computer science personal statement university

(Low GPA) Sample Personal Statement Oxford Computer Science

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field | personal statements samples by university.

Below is a personal statement written by an applicant who was accepted to Oxford university’s computer science program. He earned his undergrad in electrical engineering with a 2.2 GPA.

This example personal statement is also a great sample of how one can explain bad grades in a personal statement .

This essay demonstrates how, through failure, the applicant overcame his low GPA, despite suffering from multiple mental diseases and conditions. With sheer perseverance, he showed his sincerity in his passion for data analytics and computer science.

You might also be interested in reading this   Sample Cambridge University Personal Statement.

Here is the personal statement of the Oxford Student in computer science explaining low GPA

People often only see the tip of the iceberg when measuring a person’s success. Based on that, they presume that the person came from a fortunate background or got lucky. My recent achievements are a perfect fit for the preceding statement. It’s easy to assume that being a Software Developer and a Data Scientist working with multi-million-dollar startups and companies, I got lucky or was fortunate. However, my skills and expertise span many software and hardware platforms, culminating in years of hard work and resilience through failure. Hence it demands a peek into my humble beginnings.

I was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) at age 15. OCD is the kind of disease that can be misinterpreted by people’s presumption about being overly concerned with details. In reality, it is a disease that consumes a person. I started my psychiatric medication a few weeks after my diagnosis. Unfortunately, my medication came with a range of side effects and, at one point, necessitated a dose that crippled my brain. As a result, I gained 80 pounds over two months and was at a point where my parents thought I would be lucky to get through high school.

Three months before my high school exams, I decided I didn’t want to live this life anymore. From that day, I studied 12 hours a day. I did nothing except study because only a tiny portion of my brain was in working condition. I cleared high school, after which my health improved, and my medication was reduced. I lost 90 pounds, aced the SAT with 2370/2400, and entered Electrical Engineering at a premier college.

For once, I saw hope in my life. But that didn’t last long. I believed my brain wasn’t working at its full potential due to my medication’s side effects. So, I stopped taking my medication, and instead of getting better, I went into a severe relapse. I was naive to think I would recover from my ailment with sheer willpower alone. As a result, I ruined four semesters at college. Not just that, but I returned to square one and had to start my medication all over again.

It took me a couple of more semesters before my condition stabilized. I was on the verge of relegating to a junior batch when I was awarded 3 Fs in the 5th semester. It would have been easy to give up then, and the idea of quitting crossed my mind several times. But unfortunately, people prey on the weak. I realized that when a teacher ridiculed me in front of the whole class. He said he was fortunate not to have a child like me and that I was a liability to my parents.

But not all people are the same. At the time, the Associate Head of the Department, Dr. Kaneu, inquired about my situation. After explaining, he understood and encouraged me to start my Final Year Project. I don’t know how to describe his contribution, but he was a beacon of light when I was surrounded by darkness. I was always passionate about programming and drones, so I started Control Design of a Tri-copter as my FYP. With a bit of technical background at the time, I knew I would have to work very hard if that drone was to take a flight.

So, I worked tirelessly, often working days at a time without sleep. When I felt low on motivation, Dr. Kaneu was always there to support and guide me. Finally, after months of grueling and painstaking flight simulations and hardware designs, I completed my maiden flight. That was one of the happiest moments of my life as I had secured not only a flight but also designed a radically new approach to Master-Master control system design contrary to the traditional Master-Slave architecture. I did several other projects with Dr. Kaneu in key research areas, including Microcontroller development and IoT integration with Mobile Apps. I also designed the digital instrument cluster for the Shell Eco-marathon team. This equipped me with the skills to seamlessly integrate several hardware and software platforms.

Upon graduation, I had to leave for my hometown, and that’s when the reality of my GPA dawned upon me. I applied to several companies for job placement but never heard back due to the GPA cut-off criteria. When I explored the option of pursuing a master’s, I again faced GPA requirements that I couldn’t remotely fulfill. I once again felt nothing ahead of me, but I knew I was passionate about programming. That’s when I started freelancing as a software developer. Programming came naturally to me, and although I wasn’t a computer scientist, I realized that my strong foundations in Object Oriented Programming in C++ and Data Structure/Algorithm design were enough to get me started.

I learned platforms like Android and iOS through multiple online courses and secured projects with clients on Upwork. In the beginning, the financial reward was minuscule, and often I would spend the whole amount on my equipment and taking paid courses. To increase my professional credibility and improve my GPA, I started a master’s in Data Science at a local university. By this point, I had become proficient in Mobile App development and gained experience in Web development and backend frameworks such as Node JS and Firebase.

The turning point came when a client (Tom Martin) hired me for a Geolocation Proof of concept project. The project was for a university that required an end-to-end software solution. The solution mandated an iOS mobile app synced with a backend system like Firebase and a front-end Admin Panel made with Angular. In parallel, I also worked with Hauni GmbH, the leader in the German Tobacco industry. I brought their Digital Vape to life by resolving background data sync issues using Google cloud. In addition, my efforts turned their vape into an iBeacon transmitter that iOS devices could monitor in the background.

Once I completed the Geolocation proof-of-concept, Tom revealed that he had a background in Corporate IT with 20 years of experience in Big Data architecture. He also offered me to join his Big Data and Software solutions startup, IX Tech Global. I happily accepted the offer as the job description demanded a wide range of technologies like AWS, which I always wanted to learn but didn’t have the resources to incur Infrastructure costs.

At IX Tech Global, I asserted my position by learning AWS and developing decoupled Big Data Pipelines using Apache Kafka and Lambda functions. The pipeline ingested data from multiple sources such as Shopify, Google Ads/Analytics, Mintsoft, and Facebook Ads and stored them in the S3 data lake. After data preprocessing, I ran a wide range of Analytics, including revenue prediction using Random Cut Forest and other regression algorithms like Random Forest Regressor, Support Vector Machines, and Multivariate regression.

