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Though the personal statement is categorised into two, do not make the mistake of demarcating it into strict divisions. The essay should read like an integrated whole.

Let’s deal with the first section about motivation. The authorities would like to know what motivated a student to opt for the medical profession. Many essays jar the reader with their very first line. Do you know why? They all begin with the oft-repeated cliché, “Becoming a doctor was my dream.”

Never begin your essay with statements such as these. Begin by narrating an incident which deeply touched you. Write how a particular episode prompted you to turn a doctor. Do not dwell into details. Detailed essays leave little space for other vital attributes to be mentioned. And, details bore.

The next section of the personal statement deals with the personal attributes that determine the student’s selection. Understandably, the authorities are looking for all the good qualities to be found in an efficient doctor.

Sit back and think. What do you admire most in your family doctor or, for that matter, any capable doctor?

All good doctors are dedicated. Let your personal statement reveal your dedication. As mentioned, never state bare facts like “I am a dedicated person.” For example, if you have a special interest in music, and have won laurels, mention the determined effort you have put in to win. Your dedication to music specifies that a dedicated approach is your nature.

Doctors are also committed. Commitment is a professional demand. Mention your commitment subtly.

Compassion is a necessary attribute. Only the compassionate can nurse the sick. If you are interested in social work, write about specific jobs you have done. You are helping the needy. That throws light on the compassionate side in you.

Dedication and compassion are not of much use if a doctor lacks knowledge. A committed but ignorant doctor can only harm the patient. Any medical student should thirst for knowledge. What better way to prove this than mentioning your varied achievements in the academic field!

But, be careful enough, to never list out your achievements. Lists fail to effectively impress. They must always function as a substantiating proof.

These are the necessary attributes that must find a place in your personal statement for medical college. Sum up the essay with a description of your short-term and long-term goals.

Students usually make certain common mistakes while writing an essay. Safeguard against these pitfalls that have been listed below:

Some students narrate the requisite incidents in a vague manner. They expect the admission authorities to decipher the meaning from these vague facts. Unfortunately, the authorities fail to do so.
Any incident that is described should pertain to your life. Do not write how an earthquake in an unknown land deeply affected you. Tell the authorities how the death of a cousin due to cancer goaded you to choose this profession. They are trained to identify truth.
Personal statements must begin and end on a positive note. All controversial issues must be avoided.
A good personal statement highlights the good qualities of an individual. Every applicant has some flaws, for flaws are human nature. Do not honestly reveal your negative aspect. It is not necessary.
At times some flaws seek compulsory mention. In such circumstances, use your communication skills to present the negative aspects in a positive manner; and communication skills are much appreciated by the officials. For good doctors effectively communicate and allay the fears of the patient.
Finally, whatever you write must be grammatically correct. You are an aspiring medical student. But your knowledge of spellings and grammar is also acknowledged.
Do not use complicated words. The admission officials have no time to search the dictionaries. They have to skim through thousands of personal statements.
Read and re-read your statement several times. Self-assessment is necessary. Eliminate defectively written paragraphs.
Submit your personal statement only if you are fully satisfied.

Every student aspiring to study medicine works hard to produce the best personal statement. Unfortunately, the sheer intensity of effort lends a different colour to their statement. Trying hard, they come across as very good people in a pre-packaged cover.