describe the contexts and responsibilities in your current position which would allow you to exercise leadership.

Application Essay 3: 

• Describe a problem in your area of interest that typifies the kind of issue that you would like to pursue as a leadership professional and why you think it is important to address.

Education and Social Policy (M.A.)

Application Essay 1 (2-3 pages): 

• Describe your interest in education and/or social policy, including your research area interest.
• What is your prior experience, research or otherwise (for credit, as an intern, as a job, or any other relevant practical or industry-related experiences)?
• What are your specific research and educational goals?
• What are your long-term professional career objectives?
• How do you see this program assisting you with achieving your objectives?
• Describe how your interests intersect with one or more Ed and Social Policy faculty members.

Energy and Environmental Policy (M.E.E.P. and Ph.D.)

Engineering and public policy (ph.d.), environmental science and management (m.s.).

Application Essay 1 (no more than 2 pages): 

• Why are you seeking a graduate degree in Environmental Science and Management at the University of Delaware?
• The Environmental Science and Management degree is interdisciplinary, asking you to engage with both natural and social sciences. How do you see the degree, including the knowledge and skills that will be gained and your selected track (climate, earth resources, or marine) supporting your interests and goals?
• The graduate student experience and life generally involve a range of challenges. Describe an example of how you have shown resilience and/or perseverance in pursuing your academic goals or in your personal life and how you have grown as a result.
• [Optional] Please add anything you would like to say in support of your application or anything that puts your application in a broader context that is not addressed by these questions (e.g., other relevant certifications or standardized examinations, uneven academic success).

Environmental Economics (M.S. and Ph.D.)

• Please tell us why you are interested in pursuing a graduate degree in Environmental Economics at the University of Delaware.

Epidemiology (Online Certificate)

• What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepares you for this Graduate Certificate in Epidemiology?
• How will acquiring this graduate level training in epidemiology help you achieve your long-term professional objectives?
• What disease/condition are your content areas of interest and/or expertise? 

Epidemiology (Ph.D.)

Please also include:

• Research experience, when applicable: please indicate length and type of experience; 
• Practice experience, when applicable: please indicate the length and type of agency; 
• Advisor preference: please designate primary faculty advisor, and secondary advisors in order of preference. 

Exceptional Children and Youth (M.Ed., all concentrations)

Application Essay 2 (Choose one of three options):

• Select an important problem facing individuals with disabilities or the schools, teachers, or other people who work with them and propose a solution to this problem.
• Describe an experience in your own life that influenced your decision to work with individuals with disabilities.
• Upload a brief paper that you submitted in a recent education course to your application file.

Exercise Science (M.S.)

Financial services analytics (m.s.).

• What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepares you for this degree program?
• What specific attributes of the program make you feel that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives

Finance (M.S.)

• How will an MS in Finance from the Lerner College of Business and Economics at the University of Delaware help you achieve your professional goals?

Foreign Languages, Literatures and Cultures (M.A.)

Foreign languages and pedagogy (m.s.), geography (m.a., m.s., ph.d.), generative ai in business (certificate), health behavior and science promotion (ph.d.).

• How do your research interests relate to those of at least two Health Behavior Science and Promotion faculty members?

Health Policy and Management (M.P.H)

History (m.a. and ph.d.).

Application Essay 1 (more than 600 words):

Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them. Some areas of discussion might include specific attributes of the program at UD that led you to believe that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives. Within the area of study you have selected, are there areas of special interest to you?

Hospitality and Sports Business Analytics (M.S.)

Please upload a personal statement of how a M.S. degree in hospitality and sport business analytics can assist the candidate in accomplishing their career goals and aspirations. Additionally, candidates should answer the following prompt: “What are the specific attributes of this MS program at UD that led you to believe that this program is appropriate to help you achieve your professional objectives?”

International Business (M.S.)

Note: The Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics program essays are reviewed for originality and proper referencing of cited materials.  

• Why do you wish to pursue your graduate studies at the University of Delaware? What, in your opinion makes UD special?
• What are your career objectives and how will the MD IB degree help you achieve your goals?
• What does the word "global" mean to you?

Liberal Studies (M.A.)

