How to end a personal statement

Crafting the perfect ending to your personal statement can be the key to leaving a lasting impression on university admissions tutors. It's your final opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm and suitability for the course. A well-crafted conclusion ties together your experiences, achievements, and aspirations, reinforcing your commitment to the subject. It's not just about summarising what's come before, but about ending on a high note that resonates with the reader. Whether you're applying for an undergraduate course, a postgraduate programme, or a professional qualification, the way you conclude your personal statement can significantly influence the decision-making process. In this article, we'll guide you through the essentials of ending your personal statement effectively, ensuring it stands out in the competitive world of university admissions.

What is a personal statement

A personal statement is a crucial component of your university application, acting as a window into your personality, academic interests, and aspirations. It's your chance to tell universities why you're a suitable candidate, beyond just grades and qualifications. According to UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service in the UK, a personal statement should be no more than 4,000 characters or 47 lines of text. This concise format demands precision and clarity in your own writing style.

Universities use personal statements to differentiate between candidates with similar academic achievements. In a survey conducted by the Higher Education Policy Institute, over 75% of university admissions officers stated that a strong personal statement could be the deciding factor between two similar applicants. This highlights the statement's significance in the competitive landscape of university admissions.

Expert opinions further underscore the importance of personal statements. A a well-written personal statement can demonstrate an applicant's enthusiasm and commitment to their chosen field of study. It's not just about listing achievements; it's about reflecting on these experiences and explaining how they have prepared you for university-level study.

Crafting a compelling personal statement involves more than just stating facts. It requires a narrative that connects your past experiences, present motivations, and future aspirations. This narrative helps admissions tutors understand your unique perspective and how you would contribute to their university community.

Does a personal statement need an ending?

The ending of the last paragraph of a personal statement is as crucial as its beginning. It's a common misconception that the conclusion of the final paragraph of a personal statement is less important than the rest of the content. However, this is far from the truth. The conclusion is your final chance to leave a lasting impression on the admissions tutor. According to a study by the University of Oxford, the concluding section of a personal statement holds significant weight in the overall assessment, as it encapsulates the essence of your application.

A well-crafted ending can elevate your personal statement, ensuring it concludes with a clear, memorable message. Dr. John Taylor, a university admissions consultant, emphasises the importance of a conclusion that reflects both your academic potential and personal growth. He suggests that a strong ending should not only summarise the key points but also link back to the course and your future career aspirations.

The conclusion should be concise, typically no more than 5-10% of your entire statement. This brevity requires you to be selective about the content, focusing on elements that reinforce your suitability for the course and your passion for the subject. A survey by Times Higher Education found that 60% of admissions officers look for a conclusion that ties the personal statement together cohesively, demonstrating the candidate's reflective and forward-thinking abilities.

In essence, the ending of your personal statement is your closing argument. It should leave the reader with a clear understanding of who you are, why you are applying, and how you would benefit from being admitted to the course.

Understanding the structure of a personal statement

The structure of a personal statement is pivotal in conveying your message effectively to the admissions committee. A well-structured statement ensures that your ideas flow logically, making it easier for the reader to follow your thought process. According to the University College London (UCL), a typical structure should include an introduction, main body, and conclusion, each serving a distinct purpose in your narrative.

The introduction should capture the reader's attention, setting the tone for the rest of the statement. It's advisable to start with a compelling reason or an anecdote that relates directly to your chosen field of study. The main body should then elaborate on your academic interests, experiences, and achievements. This section should constitute the bulk of your statement, approximately 70-75%, as recommended by UCL's guidelines.

In the main body, it's essential to maintain a balance between academic and extracurricular achievements. A survey by the Sutton Trust indicates that admissions tutors favour students who demonstrate a well-rounded profile, with 80% valuing participation in extracurricular activities as a testament to a candidate's skills and personality.

Each paragraph in the main body should ideally focus on a single theme or main idea throughout, providing evidence and reflections on your experiences. This approach helps in creating a coherent and persuasive narrative. The University of Cambridge suggests using a mix of academic achievements, work experience, and personal reflections to create a dynamic and engaging personal statement.