In addition, I co-founded the Jurassic Apps product, in which I developed Shopify Apps. In my work, I used React as the front end and AWS as the backend with apps like Geosaur, Stockosaurus, and Syncosaurus. My work on these apps has buzzed the Shopify App Store market. I also contributed to the Snagtights business, Tom’s leading venture, and boosted the revenue by engaging repeat customers using recommendation systems and integrated anomaly detection using ElasticSearch and Kibana Dashboards.

As part of my Masters’s Thesis, I developed the Control System Design of a UAV using Deep Reinforcement learning to bridge Data Science with Electrical Engineering and used a DDPG Agent to complete a successful flight of the Parrot Rolling Spider Minidrone.

For my Master’s, I graduated at the top of my class in Data Science. I became 2x AWS Certified and am currently working at IX Tech Global as a Full-stack Software Developer and Data Scientist. I am also developing products as an Independent Contractor for startups such as Seadog Fishing Solutions, where we are rolling out a Geolocation based App. This app tracks fishing activity, sends data to backend services, and provides real-time analytics to increase fishing output. This is achieved by learning correlations between Geospatial references and fisher-man activity such as catches, gear deployment, sales, etc.

I believe that I am at a point of starting a new chapter in my life and want to expand my skill set into innovation rather than mere application. For this reason, I believe a degree in Advanced Computer Science at Oxford will help me achieve my goals. Till now, I have been developing my academic projects on a shoestring budget and had to often self-finance these projects. I want access to world-class facilities and resources, such as dedicated GPUs at Advanced Research Computing at Oxford, so I can focus more on developing new algorithms rather than be constrained by computational power.

I believe that Reinforcement Learning can be applied to any system. Combined with the pre-training of models, the same algorithm can be used for multiple UAVs. I wanted to experiment with this idea, but due to the limited computational power at my disposal, I could barely run enough simulations to complete a successful flight of one system, i.e., a Quadcopter.

A Quadcopter has four rotors, and a Tricopter has 3 with a servo motor that equates to the same number of control surfaces. This means that a model trained for a Quadcopter and a Tricopter will contain the same number of Observations and actions, and a model pre-trained on one system can be fine-tuned on another. A graduate degree in Advanced Computer Science will also give me the ability to understand computational complexity in-depth, and I will be able to design Neural Networks that can exponentially reduce CPU utilization in microcontrollers or iOTs.

These systems are constrained in CPU power due to their size. In Data Science, I learned the applications of different kinds of Machine Learning models but didn’t get the opportunity to design new models. I don’t consider techniques like bagging and boosting to improve accuracy as something novel. Still, things like Random Forest Regressor or Google’s Bert that change these domains forever are the ones that matter. I would also like to understand Artificial Intelligence and its enhancement through Quantum Computing. Given the extensive research at Oxford in this domain, I will be able to not only enhance my knowledge of this subject but also contribute to this field upon graduation.

My clients and professors have told me several times that I am an extraordinary individual who has learned several technology stacks that can take years to master. I would like to disagree with them respectfully. What separates me from others is that no matter how often I get knocked down, I keep getting back up and never give in. This attitude has helped me in turning my life around. It holds for everything I have and will experience. From my first 10-mile run to graduating at the top of my class in my Master’s when I graduated at the bottom in my undergrad, I want to be remembered for my innovation.

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Computer Science Personal Statement Examples

BSc Computer Science Personal Statement Example

Since early childhood, I always wanted to study computer science and I hope you would kindly accept this computer science personal statement as I currently seek admission at your sought-after university.

I developed a fascination with how people use computers and technology to do virtually anything in this modern age. My first experiences on a computer were primarily with Java and CSS. I discovered that computing was my biggest academic strength in primary school; when my teacher would often ask me for help with operating a computer.

My desire to understand programming has influenced my choice to self-learn the basics of Java and C++ Languages. Advancing in this area will hopefully satisfy my interest in games and software development.

I have a strong enthusiasm for computer science as I have always found operating PCs and most electronics accessible. Studying ICT at the GCSE level developed my knowledge of Microsoft Access and Microsoft Excel.

On the other hand, Graphic products GCSE taught me the basics of CAD and CAM to design and manufacture a product using computer software and hardware.

Applied ICT was more challenging in college due to the requirement of learning how to use new programmes such as Dreamweaver to create HMTL/CSS based webpages. After achieving a grade B, I decided to continue the course to the A2 level. I am also studying Double ICT as a further AS in my second year of college.

The reason is that a section of the course is more related to a computer’s physical components, which I enjoy studying. The challenge of building a PC and installing an operating system will hopefully be helpful should I ever wish to apply my new learned skills to construct a computer of my own.

I also enjoy problem-solving and logic challenges, which promote my dedication to studying mathematics. Being one of my most vital subjects in school, I achieved a grade A in GCSE. In my second year of college, I am currently studying Maths, Applied ICT and Business Studies at A2. Between these studies, I am also a Student Representative, which requires me to discuss any issues with my Tutor group and put these forward to the college.

My first employment was working at St Thomas’s Academy whilst being refurbishment. The team immediately recognised my skills using a computer, and I was then assigned to sorting the building blueprints and creating computer mock presentations.

I have also worked for a takeaway and clothing retail store, which requires me to overcome the challenge of working under pressure. My most exciting employment was working for Demosoft at Highmore School. I spent a week as a Trainee IT Technician during an academic holiday.

Four co-workers and I had to set up the network and 150 BIBLO PC machines. This is when I realised I genuinely wanted to pursue a computing-orientated career. I firmly believe that studying computer science at the university level will push me forward in achieving my dream job.

