• Applying to Uni
  • Apprenticeships
  • Health & Relationships
  • Money & Finance

Personal Statements

  • Postgraduate
  • U.S Universities

University Interviews

  • Vocational Qualifications
  • Accommodation
  • ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
  • ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
  • ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
  • ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

  • ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
  • ​​​​​​​Technology
  • ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

Postgraduate Personal Statements

International Student Personal Statements

Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

Psychology personal statement example (mature student) 1.

Earlier this year I was involved in a car accident, and as I sat among the wreckage I was shocked to see not one person stopped to help me. Didn’t anyone care enough to help?

If it weren’t for the science of psychology, this and so many other questions about human behaviour would go unanswered. I find the insights psychology gives into human behaviour very exciting, and have been fascinated by it for a long time.

Working in the Child Protection Unit of Cumbria Social Services has further fuelled my interest; every day I see aspects of human behaviour that could have come straight from a psychology textbook.

It is psychology brought to life, and has made me realise more than ever how much I want to move my interest in psychology from my hobby to my career.

I believe that combined with my enthusiasm for the subject, the skills I have learned through my past work experience and part time study will make me an ideal candidate for studying Psychology. My employment has taught me many transferable skills, including excellent levels of concentration and great organisational skills.

I also feel my experience of dealing with the public and colleagues will prove invaluable in a people centred discipline such as Psychology.

Over the past few years whilst working during the day I have also studied at evening classes for A Levels. Studying part time has taught me excellent study skills, as much of my study has been self-directed.

It was very challenging to study part-time, however I was utterly determined to complete each A Level, and I would apply this same determination to completing a degree to the very best of my ability.

When I am not filling my spare time with studying, I enjoy taking advantage of the benefits of living in the Lake District, going fell walking, and keeping fit in the gym.

I also love to entertain, and recently held a highly successful ‘superheroes and villains’ themed fancy dress party; as well as being fun it was fascinating to watch how people’s behaviour changes when they have a mask on!

Since deciding to apply to University I have started to undertake further study to prepare me for undergraduate study; I am currently halfway through an Open University ‘Openings’ Course, and have enrolled for an Access to Higher Education Course in Social Sciences, my tutors for which have assured me that due to my previous A Level studies I will be able to complete successfully without a problem.

I feel that I would be able to make a valuable contribution during my degree, and perhaps even more importantly, as I have worked so hard to get to this point, I would remain committed to studying because it means so much to me.

After my degree I would like to go on to do further study and perhaps undertake training to become a psychologist.

I am passionate about studying psychology, and looking forward to extending my knowledge in this exciting discipline, and contributing to it in the future.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by Chocoholic for application in 2005.

Chocoholic's university choices University of Leeds

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Chocoholic's Comments

I am a mature student so found writing this extremely difficult! Had no teachers to help me so just had to do my best on my own - fingers crossed now.

Related Personal Statements

Ypur personal statment left.

Thu, 01/09/2005 - 00:00

Ypur personal statment left me wanting to find out more and kept me reading. After reading lots of personal statments I find this an important factor.

really really good. good

Wed, 14/09/2005 - 00:00

really really good. good opening!

I enjoyed this statement a

Sun, 18/09/2005 - 00:00

I enjoyed this statement a lot to be honest, and i can empathise with many of these obserrvations of behaviour- especially the heroes and villains part! i think the opening may have been a bit direct and personal, even for a personal statement, yet all the same I thought it was a highly cogent and articulate piece! nice one!

your opening is gud but your

Wed, 21/09/2005 - 00:00

your opening is gud but your end is too personal

I love your opening. The

Mon, 10/10/2005 - 00:00

I love your opening. The first reaction for the reader is to be shocked by it (car crash...oh my!) but you relate it to your subject without sounding like you're playing for the sympathy vote. Very clever!

I really enjoyed reading your

Wed, 19/10/2005 - 00:00

I really enjoyed reading your personal statement and hope it will work for you. it's very personal but also includes all the necessary info required. well done!

must a very simple yet

Sat, 19/08/2006 - 00:00

must a very simple yet powerful personal statment ,it kept me going to the end

well done, that was a really

Thu, 14/09/2006 - 00:00

well done, that was a really good statement....the start was catchy as well as honest! as most people woudlt stop in an accident... keep up the good work....

i like how u linked the car

Tue, 19/09/2006 - 00:00

i like how u linked the car accident with psychology.. very clever and attention grabbing.

think im repeating what some

Wed, 04/10/2006 - 16:56

think im repeating what some people have said before, ur opening paragraph will make the uni entry commission sympathetic.......luck u!!

