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Unlocking the World of Anthropology: Crafting Your Anthropology Personal Statement

So, you’ve decided to embark on a journey into the fascinating world of anthropology. Congratulations! As you prepare to apply to undergraduate universities, one essential element of your application stands out—the anthropology personal statement.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every aspect of crafting an anthropology personal statement that not only meets the criteria but also makes a lasting impression.

• The Significance of an Anthropology Personal Statement

Why Your Words Matter

Before we delve into the intricacies of writing a stellar anthropology personal statement, let’s understand why it’s so important. Your personal statement is your voice in the admissions process. It’s your opportunity to speak directly to the admissions committee and make a convincing case for your suitability as an anthropology student.

In a sea of applications, it’s your personal statement that sets you apart. It’s the place where you can shine a light on your unique experiences, passions, and aspirations. So, let’s begin crafting a statement that stands out.

• Building Your Anthropology Personal Statement

The Foundation: Your Motivation

Your anthropology personal statement should start by addressing the fundamental question: Why anthropology? Here, you have the chance to share the roots of your fascination with human behavior, cultures, and societies.

Dive into your journey—what sparked your interest? Was it a particular book, a documentary, or perhaps a personal experience? Be authentic and connect your story to the discipline.

Relating to the Discipline

In this section, we will explore how to relate your experiences and qualifications to the field of anthropology. Whether you’ve taken relevant coursework, engaged in research projects, or participated in voluntary work, it’s crucial to articulate how these experiences have shaped your understanding of anthropology.

Highlight specific courses or research that have impacted you the most. Discuss the skills you’ve gained and the questions that have arisen during your studies. This is where you showcase your intellectual curiosity and your readiness to delve deeper into the discipline.

• Tailoring Your Anthropology Personal Statement

Making It Personal: University Fit

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Admissions committees appreciate applicants who demonstrate a strong interest in their specific program or university. Here’s where you show that you’ve done your homework.

Mention faculty members whose work aligns with your interests, discuss unique resources or opportunities the university offers, and explain how these factors make it the perfect place for you to study anthropology.

The Subfields of Anthropology

Anthropology is a diverse field with various subfields, such as cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, and medical anthropology. If you have a particular interest in any of these areas, don’t hesitate to mention them in your personal statement. Explain why you are drawn to these subfields and how they connect to your broader academic and career goals.

• Crafting an Engaging Anthropology Personal Statement

Storytelling: Bring Your Journey to Life

Your personal statement should be more than just a list of qualifications. It should be a compelling narrative that captures the admissions committee’s attention.

Use anecdotes and personal experiences to illustrate your passion for anthropology. Share stories that highlight your intellectual growth and your commitment to the field.

Authenticity Matters

Remember, authenticity is key. Be genuine in your writing, and don’t try to present yourself as someone you’re not. Admissions committees value honesty and sincerity. Share your strengths and acknowledge areas where you hope to grow as a student of anthropology.

• Practical Tips for Crafting Your Anthropology Personal Statement

Writing your anthropology personal statement is a significant undertaking, but with the right approach and attention to detail, you can create a compelling document that showcases your passion for the field. Here are practical tips to help you craft an outstanding anthropology personal statement:

1. Start Early

Procrastination can be your worst enemy when it comes to personal statements. Begin the writing process well in advance to allow time for brainstorming, drafting, editing, and proofreading. Rushed statements often lack depth and clarity.

2. Understand the Prompt

Carefully read and understand the prompt or guidelines provided by the university or program you’re applying to. Ensure that your statement addresses all the required elements and follows any specific instructions regarding length or format.

3. Tell a Compelling Story

Remember that your personal statement is a narrative about your journey into anthropology. Use storytelling techniques to engage the reader. Share anecdotes, experiences, and moments that have shaped your interest in the field. A well-told story can leave a lasting impression.

4. Showcase Your Intellectual Curiosity

Admissions committees are looking for students who are genuinely curious and passionate about anthropology. Discuss the questions, theories, or concepts that have intrigued you during your studies. Highlight how these intellectual pursuits have driven you to pursue anthropology further.

5. Reflect on Your Experiences

When discussing your qualifications and experiences, don’t merely list them. Reflect on how each experience has contributed to your growth as a student of anthropology. What lessons did you learn from your coursework, research projects, or volunteer work? How have these experiences prepared you for further study in anthropology?

6. Connect with the University

Tailor your statement to the specific university or program you’re applying to. Mention faculty members whose work aligns with your interests and explain why you want to study anthropology at that particular institution. Show that you’ve done your research and that you’re genuinely excited about the opportunities the university offers.

7. Be Authentic

Authenticity is key to a successful personal statement. Be yourself and avoid trying to present a version of yourself that doesn’t ring true. Admissions committees value honesty and sincerity, and they want to get to know the real you.

8. Proofread and Edit

After writing your initial draft, take the time to proofread and edit your statement meticulously. Look for typos, grammatical errors, and awkward phrasing. Consider seeking feedback from professors, advisors, or peers to gain different perspectives and improve the clarity of your statement.

9. Stay within Word Limits

Adhere to any specified word or character limits. A concise, well-structured statement is more likely to leave a positive impression. Avoid going overboard with excessive details or information that may not be directly relevant to your application.

10. Seek Guidance

Don’t hesitate to seek guidance and feedback throughout the writing process. Discuss your ideas with professors, mentors, or advisors who can provide valuable insights and help you refine your statement.

Crafting an anthropology personal statement is an opportunity to reflect on your journey, your passion for anthropology, and your aspirations. It’s your chance to stand out from the crowd and convince the admissions committee that you are the ideal candidate for their program.

Remember to be authentic, showcase your experiences and qualifications, and tailor your statement to the specific university or program you’re applying to. With careful planning and thoughtful writing, you can unlock the doors to a rewarding education in anthropology and embark on a journey of discovery that will last a lifetime.

• FAQs about Anthropology Personal Statements

What is an anthropology personal statement?

An anthropology personal statement is a written document where you explain your interest in anthropology, your motivations for studying it, and your qualifications and experiences related to the field. It’s typically required when applying to university courses.

Why is a personal statement important for anthropology applicants?

Your personal statement provides admissions committees with insights into your passion for anthropology and how you’d contribute to the program. It helps distinguish you from other applicants with similar qualifications.

What should I include in my anthropology personal statement?

You should discuss your fascination with human behavior, any relevant experiences (like coursework or research projects), and why you want to study anthropology. Be sure to relate your statement to the specific program or university you’re applying to.

Can you provide an example of an anthropology personal statement?

Certainly! Here’s a brief example:

“I have always been captivated by the diversity of human cultures and the origins of our behaviors. My undergraduate studies in anthropology at [University Name] allowed me to delve into this fascination. Through courses like ‘Cultural Anthropology’ and ‘Biological Anthropology,’ I gained a deeper understanding of the discipline. Additionally, I conducted ethnographic fieldwork in [Location], which provided valuable hands-on experience.”

How do I make my anthropology personal statement stand out?

Highlight your unique experiences and perspectives. Discuss any relevant coursework, research projects, or voluntary work. Explain how anthropology aligns with your long-term goals and interests.

What are some common mistakes to avoid in an anthropology personal statement?