Although my studies are my main priority, I have an appreciation for a few sporting activities. In secondary school, I was a member of the football team. This interest taught me a great deal about the effectiveness of teamwork.

Music also plays a part in my life, having gone to concerts to watch some of my favourite bands and artists. Currently, I am a part-time weekend staff member at Debenhams in Portsmouth city centre.

I have a solid motivation to learn more and share knowledge. My self-motivation keeps me positive and determined to achieve my potential. I hope to gain both life and academic experiences and provide an excellent contribution to the university.

Please accept my computer science personal statement for admission to study for a bachelor’s degree at your university.

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• Data Science

Data Science Personal Statement in 2024 [Sample & Examples]

Home Blog Data Science Data Science Personal Statement in 2024 [Sample & Examples]

Data science is one of the most popular career options for students, especially those pursuing a Bachelor's degree. It is also one of the most sought-after courses in universities today. If you just want some ideas on how to write a data science personal statement, then this article is for you. Also, if you’re someone who is willing to secure a career in the field of data science, then it is recommended that you pursue Data Science Courses that will enable you to learn all aspects and principles of data science. 

What is a Data Science Personal Statement?

In a nutshell, the personal statement for data science is a document that you write to explain why you are interested in pursuing the subject and what you can bring to the table. It should be written in a way that shows your interest in the subject and why you want to study it. You may want to include information about the following in your data science personal statement.  

• What led up to your decision to pursue this field? 
• Why do data scientists matter? What problems need solving by them? What value do they provide society as well as individuals? 
• How will studying this specific field help prepare you for future careers or additional educational opportunities (e-learning programs, etc.)?

You can also include the following:  

• What are your goals for this degree?  
• How will it benefit you?  
• What do you hope to achieve from studying data science?  
• Why is this field important in today’s society?  
• What are the challenges that you see in this field?  
• How will you address those challenges?  
• What do you think the future of data science is?  
• How do you plan on staying relevant as technologies and trends change?

The Importance of Creating a Data Science Personal Statement

Data science personal statement is a formal document that will be used by the company to evaluate your skills. If you are applying for a Data Science job and want to impress the hiring manager, then you must write a strong data science personal statement.

A good personal statement for a master's in data science must be unique, creative, informative and interesting to read. It should describe not only your skills and experience but also showcase your ability to think critically and creatively.

A well-written data science personal statement will help you stand out from other applicants and make yourself an ideal candidate for the job that you want. Here are some useful tips for writing a strong data science personal statement: 

• Be honest and straightforward in your personal statement. 
• Don’t exaggerate or lie about your skills, experience and achievements. If you don’t have any relevant work experience, then focus on other areas where you can showcase your skills, such as volunteering or community projects. 
• Know the company that you are applying to and tailor your personal statement accordingly. A generic resume won’t help if you are applying for a specific job position. Instead, write a customized letter that shows how well-suited you are for this role. 
• Keep it short and sweet. The best personal statements are between a few hundred to a few thousand words long. Don’t try to cram everything in one big paragraph; break it up into smaller sections that will make it easier for readers to digest. 

So now you might have understood how important data analytics personal statements are. To learn how to create a personal statement, it is recommended that you enroll in the Best Data Science Bootcamps . 

Data Science Personal Statement Sample

I am writing this Data Science Personal Statement for the MS in Data Science program at UC Berkeley. My goal is to explain why I want to pursue a career in data science and how my experience as an undergraduate student has prepared me for graduate school. As you can see from my resume, I have had many opportunities to work with large amounts of data through internships and research projects over the course of my academic career. These experiences have given me valuable insight into how large-scale computational problems can be tackled by applying statistical methods under tight deadlines while still maintaining quality control over your results. 

In addition, I have taken classes such as AI/ML Systems Design & Implementation and Machine Learning Algorithms. These classes have helped me develop new ways of approaching problems while also providing an understanding of why certain algorithms work better than others when applied in specific situations. 

I am a Data Science Major at UC Berkeley and have been for two years. In order to graduate with a major in Data Science, you must complete four required classes, one of which is an independent study project. 

I have chosen to take this independent study project in order to gain hands-on experience with a data science problem of my choosing and to learn how to effectively apply machine learning algorithms in the real world. My goal is to create an application that can accurately predict where students need tutoring based on their past grades. This project will require me to use various classes of statistical models, such as regression, decision trees, and neural networks. 

How to Write a Personal Statement for Masters Programme in Data Science?

If you are looking for the best way to write a sample personal statement for a master in data science, you should follow these steps: 

• Step 1: The first step is to find out what courses are available in your area and how long it takes to complete them. You can find this information on websites online. 
• Step 2: Once you have this information, you need to think about how much time you will have available each day. It is important that you do not leave your studies until you finish all of your courses because once you finish your degree program, there will be no more work available for you. Your ability to continue working will depend upon how well your personal statement for data science courses was received by universities and whether or not they offer scholarships for those who want to study abroad or online. 
• Step 3: In order to write a good personal statement for M.Sc data science, you will need to think about why you want to continue your education after completing your bachelor's degree program. This could be because of what happened during college or because of something else entirely (such as family obligations). If it is something that happened during college, then you will need to explain what that event was and how it has affected your desire to continue your education. If it is something that happened outside of college, then you should talk about how that event impacted your academic performance and why you want to continue studying.

Data Science Personal Statement Example 

Following is a data science personal statement example. You can refer to this data science statement of purpose example and keep in mind the necessary points.

Source: personal-statement-examples.com

Tips to Write an Effective Data Science Personal Statement

The following tips will help you write an effective personal statement for a master in data science: 

1. Use a Template

It's best to use a template that has been created by experienced admissions officers and other professionals in the field. This means you can skip the writing process entirely since they've already done most of it for you. 