Really gud personal statement

Sat, 07/10/2006 - 22:27

Really gud personal statement, v. good use of the english lang!

from ASIM KAMRANN( A.K.A CURLYTOP)

Tue, 10/10/2006 - 13:56

Your opening is wayyyyyyyyyyy to personal,i think you needed to get someone to proof read your statement before submitting it.

A very good opening,

Mon, 16/10/2006 - 13:47

A very good opening, especially since its something new and different from the old and boring ones.

And i have to credit you on making a psychological link between the two, really nice.

P.S. ingore the haters.

Wed, 25/10/2006 - 13:25

I really liked the opening. You showed why this subject was important to you. I think something as personal as the car crash shows why you would be more dedicated than someone with just a casual interest. I did wonder why you mentioned your fancy dress party, but liked how you were even noticing behavioural changes then, showing it's always something that's on your mind.

I really like this. Ignore

Fri, 03/11/2006 - 14:48

I really like this. Ignore the people who say your opening is bad, it's very original. It's refreshing to read something that doesn't start with "I've always been interested in psychology...". And it's helped me to focus my own personal statement, so thank you for that. Good luck to you.

Reply from Chocoholic

Sun, 05/11/2006 - 10:44

Thanks for all your comments everyone. Just thought I'd let you know how I got on - as a mature student, after submitting my UCAS form I had to go for an interview and write an essay for the admissions tutor...but a week after my interview I received an offer. I'm now in my 2nd year of the degree and loving it!

Don't be afraid of writing something a bit different in your personal statement - you need to stand out from the hundreds of applicants all with the same qualifications. Good luck to everyone currently applying to uni.

PS in case you were wondering, the car accident thing is true by the way!

Your opeing statement is

Thu, 16/11/2006 - 10:31

Your opeing statement is powerful, certainly got my interest and overall well done!!!

I found ur personal statment

Wed, 29/11/2006 - 07:23

I found ur personal statment perfect! the bigining is exelent and gets the readers attention. Great work!

I've been struggling to write

Mon, 08/01/2007 - 01:00

I've been struggling to write a personal statement of my own and have been looking at quite a few on the net. Yours is the only one to stand out as an original. As another mature student hoping to get into grad school, I am following your lead with a personal beginning and hope it distinguishes me from the hundreds of the young also applying.

Most of the statement was

Fri, 22/06/2007 - 08:48

Most of the statement was very good, but the opening only shows how you got interested in psychology. It doesn't say why the university should take you on their course.

Wed, 11/07/2007 - 10:20

i think this statement is brilliant reading this statement has really helped me as to what i need to write in my personal statement.thanx

to the person who said its

Sat, 25/08/2007 - 14:09

to the person who said its way too personal-you're wrong-that's the idea of a PERSONAL statement, its supposed to be PERSONAL!

Thu, 30/08/2007 - 22:26

This is the kind of PS i want to write... attention grabbing and different without sounding arrogant! Your opening was the best bit i think.. also nice to see you got in!

wow that was great. I've read

Fri, 14/09/2007 - 01:25

wow that was great. I've read a bunch of personal statements on the net recently and i think it was the only one i read from start to finish. the others I've got bored halfway through. You deserved to get in. Well Done!!

alright miss 'i was in an

Tue, 18/09/2007 - 11:25

alright miss 'i was in an accident'. i personally have been in an accident, but i dont think the world really needs to know? you clearly couldnt think of anything better to write. ah well, your mistake!!!!!!!!

Brilliant, your personal

Thu, 20/09/2007 - 16:11

Brilliant, your personal statement definatly stood out especially the beginning, good opening! has made me think how I want to start mine now to make it different and stand out. Well done on getting in too!

thanks youve given me some

Sat, 22/09/2007 - 23:33

thanks youve given me some good ideas :)

i think your opening

Tue, 02/10/2007 - 09:34

i think your opening paragraph is great! Writing about the car accident which you experienced helped you to really pour out your feelings which is what Psychology is all about.

i think ur opening is too

Tue, 02/10/2007 - 10:25

i think ur opening is too personal, yes relevant to some point but personal dont involve too much of it, over all it is a very good one.