For more detailed guidance on structuring your personal statement, UCL offers a comprehensive overview at UCL Personal Statement Structure.

Preparing to write your conclusion

Preparing to write the conclusion of your personal statement is a critical step in the application process. This section requires thoughtful consideration, as it's your final opportunity to make an impact on the admissions tutor. According to a report from the National Union of Students (NUS), many students struggle with how to effectively conclude their personal statements, often leaving this crucial part to the last minute.

To prepare for writing a compelling conclusion, it's essential to reflect on the key themes and experiences you've discussed in your statement. The conclusion should not introduce new ideas but rather encapsulate the main points you've already made. Students should revisit their opening paragraph at this stage. This technique ensures that every key point in the final line of your conclusion resonates with the introduction, creating a full-circle effect that reinforces your initial assertions.

Another important aspect is to consider how your experiences and aspirations align with the course and institution you're applying to. A survey by The Student Room revealed that 70% of admissions officers look for a conclusion that clearly articulates why the student is a good fit for the course and the university. This involves demonstrating your enthusiasm and commitment to the subject area, as well as how the course aligns with your future goals.

In preparation, it's also beneficial to review examples of successful personal statement conclusions. These can provide inspiration and a sense of what a strong ending looks like. However, it's crucial to maintain authenticity and ensure that your personal statement conclusion is a true reflection of your personality and aspirations.

For more tips on preparing your conclusion, the University of Warwick offers valuable advice at Warwick University Personal Statement Advice.

Crafting a memorable conclusion

The conclusion of your personal statement is your final chance to impress the admissions committee and leave a lasting impact. A memorable conclusion effectively summarises your key points and reiterates your enthusiasm for the course and your future aspirations. According to the University of Oxford, a strong conclusion can elevate your personal statement, distinguishing it from others.

To craft your essay with a memorable conclusion, focus on concisely summarising your main arguments. Highlight how your experiences, knowledge and skills make you a suitable candidate for the course. The University of Cambridge suggests that a good conclusion should reflect your excitement about the prospect of studying at the university and how it fits into your long-term goals. This approach demonstrates both your commitment to the subject and your forward-thinking mindset.

It's also important to personalise your conclusion. Personalised statements, which clearly articulate the candidate's individual journey and aspirations, are more likely to resonate with admissions tutors. Avoid generic statements and instead, draw on specific aspects of your experiences that align with the course objectives.

Remember, the conclusion should be brief but impactful, typically no more than 5-10% of your entire statement. This brevity challenges you to be selective and focused in your writing. The goal is to leave the reader with a clear, concise understanding of who you are, why you are applying, and what you hope to achieve.

For further guidance on writing an essay with an effective conclusion, the University of Leeds offers practical advice at Leeds University Personal Statement Tips.

Tips for a strong closing sentence

The closing sentence of your personal statement is crucial; it's the final note that stays with the admissions tutor. A powerful closing sentence can encapsulate your main message and leave a lasting impression. According to a survey by UCAS, admissions officers often remember the closing sentence as it provides a succinct summary of the applicant's intentions and enthusiasm.

To craft a strong closing sentence, it should be reflective and forward-looking, tying back to your opening statement to create a cohesive narrative. The University of Manchester suggests that a closing sentence should echo the main theme of your statement, reinforcing your commitment to the subject and your suitability for the course.

It's also important to be concise and clear. Avoid overly complex language or concepts that might detract from the main message. The University of Edinburgh advises students to keep their closing sentences simple yet impactful, focusing on their future aspirations and how the course aligns with these goals.

Moreover, your closing sentence should be personal and unique to your journey. A study by the Times Higher Education found that personalised statements, particularly in the closing lines, are more effective in differentiating candidates from the pool of other applicants. This personal touch can make your statement stand out in the memory of the reader.

For more advice on crafting a strong closing sentence, the University of Birmingham offers helpful guidelines at Birmingham University Personal Statement Advice.

Reflecting your personality in the conclusion

Incorporating your personality into the conclusion of your personal statement is essential for creating a genuine and engaging narrative. Admissions tutors are not just interested in your academic achievements and qualifications; they also want to understand who you are as a person. A study by the University of St Andrews found that personal statements that reflect a candidate's personality and individuality are more likely to stand out.