2. Keep Your Sentences Short and Simple

Your goal should be no more than one or two paragraphs per section (including your application summary), which means keeping your sentences as short as possible without compromising clarity or coherence. If there are too many adjectives or numbers used in an otherwise simple sentence, try replacing them with action verbs like "ran" instead of "ran fast." 

3. Avoid Clichés

In your data science personal statement sample, instead of saying things like "I am dynamic," try saying something more descriptive such as “I am highly dynamic” instead because this shows off how creative your mind works while also showing off how well-rounded personas are important traits needed by anyone working at companies when writing an M.Sc data science personal statement.  

Do’s and Don’ts While Writing Personal Statement

Data science is a booming field with a lot of opportunities. You can work anywhere and make a good salary with this skill. If you think that it’s not for you, then it’s time to think again. The world has changed and so have our needs as individuals. Data science professionals will be needed in the future because of their role in shaping our lives as we know them today. In order to pursue a career in this broad field of data science, it is recommended that you pursue KnowledgeHut to learn its principal aspects and gain in-depth knowledge about data science personal statement. Data Science Courses to learn its principal aspects and gain in-depth knowledge about data science.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Find out what diploma courses are available in your area and how long it takes to complete them. Once you have this information, you need to think about how much time you will have available each day. After evaluating all these things, start writing your personal statement using templates. 

• The reason(s) why you selected this subject(s) 
• Your chosen area of study and how it relates to the current studies 
• Your experiences in relation to your chosen subject(s) 
• What are your interests and responsibilities in relation to the subject you are studying? 
• After university, what's next? 
• A summary of why you will make an excellent student 
• Don’t use quotes 
• Don’t let spelling and grammatical errors spoil your statement. 
• Don’t copy and paste 

During the writing of the letter of intent for the MS in Data Science course, it is important to take into account the basic questions asked by the institution, including what kind of ambitions the prospective candidate has and the inspiration behind those ambitions. If the students do not want to sound conversational in their essays, then they should keep in mind that the tone should be formal instead of informal.

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Writing a Personal Statement

Preparing to Write

Brainstorming, don't forget, sample prompts.

A personal statement is a narrative essay that connects your background, experiences, and goals to the mission, requirements, and desired outcomes of the specific opportunity you are seeking. It is a critical component in the selection process, whether the essay is for a competitive internship, a graduate fellowship, or admittance to a graduate school program. It gives the selection committee the best opportunity to get to know you, how you think and make decisions, ways in which past experiences have been significant or formative, and how you envision your future. Personal statements can be varied in form; some are given a specific prompt, while others are less structured. However, in general a personal statement should answer the following questions:

• Who are you?
• What are your goals?
• How does this specific program/opportunity help you achieve your goals?
• What is in the future?

A personal statement is not:

• A variation of your college admissions essay
• An academic/research paper
• A narrative version of your resume
• A creative writing piece (it can be creative, though)
• An essay about somebody else

Keep in mind that your statement is only a portion of the application and should be written with this in mind. Your entire application package will include some, possibly all, of the materials listed below. You will want to consider what these pieces of the application communicate about you. Your personal statement should aim to tie everything together and fill in or address any gaps. There will likely be some overlap but be sure not to be too repetitive.

• Personal Statement(s)
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendations
• Sample of written work
• Research proposal

For a quick overview of personal statements, you might begin by watching this "5 Minute Fellowships" video!

If you are writing your first personal statement or working to improve upon an existing personal statement, the video below is a helpful, in-depth resource.

A large portion of your work towards completing a personal statement begins well before your first draft or even an outline. It is incredibly important to be sure you understand all of the rules and regulations around the statement. Things to consider before you begin writing:

• How many prompts? And what are they? It is important to know the basics so you can get your ideas in order. Some programs will require a general statement of interest and a focused supplementary or secondary statement closely aligned with the institution's goals.
• Are there formatting guidelines? Single or double spaced, margins, fonts, text sizes, etc. Our general guideline is to keep it simple.
• How do I submit my statement(s)? If uploading a document we highly suggest using a PDF as it will minimize the chances of accidental changes to formatting. Some programs may event ask you to copy and paste into a text box.
• When do I have to submit my statement(s)? Most are due at the time of application but some programs, especially medical schools, will ask for secondary statements a few months after you apply. In these instances be sure to complete them within two weeks, any longer is an indication that you aren't that interested in the institution.

Below is a second 5 Minute Fellowships video that can help you get started!

Before you start writing, take some time to reflect on your experiences and motivations as they relate to the programs to which you are applying. This will offer you a chance to organize your thoughts which will make the writing process much easier. Below are a list of questions to help you get started:

• What individuals, experiences or events have shaped your interest in this particular field?
• What has influenced your decision to apply to graduate school?
• How does this field align with your interests, strengths, and values?
• What distinguishes you from other applicants?
• What would you bring to this program/profession?
• What has prepared you for graduate study in this field? Consider your classes at Wellesley, research and work experience, including internships, summer jobs and volunteer work.
• Why are you interested in this particular institution or degree program?
• How is this program distinct from others?
• What do you hope to gain?
• What is motivating you to seek an advanced degree now?
• Where do you see yourself headed and how will this degree program help you get there?

For those applying to Medical School, if you need a committee letter for your application and are using the Medical Professions Advisory Committee you have already done a lot of heavy lifting through the 2017-2018 Applicant Information Form . Even if you aren't using MPAC the applicant information form is a great place to start.