Sun, 07/10/2007 - 13:10

lucky you to have survived an accident and talk about it in your ps. Some of us have nothing to right about. & to all you people out there who fink the opening was just a mistake....well obviously not!!!!! e must have done something right 2 get accepted in the uni!!! Its an ok ps, nufn to get 2 exited bwt. At least u got in ;)

Tue, 09/10/2007 - 13:27

i rekn its ded gd ;) u got in so well dun! N i like opening sentance, i fink that conversational opening sentances r best as they grab ur attention, and obviousley grabbed all ur maners attention lol.

wow! i heard about this

Thu, 11/10/2007 - 12:49

wow! i heard about this statement from a friend. we both thought it was a really good statement and the first line definately got my attention

ITS WAS REALLY GOOD THE

Thu, 25/10/2007 - 19:00

ITS WAS REALLY GOOD THE BEGINNING WAS ATTENTION GRABBING

WELL DONE!! I HAVE NO IDEA HOW 2 START MINE HELP ME OUT PLZ!!

what's with the spelling

Thu, 01/11/2007 - 18:18

what's with the spelling errors. Thank you for allowing me to notice what others may when reading through.

Fri, 09/11/2007 - 16:36

The beginning of this statement makes me shudder, corny! next

Thu, 15/11/2007 - 05:37

I think it's important to really stamp your mark on the statement from the off, so such a personal introduction is a great way of moving into a more subject-based discussion.

AmandaKaii--x

Thu, 29/11/2007 - 13:58

This personal statment is really good =] Did you get into uni with that personal statement?

i thought your personal

Wed, 23/01/2008 - 19:15

i thought your personal statement was great! it really showed your passion for the subject and i loved the opening! well done!

Fri, 14/03/2008 - 19:12

I liked it overall but you should have reviwed it more for the spelling mistakes

I found the "mask" bit about

Wed, 11/06/2008 - 11:15

I found the "mask" bit about the party a bit tongue in cheek (like trying to milk it) but aside from that it was all very intriguing!

You've really helped me draft

Tue, 29/07/2008 - 12:44

You've really helped me draft my psychology statement, you deserved your place at Leeds and I hope you passed with good honours. I wish you all the luck in the world if you decide to become a professional psychologist. Your opening paragraph is captivating and I could not help but read on, it is a fresh and welcome change from constant 'I have always been interested in...' That's like the kiss of death! Well done once again. :)

Excellent starting point for

Fri, 08/08/2008 - 16:32

Excellent starting point for my own personal statement.... As a mature student I also felt that it was important to let my personal experiences show through and feel that you have written a good example, thank you very much!

This statement is over

Mon, 08/09/2008 - 09:38

This statement is over dramatic and anyone could make that type of story up.

Sun, 12/10/2008 - 17:10

I'm currently writing mine its not going too badly but i dont have the same experience as you do. Very pleased to see all these people saying youll never get in, even though your already in.

brilliant begining (if a

Sun, 02/11/2008 - 12:44

brilliant begining (if a little personal) great statment that drips confidence

Tue, 11/11/2008 - 12:37

Tue, 11/11/2008 - 12:38

3 Year old Congratulations

Sat, 22/11/2008 - 19:34

I thought this was a fantastic statement and hope the course was as good as you hoped for!

From someone also planning to enter the field of Psychology x

After reading some of the

Tue, 02/12/2008 - 19:57

After reading some of the comments relating to this personal staement I am highly surprised at the kind of people using this website... 'Why didn't you die in the car crash, is there a psychological reason' I'm sincerely hoping that the author of this question is not actually in university studying psychology, and that their appearance on this website was merely a pathetic attempt to damage someones self image

Your personal statement is

Mon, 29/06/2009 - 13:22

Your personal statement is deffinately controversial in terms of your opening paragraph. It grabbed my attention staight away and i think you need to make yourself stand out over everyone else. Well done! Im glad you got accepted aswell.

Add new comment

psychology personal statement mature students

Clearing Universities & Courses

Clearing advice.