Avoid being too generic or simply listing your qualifications. Instead, focus on telling a compelling story about your journey in anthropology and how it has shaped your ambitions.

Should I mention specific subfields of anthropology in my personal statement?

Yes, if you have a particular interest in subfields like cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, or medical anthropology, it’s a good idea to mention them and explain why you’re drawn to those areas.

How long should my anthropology personal statement be?

Universities often have specific word or character limits, so be sure to adhere to those guidelines. Generally, personal statements are around 500-700 words.

C an I mention my extracurricular activities in my anthropology personal statement?

Yes, if your extracurricular activities relate to anthropology or demonstrate skills and qualities that are relevant to your studies, you should include them.

Any final tips for writing an effective anthropology personal statement?

Be authentic, proofread carefully, and seek feedback from professors or advisors. Tailor each statement to the specific university or program you’re applying to, showing that you’ve done your research.

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Table of Contents

• • The Significance of an Anthropology Personal Statement
• • Building Your Anthropology Personal Statement
• • Tailoring Your Anthropology Personal Statement
• • Crafting an Engaging Anthropology Personal Statement
• • Practical Tips for Crafting Your Anthropology Personal Statement
• • Conclusion
• • FAQs about Anthropology Personal Statements

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DEPARTMENT OF ANTHROPOLOGY

Preparing a statement,  all applicants are required to provide an academic statement and a personal statement ..

Academic Statement prompt: write a statement that answers the following questions (1,000 words max) o What are your academic interests, and why do you wish to pursue graduate studies in this specific program? o How has your academic and professional background prepared you for graduate study? Include any research, training, or educational experiences that align with the program. o How will our program help you achieve your intellectual and professional goals? o Make sure to address any scholarly questions you wish to explore in the program and name any specific faculty members in this program whose research interests align with your own.

Personal Statement prompt: write a statement that addresses the following (500 words max) o The Graduate School values diverse backgrounds, approaches, and perspectives, understanding them as essential ingredients for true academic excellence.  As a Northwestern graduate student, how could you contribute to an intellectual community that prioritizes equity, inclusion, belonging, and cultural humility? Your answer may draw upon past or present experiences, whether in academic work, extracurricular or community activities, or everyday life.

All applicants to the Northwestern Graduate School have the option to submit an additional statement (250 words max).  Include here anything that you would like to highlight but have yet to discuss in other areas of the application. You can also use this space to address any concerns you may have in your application. If, for example, you do not believe that your academic credentials demonstrate your true capabilities, please explain why. Also, describe any gaps in your academic career and work experience or any extenuating circumstances in your profile of which the admissions committee should be made aware.  This additional statement is not required and is fully optional. 

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What to include in a Personal Statement

Personal Statement Tips

Personal statement example biological anthropology and health and human sciences.

Submitted by Keelan

Biological Anthropology and Health and Human Sciences

Despite the large diversity of courses available, I have chosen to study a degree in Health and Human Sciences. I feel as if I have a natural curiosity for the world and my chosen course will enable me to make a difference, while studying such a broad range of areas which is what I personally, find appealing about the study itself.

The modules 'Health, Illness and Society' and 'Evolutionary Medicine' are of particular interest to me as I am dedicated to pursuing a career in medical anthropological research, the health sector or similar. My interest for human sciences derived from an initial interest in medical anthropology and my Sociology and Psychology studies.

I have especially enjoyed the evolutionary and biological aspects of aggression this year in Psychology which has further motivated me to study this discipline at university. 'The Selfish Gene' by Richard Dawkins provided insights relating to the evolutionary and ecological ideas for aggression, which I have found to be helpful and thought-provoking in relation to my A Level work.

Psychology has also been useful in gaining analytical and mathematical skills. In Sociology I have enjoyed studying how human society develops and functions and has equipped me with the vital essay skills such as critical thinking and evaluating a range of perspectives and contemporary issues which would be of great use at university level. Health and Social Care gave me the opportunity for experience within both a primary school and an elderly care home in order to gain primary data for several pieces of coursework. I was able to develop essential research, organisational and interpersonal skills that are all necessary for a career in a health related area. I am also looking forward to the coursework 'Infectious Diseases', an area I am extremely intrigued by. I am also keen to further my French language from GCSE level, and would make use of the facilities at your institution. I have extended my interest beyond the classroom by watching several Ted Talk's.

I found 'Tracking Ancient Diseases Using Plaque' by Christina Warinner especially interesting. She spoke about her investigation into the long term evolutionary history of health using dental calculus found in species as early as the Neanderthals. In addition, 'A Dig for Humanity's Origins' by Lowise Leukey gives an extremely thought-provoking talk into the past but also future of us as a species. I am currently involved in the 15 week student volunteer programme at Lister Hospital, which I find to be extremely fulfilling. The experience will hopefully give me a deeper insight into UK healthcare which will be useful when studying/comparing other views of health and the body worldwide. I also volunteer in a primary school once a week and mentored a year 7 form in my school. Both have helped me improve confidence and communication skills.

My interest in wider society is shown through my participation in 'The Memory Project' where I created a portrait for a Syrian refugee child, an item to act as a positive memory of their childhood. My other hobbies include yoga and running, recently raising over £300 for Cancer Research through 'Race for Life'. I am extremely health conscious and am intrigued by all aspects of physical and mental well-being both globally and personally, past and present. Furthermore, I enjoy reading. I have found 'The Blind Watchmaker' by Richard Dawkins to offer many interesting analogies in providing the idea of a 'blind watchmaker' as a wider explanation for all biological designs. Having recently completed the 4 week-long National Citizen Service I found that I have developed team-work, leadership and communication skills that would be invaluable at university, as well as experience with living in university halls. Due to this and the reasons above, I am excited about what the future might hold in Human Sciences and life at university.

Recommended Statements

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• Personal Statements
• Anthropology Personal Statement

Anthropology Personal Statement Example

Having always been a ‘people watcher’ I find the formal study of Anthropology a fascinating and multi-faceted focus. During my educational career I enjoyed a wide range of subjects and I feel that the multiple disciplines covered by an Anthropology degree would cater to all my criteria for a degree course.

A defining moment in my deciding that Anthropology was the subject I wanted to study at university was reading the book “Mapping Human History” by Steve Olson. This book gave me a grounding in the history of the human race and inspired me to do further reading and research.

At school I enjoyed History, Ethics, and Literature they helped me to gain further insight into how human relationships are built and develop. This is something I hope an Anthropology degree will continue to teach me.

My fascination with how society functions influenced my ‘A’ Level choices, where I studied Sociology and Psychology in order to understand both the social and the scientific aspects of human interaction.

Outside of school I enjoy foreign language films, in particular the Spanish films of Guillermo del Toro, volunteering for local projects, such as ‘Silver Surfers’, learning new languages, and travelling.

I recently volunteered in Kenya to help build a school for the local community. My time there not only introduced me to the indigenous tribal people but also helped to develop my teamwork skills as we worked together towards a common goal.

Once the school was complete I also taught several classes before I returned home which was not only a great experience but also really gave me a sense of responsibility and leadership.

I hope to continue my charity work throughout my university career and continue to study a subject that I am both dedicated to and passionate about. I am also considering a position teaching English to school children in Peru for my next trip.

After completing my degree I would like to gain a position in a large organisation such as UNICEF in order to continue the work already started helping developing countries reach their full potential. 