Submit a three-to-five-page essay (double-spaced) about your intellectual interests and life experiences and how you think these can be developed in the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program. Please discuss your personal or professional objectives and why you believe this degree is appropriate to help you reach them.

Write a short essay (no more than three pages, double-spaced) about a book, essay, story or article that has been important to you (fiction or nonfiction). Discuss the author’s primary theme or argument and how it is developed. Describe how the work has influenced you.

Literacy (M.Ed.)

Application Essay 1 (500-words):

• Outline your short-term and long-term career goals and how a M.Ed. in literacy relates to them. 

Application Essay 2 (500 words):

• Describe a problem in your professional setting that typifies an issue you would like to pursue as a reading/literacy specialist and why you think it is important to address. 

Application Essay 3 (500 words):

• As you know, the M.Ed. in literacy program at the University of Delaware is offered online. It requires students to be self-initiated learners and excellent time-managers. Additionally, many of the courses require you to apply what you learn to an educational setting with students. Specifically, EDUC 630 and EDUC 763 require you to tutor a child regularly in reading and writing. Describe (a) how you plan to manage your time so you are able to fulfill your course requirements and (b) how you will identify appropriate educational settings so you can fulfill course requirements. Be specific.

MBA (Online)

Getting your message across to prospective customers is a key element of a business plan. Please critique our effort to market the University of Delaware MBA programs by using specific examples of where and how you heard about our program (e.g., specific radio station, internet site, publication, TV station, etc.) and honestly assess how effective that vehicle was in drawing you to apply for admission. What are some strengths of these marketing efforts and what could be done better? What is the best way to reach prospective students like you? We are looking for insightful, specific and brief essays.

Application Essay 3 (Optional):

Is there any other information, not covered elsewhere in your application, that you would like to share with the department's Graduate Admissions Committee? Are there special circumstances related to your academic record, such as low GPA or low GRE/GMAT scores that you feel we should know about? Are there any challenging social, economic, educational, cultural or other life circumstances that you have overcame to achieve success in higher education?

Microbiology (M.S. and Ph.D.)

​​​​​​​A personal statement should address the following questions: 

• What is your prior research experience (for credit, as an intern, as a job, or any other practical or industry related experiences)?
• How do you see this program assisting you with achieving your objectives? 

Minerals, Materials and Society (Certificate)

• What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepared you for this graduate certificate program? 

Nursing Science (Ph.D.)

What is your research area/topic of interest? Use the literature to provide an explanation about what is known about this topic and why additional research needs to be done in this area. Based on your review of the literature, propose three research questions that you would like to explore in doctoral studies.

What are your professional objectives? How will resources (i.e., faculty, other) at the University of Delaware help you achieve your objectives and pursue your area of interest? Which School of Nursing faculty member would best fit as your mentor? Why?

Application Essay 3:

How have your education, prior research experience and professional and/or personal activities and achievements prepared you for doctoral studies in Nursing Science? Cite specific examples.

Nonprofit and Voluntary Action Graduate (Certificate)

In your personal statement please discuss your previous experience with the nonprofit sector and relevant career goals.

Nutrition Science (Ph.D.)

Describe how your research interests relate to at least two potential nutrition faculty advisors.

Political Science and International Relations (Ph.D.)

Provide an essay detailing why you are interested in a Ph.D. in Political Science, your research interest, what you hope to do with your degree, and why you are applying to our program. The latter reasoning should highlight faculty members and/or departmental research strengths that align well with your research interests.

Psychological and Brain Sciences (Ph.D.)

• What scientific research experience have you had? What aspects of your experience have you enjoyed most?
• What specific attributes of our department make you feel that it would be a good place for you? How could you see your research interests fitting with a particular faculty mentor or lab group?
• Are there any special circumstances or qualities related to your academic record that you feel we should know about? Were there any personal or academic obstacles or challenges that had a significant impact on your educational or research experience?

Public Administration (M.P.A.)

Public policy (m.p.p.), public policy and admininstration (ph.d.), quantum science and engineering (m.s. and ph.d.).

• Discuss what motivates you to pursue a graduate degree in Quantum Science and Engineering and outline your educational and career goals.
• What aspects of the QSE program at UD are of particular interest to you or lead you to believe that this program will help you meet your goals?
• Which track or tracks are of most interest to you?
• Are there any faculty members that you are particularly interested in working with and, if so, what attracts you to their area of research?

