UCAS personal statement for social work postgrad?
I’m procrastinating. I’m applying to the MSW postgraduate course at Strathclyde uni. Just thought I’d ask if anyone has any helpful advice for writing my personal statement? Or even advice on how to stop wasting time and just getting on with writing it?!!
Also hearing from anyone who’s done the MSW would be good. Thanks!
Hi,
I run the information sessions for prospective MSW students at my university and here’s what we ask them to keep in mind and address in their personal statement:
Why an MSW?
Why grad school now?
What about your previous background has led you to this?
Remember, this is not a clever essay, this is just the admissions group trying to get a picture of who you are. It’s perfectly appropriate to just describe yourself, keeping those three questions in mind.
So, tell about yourself. What have you done with your life so far? If you have relevant paid or volunteer work in the social services, describe it. Show what has led you to want an MSW in social work.
If you don’t have experience in the field, explain why you are interested in it. For instance, perhaps you have a relative with disabilities, and that has made you want to be an advocate for those with disabilities.
The committee will be looking for, first and foremost, the ability to do graduate level work, and especially research work. So, if you are a strong candidate with a high GPA, address your ability to do research.
If you do not have a strong GPA, it is essential that you address the reason why in your personal statement, otherwise they will think you can’t do graduate level study. Students sometimes have reasons why their GPA is lower than a 3.0 (which is generally the minimum GPA for grad school) such as a death in the family one year, or illness such as mono, etc.
To get motivated to start, just pretend you are writing a letter to someone (like me!) who doesn’t know you, and you’re going to tell me who you are, whatcha been up to in your life, and why you want an MSW.
Good luck!
Kate
BS Psychology
Currently Enrolled in MSW Program
Graduate Assistant at My University