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May 17th, 2022

Tips on structuring your personal statement (anthropology and law included).

0 comments | 3 shares

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

All views expressed are those of the author.

As someone who applied to many different courses such as; Law with European Legal Studies, straight Law, and Law and Anthropology., finding a way to encompass all my experience and fascination without neglecting any of the courses that I wished to apply to can be very tricky. Below are tips that may be helpful to take into account when formulating your personal statement (both general and specific).

A lot of people worry about the ratio when it comes to applying to varying degrees or joint honours degrees. As the majority of the courses I had chosen included Law I made sure to have more law. The Anthropology was about 30% (roughly a paragraph and a couple sentences incorporated throughout).

EXPERIENCE/ EXTRACURRICULAR:

This does not have to be anything fancy, it can just simply be anything that proves your passion in the course you would like to do. I managed to link a Psychology taster course I had taken in the summer to Anthropology. The key is to use whatever experience you have to demonstrate your dedication to this course outside of your studies.

It is always nice to emphasise your interest by proving you’ve read around the subject. You could do this by going on to the University’s website and looking at the preliminary/background readings for the course. Research can span from reading books, articles, journals or even Youtube videos. [For reference for Anthropology I read ‘Small places, Large Issues- Thomas Hylland’].

CONNECTIONS:

It’s important to make sure the structure of your personal statement flows and reflects you and one way I did this was by making connections. When speaking about Anthropology I found ways to portray my knowledge/experience doing A-level French also plays a part in solidifying my Anthropological knowledge. It can be simple as connecting your subjects to the course you want to study or you can make it personal to the University e.g. perhaps you enjoyed a particular reading which happened to be written by a Professor at LSE.

SIMPLICITY:

From my first ever draft to the multiple that followed, one thing I was repeatedly told by teachers/mentors at the time was to “use the most simple language”. As an English Literature student at the time, I wrote extremely long sentences and was never direct in what I wanted to get across. I recommend you have someone read over it and see what areas you can simplify but still have your point remain clear.

I must also mention that it is okay not to have the most perfect draft in a month, it took about 2 months and about 15 drafts for me to formulate a suitable one.

I hope these tips were useful in guiding you when writing your personal statement. Feel free to leave your comments below.

Find advice on writing personal statements for your UCAS application on  LSE’s website .

About the author

Hi, I'm Rosa, a second-year Anthropology and Law student who lives in London. I'm an aspiring solicitor as well as an Anthropology enthusiast.

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Geography and Anthropology Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Geography and Anthropology
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2
• Personal Statement Example 3
• Personal Statement Example 4
• Personal Statement Example 5

Ever been fascinated by the intricate relationship between human societies and their geographical landscapes? Intrigued by the cultural diversity of our world and how it’s shaped by environmental factors?

If so, a degree in Geography and Anthropology might be your perfect journey. This interdisciplinary field will immerse you in the study of human cultures and their environmental contexts, enabling you to understand the world from a holistic perspective.

Geography and Anthropology is an interesting and relevant university course for students interested in exploring the world around them. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the physical and cultural aspects of the world, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Through this course, students will learn about the physical features of the environment, the cultural and social dynamics of different societies, and the historical and political contexts of different regions. By studying both geography and anthropology, students will gain a holistic view of the world, which will enable them to better understand the complexities of the human experience.

Additionally, this course will provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about global issues, and to better understand the world around them. Ultimately, this course is an excellent choice for students who are looking to gain a deeper understanding of the world, and to develop the skills necessary to make informed decisions about global issues.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in geography and anthropology can open up a variety of career opportunities in a range of industries and sectors.

In the field of geography, graduates can pursue careers in urban planning, cartography, GIS (geographic information systems) analysis, land surveying, environmental consulting, and disaster management. These careers involve researching and analyzing data, creating maps and models, and developing strategies to address environmental and social issues.

In the field of anthropology, graduates can pursue careers in cultural resource management, medical anthropology, applied anthropology, archaeology, and forensic anthropology. These careers involve researching and analyzing human behavior and cultures, conducting fieldwork, and developing strategies to address social and cultural issues.

Graduates may also pursue careers in public policy, international development, education, and social work. These careers involve researching and analyzing data, developing strategies to address social issues, and educating the public.

In addition, graduates may pursue careers in business, marketing, and public relations. These careers involve researching and analyzing data, developing strategies to address business and marketing issues, and communicating with the public.

Finally, graduates may pursue careers in journalism, media, and communications. These careers involve researching and analyzing data, developing strategies to address media and communication issues, and communicating with the public.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to get accepted into the university course in geography and anthropology, applicants must meet the following entry criteria:

Grades: Applicants must have achieved a minimum of a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree, or equivalent qualifications, in a relevant subject such as geography, anthropology, or a related social science.

Prerequisites: Applicants must have a good understanding of the core concepts of geography and anthropology, including an understanding of the physical and human geography of the world.

Other Entry Criteria: Applicants must also demonstrate a strong interest in the subject, as well as the ability to think critically and analytically.

This entry criteria is similar to other university courses in the social sciences, such as sociology, political science, and economics. Applicants must have a minimum of a 2:1 in their undergraduate degree, or equivalent qualifications, and demonstrate a good understanding of the core concepts of the subject. They must also demonstrate an interest in the subject and the ability to think critically and analytically.

UK Earnings Potential For Geography and Anthropology

The average earnings for someone with a degree in geography and anthropology can vary depending on the type of job they pursue. Generally, graduates with a degree in geography and anthropology can expect to earn an average of £32,000 per year. However, those with more specialized skills and experience can earn significantly more.

In terms of trends in the job market, there is a growing demand for individuals with a degree in geography and anthropology. This is due to the increasing need for professionals to help tackle global challenges such as climate change and urbanization. Additionally, the rise of digital technologies has created new opportunities for professionals in this field to use their skills in data analysis and mapping. As a result, there is a growing demand for professionals with a degree in geography and anthropology in areas such as GIS, remote sensing, and data science.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses to Geography and Anthropology include Archaeology, Development Studies, Environmental Science, and Human Geography.

Archaeology is the study of past human societies, cultures, and environments through the examination of physical remains such as artifacts, architecture, and ecofacts. It is closely related to anthropology, as it focuses on the material remains of past societies, but it is distinct in that it is primarily concerned with the study of the material culture of past societies.

Development Studies is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the economic, social, and political aspects of development. It examines the causes and consequences of global poverty and inequality, as well as the strategies and policies used to address them. Development Studies is closely related to Geography, as it examines the spatial dimensions of development, but it is distinct in that it focuses more on the economic, social, and political aspects of development.

Environmental Science is the study of the interactions between the physical, chemical, and biological components of the environment, and how these interactions affect the environment. It is closely related to Geography, as it examines the physical environment, but it is distinct in that it focuses more on the biological and chemical aspects of the environment.