To effectively reflect your personality, focus on aspects that relate to your chosen field of study. For instance, if you are applying for a creative course, you might highlight your passion for innovation and originality. Dr. Lisa Lines, an admissions consultant, advises that your conclusion should be a reflection of your unique perspective and how it aligns with the ethos of the course and institution.

It's also important to be authentic and honest. Avoid exaggerating or fabricating experiences. A survey by The Student Room revealed that admissions officers can usually tell when a statement is not genuine. Instead, use real-life examples that demonstrate your qualities, such as determination, curiosity, or empathy.

Remember, the conclusion is your last chance to leave an impression, so make it count. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to study at the university and how it will help you achieve your future goals. This personal touch not only makes your statement more memorable but also shows the admissions committee that you are a well-rounded candidate.

For more insights on how to reflect your personality in your personal statement, the University of Sussex provides useful advice at Sussex University Personal Statement Tips.

Common mistakes to avoid in personal statement endings

Avoiding common mistakes in the conclusion of your personal statement is crucial for making a positive impact on admissions tutors. A well-crafted ending can enhance your application, while errors can detract from the overall impression. According to a report by UCAS, some of the most frequent mistakes include clichés, repetition, and lack of focus.

One of the key errors to avoid is using clichés or overused phrases. These words can make your statement sound generic and uninspired. The University of Oxford advises against phrases like “I’ve always been passionate about…” or “From a young age…”, as they are overly common and add little value to your personal narrative.

Repetition is another common pitfall. It's important to ensure that your conclusion doesn’t simply restate points already covered in the statement. Instead, it should summarise your key arguments in a fresh and compelling way. The University of Cambridge suggests focusing on how your experiences have prepared you for the course, for example, rather than repeating them verbatim.

Lack of focus on the course and future aspirations is also a frequent mistake. A survey by The Times Higher Education found that many students fail to explicitly state how the course aligns with their future goals. Your conclusion should clearly articulate why you are interested in the course and how it fits into your long-term career path and plans.

Additionally, avoid any new information or anecdotes in your conclusion. This can confuse the reader and detract from the cohesiveness of your statement. The conclusion should be a summary that ties together your experiences and aspirations, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your suitability for the course.

For further guidance on avoiding common mistakes in personal statement conclusions, the University of Leeds offers practical advice at Leeds University Personal Statement Tips.

Examples of effective personal statement conclusions

Examining a few examples of effective personal statement conclusions can provide valuable insights into crafting a compelling ending. These examples often demonstrate a balance between summarising the statement's key points and leaving a lasting impression on the reader. According to the University of California, Berkeley, a strong conclusion should resonate with the introduction, bringing the reader full circle.

An effective conclusion often includes a succinct summary of the statement, highlighting the applicant's strengths and experiences relevant to the course. For instance, a great conclusion for a law school application might reiterate the applicant's dedication to justice and their experience in debate clubs or legal internships. The University of Michigan's admissions team suggests that this summary should not only reflect on past experiences but also look forward to the future, indicating how the course will help achieve the applicant's career goals.

Personal anecdotes can also be effective, especially if they encapsulate the applicant's passion and commitment to the subject. A study by Stanford University found that personal stories that connect with the course content make the conclusion more memorable and engaging.

It's also important to end on a positive note, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to study at the university and contribute to the academic community. The University of Oxford recommends using a confident tone that reflects a readiness for the new challenges and opportunities that higher education presents.

For more examples and guidance on writing effective personal statement conclusions, the University of Edinburgh provides resources at Edinburgh University Personal Statement Advice.

Final checklist before submitting your personal statement

Before submitting your personal statement, it's crucial to go through a final checklist to ensure that your statement is polished and effective. This checklist can help you avoid common errors and strengthen your application. According to the University of Warwick, a comprehensive review of your personal statement is essential for making a strong impression on admissions tutors.