Recommended Clearing Universities

Popular Course Categories

psychology personal statement mature students

Course Search & Discover

Start the search for your uni. Filter from hundreds of universities based on your preferences.

Search by Type

Search by region.

Recommended Universities

psychology personal statement mature students

Northeastern University - London

London (Greater) · 100% Recommended

psychology personal statement mature students

The University of Law

London (Greater) · 92% Recommended

psychology personal statement mature students

University of East London

London (Greater) · 94% Recommended

Search Open Days

What's new at Uni Compare

psychology personal statement mature students

Bangor University

Boost your employability with a Computer Science degree!

psychology personal statement mature students

University of Law

Ranked Top 20 amongst English universities in the 2023 National Student Survey!

Ranking Categories

Regional rankings.

More Rankings

psychology personal statement mature students

Top 100 Universities

Taken from 65,000+ data points from students attending university to help future generations

psychology personal statement mature students

About our Rankings

Discover university rankings devised from data collected from current students.

Guide Categories

Advice categories, recommended articles, popular statement examples, not sure what to search for, take our quick degree quiz.

Find the ideal uni course for you with our Course Degree Quiz. Get answers in minutes!

Take our full degree quiz

Get more tailored course suggestions with our full Course Degree Quiz and apply with confidence.

PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLES Psychology personal statements

Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto psychology and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.

Uni Logo for Swansea University

Calling all curious minds! Delve into the depths of human behaviour at Swansea.

Get expert scientific training and unlock the secrets of the mind with Swansea's Psychology degrees. Explore their wide range of degrees and discover how you can tailor your studies to your interests.

Uni Logo for Bangor University

Study Psychology at a BPS accredited Uni

Discover the wide world of Psychology, from human development to influences like biology and socialisation at Bangor.

Psychology Personal Statements

Submitted by anonymous

Psychology and Philosophy Personal Statement

For centuries humanity has pondered the definitions of truth and fals...

Psychology Personal Statement

While growing up, an individual experiences countless differing field...

My first experience in the field of psychology was in year 9, I was a...

My desire for wanting to pursue psychology in higher education not on...

Psychology influences our everyday decisions and moulds us into who w...

Criminology and Psychology Personal Statement

Little interests me more than trying to unwind the endless enigma of ...

“What was life without connection?” Oliver Sacks is highlighting that...

A few years ago, I watched as one of my best friend battled with anor...

“Children must be taught how to think, not what to think” (Margaret M...

Submitted by Gianna

Freud’s Psychosexual Stages and the correlation between childhood act...

Submitted by Karolina

Paul Valery stated' The purpose of psychology is to give us a complet...

Submitted by Bethany

BSc Psychology Personal Statement

My decision to study psychology was not a difficult one. It is someth...

Submitted by Maisie Glover

Psychology with Criminology Personal Statement

Psychologist Phillip Zimbardo is quoted to have said “I have been pri...

Submitted by Antoinette

Every few minutes since the age of 9 I have put on hand cream. It was...

Submitted by Suri

Psychology with Business Personal Statement

Psychology's wide applications to everyday life, such as how psycholo...

Submitted by Cindy

Psychology with Foundation Year Personal Statement

“It is not primarily our physical selves that limit us but rather our...

Submitted by Caroline

Psychology and Neuroscience Personal Statement

Purpose for learning is a key difference between animal and human bra...

Submitted by Chloe

The dynamics of psychology affect our everyday lives and behaviour wh...

Submitted by Jenny

Psychology has drawn me in since I began studying it at GCSE. For me,...

Submitted by Lauren

The mind has a daily impact on our lives; influencing every decision,...

Submitted by Keren

Psychology with Forensic Psychology Personal Statement

Psychology has been part of my life indirectly for many years, from t...

Submitted by Sasha

During the holidays of 2016, I took part in some scientific based wor...

Psychotherapy and Counselling: Practices and Principles Personal Statement

I have always desired to understand feelings, behaviour and the human...

Recommended Course

psychology personal statement mature students

undergraduate Universities

Undergraduate uni's.