Human Geography is the study of the spatial aspects of human societies and cultures. It examines the ways in which humans interact with and shape their physical environment, as well as the ways in which they are shaped by it. It is closely

UK Curriculum

Geography and Anthropology is an interdisciplinary course that combines the study of physical and human geography with the study of anthropology. The key topics and modules covered in the course include:

• Physical Geography: This module covers the physical aspects of geography such as landforms, climate, soils, vegetation, and water. It also includes the study of physical processes such as erosion, deposition, and weathering.
• Human Geography: This module covers the human aspects of geography such as population, migration, urbanization, economic activities, and cultural diversity. It also includes the study of human processes such as globalization, regionalization, and environmental change.
• Anthropology: This module covers the study of human societies and cultures, including their history, language, religion, and customs. It also includes the study of social and cultural change, as well as the impact of globalization on societies and cultures.
• Hands-on Experience: The course includes a variety of hands-on activities and field trips. For example, students may participate in field trips to observe landforms, visit local communities, and explore cultural sites. They may also engage in hands-on activities such as mapping, interviewing, and data analysis.
• Practical Work: The course includes a variety of practical assignments and projects. These may include research papers, field reports, presentations, and group projects. Students may also be required to complete a final project or research paper at the end of the course.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the course of geography and anthropology include Dr. Alan Goodman, professor of anthropology at Hampshire College, and Dr. Sarah Elwood, professor of geography at the University of Washington.

Dr. Alan Goodman is a noted anthropologist who has made significant contributions to the field of medical anthropology. He has conducted research on the social and cultural aspects of health, illness, and healing, and has written extensively on the topics of medical pluralism and biocultural diversity. He has also been involved in the development of public health initiatives in the United States and abroad.

Dr. Sarah Elwood is a professor of geography at the University of Washington and a leading figure in the field of urban geography. Her research focuses on the intersection of urban development and social justice, and she has written extensively on the topics of urban planning, housing, and gentrification. She has also been involved in the development of public policy initiatives in the Seattle area.

Alumni events and networking opportunities for geography and anthropology alumni include the Geography and Anthropology Alumni Network (GAAN), which is a virtual network of alumni from the course. GAAN organizes events such as lectures, workshops, and conferences, as well as providing mentorship and networking opportunities. The network also provides resources to help alumni stay connected and informed about the latest developments in the field.

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Two Sample Statements of Purpose

Sample 1:  Statement of Purpose Keywords: Transnationalism, Memory and Africa | Afro-Diaspora On a balmy October night in 2014, I spontaneously hopped into one of Accra's trademark yellow and blue taxis with three friends for a night of music and merriment at Alliance Française. I was on exchange in Ghana at Ashesi University and had invited my friends to spend mid-semester break with me at my grandmother's house in Accra. As the pulsating and infectious beats of the legendary Ga music ensemble, Wulomei filled the walled compound, my eyes wandered around. It was a visual smorgasbord, with an array of beautiful brown women and men, immaculately and eclectically dressed, some with piercings and tattoos, which is quite unusual in the Ghanaian context. Their aesthetic sensibilities were diverse, but oddly complementary of one another, as though they were predestined to inhabit this space together on this night and create a beautiful, cosmopolitan collage. Their demeanor and self-presentation exuded a defiant self-assuredness that piqued our interest. “They must be returnees,” one of my friends explained.

Returnees, I would come to learn, are a growing group of Africans and Afro-Diasporans who are choosing to move "back" to the African continent. I became curious about what had spurred this boom and the impact of returnees on the socio-cultural and economic landscapes of the countries they were returning to. As I spoke to returnees, I learned that gender identities and romance are other complex layers of the experience. I began work towards an honors thesis on return migration to Accra, Ghana, and continued my fieldwork during the summer of 2015. In 2016, I received the Nancy "Penny Schwartz" Undergraduate Essay Award from the Association of Africanist Anthropology for three chapters excerpted and reworked from my thesis, Taking It Back To The Motherland: The Untold Tales of Accra’s Returnees. In my dissertation, I plan to build on my undergraduate fieldwork and continue to study Accra as a site of return. Accra is a “city in transition” (Dupont 2014) with deep histories cosmopolitanism and return migration. I will explore the different waves of return, from the post-independence wave of the 1960s to the post-2007 surge after new oil reserves were discovered in Ghana. Many migrants develop an almost mythical imaginary of their homeland. For Accra's returnees, the essentialized image is held up against the reality of life in Accra upon return. Ghanaian society and her "locals" place on them the onus of proving, in a variety of situations, that they can not only survive but thrive in an African city. In my dissertation, I will continue to unpack what Nadia J. Kim (2009) refers to as the “authenticity dilemma,” and examine whether returnees are able to (re)integrate into Ghanaian society upon return. Our world today grapples with the challenge of responding effectively and ethically to an ongoing migrant crisis. Though there are nuances of temporal and geographic specificity, this contemporary discussion on human mobility is not novel, but rather a continuation of a discourse. We have long been curious about why people leave their homes, where they go, how they are received in host countries, and whether or not they chose to return to their countries of origin. However, this discourse has generally perceived migration as a singular, mono-directional life event, when it is not. Migrants often move back to places where they lived before or to which they have ethnic or kinship connections (Niedomysl and Amcoff 2011). I will draw from a rich bank of global interdisciplinary literature on return migration. The study will be grounded in American anthropologist, George Gmelch’s (1980) seminal definition of return migration: "the movement of emigrants back to their homelands to resettle." Dutch sociologist Frank Bovenverk’s (1974) typology provides a starting point for categorizing returnees. Benedict Anderson's Imagined Communities (1983), Homi Bhabha's The Location of Culture (1994) and Arjun Appadurai's Modernity At Large (1996) will guide the process of mapping identity formation and cultural liminality in a rapidly changing, ever technological and culturally diffuse world. Drawing from Laura Nader's emphasis on the importance of studying the "middle and upper ends" of society (1972: 1), the participants in this study will mainly be middle and upper middle class. By "studying up," I hope to contribute to the ethnographic discourse on power within cultures. I will also draw on the autoethnographic methodology as employed by Zora Neale-Hurston in Mules and Men (1935), and her masterful navigation of writing from within a culture, as an insider-outsider. I see Duke as the ideal location to work towards my proposed dissertation. The project will find a home within the cross-disciplinary and globally minded approach of the program. There are several members of the faculty whose mentorship will be invaluable. Laurie N. McIntosh, whose research on identity-formation among Norwegians of African descent will provide important methodological and theoretical frameworks for this project. Lee D. Baker, with his expertise on the impact of identity on the everyday lives of Afrodiasporic people, would also provide great guidance to this work. I hope to also work with faculty in the Department of African & African American Studies and in particular Michaeline A. Crichlow. I am excited to learn about opportunities to attend lectures and participate in vibrant discussions at the John Hope Franklin Center and look forward to engaging with these opportunities as well. Since graduating from Macalester College in 2016, I have engaged with a variety of professional and volunteer experiences. As a Program Assistant at the Minnesota Historical Society's Department of Inclusion, I worked to bring more people of color into the museum field through college and high school fellowships. For the last two years, I have worked with two college mates to create an empathy-building children's book in response to increased bullying after the 2016 election. Ethnographic interviewing skills came in handy as we journeyed to elementary schools to speak with students and collect scenarios for the book. Most recently, I am the Curatorial Project Assistant for the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize exhibition on laureates, Denis Mukwege, and Nadia Murad. Through these experiences, I have been challenged intellectually and strengthened my passion for ethnography. Throughout my undergraduate studies, my main motivation was to continue on to graduate school and train to become a professional anthropologist and researcher. In my studies toward a doctoral degree, I hope to continue to examine the impact of migration and transnationalism in the Black diaspora through the experiences of migrants engaging in these mobilities. It would be a dream come true to do this at Duke.  