Another great place to start is through talking out your ideas. You have a number of options both on and off campus, such as: Career Education advisors and mentors ( you can set up an appointment here ), major advisor, family, friends. If you are applying to a graduate program it is especially important to talk with a faculty member in the field. Remember to take good notes so you can refer to them later.

When you begin writing keep in mind that your essay is one of many in the application pool. This is not to say you should exaggerate your experiences to “stand out” but that you should focus on clear, concise writing. Also keep in mind that the readers are considering you not just as a potential student but a future colleague. Be sure to show them examples and experiences which demonstrate you are ready to begin their program.

It is important to remember that your personal statement will take time and energy to complete, so plan accordingly. Every application and statement should be seen as different from one another, even if they are all the same type of program. Each institution may teach you the same material but their delivery or focus will be slightly different.

In addition, remember:

• Be yourself: You aren’t good at being someone else
• Tragedy is not a requirement, reflection and depth are
• Research the institution or organization
• Proofread, proofread, proofread
• How to have your personal statement reviewed

The prompts below are from actual applications to a several types of programs. As you will notice many of them are VERY general in nature. This is why it is so important to do your research and reflect on your motivations. Although the prompts are similar in nature the resulting statements would be very different depending on the discipline and type of program, as well as your particular background and reasons for wanting to pursue this graduate degree.

• This statement should illustrate your academic background and experiences and explain why you would excel in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (UMass Amherst - M.S. in Civil Engineering).
• Describe your academic and career objectives and how the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies can help you achieve them. Include other considerations that explain why you seek admissions to the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and your interests in the environmental field (Yale - Master of Environmental Management).  
• Please discuss your academic interests and goals. Include your current professional and research interests, as well as your long-range professional objectives. Please be as specific as possible about how your objectives can be met at Clark and do not exceed 800 words (Clark University - M.A. in International Development and Social Change).
• Write a 500- to 700-word statement that describes your work or research. Discuss how you came to focus on the medium, body of work, or academic area you wish to pursue at the graduate level. Also discuss future directions or goals for your work, and describe how the Master of Fine Arts in Studio (Printmedia) is particularly suited to your professional goals (School of the Art Institute of Chicago - MFA in Studio, Printmaking).
• Your statement should explain why you want to study economics at the graduate level. The statement is particularly important if there is something unusual about your background and preparation that you would like us to know about you (University of Texas at Austin - Ph.D in Economics).
• Your personal goal statement is an important part of the review process for our faculty members as they consider your application. They want to know about your background, work experience, plans for graduate study and professional career, qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the program, and any other relevant information (Indiana University Bloomington - M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education).
• Your autobiographical essay/personal statement is a narrative that outlines significant experiences in your life, including childhood experiences, study and work, your strengths and aspirations in the field of architecture, and why you want to come to the University of Oregon (University of Oregon - Master of Architecture).
• Personal history and diversity statement, in which you describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. You may refer to any educational, familial, cultural, economic or social experiences, challenges, community service, outreach activities, residency and citizenship, first-generation college status, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field; or how you might serve educationally underrepresented and underserved segments of society with your graduate education (U.C. Davis - M.A. in Linguistics).
• A Personal Statement specifying your past experiences, reasons for applying, and your areas of interest. It should explain your intellectual and personal goals, why you are interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary degree rather than a more traditional disciplinary one, and how this degree fits into your intellectual and personal future (Rutgers University - Ph.D in Women’s and Gender Studies).
• Your application requires a written statement to uploaded into your application and is a critical component of your application for admission. This is your opportunity to tell us what excites you about the field of library and information science, and what problems you want to help solve in this field. Please also tell us how your prior experiences have prepared you for this next step toward your career goals and how this program will help you achieve them (University of North Carolina Chapel Hill - Master of Science in Library Science).
• After watching the video, please describe what strengths and preferences as a learner you have that will facilitate your success in this innovative curriculum. What challenges in our curriculum do you anticipate and what strategies might you use to address these challenges? (MGH Institute of Health Professions PT - They recently redesigned their curriculum)
• Your personal goal statement should briefly describe how you view the future of the field, what your goals are to be part of that future, and what brought you to pursue an advanced education degree in your chosen field. You may include any other information that you feel might be useful. (Northeastern PT)
• Personal Statement: In 500 words or less, describe a meaningful educational experience that affected your professional goals and growth and explain how it impacted you. The educational experience does not need to be related to this degree. Focus on the educational experience and not why you think you would be a good professional in this field. (Simmons PT)
• Personal Statement (500 word minimum): State your reasons for seeking admission to this program at this institution. Include your professional goals, why you want to pursue a career in this field and how admission to this program will assist you in accomplishing those goals. (Regis College Nursing)
• “Use the space provided to explain why you want to go to this type of program.” (AMCAS)
• Address the following three questions(Though there is no set limit, most statements are 1–2 pages, single-spaced.): What are your reasons for pursuing this degree? Why do you wish to pursue your degree at this institution? How do you intend to leverage your degree in a career of this field? (Boston University MPH)
• Please submit a personal statement/statement of purpose of no more than 500 words for the department/degree of choice. Professional degree essays require a clear understanding of the _______ field and how you hope to work within the field. Be sure to proofread your personal statement carefully for spelling and grammar. In your statement, be sure to address the following: what interests you in the field of _____ what interests you in a specific degree program and department at this institution and what interests you in a particular certificate (if applicable). Please also describe how you hope to use your ________ training to help you achieve your career goals. (Columbia PhD in Public Health - Epidemiology)
• Because each Home Program requires significant original research activities in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree, we are interested in obtaining as much information as possible about your previous research experiences. Those who already have such experience are in a better position to know whether they are truly interested in performing ______ research as part of a graduate program. Please include specific information about your research experience in your Statement of Purpose. You may also use the Statement to amplify your comments about your choice of Home Program(s), and how your past experiences and current interests are related to your choice. Personal Statements should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). Make sure to set your computer to Western European or other English-language setting. We cannot guarantee the ability to access your statement if it is submitted in other fonts. (Stanford Biosciences PhD)
• Your statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the Department of ____ at ___ University. It would be helpful to include what you have done to prepare for this degree program. Please describe your research interests, past research experience, future career plans and other details of your background and interests that will allow us to evaluate your ability to thrive in our program. If you have interests that align with a specific faculty member, you may state this in your application. Your statement of purpose should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). (Stanford Bioengineering PhD)
• Statement of purpose (Up to one page or 1,000 words): Rather than a research proposal, you should provide a statement of purpose. Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at this institution and your relevant experience and education. Please provide an indication of the area of your proposed research and supervisor(s) in your statement. This will be assessed for the coherence of the statement; evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study; the ability to present a reasoned case in English; and commitment to the subject. (Oxford Inorganic Chemistry - DPhil)

