The Personal Statement

The Personal Statement Lisa Criscione-Schreiber, MD Program Director, Rheumatology

Personal Statement • Basics – One page – Edit ruthlessly • Grammar and spelling (special characters) • Content (applying in 2 fields, late decision)

• My goals – Determine sincerity – Assess communication ability – Assess approach to career development

3 Main Types “The Standard”

SAFE

“The Standard Plus”

“The Personal Tale”

RISKY

The Standard • The patient/faculty mentor/family member/friend who started it all – How I realized I love rheumatology • How I conceptualize rheumatology

– Why I will be a great rheumatologist • How this career will fulfill my dreams

– Why I want to be a clinician educator (optional) – I will work hard during fellowship

The Standard Plus: The Goal Oriented Statement • How it all started – How I realized I love rheumatology – How I conceptualize rheumatology

• How I have been successful thus far • How I will continue to be successful • What I am seeking in my fellowship • I will work hard during fellowship

Goal oriented statement: risk • What you want to do is not available where you’re applying

The Personal Tale • My background is different – Personal illness, non-traditional path, adverse situation, country of origin – Show how your background strengthens your application

• Why I want to be a rheumatologist • What I hope to achieve in my career • I will work hard during fellowship