Sample 2:  Statement of Purpose Keywords: Politics of Place, Urban Ethnography, North America, Politics of Representation, Aesthetic Hierarchies, Critical Race Studies, Class Studies, Political Economies How do the intersections of race and class affect African Americans' presence in the arts? What is the impact of racializing behavior for musicians of color? I came to these questions as a freshman in college, when I stepped onto the stage of the Amherst College Symphony Orchestra and realized that I was the only Black musician out of the 92-person ensemble. Though many Black classical musicians are accustomed to this racial isolation, I was particularly shocked, as my previous experiences with orchestra in my home community were quite diverse. Growing up in Columbia, MD, I was accustomed to diversity in every aspect of my life, from swim team to math club to orchestra. My bubble of positive racial representation burst when I arrived at Amherst and discovered that my childhood experiences were quite uncommon. This revelation led me to question why that might be the case, and more specifically, why so few African Americans participate in classical orchestral music. Since the 1990s, Blacks have comprised about I of major American symphonic orchestras, a number that has remained unchanged for nearly three decades. Asian Americans and Latinx participation in symphonic orchestras has improved markedly, while African Americans have yet to increase their participation in these ensembles. Two decades ago, the Sphinx Organization, a Detroit-based non-profit organization, created the first entirely Black and Hispanic professional orchestra in the world. A few other orchestras comprised of minorities have emerged, but major American Symphonic orchestras have yet to see improvement in Blacks' participation in their ensembles. My dissertation will expand upon my undergraduate senior honors thesis, a preliminary exploration of discrimination, exclusion, and confusion about cultural belonging in American symphonic orchestras. I hope to develop my research with contemporary anthropological discussions of community, belonging, aesthetic hierarchies, and politics of representation, as writing my senior thesis worked to generate further, more thoughtful research questions about this topic, all of which can best be addressed through an anthropological dissertation. With established access to a community of Black musicians, I hope to ground my ethnographic research with the Sphinx Organization. As a sort of “Black Mecca” within the orchestral world, Sphinx acts as a space in which Black musicians can be themselves, rather than perform an identity. The Sphinx Organization conceptualizes the absence of Black participation in orchestras primarily as a "pipeline issue," in that Black and Latinx students do not have access to the resources needed to support and produce an accomplished musician. However, this issue involves myriad considerations beyond a lack of resources. Why is there the impetus to create entirely separate orchestras for minorities, and is this a solution? What is the significance of the orchestral stage as a space of social inclusion and how does it serve as a cultural marker for inclusion and exclusion? In my dissertation, I hope to address these questions by putting research involving the intersections of class and race (Fennell 2015; Cox 2015; Mahon 2004) and aesthetic hierarchies (Sharman 2006; Davila 2001; Pham 2017) in conversation. In doing so, I will highlight some of the more insidious concerns related to this lack of participation and representation. As my research has shown thus far, there seems to be an implicit understanding of orchestral music as being an exclusively white tradition. Orchestral music is classified as a "high arts," a subcategory of the arts that has a history of racism and exclusion in terms of what practices may or may not be given value. In my research, I will unpack the essentialist concept of the “high arts” and the Eurocentric construction of orchestral music as a white tradition. Do Black people truly not belong in the high arts, or were they made not to belong? Who decides whether Blacks belong, and what processes perpetuate this notion of inclusion? What are the boundaries surrounding the "high arts" community, and how do class and race intersect in this context? It is my aim to interrogate ideas of exclusivity surrounding these established, taken-for-granted aesthetic hierarchies, and to explore how race and class-based social positioning both establish and maintain these inequalities. Additionally, my research involved discussions of representation, and what it means to be recognized. With DuBois’ The Souls of Black Folk (1903) as a framework for my exploration of critical race theories, I want to add to this discourse by integrating Stuart Hall’s ideas of visual language as constructing meaning in Representation: Cultural Representations and Signifying Practices (1997) with John Berger’s Ways of Seeing. What does it mean to see and be seen within the context of the orchestral stage? Is there a performative Blackness or Whiteness that is expected of certain kinds of musicians, and what are the stakes of this performativity, both for those on the stage and off the stage? While this case of racial discrimination affects a relatively small community, I aim to highlight the macro-sociological effects of raceand class-based prejudice and discrimination. During my time at Amherst, I discovered a passion for filmmaking, documentary films, and ethnographic methodology. My first documentary project during my freshman year at Amherst explored how an east-Indian dance form called orissi created meaning for people of both Indian and non-Indian descent, and how it influenced dance in the Pioneer Valley in Massachusetts as a whole. In doing this project I learned how people create meaning in these cross-cultural interactions, which was significant considering my upbringing and being accustomed to sharing cultural art forms. I moved on to complete other film projects, working with the Smithsonian to create short documentary pieces about folklife from different cultures, and creating a visually and auditorily compelling documentary for my senior thesis. My time at NYU has been instrumental in providing further opportunity to conceptualize and develop short films and to hone my production skills in the Culture and Media program. Working with Faye Ginsburg and Arlene Davila, amongst others, has enabled me to consider my work through the lens of an anthropologist. I have discussed my research goals with Professor Lee Baker and feel that his unique historical study of intersections between the development of American Anthropology pedagogy and the foundations of race relations and racial imaginaries in From Savage to Negro (1998) would act as an exemplar of how I should explore hegemonic systems in my own research. Professor J. Lorand Matory’s Black Atlantic Religion (2005), which challenges to the narrative of transnationalism as a recent phenomenon and his studies of transnational and translocal flows of information and cultural practices, would provide an excellent framework on my research involving cross-cultural interactions in the musical world. Another guiding force for my research would be Professor Charles Piot’s work involving agency as engagement (as opposed to rejection) with European cultural modes, along with his consideration of a long history of global cultural crossings. I am excited for the opportunity to apply to Duke University, as I feel that this school, with its encouragement of interdisciplinary work, passionate professors, and desire to create a positive learning environment will allow me to develop into a strong scholar.

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Anthropology

Applied in: winter 2013, university offers: bath, cambridge.

It was the testimony of a survivor of the Arab Spring I encountered during a research project that drew me to the study of human behaviour. Having been raised in a protected environment in a time without conflicts, the stories of the young women who endured the Egyptian Revolution, such as Asmaa Mahfouz, made me want to take a more active role in a world of potential "clashes of civilizations". This was an idea I first encountered in the work of Samuel Huntington. "Introduction to Anthropology" by Claude Riviere led me to believe it is only when you attempt to understand the origins of human interaction and social behaviour that you can truly begin to understand how society works. In class, we looked at Kant's theory that every man is able to think for himself and in so doing he becomes autonomous and free. This is what makes each human being different from one another and this is the aspect of Anthropology I wish to pursue.  

As a child, the collection of African masks exhibited in the Musee du Quai Branly fascinated me. I would stand for hours in front of them as I recalled the masks my father would bring home from trips to Nigeria and Congo. My fascination with these masks led to my desire to analyse how and why beliefs and customs vary so radically from country to country. For instance, why is it that masks in Africa are mostly worn in order to communicate with ancestors whereas in Bali they are used to scare off evil spirits and prevent sickness?