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Queen Mary University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to Queen Mary, University of London. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

Linguistics Personal Statement Example 1 My most memorable Christmas came with a parcel of Harry Potter audio books and this was where my quest to understanding language began. The moment Stephen Fry started to narrate chapter one, I fell in love with words and all they could achieve...

History Personal Statement Example 3 Recently, I found out that my grandma was gambled into slavery for seven years. She escaped her prison and made her way back to Hong Kong, 300 miles south. I was amazed at how courageous she was. This personal discovery led me to read Jung Chang's 'Wild Swans' which made me both proud and ashamed of my heritage...

Mechanical/Electrical Engineering Personal Statement Example I have always been fascinated by the vast jobs robots are able to perform, and by the way all these cars around us were designed. The problem is, my interest was not satisfied by revolving around the outer appearance of these machines or by how well they achieved their functions, but was constantly demanding to learn more about how they managed to do so, and what inner complexities I was not allowed to meet closely made it capable of attracting my attention...

History and Economic History Personal Statement Example Studying History at degree level has been my interest since my first ever history lesson in High School, for it is a subject that invites debate and feeds my inquisitive side. I have always been intrigued by what has happened before us and how it has led to where we are now...

Mathematics and Economics Personal Statement Example 1 As Pythagoras may have said, (Ambitious)2 + (Bold)2 = (Critical thinker)2 makes a perfect student and is what I strive to be. From the simple Pythagorean to the complex Fermat's Last Theorem, mathematics is a never ending branch of study which I enthusiastically enjoy studying and why I wish to pursue it even further at university...

Politics & International Relations Personal Statement Example 2 It was November 1989. My parents were rattling their keys in the main square of Bratislava with other Czechoslovak youngsters asking for the democracy that was denied by the Communist regime. They raised me in an environment, where appreciation of freedom, expressing my thoughts and being an active citizen have been essential...

Mathematics and Physics Personal Statement Example 1 Mathematics is a fundamental tool for understanding our world: it can be used to define the symmetry of flowers or to manage global companies. What is so appealing about mathematics is the opportunity of applying it in the physical world...

Biomedical Sciences Personal Statement Example 32 Since humans have existed we have been susceptible to disease and illness. With the progress in the search of treatments for long-standing diseases accelerating faster than ever before, I believe that now is the perfect opportunity to utilise my interests in cell biology, biochemistry and neuroscience by studying a biomedicine degree...

Biomedical Science Personal Statement Example 5 Venturing into the unknown and never-ending world of science and medicine has been a passion and desire of mine for the majority of my life. I am captivated by how a simple idea can be transformed into a reality that can pave the way for new cures and more advanced anatomical understanding...

Economics Personal Statement Example 5 Choosing an undergraduate degree in economics is a result of my deep seated curiosity to know why economies are they way they are; why oil prices in my country, Pakistan, rapidly fluctuate whereas economies like USA and China continue to strengthen despite recessions...

Politics Personal Statement Example 5 My background, living in three major metropolises, Lagos, London and Aberdeen bestowed me a very diverse, open, multicultural way of thinking. The cultural shock of Lagos widened my eyes to vastness of the world and prepped my involvement in the Community Development Committee, allowing me to get in touch with all sectors of Nigerian society; here my interest in sociology, politics and government took flight...

Sociology/Social Policy Personal Statement Example Since starting my A-Level in sociology, I've realised it is a subject I can easily grasp and immerse myself in, and that by pursuing courses based around society, social changes and policies at university, I can further understand and appreciate the inner workings of society and how it can be adapted to meet the ever-increasing diversity of the country we live in...

English Personal Statement Example 23 My love of literature is rooted in the connection it gives us to centuries of ideas, giving us the ability to converse with ghosts, linking us with the greatest and most eloquent minds in history; as Bovee puts it, “books are embalmed minds”...

Pharmacology and Human Sciences Personal Statement Example From the race to find a vaccine for the H1N1 virus to the almost daily reports of breakthroughs in the field of cancer research, science has always fascinated me.On a more personal note, my interest has largely stemmed from school, work experiences, and science in the news...

Psychology Personal Statement Example 51 There is a reason behind everything we do, a purpose to our actions. The cognition behind any decision that we make is one of the many aspects of psychology that I am fascinated by. The following five words, as said by the Prophet Muhammad, I believe explain such a suggestion: "Actions are but by intentions"...

Geography Personal Statement Example 16 "What do you want to be when you grow up?" is an ever recurring question asked to me by many individuals, including myself. I have come to the conclusion that I will never come up with a final answer, as I have many ambitions and aspirations...

Politics and Sociology Personal Statement Example 3 International relations and political science always attracted my attention and I clearly remember how impressed I was after the very first lesson on political science. Our teacher briefly explained us how political science had become an independent science and how it developed from a number of other disciplines: philosophy, history, economics, law...

