Write a Personal Statement for Public Health
Graduate programs in public health require a personal statement as part of the application process to gauge whether a student is a fit for the program. This statement, also referred to as a statement of purpose, outlines a person's academic achievements, professional background and personal characteristics. Particularly in highly competitive programs, the personal statement is weighed carefully in admissions decisions. The following are important considerations for writing a personal statement for public health.
Steps
- Read the personal statement guidelines provided by the public health program. The guidelines might be extensive or just a few lines. In either case, universities expect students to follow instructions carefully and comply with the requests for information.
- Pay attention to the required word count, character limits and line spacing instructions. Some public health programs sort through large numbers of applications. Make a good first impression by complying with the length and formatting requirements.
- Write the personal statement in essay format. Avoid simply repeating the details of your resume in list format. The statement must be an accurate reflection of how you communicate and organize your thoughts.
- Review the public health program requirements and course descriptions in detail. Many universities expect you to explain why you have chosen their public health program and how well the topics offered align with your future goals in the field. Identify and address the specific public health issues and populations that are of interest to you.
- Consider your academic background. If your prior degree(s) focused on public health, then mentioning this fact and why you chose the major is an automatic indication of your strong interest in the field. In the case of an undergraduate degree in another field, explain at what point your interest in public health became apparent. A public health concern, an inspiring book or an encounter with someone influential in the field may have been possible catalysts.
- Explain your professional experience in public health. This is a summary of the types of work you have done in the field and in what ways the work has inspired you to further your academic pursuits. Elaborate on how the coupling of your past professional experiences and graduate program courses will help you to contribute effectively to the field.
- Integrate your personal motivations and characteristics throughout the personal statement. Some public health programs want to know about your personal characteristics. They might ask you to address your strengths and weaknesses as they pertain to the field of public health. A person who is compassionate, diligent and/or reliable might explain how these strengths will serve others. Weaknesses or disadvantages also can be addressed, if necessary, explaining relevant life lessons or how a particular failure has led to greater motivation to solve difficult problems or help others.
- Maintain a tone that is both professional and personable. The field of public health requires a concern for the health of others. An effective letter demonstrates intellectual curiosity, public health knowledge and a consideration for humanity.
Warnings
- Provide original content. Many universities issue warnings against hiring a writing service to create a personal statement because they want to hear your thoughts and voice in the letter. Write the entire letter yourself and ask someone with solid language skills to provide feedback on content, grammar and tone.