I chose the Economics and Social Sciences branch of the Baccalaureat because it requires a broad skill-set, encourages an open-mind and has a direct connection to current affairs. The Sociology module enables us to debate ideas regarding the construction of social identities in a formal framework and develop concepts and theories as a group. Our study of deviant behaviours was particularly interesting as we began looking at the root causes of deviancy. We encounter second-hand anecdotes about deviant behaviour regularly in the press but rarely, if ever, do such stories go beyond the consequences of this behaviour. By participating in debates in the Lycee Francais' Human Rights Club, I learned to develop a critical approach to my peers' received opinions regarding ethical questions such as: should deviant behaviour be punished as a crime or treated as an illness?

Last summer I taught English in a Sri Lankan orphanage. Staying with a local family gave me insight into some of the country's traditions and customs, such as attending religious ceremonies at the local Buddhist temple, experiencing how seemingly small differences can feel so alien to someone from a different culture.

I regularly attend yoga classes at Triyoga which I find very restorative, as it permits to join the body and the mind through relaxation and to take a step back from everyday life. I am also a keen diver and successfully obtained my PE40, a qualification allowing me to dive to 40 meters. Photography, however, is my main passion and one of my greatest pleasures is capturing moments from my travels in order to share memories with my friends and family. Indeed, with photography, I feel as if my emotions and reactions to places are truly revealed.

I have a Venezuelan stepmother, an English stepfather, was born in France and live in the UK. My grandfather lives in Argentina and my father lives in Gabon. I myself am a product of an increasingly globalized planet with evermore-complex interactions across national borders and cultures. Through the study of Anthropology I am seeking to gain a deeper understanding of those interactions and how these will evolve into new behaviours and beliefs.

Please note UCAS will detect any form of plagiarism. PSE and its contributors do not take any responsibility for the way in which personal statements are used.

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Personal Growth Statement

Sample personal growth statement, giving birth to an internship: the seattle midwifery school, department of anthropology, indiana university of pennsylvania.

In the course of studying anthropology, it is medical anthropology, or the relation between physiology and culture, that I find the most fascinating. Society and culture shape the way that humans think about health, illness, and body image in general. The magnitude of cultural forces is clear when it defines the way that we physically care for ourselves. I plan to continue studying the theoretical aspects of medical anthropology and ideally combine it with my "clinical" training in midwifery/women's health. It is this goal that led me to the site of my internship. Seattle Midwifery School accepted me as an intern for the summer of 1995. The director of the school and I planned that I would do research that would both benefit the school and my own personal interests in learning more about the work of midwives.

Going into this internship, my goals were somewhat clear. I knew for one that I wanted to be around midwives. I wanted to be around people who know midwifery as a career, who knew the reality of it. I wanted to sort out the pros and cons of direct-entry midwifery and certified nurse midwifery. Being two very different avenues within the same practice, I needed to know what really distinguishes the two.

At the onset of this internship I was very enticed with the idea of being a direct-entry midwife. With its focus on home birth and a highly natural or unmedicated approach to pregnancy and labor, direct-entry midwifery was and is what I consider to be "true" midwifery. So, I decided to spend time with direct-entry midwives and their teachers in Seattle, Washington. I worked for six seeks at Seattle Midwifery School, which is one of the few accredited schools of direct-entry midwifery in this country. The following will be an account of the work that I did at the school, how I felt about the work, and finally what I came away with from this internship and where it has led me on my path of midwifery and anthropology.

I essentially did three projects for the school. The first was compiling and summarizing individual class, overall program, and alumni evaluations. The second was a detailed research of the current legal status of midwifery in this country. The third project was contacting midwifery schools and organizations and having them send current information on their programs in order to update our files at SMS. Another small project was a bibliographic search of the history of midwifery.

The first of my tasks was a perfect introduction to the school. On my first day, I was introduced to the staff, taken on a tour of the small school, and then plunged right into the work. JoAnne (my supervisor) had all of the class, program, and alumni evaluations ready for me and a pretty good idea of what she wanted to have done with each of them. The goal was to have a prepared presentation of the evaluation outcomes ready for a faculty meeting that was scheduled one week from my starting day.

As most courses everywhere do, each one at SMS has a final evaluation of the course filled out by the students. So I read, tabulated, and summarized the evaluations for each class. After that, I did the same with program evaluations that are filled out by each graduating student. Next, I read and summarized alumni surveys that had been mailed out a few months prior to my arrival. All three of the evaluation outcomes were to be prepared for the next faculty meeting, and I was to explain the findings, although I covered that by making a handout with the summaries of each.

JoAnne wanted the faculty to have knowledge of the outcomes and comments early in the summer so that they would have time to plan alterations before the Fall session. More importantly though, the school's curriculum is going to be evaluated this fall by ACCET, an accreditation board of some sort. The program evaluation summaries that I prepared are a part of Seattle Midwifery School's own preparation for the accreditation process. Fortunately, they were able to use the summaries as a part of the accreditation packet that is required for ACCET.

I cannot think of a better project to start out with. I was immediately introduced to the midwifery curriculum at SMS. I feel like I really got an honest look at the program. It made the curriculum clearer to me while I also saw what the students feel about the instructors and class content/organization. Considering that one of my goals of this internship was to feel out the pros and cons of a direct-entry program, I'm not sure if their was a more concise way to do it than this first project. In retrospect, I think that this part of my internship was the most enlightening and rewarding.

The second project was researching the legal status of midwifery in this country. Direct-entry midwifery has been, and still is, a very controversial issue. Since direct-entry midwives are those midwives that practice without a degree in nursing, it is thought by many that they are unqualified to care for pregnant/laboring women. In some states there are clearly defined laws against direct-entry or licensed midwives. In other states they are free to practice; however, they must have special training and pass a licensing exam. Still, in some other states the laws are vague or obsolete, meaning that when a midwife is in court her case is an individual consideration and she may be charged with practicing medicine without a license.

Midwifery legal circumstances frequently change due to influence of new cases, the growing popularity of midwifery, and reassessment of old laws. SMS has an extensive filing of midwifery legal issues; however. most of the statues that were on file were quite dated. My second project was to work in the University of Washington's law library in order to update the law files, especially the statues for each state. I also did a search for journal and law review articles that pertained to midwifery and the law.

This work landed me many hours in the law library looking up each individual state and its position on licensed (sometimes unlicensed) midwives. This does not include certified nurse midwives who are permitted to practice legally in all states. Eventually, I developed a routine in looking up each state's midwifery status. Most states did include a statute regarding midwifery. The aggravation came when the state would have no mention of midwives, which would necessitate my looking under other key words to find some mention of midwifery. Few times did this ever produce any findings.

I also had a list of cases that I was to locate and make copies of. I am so grateful to Emily Mansfield, who teaches the legal issues section at SMS. She showed me how to actually use the law library, and she helped me when I ran into walls within certain states (sometimes it was a wild goose chase to find the midwifery section). It would have been a lot more complicated if I had not had her help.