School of Marine Science and Policy Programs

Application Essay 1 (no more than 2 pages):

Note: Statement of Interest – In SMSP we are looking to admit graduate students who are passionate about learning and exploring marine science and policy. We encourage prospective applicants to explore the research opportunities in the school and contact faculty they are interested in working with before they submit an application. We welcome applicants who have varied cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

• Why are you seeking a graduate degree in SMSP at the University of Delaware? What knowledge and skills do you hope to gain from the graduate program that will be useful to your long-term career goals? We are looking for evidence that you are passionate about the field and also why a research-based graduate degree will help you to achieve your goals.
• The graduate student experience and life in general involves a range of challenges. Describe an example of how you have shown resilience and/or perseverance in the pursuit of your academic goals or in your personal life and how you have grown as a result.
• It is important for researchers to stay curious and be willing to question their own and other’s work. Please describe a time when you worked on something you were excited about, either academic or personal, in which you exhibited these qualities.
• [Optional] Please add anything you would like to say in support of your application or anything that puts your application in a broader context that is not addressed by these questions (e.g., other relevant certifications or standardized examinations).

School Psychology (M.A.)

• What qualities and experiences do you have that should help make you an excellent graduate student and school psychologist?
• What are your career objectives and how will obtaining your degree in social psychology from the University of Delaware contribute to them?
• Are there any special circumstances related to your academic record that you feel we should know about? 

Secondary STEM Education (M.S.)

• Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them. Some areas of discussion might include: Specific attributes of the program at UD that lead you to believe that this degree is appropriate to help you achieve your professional goals.

Address one of the following questions in a brief essay of 500 words or less:

• Select an important problem facing students who are learning science, mathematics, engineering, or computer science, their teachers, or other people who work with them and propose a solution to this problem; or,
• Describe an experience in your own life that influenced your decision to become a K-12 teacher in a STEM field.

Strategic Communication MBA (MBA/M.A. Dual Degree)

• Outline your educational plans and career goals and discuss how your proposed plan of graduate study relates to them. Some areas of discussion might include specific attributes of this dual-degree program at UD that lead you to believe that this combination is appropriate to help you achieve your professional or career goals.

Teacher Leadership (Online M.Ed.)

• Outline your short-term and long-term career goals and discuss how a M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership relates to them.
• The M.Ed. in teacher leadership teaches candidates to lead from the classroom. Describe a problem in your professional setting that typifies an issue you would like to pursue as a teacher leader and why you think it is important to address. 
• The M.Ed. in teacher leadership is delivered 100% online. It requires students to be self-initiated learners and excellent time-managers. Describe how you plan to manage your time so you are able to fulfill your course requirements.

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)

You should present a carefully planned and written statement of one to two pages in length describing what led you to pursue a degree in TESL, any past work in TESL or TEFL, your expectations of the University of Delaware M.A. in TESL program, and how you intend to use the degree to fulfill your professional career or further educational aspirations. Please include additional information you feel is important for the graduate committee to know about you. If you are currently registered in a graduate program at this or another university, please explain why you wish to leave. The personal statement must be submitted electronically as part of the admissions application.

Urban Affairs and Public Policy (M.S.)

Graduate College

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Sample Statement of Purpose (SOP): Marketing

This sample SOP is for applying to a master’s program in Marketing in the UK.

If you need help writing your SOP, check out our  SOP Writing Service

Statement of Purpose – Marketing

Marketing is the invisible force that propels the modern business world forward. With recent advancements in communications technology, the marketing field has been revolutionized, with new opportunities and new potential pitfalls. With the globalization of business, the success or failure of international marketing campaigns is undeniably a powerful factor in the success or failure of modern companies. In [my country], however, the field of marketing remains relatively underdeveloped and neglected, however, and the educational opportunities are likewise insufficient for my goals. In contrast, UK businesses place great emphasis on advertising and marketing, and the marketing techniques are accordingly advanced and well-established in the UK. I am confident that, having exhausted many of the training opportunities available in my country, the resources available in your postgraduate program in the UK are ideal for taking my career to the next level.

