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Why KCOM? : Preparing for D.O. Program Admission : Preparing for M.S. Program Admission : Visit KCOM : Accreditation : International Student Admissions

Preparing for D.O. Program Admission

Admission Requirements : Early Decision Process : Premedical Student Checklist : Application Checklist : Application Process : Top Ten Application Mistakes : Personal Statement Tips : Ambassadors : Still Scholars Early Acceptance

Personal Statement Tips

Definite DOs

• Proofread.
• Make every word count - communicate an impression and take an innovative approach.
• Brainstorm for ideas.
• Revise and rework your initial essay and all secondary essays.
• Type (rather than handwrite) your personal statements.
• Always consider the tone of the essay - you want to highlight your positive attributes.
• Mention your clinical exposure and personal experiences and how they have directly influenced your decision to be a physician - most importantly, share your feelings.
• Use active language, complex sentences, simple sentences, and correct terminology.
• Know your audience and have an understanding of the institution to which you are applying.
• Be proud of your accomplishments.
• Convey your research, leadership, service, and life experiences.
• Demonstrate your integrity, common sense, and your ability to inspire confidence in your colleagues.
• Demonstrate compassion for human beings, overall commitment, and enthusiasm for your future medical pursuits.
• Contextualize your accomplishments.
• Relate your professional goals and your personal goals.
• Talk from your heart.

Definite DON'Ts

• Don't speak in generalities - always answer the "how" and the "why" and use evidence to support your statements.
• Don't cut and paste your first statement for use in your secondary application.
• Don't use bad grammar, incorrect punctuation, or make spelling errors - proofread instead!
• Don't ramble on.
• Don't make excuses or beg for an interview.
• Don't harp on the less than stellar qualities of your application - explain any apparent contradictions and move on.
• Don't forget to do the essay - incompleteness is undesirable.
• Don't list qualities - illustrate and elucidate specific aspects.
• Don't swear.
• Don't employ gimmicks, try to create a great literary piece, or be overly flamboyant - be yourself.
• Don't restate the scores already listed elsewhere in your application, such as GPA or MCAT results.
• Don't speak of actions only - speak of feelings too as they are unique to you.
• Don't overlook the power of the introduction and conclusion.
• Don't take a non-stop approach to the statement - step away once in a while and come back.
• Don't forget to have others read your statement and provide you with feedback.
• Don't blame others or put down other professions.