Biological Sciences Personal Statement Example 2 I am interested in pursuing a career in biological sciences because I am captivated by the wonders of the components of life. There upon, I desire to understand the background of problems that are formulated by biology on a molecular level, such as cancer, diseases and genetic disorders...

Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 15 Aircraft is one of the major contributions of all time. The intricate engineering behind aircraft, space shuttle and satellite really captivates me. The work of aerospace engineers is quite challenging as they apply their acquired knowledge of Mathematics and Physics to design such major products to satisfy real world necessities...

Computer Science Personal Statement Example 51 Building my first computer was an experience I will never forget. Looking over what seemed to be a city of silicone, I marveled at how elegantly the components were arranged on the motherboard. Yet I did not feel fully satisfied, as I knew there was a whole other world of computing, which could only be explored by completing a degree in computer science...

Business/Human Resources Personal Statement Example In a turbulent economic and social climate, business remains of core importance. It is a crucial element of our lives, working as a catalyst for innovation, which is why I wish to study it at undergraduate level...

History & Politics Personal Statement Example For years I have listened to my family discussing the latest political and historical issues on the news and I have been fascinated and awed by the fact that there was never a wrong or right answer, decision or explanation to a given problem...

Geography Personal Statement Example 20 Geography is an all-encompassing subject where the geography of the past helps us to understand the present and forecast the future. I am particularly interested in the inter-relationships between physical and human Geography...

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Personal Statement: Top 10 Rules and Pitfalls

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From Top 10 Rules and Pitfalls // Purdue Writing Lab

Writing the personal statement: top 10 rules.

• Strive for depth rather than breadth. Narrow focus to one or two key themes, ideas or experiences
• Try to tell the reader something that no other applicant will be able to say
• Provide the reader with insight into what drives you
• Be yourself, not the ‘ideal’ applicant
• Get creative and imaginative in the opening remarks, but make sure it’s something that no one else could write
• Address the school’s unique features that interest you
• Focus on the affirmative in the personal statement; consider an addendum to explain deficiencies or blemishes
• Evaluate experiences, rather than describe them
• Proofread carefully for grammar, syntax, punctuation, word usage, and style
• Use readable fonts, typeface, and conventional spacing and margins

WRITING THE PERSONAL STATEMENT: TOP 10 PITFALLS

• Do not submit an expository resume; avoid repeating information found elsewhere on the application
• Do not use the same personal statement for each application. Generic statements are often obvious
• Do not preach to your reader. You can express opinions, but do not come across as fanatical or extreme
• Do not talk about money as a motivator
• Do not discuss systemic and social injustices simply as complaints, but as a relevant source of motivation for your overall goals and intended studies
• Do not remind the school of its rankings or tell them how good they are
• “Allow me to introduce myself. My name is…”
• “This question asks me to discuss…”
• “I would like to thank the admissions committee for considering my application.”
• “It is my sincere hope that you will grant me the opportunity to attend your fine school.”
• “In sum, there are three reasons why you should admit me…”
• Do not use unconventional and gimmicky formats and packages
• Do not submit supplemental materials unless they are requested
• Do not get the name of the school wrong
• Do not incorporate technical language or very uncommon words

Stewart, Mark Alan. Perfect Personal Statements. New York: Simon & Schuster Macmillan, 1996.

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• Computer science, computing and IT personal statement examples

Computer science degree personal statement example (2b) Manchester offer

This is a real personal statement written by a student for their university application. It might help you decide what to include in your own. There are lots more examples in our collection of sample personal statements . 

Since first being introduced to QBasic in secondary school I have been intrigued by how computers can be manipulated to work for us. The way in which computers continue to change the world is astounding and I wish to be a part of it. My desire to learn led me to study Visual Basic to the point where I could create fairly complex programs (at least more than the ‘Hello World’ we were doing in lessons) and it continues to guide me towards a university course in Computer Science.

I pursued my interest both inside and outside of school by opting to do AS Computing in year 9 and learning C++ using online tutorials. I am currently learning Python in preparation for the school’s first entry into Student Robotics for which these experiences have given me a solid foundation. I have always wondered why I enjoy programming so much but I now recognize that it comes down to the application of logic and the thrill gained through solving a problem. Working through BIO papers and problems on Project Euler as well as participating in the Mathematics Olympiad and EU Kangaroo on multiple occasions has allowed me to nurture this passion. Along with my interest in the theory behind computers I also have an enthusiasm for the practical side of computers. Having been exposed to the age old problems of CPU and GPU throttling at ‘LAN parties’ from a young age; I have come to see the physical limitations of computers and the methods used to reduce the impact these have (namely overclocking). I have seen and participated in building computers for years and this has translated into building custom computers for a price.

My interest in the fundamentals of the computer was sparked by the study of assembly languages but has evolved over the years, from studying how conventional computers work and the extent to which they can improve, to looking into radically new approaches to computer development. After watching an episode of BBC’s Horizon I was introduced to the world of quantum computing and after researching it in more depth I was left stunned. I have since read multiple books on the topic including ‘Computing With Quantum Cats: From Colossus To Qubits’ by John Gribbin which gave me a detailed overview of the history of both computing and quantum theory as well as an insight into how the two are being combined to create computers. Having used a physics project as an opportunity to research the basis of quantum theory I proceeded to investigate the potential practical applications.