I was initially attracted to the field of marketing because I find it to be a very dynamic and creativity-based field. In addition, marketing is a fast-growing discipline, encompassing a wide area of activities within the community. I was first exposed to marketing while studying for my Bachelor degree. While studying business administration, I took courses related to marketing, such as International Marketing, Advertising and Marketing Management. In addition to the lectures, we examined several case studies and devised specific solutions for particular problems; through these courses, I grew familiar with the basic theories and applications of marketing.

Due to my coursework, I quickly developed great interest in the field of marketing. As a result, I sought work as an intern at Goodwell Industrial Co., Ltd. during the summer vacation preceding my sophomore year. I worked as a Quality Control Assistant, a role I would occupy for the next three semesters. In this position, I gained a more in-depth and practical understanding of marketing, while I concurrently learned about the theoretical side of marketing in the university. After graduation, I was promoted to Quality Assurance Engineer and given increased responsibilities. Although I found this position rewarding and challenging, I have decided that my academic foundation is inadequate for achieving my career goals, and further training in your master’s program will solidify my expertise and help me create more international opportunities for companies such as this in my future career.

I have several concrete goals for my postgraduate experience in the UK. I hope to learn the latest marketing techniques and theories, while also expanding my horizons and developing a broader, more international outlook. I look forward to interacting with students of different nationalities and diverse backgrounds, which will provide me with a deeper understanding of different cultures and mindsets. Overall, I feel that these attributes of your master’s program will help to increase my overall effectiveness in the business world and give me a unique advantage in my future career.

I have chosen to study in the UK for several reasons. I have always had great interest in the richness of European culture. In high school, I traveled to England and was in awe of the culture and environment. The traditional aspects of the culture and the historical legacy of this country left a lasting impression on me. Additionally, the field of marketing is well-established in the UK, and as a result, it is a suitable setting for advanced training in this field. Britain, for example, is home to the world-renowned D&AD Award, which promotes education programmes to advance the marketing and advertising industries every year. Studying in such an environment will, I believe, put me on the path to success. Specifically, joining the prestigious master’s program offered by your school will give me the theoretical training, practical experience, and access to resources that I will need to advance my knowledge.

After completion of the master’s program, I plan to return to Goodwell Industrial Co., Ltd., and apply my skills toward expanding their business beyond Asia and throughout Europe. Specifically, we plan to develop markets in both Eastern and Western Europe, and I feel that the knowledge and experience I gain in your master’s program will be essential in helping the company expand and grow well into the future. I am confident that the skills and expertise I have acquired through years of education and employment have prepared me well for postgraduate study at your institution, and I am eager to apply myself and develop my skills further.

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Postgraduate international marketing personal statement example.

Businesses are woven into every part of our lives and marketing plays a key role in influencing our decisions. By understanding and developing relationships with consumers, businesses can be less obtrusive and more enriching to our lives; this in turn will grow more sustainable businesses.

This intersection between people and brands is a key area of interest which I am determined to build my knowledge and career on.

During my BSc course, emphasis was placed on observing user behaviour to find key insights. The empathy this human centred method gave me ultimately led to better designed products and services. I applied this to my role at Studio Make Believe as I analysed brand identities and the way they were perceived, to design products that effectively communicated their stories.

I also developed a research document expressing key insights for potential growth areas that the brand implemented. I saw the importance of marketing to develop creative strategies for more effective brand experiences.

Presenting products to clients and negotiating prices with suppliers gave me a practical outlook on the entire product lifecycle as well as the challenges of communicating across cultures. Due to these interactions, I am eager to learn strategic methods of branding and business management on an international platform.

I have been influenced by talks on the theory of affordances and explored the practical applications of behavioural economics in the International Design Camp. I collaborated with students from various disciplines to design services that would improve dental health in young children.

The experience made me considerate of many possible applications to marketing practices. I am eager to apply this design thinking and develop analytical skills in the Consumer Behaviour module. In the near future, I aim to pursue a career orienting brands and market research.

A personal endeavour to start my own business began as I travelled parts of India to better understand a culture I am a part of but have not really known. I noticed brands that we are familiar with at home were portrayed slightly differently to suit lifestyles of eastern consumers, whilst retaining their core image.

