Personal Statements.

A personal statement is a key element of applications to graduate programs, fellowships, and many public health jobs. It provides you with an opportunity to share your story, motivations, and aspirations in a way that connects with your audience. This section of your application is where you explain you’re passionate about public health and how your background, values, and goals align with the program or role you’re applying for in a more creative manner.

Length

Personal statements are typically between 500 and 800 words, though this can vary depending on the specific program, school, or job. If there’s no specific limit given, aim for around one to two pages, double-spaced.

General Outline

Below is an outline to help you structure your personal statement effectively, ensuring that it communicates your goals, relevant experiences, and the unique qualities that make you stand out as a candidate:

  • Introduction: Start with a compelling statement that captures your passion for the work. This could be a personal story, a formative experience, or a specific challenge you’ve encountered that sparked your interest in the field.
  • Career Goals & Aspirations: Clearly articulate your long-term goals and explain how these align with the program, organization, or position you’re applying to. Show that you have a clear vision for your career path and explain how this opportunity aligns with your goals.
  • Relevant Experience: Highlight relevant work, research, or academic experiences that have prepared you for this next step. Describe how these experiences have shaped your skills, perspective, and readiness to contribute meaningfully to the field.
  • Skills & Strengths: Highlight specific skills (such as data analysis, community outreach, program management) that are directly relevant to the work. Include personal attributes like resilience, cultural competence, and dedication to health equity to demonstrate qualities that make you a strong candidate.
  • Conclusion: Tie your story together by reaffirming your commitment to your focus. Leave the reader with a strong sense of who you are and why you’re dedicated to making a positive impact in public health.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

  • Being too vague: Be specific about your goals, experiences, and how they’ve prepared you for the next step in your public health journey.
  • Focusing too much on personal history without connecting it to public health: While your personal experiences are important, make sure to tie them back to what you are applying to. Show how these experiences have shaped your desire to pursue this career path and how they align with your professional aspirations.
  • Only focusing on your career and not incorporating yourself into the statement: This is not a cover letter, be sure to show who you are as a person too.
  • Neglecting to mention how you fit with the academic program, fellowship or organization: It’s essential to explain why you’re a good fit for the program or position you’re applying to. Demonstrate how your goals, values, and experiences align with what they offer.
  • Failure to Proofread or Ask for Feedback. The CPO is happy to read and provide feedback on your personal statement.

Resources

Examples