Photo of Northeastern University - London

Northeastern Uni

Photo of The University of Law

114 courses

Photo of University of East London

Uni of East London

575 courses

Photo of University for the Creative Arts

Uni for Creative Arts

672 courses

Photo of Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett Uni

454 courses

Photo of University of Sunderland

Uni of Sunderland

340 courses

Photo of SOAS, University of London

467 courses

Photo of University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

886 courses

Photo of University of Chester

Uni of Chester

645 courses

Photo of Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt Uni

334 courses

Photo of University of Leicester

Uni of Leicester

432 courses

Photo of University of Westminster

Uni of Westminster

503 courses

Photo of University of Suffolk

Uni of Suffolk

186 courses

Photo of University of Surrey

Uni of Surrey

750 courses

Photo of Escape Studios

Escape Studios

Photo of West London Institute of Technology

West London IoT

Photo of University of Winchester

Uni of Winchester

259 courses

Photo of University of Roehampton

Uni of Roehampton

468 courses

Photo of University of Bradford

Uni of Bradford

390 courses

Photo of Bangor University

548 courses

Photo of Staffordshire University

Staffordshire Uni

472 courses

Photo of Middlesex University

Middlesex Uni

634 courses

Photo of Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Met Uni

501 courses

Photo of University of Portsmouth

Uni of Portsmouth

761 courses

Photo of Swansea University

Swansea Uni

1319 courses

Photo of University of Hertfordshire

Uni of Hertfordshire

584 courses

Photo of Wrexham University

Wrexham Uni

289 courses

Photo of New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering, NMITE

Kingston Uni

617 courses

Photo of Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths, UOL

344 courses

Photo of University of Reading

Uni of Reading

685 courses

Photo of Coventry University

Coventry Uni

480 courses

Photo of Queen's University, Belfast

Queen's Uni

635 courses

Photo of University of Bedfordshire

Uni of Bedfordshire

656 courses

Photo of University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol

UWE, Bristol

497 courses

Photo of University of Kent

Uni of Kent

580 courses

Photo of University of Huddersfield

Uni of Huddersfield

668 courses

Photo of Leeds Arts University

Leeds Arts University

Photo of University of Essex

Uni of Essex

1400 courses

Photo of University of South Wales

709 courses

Photo of Ravensbourne University London

Ravensbourne

103 courses

Photo of University of Central Lancashire

Uni of C.Lancashire

798 courses

Photo of Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin Uni

808 courses

Photo of University of Brighton

Uni of Brighton

407 courses

Photo of Bath Spa University

Bath Spa Uni

520 courses

Photo of Edge Hill University

Edge Hill Uni

383 courses

Photo of University of Hull

Uni of Hull

498 courses

Photo of Arts University Plymouth

Nottingham Trent

912 courses

Photo of ARU Writtle

ARU Writtle

104 courses

Photo of University Academy 92, UA92

FIND THE IDEAL COURSE FOR YOU

Degree Course Quiz

Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today.

Find the latest from Uni Compare

Image of Bangor University

Cardiff Metropolitan Uni

Ranked as the most sustainable university in Wales (P&P Uni League 2023/24)

Image of Northeastern Uni London

Northeastern Uni London

Want to earn two globally recognised degrees simultaneously? Look no further!

Example Personal Statement: Psychology

We analyse a student's personal statement.

Example Personal Statement: Psychology

This student applied to study Psychology and Criminology at Southampton, Royal Holloway and Swansea, as well as Psychology at Liverpool and Oxford Brookes. They received offers from all five of their universities.

Here we break their personal statement down into parts, analysing each section so you can learn from their experience.

I became interested in the relationship between human behaviour and the brain after a member of my family was diagnosed with dementia. Having noticed the relationships between the deteriorating condition and abnormal behaviour, I began to question how the brain affects memory and behaviour. My growing interest in the link between the biology of a person and their behaviour was what originally drove me to study Psychology A-Level. Studying Psychology at university will allow me to develop my research and problem solving skills as well as my interest in the mind and behaviour. 

You should outline your interest in the subject without relying on one specific ‘lightbulb’ moment - in this example, the student has identified an initial interest and mentioned how they expanded on it to make their decision to study Psychology at university.

Careful not to make your response too emotive - mentioning poor health in your family as a stimulus for your interest is fine providing you keep your writing academic rather than emotional. If it’s too difficult to write about, choose a different driver.