This drew me to connect with local manufacturers to design modern homewares, uniting traditional materials with a strong sense of functionality, that could be well received in western lifestyles. I saw the narrative of the collaborative process as a strong selling point.

Working with small communities to evolve dying crafts was a rewarding experience despite challenges of language barriers and differences in work ethic. I plan to turn this passion into a business. Taking this course would equip me with the practical and theoretical knowledge of all aspects of international marketing to achieve my long-term goal of making it a success.

Working as a manager and tutor for a local business has fed my appetite for analytical thinking. The learning environment has been advantageous to my creative career as it demands a flexible mind. I have seen the business grow from its humble beginnings, allowing me to see the value of marketing in the many roles I took, from designing the logo to managing other people.

I have seen the importance of the relationship between people and business on small and large scales. I believe this is more vital now to due globalisation and ever-growing digital economy. Businesses must now work harder to understand global cultures and values whilst upholding their own identity. Therefore International Marketing is crucial in grasping this area.

The research environment at King’s would allow me to build on insights which are critical to uncovering practical solutions to close this gap. I hope to contribute to discussions and develop knowledge for my personal development. I strive to better myself and would be honoured to resume my studies at King’s. The international reputation and global environment would stimulate and support my development.

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There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

I applied to King's college London for the International Marketing MSc. My BSc was in product design and I graduated with a 1st class degree. I didn't have much experience in marketing when I applied but I recieved an unconditional offer.

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A college essay about McDonald's got this applicant into Harvard, Princeton, and Yale. Here's what he wrote.

• Cofounder of AI company Exa Jeffrey Wang wrote his college application essay about McDonald's.
• The Harvard graduate said he wanted to make his essay authentic and entertaining.
• Wang said he got into Yale, Harvard, and Princeton using the same essay.

When Jeffrey Wang was a high-school senior in Connecticut in 2014, he wasn't sure what to write about for his college application essay.

He thought about writing his essay on a subject he enjoyed at school or a project he'd worked on. But he knew others would have the same idea .

Wang told Business Insider he grew up in a middle-class family in the suburbs of Cheshire, CT. He felt he didn't have anything extraordinary to write about.

"I hadn't spent any summers abroad, and I hadn't done any fancy programs," he said.

He wanted to show his personality

He read Harry Bauld's book, 'On Writing the College Application Essay,' which made him realize college admissions officers wouldn't have time to read each essay diligently.

He said he realized his primary objective should be to entertain the admissions officer reading his essay .

"For the most part, they're just looking for character," Wang said. He decided to write about studying at McDonald's.

He told BI he thought it might pique an admissions officer's interest and illustrate his character: someone who did well at school but also hangs out at a McDonald's.

Wang said he also wanted to use his essay to challenge assumptions admissions officers might have. "I'm an Asian-American with a perfect SAT score. Maybe that looks pretty cookie-cutter on paper," he said.

Authenticity is key

The essay summarizes how Wang discovered his local McDonald's was an ideal place to study and meditate. He mentioned he liked interacting with different community members and how it was a more efficient and affordable study space than other options. The underpinning message is finding joy or peace in unusual places.

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"For the most part, it was a pretty authentic essay," Wang said, adding that he included a few "intellectual references," such as a novel and a physicist, to show the admissions officer he was smart. He said if he were to write it now, he'd leave out the big words and references.

His parents were worried the topic was too risky, but Wang said he felt confident, and if an admissions officer didn't like it — the school wasn't the right fit.

He got into Yale, Harvard, and Princeton

Growing up, Wang dreamed of attending Yale in his home state of Connecticut. He applied to Yale under early decision , using his essay about McDonald's.

Wang received an offer of financial aid from Yale, but he told BI he wanted to see if he could get more from other colleges.

He applied to Harvard, Duke, Princeton, MIT, and others with the same essay. He got into both Princeton and Harvard, and received offers of financial aid from them both. Business Insider has verified these offers with documentation.

Wang chose to study computer science at Harvard in 2015 because he said it was the best for STEM subjects, and he wanted to be further away from home.

He still tries to live authentically

Wang said if his friends read his essay now, 10 years after he submitted it, they'd recognize his personality in it. It shows his "scrappy" attitude to life, he said.