• Firstly, check for clarity and coherence. Ensure that your statement flows logically from start to finish, with each paragraph smoothly transitioning to the next. The University of Cambridge recommends reading your statement aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or inconsistencies in your narrative.
• Next, focus on spelling and grammar. Errors in these areas can detract from the professionalism of your application. A study by UCAS found that 10% of personal statements have spelling or grammatical errors, which can leave a negative impression on admissions officers. Tools like Grammarly or a thorough review by a teacher or mentor can be invaluable.
• Ensure that your statement adheres to the required format and length. UCAS specifies a limit of 4,000 characters or 47 lines of text. Exceeding these limits can result in automatic truncation of your statement.
• Additionally, verify that your statement is tailored to the course and institution you're applying to. Personalisation is key, as noted by the University of Oxford, which states that generic statements are less likely to stand out.
• Finally, seek feedback from teachers, career advisors, or someone familiar with the application process. The University of Edinburgh suggests that external feedback can provide new perspectives and valuable insights.

For a comprehensive checklist and more tips on finalising your personal statement, visit Warwick University's Personal Statement Guide.

How to seek feedback on your personal statement ending

Seeking feedback on the ending of your personal statement is a critical step in ensuring its effectiveness. Constructive feedback can provide insights into how your conclusion is perceived and offer opportunities for improvement. According to a survey by The Student Room, over 60% of students found feedback from teachers or tutors significantly improved the quality of their personal statements.

When seeking feedback, it's important to choose individuals who are familiar with the university application process and understand the criteria of a strong personal statement. Teachers, career advisors, or mentors are ideal candidates for providing this type of feedback. The University of California, Berkeley, suggests asking specific questions about the clarity, impact, and relevance of your conclusion to get targeted advice.

It's also beneficial to seek feedback from multiple sources. Different perspectives can offer a more rounded view of your statement's strengths and weaknesses. However, remember that the final decision on any changes remains with you. The University of Oxford advises maintaining your authentic voice and ensuring that the statement reflects your personal journey and aspirations.

Be open to constructive criticism and willing to make revisions. A study by UCAS shows that students who revise their personal statements based on feedback are more likely to produce a compelling and polished final product.

Finally, ensure that the feedback process is completed well before the submission deadline. This allows ample time for revisions and final proofreading. For more guidance on seeking and utilising feedback effectively, King's College London offers resources at King's College Personal Statement Advice.

Next steps after completing your personal statement

Once you have completed your personal statement, understanding the next steps in the application process is crucial. This ensures that your hard work contributes effectively towards your goal of securing a place at your chosen university. According to UCAS, after submitting your personal statement, the next phase involves awaiting responses from universities and preparing for potential interviews.

Firstly, ensure that all other components of your application are complete and up to date. This includes your academic records, references, and any additional forms or questionnaires required by the universities to which you are applying. The University of Cambridge highlights the importance of a holistic application, where your personal statement is one part of a larger picture.

If the courses you are applying for require interviews, begin preparing as soon as possible. The University of Oxford recommends using your personal statement as a basis for interview preparation, as interviewers may ask questions based on the information you have provided. Familiarise yourself with the key points you made in your statement and be prepared to discuss them in more detail.

Additionally, consider your plan B options. The University of Manchester advises having alternative choices in case you decide you don't receive an offer from your preferred universities. This might involve considering different courses or institutions that align with your interests and career aspirations.

Finally, keep track of all deadlines and response dates. UCAS provides a timeline for responses and key dates for replying to offers. Staying organised and proactive during this phase is essential.

For more information on the next steps after submitting your personal statement, visit UCAS After You Apply.

Final Thoughts

The art of ending a personal statement is pivotal in the journey towards securing a place in the academic program of your choice. It encapsulates your narrative, weaving together your past achievements, present motivations, and future aspirations into a cohesive and compelling finale. This concluding segment is not merely a summary but a strategic reaffirmation of your suitability and enthusiasm for the course, designed to resonate with admissions tutors. By reflecting on your experiences and how they align with your academic and career goals, and by avoiding common pitfalls such as clichés and repetition, you can craft a conclusion that not only ties your statement together but also leaves a lasting impression. Remember, this final paragraph is your last opportunity to communicate your unique value and potential contributions to the university community, making it an indispensable element of your personal statement.