Make sure you answer the questions asked when creating your goal statement.
Writing a goal statement or personal statement may be a part of the application process when you apply for a professional position or to graduate school. A well-constructed goal statement may be the difference between whether you are accepted or rejected. It is important to know what you should include in a goal statement and what you should not include.
Application Goal Statement "Dos"
According to Purdue University, when constructing a goal statement, cover one or two topics in depth instead of covering many topics superficially. It is important to provide your own perspective by giving insight into what motivates you. Be specific about what qualities you see in the organization and position for which you are applying that are of interest to you. Be only positive in your statement, account for any negative things in your record in an addendum.
Presentation matters. Use readable fonts, conventional spacing and margins. Carefully review your text for grammar, punctuation and style.
Application Goal Statement "Don'ts"
When presenting a goal statement, in order for your statement to be viewed in the best possible light, many things are better excluded. Do not rewrite your resume or information found in other sections of your application. Do not complain about the state of your life or disadvantages in your life unless you believe they are a compelling part of your story.
Talking about money or the rank of the organization as a motivation for your application is also not in keeping with good etiquette.
Stay away from cliche and unconventional formats. Be careful to express your positions without being preachy. Try to avoid using uncommon words and spell the name of the organization correctly.
Considerations When Writing Your Application Goal Statement
According to the National Scholarships Office at the University of Maryland, your goal statement should quickly engage the reader starting with your opening paragraph. The unifying theme running through your essay should be clear. Explain the ideas that motivate you in your work or studies. Include any community service or leadership roles that speak to your motivations. By completion of the closing paragraph, the reader should feel your statement is complete and have a distinct impression of who you are and what you plan to do going forward.
Expert Advice: Answer the Questions Asked
Lee Cunningham, director of admissions and aid at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business, says that because goal statements can be a lot of work, many people make the mistake of submitting a generic one. It is important to answer any questions that are asked. Cunningham says people underestimate how much attention is paid to these statements. According to Cunningham, at his school two to three people, including himself, read each essay and independently evaluate it.
Expert Advice: Let Your Uniqueness Show
Michael D. Rappaport, assistant dean of admissions at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Law, says that you should allow your uniqueness to show. The unique things you have done in your life are going to be the things that stand out for the reader of your essay. He uses the example of an applicant who spent six months living in a log cabin in Alaska. This is not something everyone has done. Including this in the personal statement essay may provide proof of the unique perspective that this student could bring to the school and give the student an advantage in the application process.
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