One of the topics I found most interesting during my A-Level course was Psychopathology. This topic led me to research the inner workings of the atypical mind, particularly the mind of a criminal in Psychopath Whisperer by Kent Kiehl. The most engaging aspect of the book was a case study into a repeat offending paedophile. Despite all rehabilitation efforts failing, further investigation found a large tumour in his frontal lobe which, when removed, stopped all deviant behaviours. I find the relationship between psychology and criminology fascinating and looked into this further starting with Jim Fallon’s TED Talk ‘Exploring the mind of a killer’ where I learnt about the thought processes behind the crime, why criminals commit a crime, and whether they have free will. I used this research to help develop my understanding of my module on abnormal behaviour and would like to study this further.

Point out something specific you have studied that interests you, but avoid writing ‘I am passionate about…’. Evidence your interests by writing about ways you’ve explored your subject independently. Exploring things you find interesting without being told to by a teacher demonstrates your natural curiosity in the subject, and will give you the scope to write about your interest in topics that will be on your future courses. 

Studying both Biology and Chemistry has helped me to develop my skills in conducting experiments, particularly my hypothesis writing and my ability to analyse experimental data. For example, in my Biology A-Level coursework, I studied the effect of caffeine on the breakdown of protein, hypothesising that protein breakdown would be faster after caffeine intake. I plotted my data on a variety of graphs and used them to identify the rate of the reaction. I explored my hypothesis further in psychology, looking into the effect of caffeine on mental conditions, including addiction. Using my in class research, I linked this to genetics and gene mutations as part of the nature vs nurture debate to bring in my interest in criminals as this is a key element of the study of criminal minds.  

You don’t need to explain or even list the A-Levels you’re taking, but you should point out any transferable skills you’ve built, especially if they’re listed on your course page. For example, psychology courses tend to ask for scientific and analytical skills so this student has pointed out their skills in experiments, and they’ve linked this back to an interest in psychology to show how they can use their analyses across their subjects.

Remember that you need to answer the question ‘what makes me a good candidate for this course’, so pick out key examples that demonstrate that you are!

Recently, I attended a lecture by Dr Guy Sutton, a Professor in Neuroscience at Nottingham University. He discussed dissection, brain function and - most interestingly - the neuropathology of Schizophrenia. This led me to research the relationship between this mental illness and criminal behaviour. I was fascinated to find that, where previously it was thought that Schizophrenia drove people to violence, evidence has been uncovered to suggest that criminality is not a symptom of this condition, and the correlation between Schizophrenia and crime is due to the homelessness, poverty, or drug abuse that so often accompanies this illness. My research impressed upon me the importance of studying the mind; this new evidence changed both the way Schizophrenics are treated in society, and how mentally ill criminals are sentenced. 

Research into and passion for your subject doesn’t have to be about reading - if you’ve visited a lecture, museum, or something similar, mention it to demonstrate your passion and commitment.

Make sure you don’t just mention the experience and move on; you should link together your experience and your reading, and reflect on what you learnt or how it improved your understanding of the subject. Linking your subject to real world events demonstrates to admissions tutors that you understand and appreciate its relevance in the world around you, and demonstrates that you are capable of processing and evaluating information independently.

I enjoy art where I love to explore the inner workings of the mind from a creative perspective. I entered a sculpture which represented motor neurone disease into a competition; I explored the conflict between the minds of both humans and animals, and my entry was exhibited in the Saatchi Gallery where I was asked to film a short video explaining my thought process behind the piece. I am also a bowler for both my District and County cricket teams where I was awarded ‘best bowler’ for three seasons for my hard work, dedication, and drive to improve. As a result of my improving teamwork and leadership skills, I am a Level 1 coach and have begun working towards my level two coaching certificate. I have recently been given the responsibility of running my own team where I hope to inspire the next generation of cricketers. 

Don’t be afraid to highlight your achievements - you should be proud of them! Make sure you point out any accolades, awards, or competitions you have won or taken part in, alongside any extra curricular activities that have helped you develop your skills. You don’t have to link these back to your subject - the point of this section is to demonstrate your skills, not show that you are suitable for psychology. You don’t need a conclusion - use those characters to fill out your examples! If you do choose to end on a conclusion, write about what you are looking forward to studying, rather than any career goals; you are applying to be a student, not a future psychologist!