In my A2 Computing project I created an interactive learning environment for the school Chemistry department which had to store data pertaining to students’ marks. I therefore created an encryption algorithm using ASCII codes which was promptly tested by my mathematics class attempting to hack the data. This made me appreciate how important secure data encryption is and highlighted just how revolutionary quantum technology will be if it can be harnessed. However, this is unlikely to happen in the near future and so it may be the development of graphene transistors which is the next step in computer enhancement. Although my interest lies in physics I also completed two weeks of work experience at the University of Warwick Computer Science department in which I looked at the applications of computers for identifying cancer cells in biopsies using MATLAB. I found this alternative side to computing engaging and realised the significance of computer automation in all fields.

Outside of lessons I relish the chance to prove my responsibility as part of the school’s prefect body and mentoring younger students in form times which has taught me how to work with people of all ages and backgrounds. To relax I play hockey at school and club level and the game has led me to understand the need for teamwork and decisive leadership.

I feel that a university environment will allow me to thrive and studying Computer Science will prepare me for a successful future in the computing industry.

Universities Applied to:

All straight Computer Science

Manchester University - Offer (A) Firm

Sheffield University - Offer (B) Insurance

Bristol University - Offer (A)

Exeter University - Offer (A)

Cambridge University - Rejection (Pool)

Grades Achieved:

Maths (A2) - A* Computing (A2) - A Chemistry (AS) - A Physics (AS) - A

Chemistry (A2) - A Physics (A2) - A Further Maths (A2) - B

Getting ridiculous offers doesn't help you motivate yourself to do work in yr 13 :(

Reviewer comment:

Section on BBC Horizon is excellent and shows an active interest and explains some of why it interested the applicant, although this could be expanded further

Paragraph about the experience at the University of Warwick is also very good but could be further expanded as above

Lots of randomly capitalised words

Tone is too informal

Some bracketed statements should be removed

Some sentences are unclear near the end and show an interest in physics rather than computer science

Final sentence is cliched

Find expert advice on writing an excellent personal statement over on The Uni Guide.

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Reset password, create a free fasthire account, computer foundation year personal statement: uk university.

• December 14, 2021
• Education/Study

We have provided this sample foundation year personal statement to give you an idea of how to structure yours. The statement was written to cover relevant areas of concern to admission committee.

Note: If you need further assistance writing your personal statement,  contact us today .

Table of Contents

Computer Foundation Year Personal Statement Sample: UK University

Being an introvert and having to spend a lot of time alone has helped me develop critical and analytical thinking skills from a young age. I derive satisfaction from analyzing things and finding the root cause rather than ascribing it to wishful thinking. Just like most teenagers around me, I got introduced to the world of computers through computer games (Nintendo, Play station, and Game-boy), but my inquisitive nature didn’t let me stop at just having the pleasure of playing the game, I wanted more, I wanted to learn about the working systems of the game. This inquisitiveness led me into programming; I initially started programming as a way to satisfy my curiosity, however, it developed into true love for computer systems.

Over the years I have grown to become a tech-enthusiast. I have been opportune to take different physical and online training that has helped improve my computing skills and has developed in me a wealth of experience in programming languages like HTML, CSS and Java. I have also handled some basic projects including building different website for personal and private use. The unending opportunities that come with the deployment of technology motivates me to immerse myself in more study relating to the application of computers and technology. Also, seeing that computers have become a key part of our daily lives, and there’s no industry that computerization has not influenced, I am inclined to think that there will be more demands for scientists and engineers that will satisfy the growing demands of mankind to make life easier. As I write this, billionaire Richard Branson recently returned from space travel with his crew and is now assembling a new team of astronauts that will go in search of new possibilities outside our planet. This is good news for enthusiasts like me who are rather excited with the thought of exploring new knowledge, horizon, destinations, opportunities, solutions and so on.

Through my secondary education I built a strong understanding of mathematics and physics. Proficiency in mathematics strengthens my logical reasoning which is important for coding and algorithmic works. On the other hand, physics helps me develop analytical competencies through protocols. Couple with my programming knowledge, my understanding of these subjects will come in handy when I begin my university study. After my secondary education in late 2019, I envisioned pursuing a degree in Computer Science the next year, but the global pandemic of 2020 stalled my plans. However, during the lockdown, I made it a duty to engage myself and I took up a side-hustle as a graphics designer deploying Photoshop C3, Adobe Photoshop Creative Cloud 2020 and Lightroom to create graphic representations for clients. Thankfully, we are gradually defeating the pandemic, people are returning to their normal lives and most importantly, I now have the golden opportunity to pursue my dream for a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Hence, I am now seeking admission into Coventry University to study for a Computer Science degree which will prepare me for a career as a computer scientist.

While I could have chosen to study in my home country, I am concerned about the quality of education I will gain especially with the instability and insufficiency of our education system. The UK is the first place away from home for most Nigerians like me because we share a history with the UK which will make it easy to settle and adapt. I am big on gaining up-to-date computing knowledge that will make me employable immediately after graduation, and I have chosen Coventry University because it has a long history of employing initiatives that prepare students for the job market. Through this foundation study, I wish to assess my strengths and decide which of the computer science fields is suitable for me.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing badminton and swimming. These activities help me network and ensure that I balance my activities while staying healthy and fit. It also helps me flex my teamwork skills. Through the years my goals have evolved and matured due to increased knowledge through field experience and acquired skills, and I am more convinced of my interest in the field. Finally, I must state that I am interested in this degree not only for the career I want to build but also for the exposure I wound gain during this study which is part of the reasons why I’ve chosen to study abroad.

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University College London (UCL). Founded in 1826, UCL was the first university established in London, as well as the first in England to be entirely secular, to admit students regardless of religion, and to admit women on equal terms. Today, it is ranked as a top 10 university in the world with over 50,000 students and a range of Nobel-winning academics & alumni.

Computer science personal statement

If anyone studies computer science here, Id appreciate it if I could see some example personal statements to help write mine. I saw a previous post, but the links were all dead

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