After graduating from Harvard in 2019, he started working as a software engineer for a tech company in San Francisco. He quit in 2022, and cofounded his startup Exa, a search engine for AI, in 2023.

Wang believes that prioritizing authenticity helped his success since college. "If you do things that you feel are authentic or that are right, you'll be rewarded for it," he said.

Do you have a college admissions success story? Email Ella Hopkins at [email protected] .

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Brandeis Graduate Professional Studies

Olympians of online learning.

August 19, 2024

Like Olympic athletes, faculty at Brandeis Online have worked for years to become experts at the top of their fields.

The 2024 Olympics may be over, but the impact of the games — and their athletes — hasn't stopped.

Even if you don’t normally follow sports, it’s impossible to not be impressed by the incredible acts of prowess displayed by the athletes who competed in this year’s Olympic Games. After years of hard work, determination and grit, the Olympians on our screens demonstrated themselves to be the best of the best in their respective sports and events, consistently defying expectations of what the human body is capable of.

When hearing so many stories of athletes working their way to the top, we can’t help but be reminded of our own world-class faculty. While our instructors may not be recognized on TVs around the world, they too have dedicated years of their lives to perfecting their crafts — and, much like Olympic athletes, they still continue to practice as leaders at the top of their fields, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge.

Our faculty also have the added advantage of being trained by one of the top educational institutions in the country. Brandeis has been delivering asynchronous online degrees and certificates for over a decade — and we ensure that each of our instructors is well-versed in the best practices and technologies for online learning.

Continue reading to meet some of Brandeis’ Olympians of online learning.

Dr. Alan Cheng, Bioinformatics

Alan Cheng, Ph.D., is a director of chemistry, modeling, and informatics at Merck Research Labs in South San Francisco, California, where he works on the discovery of new medicines for cardiac-metabolic diseases and oncology. His research interests include computer-aided drug design and biological sequence-structure relationships. He received a Ph.D. from the University of California, San Francisco, and undergraduate degrees from the University of California at Berkeley.

Meet more Bioinformatics faculty on the Bioinformatics Faculty and Advisory Board page.

Steven Dupree, Digital Marketing and Design

Steven Dupree, MBA, has more than a decade of experience helping startups across multiple industries achieve $1B+ valuations through digital marketing and tactical customer acquisition. After receiving an MBA from Stanford University, Steven dabbled in venture capital before exiting to build companies again. He continues to invest in and advise promising entrepreneurs in his free time.

Meet more Digital Marketing and Design faculty on the Digital Marketing and Design Faculty and Advisory Board page.

Ed Anderson, Project and Program Management

Ed Anderson, MSPM, PMP, has over 25 years of experience in project and program management, managing large scale IT and information security projects, primarily in the financial services industries. He is also a member of the faculty in Northeastern University's College of Professional Studies, teaching graduate-level project management courses. He has served on the Advisory Board for the Project and Program Management program at Brandeis University's Graduate Professional Studies school. He earned his bachelor's in business administration from the University of Connecticut and a master's in project and program management from Brandeis University.

Meet more Project and Program Management faculty on the Project and Program Management Faculty and Advisory Board page.

Dr. Aline Yurik, Software Engineering

Dr. Aline Yurik, Ph.D., has been teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in computer science, software engineering and information technology for over two decades. In parallel with teaching, Dr. Yurik works in the software and information technology industry as the director of information technology at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. She has been involved in a number of information technology projects in healthcare, financial and telecommunication industries. Dr. Yurik's area of expertise is business transformation for a digital enterprise, with the focus on core business processes, transactions and portals.

Meet more Software Engineering faculty on the Software Engineering Faculty and Advisory Board page.

Eva Kaniasty, User Experience Design

Eva Kaniasty, M.S., is the founder of Slipper Studios, a user experience (UX) consultancy providing UX strategy, research and UX design. Her areas of interest include start-ups, education, health care and design for sustainability. She received her master's degree in human factors from Bentley University, served as president of UXPA Boston, and is a repeat presenter at local and national conferences.

Meet more User Experience Design faculty on the User Centered Design Faculty and Advisory Board page.

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