Applying to Health Professions Programs: Personal Statements

Your personal statement should explain your motivation for the profession and provide evidence for your preparation, personal characteristics, and maturity to be successful in the field. It is your opportunity to tell programs something about you beyond what they can read in your application (e.g., GPA, coursework, test scores). It is not a narrative of your resume or a persuasive essay on why you should be admitted. The personal statement is not an academic essay. The tone should be authentic and personal. Tell your story about why you want to be a healthcare professional without oversharing, making excuses, or being grandiose or accusatory toward the medical field.

Personal Statement Resources from the AAMC

Webinars on Crafting Your Personal Statement

Personal Statement Advice from Med School Deans