Universities are increasingly competitive and it can be difficult to get into your chosen course. Giving your child a head start on the UCAS personal statement by getting them involved in things that look good on a university application is a great way to help them get a leg up. Understanding how to write a personal statement for university is an important skill that parents and teachers can help with.
Universities are looking for well-rounded individuals who have more than just good grades to offer, though those are important. Uni’s want young adults that have experience in teamwork and can handle high-pressure situations. They want someone who is comfortable contributing to the community and will be involved beyond academics. These skills all need to be showcased on the UCAS personal statement that acts as part of the recruitment process.
As a former sixth form tutor, I helped my students prepare their applications in order for them to showcase their best qualities. I have also been through the process with my daughter who applied for Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies with Sociology and received offers for all her University choices. Understanding how to write a UCAS personal statement for university is important and it should be given the time and research needed to secure university offers.
What is the UCAS Personal Statement?
A personal statement is a short, reflective piece of writing that you submit as part of your UCAS application to universities. As part of the University application process, candidates write a UCAS personal statement that needs to demonstrate why they’re the perfect candidate for the university course/s you’re applying to.
It’s a key part of your Ucas application, alongside your predicted or achieved A-level grades (or equivalent) etc. It’s read by admissions tutors at the universities you apply to, who’ll decide whether to offer you a place or not.
Your UCAS personal statement is the main way you can distinguish yourself from the rest of the pack, many students will receive the same grades and it is your personal statement that can make the difference and help you stand out and shine from the other applicants.
How to Sell Yourself in Your Personal Statement
First things first your passion for the subject needs to shine through, including specific areas or topics you’re interested in. Include what you’ve learned or how it’s developed your understanding of the subject area so far. You must also include what your dream future would look like related to the subject.
Other areas to focus on in the UCAS Personal Statement include sports, music and personal qualities.
Joining an organised sport is a great way to catch the interest of university admissions. While your teen may not be the most athletic person out there just participating helps give your teens uni applications a well-rounded appearance. Kids in sports learn self-discipline, teamwork, and often have a higher grade point average than kids that do not participate in sports. If sport is your thing include triumphs like representing the county or being a team captain.
Getting their first job. When a teen can hold down a part-time job on top of school they demonstrate that they can manage time well and are willing to work hard to reach their goals in life. This also shows potential universities that your teen has already started building a quality resume with real work experience to help make them more marketable after they finish school.
In today’s economy finding a job is increasingly hard for teens that are competing for spots with adults that are out of work. You can take advantage of this time to encourage your teen to branch out and start their own business. Even if your teen has no intention of keeping the businesses when they are older, starting one shows dedication and a willingness to learn and do things that may not be the easiest route.
Starting your own businesses is a great learning opportunity that your teen can use for helping them become better and managing time and money. A skill that will make them look very appealing to University admissions.
Universities want students that make their school look good. This is often through favouring teens that take the time to be part of the community and volunteer. While most schools require volunteer hours for graduation you should encourage your teen to go above and beyond making an effort to be a productive and prominent part of the community. From volunteering at the soup kitchen to making waves by starting a community garden to help feed the community your teen can really stand out by putting in extra effort to make a name for themselves.
The National Citizenship Programme offers young people amazing opportunities for very little cost. Encourage your child to find volunteer work that suits their personal interests and passions. When they are passionate about the work they are doing it will shine through.
Join an art or theatre program. Fine arts while no longer getting the attention they once had in the public school system is still just as important for your teen when it comes to University admissions. Uni’s want to know what your child’s passions are and they want to see that your child is well rounded. Falling in love with the fine arts and being an active participant in projects shows admission departments that your teen will be an asset to programs the University has to offer that may be looking for more participation.
Writing the UCAS personal statement should not be rushed and write several drafts asking key people to read it for accuracy and to ensure that is sells you in your best light. The UCAS application form is key to success so do ensure that you take your time crafting a personal statement that will stand out to the admissions team.
