How to Write a Winning Personal Statement

[shockdoc]

I published this in my newsletter but thought it would be helpful
to others here:

Today I would like to discuss about what makes a good
personal statement.

I recently helped a nice doctor from India
in her personal statement.

She was a trained neonatologist who had
immigrated to the United States. She
wanted to have a family, but the calling
to be a doctor was too great.

She wanted to complete a US residency.

She asked for my help with her personal
statement.

She had difficulty expressing herself
on paper, and suffered "writer's block".

We talked on the phone for a half-hour
and I was amazed at the experiences
she had.

-- taking care of babies in the poorest
of conditions.

-- treating medical care in a war torn
country.


I have read many personal statements from
physicians when I was on the committee
for my residency.

The main problem was that nothing compelled
me to learn more about the person.

The opening paragraph is very crucial.
It is very important to be able to draw
the reader in, and make you wanting more.

There are various ways to do this:

-- something shocking

-- something controversial (although
be careful in something that could
offend the reader)

-- something unique

In our example, I encouraged her to
write about some of her experiences.

She began by relaying a conversation
she heard at a local hospital residents complaining
about the conditions they had to work.
Not getting free food or having to stay
late after call.

She then discussed conditions she
had to work in her homeland - including
clinics in situations with no electricity
or running water.

It was a very powerful contrast, and demonstrated
how lucky we are in the US. And as the reader,
it wanted me to learn more about the person.

Do you have an experience that is compelling
and would make the residency committee
want to learn more about you?

Of course you do.

Most personal statements are the same:

"I always wanted to be a doctor because
I wanted to help people"

Very boring!

Write something about you that stands out
ahead of the pack.

I know you can do it.

*** One Very Important Item You Must Include
in Your Personal Statement! ****

If you can believe it, some residency
directors are intimidated by IMGs.

They read these personal statements
and impressive resumes of the IMGs, and they say
to themselves...

"What can I teach them?"

It is imperative that you leave
room open to the fact that you still
have much to learn.

Not all residency directors do this, but some
do.

And it's the quickest way you can
get your personal statement in the trash.

And they will not take doctors who
they don't feel they can teach them anything.

I hope this information helps you
in your personal statement.


To Your Success in the Match!

Michael Woo-Ming, MD
info@residencysite.com
Residencysite.com

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