I really did not enjoy doing this research all that much. But I do feel like I contributed significantly to the school. They now have current legal information in the files, which is important to the students who are considering practice in various parts of the country, as well as providing better material for Emily's class. This project, though tedious, shed even more light on my contemplation between direct-entry midwifery and certified nurse midwifery. It is obvious to me now that, as a certified nurse midwife, a person has much more working freedom, through legality of practice, than a direct entry midwife does. This is one of the most striking differences between the two tracks of midwifery as I consider one of the two as a career.

Toward the end of my six-week internship I had already felt like I accomplished a lot at the school. I had about two weeks left and JoAnne and I were considering a couple of different projects. Around this time we met with a woman who is a professor of history in British Columbia who was in Seattle doing research on the history of midwifery among Asian immigrant populations. Her search had landed her in Seattle and at the school in hopes of our having some information on past midwives from the area. After talking to Lorie, JoAnne and I decided that I would work on accumulating a bibliography of the history of midwifery articles from dissertations, theses, and journal articles. Working again at the University of Washington, I gathered the bibliographic information and compiled it.

While I was working on the bibliography project I was also contacting various midwifery schools and organizations around the country. In another attempt to update SMS files, I asked them to send us information on their programs. This was a great project for me to do because it was a chance to talk to a lot of different midwives all over the country. It also enabled me to speak with people and see the material from various university programs of midwifery, or CNM programs. Doing this, again, added to my comparison between the direct-entry route and the CNM route. I was fascinated to hear about the different places that the midwives I spoke with were working. For example, I spoke with a wonderful woman in western North Carolina who is the only midwife in the state that is practicing legally without a nursing degree because of the grandfather clause. She's worked for thirty years in a rural area of North Carolina. It was a time of touching different options, different places, and possibilities of midwifery and anthropological work. It was, and is, exciting. Midwives are needed everywhere, which makes it such an excellent skill to combine with anthropological work.

These two final projects were lighter than the first two and were a nice way to finish my work at Seattle Midwifery School. I was able to go into the internship with a lot of enthusiasm and energy and apply it to the work. As time went on, the intensity of things at the school tapered off as I began to focus my energy in other directions. One of those things, and a direct result of my work at Seattle Midwifery School, was the opportunity to take a Labor Support Course. As a result of this class, I have learned how to work as a Doula, a perfect stepping stone to becoming a midwife. As well as introducing me to Doula work, my internship created an incredible network. I have met so many influential people and opened many windows to resources that were more available through being a part of Seattle Midwifery School. I have been able to make decisions, some long and hard, upon the knowledge I gained through my work at the school.

Honestly, this internship was not much of a clearly anthropological endeavor. However, on my path as an anthropologist, especially as a medical anthropologist, it was invaluable. I was able to create a base from where future work and education can be built upon. As I currently study medical anthropology, I will be able to combine the knowledge from my internship to make connections for future work.

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Anthropology

Ph.d. admissions.

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Brown University's Ph.D. Program in Anthropology offers:

• a stimulating, challenging, yet supportive intellectual community
• a highly productive and diverse group of faculty members with a broad range of research and teaching interests
• close mentoring for graduate students
• a supportive graduate student community
• generous funding packages, with additional funds available for supplementary training and field research
• an outstanding record of graduate student success in winning external research grants in national and international competitions
• a strong record of placing graduates in desirable academic and professional positions around the world

The  Application Deadline is December 1st  of each year.  Applications are made through the Graduate School's online application portal on the  Graduate School’s website . You will be asked for a personal statement of two single-spaced pages, which should convey your intellectual trajectory, describe your scholarly/research interests, and articulate why Brown’s anthropology department is the right intellectual fit for your research. Other application components are your academic transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a writing sample. GRE scores are not required.  International applicants whose native language is not English must submit official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exams.

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Brown’s graduate program is Ph.D. granting, and does not admit students solely pursuing a terminal Master’s degree. Students are admitted on the basis of their excellent academic credentials; strong evidence of the capacity to conduct innovative, rigorous independent research; and interests that align with the department’s overall areas of strength. If you wish to work with particular faculty members, you should make that clear in your personal statement; however, the department makes admissions decisions collectively. Our admissions process is highly selective. Each year, the department receives over 150 applications for graduate study. We have typically made offers of admission to roughly 8-10 students per year, all of whom are guaranteed  six years of stipend  and tuition remission. 

If you have a special interest in the program and are visiting the Providence area, you may contact relevant faculty members well in advance to request appointments. Faculty availability for such meetings will depend on their schedules and commitments. Additionally, feel free to contact faculty members by email.  Most faculty will be happy to respond by email to inquiries from serious candidates regarding the program and individual research interests.

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Ieva jusionyte, student affairs coordinator, alana suplido, departmental faculty.

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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.

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Preparing to Write 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.

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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Anthropology and archaeology personal statement example.

My interest in culture first started when I began to attend my local Hindu Temple with my friend in primary school. I was highly interested in how her surroundings differed from my own and enjoyed immersing myself in her way of life. I attended a Hindu wedding and was struck at the contrast to the style of Christian weddings. This conveyed to me how much marriage in Hindu communities is seen as a social responsibility and not just a private choice. In later years, I realised how much of my friend's upbringing influenced her behaviour, mainly her strong sense of family responsibilities. This was a driving force towards my interest in anthropology as I felt drawn to understanding more about how culture influences whole human groups; I am currently undertaking an EPQ on a comparison of attitudes towards marriage in Korea and the USA. Religious Studies introduced me to the concept of cultural relativism, which opened up for me worlds beyond the limitations of my own upbringing. Through wider reading I learnt Franz Boas advocated cultural relativism as a way of overcoming ethnocentric thinking, an idea I also believe. Finding a way to empathise with others in our multi-cultural world where globalization brings societies into contact is vital to our future. My historical studies have been extremely helpful to my interest in anthropology as I was able to see how attitudes altered over a period of time due to economic and social changes by studying the USA between 1890 and 1945. I entered the Oxford Fred Walker Essay Prize - marked at undergraduate level - coming in third place, with Pembroke College professors complimenting my use of a range of contrasting ideas from anthropologists, historians and neurobiologists in order to support my argument that history is not 'one bloody thing after another'. By studying Classical Civilisation, I developed a strong interest in the ancient world. I found the cross-culture comparison between attitudes towards women in ancient Rome and Athens particularly intriguing. This summer I was able to see archaeological sites of this era at Ephesus and Malta. I loved that so much could be discovered of these past civilizations through archaeology and was fascinated at how people of the ancient world were so similar to people in the present. All of these experiences have shown me how people's attitudes are so deeply influenced by their surrounding culture and have made me more aware of my role in society. Although a new student to my school last year, I have been a dedicated member of the school community. I've been elected Deputy Head Girl and Editor of the school paper. I am also an active member of society. I attended the Dalai Lama's event on 'Stand Up and Be the Change'. This central ideal is one I am constantly trying to advance as in 2011 I created my own campaign IamTherefore. The campaign aims to challenge people's perceptions of others and to create awareness of negative stereotypes. It has gathered over 8500 likes on Facebook and is being sponsored by O2's Think Big programme. The campaign also won both the photography and film sections in the 2012 Truth about Youth competition. I have studied British Sign Language, passing Level 1 and have begun my Level 2 course. I have also accomplished Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award and am completing my Gold. In the summer of 2011 I took part in National Citizen Service, which brought young people of different social backgrounds to become more involved in their community. Together we ran a campaign against ageism. Recently I gained a place with International Citizen Service to work for 10 weeks in summer 2013 on a development project in Nicaragua. I will be living in a village with local volunteers, learning how people manage life with very few material benefits and helping address health and poverty issues. This will allow me to immerse myself in another culture and give me a good foundation to start my anthropology and archaeology degree.

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This personal statement was written by megmaria for application in 2013.

megmaria's university choices The University of Durham University of Bristol University of Exeter The University of Manchester University College London

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What to know about the crisis of violence, politics and hunger engulfing Haiti

A long-simmering crisis over Haiti’s ability to govern itself, particularly after a series of natural disasters and an increasingly dire humanitarian emergency, has come to a head in the Caribbean nation, as its de facto president remains stranded in Puerto Rico and its people starve and live in fear of rampant violence. 

The chaos engulfing the country has been bubbling for more than a year, only for it to spill over on the global stage on Monday night, as Haiti’s unpopular prime minister, Ariel Henry, agreed to resign once a transitional government is brokered by other Caribbean nations and parties, including the U.S.

But the very idea of a transitional government brokered not by Haitians but by outsiders is one of the main reasons Haiti, a nation of 11 million, is on the brink, according to humanitarian workers and residents who have called for Haitian-led solutions. 

“What we’re seeing in Haiti has been building since the 2010 earthquake,” said Greg Beckett, an associate professor of anthropology at Western University in Canada. 

What is happening in Haiti and why?

In the power vacuum that followed the assassination of democratically elected President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Henry, who was prime minister under Moïse, assumed power, with the support of several nations, including the U.S. 

When Haiti failed to hold elections multiple times — Henry said it was due to logistical problems or violence — protests rang out against him. By the time Henry announced last year that elections would be postponed again, to 2025, armed groups that were already active in Port-au-Prince, the capital, dialed up the violence.

Even before Moïse’s assassination, these militias and armed groups existed alongside politicians who used them to do their bidding, including everything from intimidating the opposition to collecting votes . With the dwindling of the country’s elected officials, though, many of these rebel forces have engaged in excessively violent acts, and have taken control of at least 80% of the capital, according to a United Nations estimate. 

Those groups, which include paramilitary and former police officers who pose as community leaders, have been responsible for the increase in killings, kidnappings and rapes since Moïse’s death, according to the Uppsala Conflict Data Program at Uppsala University in Sweden. According to a report from the U.N . released in January, more than 8,400 people were killed, injured or kidnapped in 2023, an increase of 122% increase from 2022.

“January and February have been the most violent months in the recent crisis, with thousands of people killed, or injured, or raped,” Beckett said.

Armed groups who had been calling for Henry’s resignation have already attacked airports, police stations, sea ports, the Central Bank and the country’s national soccer stadium. The situation reached critical mass earlier this month when the country’s two main prisons were raided , leading to the escape of about 4,000 prisoners. The beleaguered government called a 72-hour state of emergency, including a night-time curfew — but its authority had evaporated by then.

Aside from human-made catastrophes, Haiti still has not fully recovered from the devastating earthquake in 2010 that killed about 220,000 people and left 1.5 million homeless, many of them living in poorly built and exposed housing. More earthquakes, hurricanes and floods have followed, exacerbating efforts to rebuild infrastructure and a sense of national unity.

Since the earthquake, “there have been groups in Haiti trying to control that reconstruction process and the funding, the billions of dollars coming into the country to rebuild it,” said Beckett, who specializes in the Caribbean, particularly Haiti. 

Beckett said that control initially came from politicians and subsequently from armed groups supported by those politicians. Political “parties that controlled the government used the government for corruption to steal that money. We’re seeing the fallout from that.”

Many armed groups have formed in recent years claiming to be community groups carrying out essential work in underprivileged neighborhoods, but they have instead been accused of violence, even murder . One of the two main groups, G-9, is led by a former elite police officer, Jimmy Chérizier — also known as “Barbecue” — who has become the public face of the unrest and claimed credit for various attacks on public institutions. He has openly called for Henry to step down and called his campaign an “armed revolution.”

But caught in the crossfire are the residents of Haiti. In just one week, 15,000 people have been displaced from Port-au-Prince, according to a U.N. estimate. But people have been trying to flee the capital for well over a year, with one woman telling NBC News that she is currently hiding in a church with her three children and another family with eight children. The U.N. said about 160,000 people have left Port-au-Prince because of the swell of violence in the last several months. 

Deep poverty and famine are also a serious danger. Gangs have cut off access to the country’s largest port, Autorité Portuaire Nationale, and food could soon become scarce.

Haiti's uncertain future

A new transitional government may dismay the Haitians and their supporters who call for Haitian-led solutions to the crisis. 

But the creation of such a government would come after years of democratic disruption and the crumbling of Haiti’s political leadership. The country hasn’t held an election in eight years. 

Haitian advocates and scholars like Jemima Pierre, a professor at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, say foreign intervention, including from the U.S., is partially to blame for Haiti’s turmoil. The U.S. has routinely sent thousands of troops to Haiti , intervened in its government and supported unpopular leaders like Henry.

“What you have over the last 20 years is the consistent dismantling of the Haitian state,” Pierre said. “What intervention means for Haiti, what it has always meant, is death and destruction.”

In fact, the country’s situation was so dire that Henry was forced to travel abroad in the hope of securing a U.N. peacekeeping deal. He went to Kenya, which agreed to send 1,000 troops to coordinate an East African and U.N.-backed alliance to help restore order in Haiti, but the plan is now on hold . Kenya agreed last October to send a U.N.-sanctioned security force to Haiti, but Kenya’s courts decided it was unconstitutional. The result has been Haiti fending for itself. 

“A force like Kenya, they don’t speak Kreyòl, they don’t speak French,” Pierre said. “The Kenyan police are known for human rights abuses . So what does it tell us as Haitians that the only thing that you see that we deserve are not schools, not reparations for the cholera the U.N. brought , but more military with the mandate to use all kinds of force on our population? That is unacceptable.”  

Henry was forced to announce his planned resignation from Puerto Rico, as threats of violence — and armed groups taking over the airports — have prevented him from returning to his country.  

Now that Henry is to stand down, it is far from clear what the armed groups will do or demand next, aside from the right to govern. 

“It’s the Haitian people who know what they’re going through. It’s the Haitian people who are going to take destiny into their own hands. Haitian people will choose who will govern them,” Chérizier said recently, according to The Associated Press .

Haitians and their supporters have put forth their own solutions over the years, holding that foreign intervention routinely ignores the voices and desires of Haitians. 

In 2021, both Haitian and non-Haitian church leaders, women’s rights groups, lawyers, humanitarian workers, the Voodoo Sector and more created the Commission to Search for a Haitian Solution to the Crisis . The commission has proposed the “ Montana Accord ,” outlining a two-year interim government with oversight committees tasked with restoring order, eradicating corruption and establishing fair elections. 

For more from NBC BLK, sign up for our weekly newsletter .

CORRECTION (March 15, 2024, 9:58 a.m. ET): An earlier version of this article misstated which university Jemima Pierre is affiliated with. She is a professor at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, not the University of California, Los Angeles, (or Columbia University, as an earlier correction misstated).

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Char Adams is a reporter for NBC BLK who writes about race.