Latest posts:

Unifrog’s virtual work experience week (1st-5th july 2024) faqs.

1st May 2024

Skills development workshop and insights day with the British Army

26th April 2024

The student aspiration gap: what it is, why it matters, and how we fight it

29th January 2024

Counselor spotlight: Augusto Neto at St. Paul's School, Brazil

8th January 2024

How Bloomberg is getting closer to disadvantaged students with Unifrog’s help

4th January 2024

How to create a gold-tier early careers strategy

21st December 2023

Unifrog World of Work Conference round-up

9th November 2023

10 years of Unifrog

6th November 2023

How to create an inclusive recruitment process

4th October 2023

Unifrog and Ford collaborate on skills development workshop for students

27th September 2023

Privacy & Terms

International schools

UK schools + colleges

Universities

Case studies

University of Cumbria logo

How to write a good personal statement for a degree in Psychology

By university of cumbria psychology team.

How to write a good personal statement for a degree in Psychology

Are you considering studying psychology at University? If so, what a great choice. A degree in psychology is a fascinating and interesting choice, it can present many career opportunities, and leave you with an excellent range of graduate-level skills.

When making your application to University, one of your most important selling points will be the personal statement you write in support of your application. This can seem challenging and a bit of an intimidating task, so our UK Top 10 (Guardian 2021) Psychology team here at the University of Cumbria has put together a few useful tips for you to consider when you are writing it.

Prepare and plan

Rather than diving in and starting writing your personal statement straight away, bullet point and brainstorm a list of the items you wish to include. Try and write them in order of importance to really catch the eye of the reader with your passion and enthusiasm for psychology. It will take a few drafts to get your thoughts aligned and on paper. Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time for this task so don’t leave it too close to the deadline. It’s a great idea to get feedback from friends and family – especially if any of them have studied psychology or work in a related job!

Think about your motivations

Why do you want to study psychology and what has driven you to explore this subject? Is there a particular area you are interested in such as forensic, clinical, or educational, and what drew you to this area? Many of the students studying at Cumbria say they want to help people and give back to the community. Others have a passion for research and understanding why we behave the way we do. Share your motivation as part of your personal statement. Think about how you can evidence this commitment using examples including how you have been exploring psychology through volunteering and psychology-related news articles or blog posts you’ve read. It shows the department how passionate you are about psychology before you even start.

Think about your career goals

Think about what you would like to do after you’ve graduated – even though at this point it might feel a long time away. Are you hoping to pursue a particular career or future opportunity? This is a good opportunity to demonstrate that you have researched the profession and you understand what this degree can lead to. All of our undergraduate psychology programmes are accredited by the British Psychological Society and they have some great career pages on their website ( click here ). Have a read and add some details to your personal statement.

Think about the current skills and experience you have

Whilst you might not currently have any work experience in the area, there are lots of ways in which you will have gained relevant skills and experience. For example, if you have ever had any mentoring experience, worked as part of a team, led on a project, taken part in extracurricular activities (e.g. Duke of Edinburgh or after school clubs), and volunteering experience – this can also include reference to hobbies and other activities you enjoy.

Psychology is a good choice of course for people with a range of different experiences, so if you are applying to study psychology having worked in either a related or un-related job, consider what skills and experience you’ve developed that would be relevant. For example, many job roles require skills such as time management, teamwork, organisation, and problem-solving. So make sure to add these into your personal statement.

Psychology interview, Person being interviewed for Psychology

Make sure you include YOU!

Avoid making your personal statement sound like a list of things you have done or achieved. The department wants to hear about you – your interests, your drive, your passion, and your values. The Psychology learning community here at the University of Cumbria is made up of students on our programmes (BSc, MSc, and Ph.D.) and the staff team, they create lots of opportunities for you to get involved and feel part of the team so they want to get to know you right from the start.

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN STUDYING PSYCHOLOGY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CUMBRIA?

We offer BSc Psychology and BSc Applied Psychology courses with optional integrated foundation years and a range of  MSc Psychology courses you can see here. Here at the University of Cumbria, we will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need for a successful career in Psychology. It's time for you to make a difference, visit our course page today for more information on the course, call 0845 606 1144, or email [email protected] to speak to an expert and get support with your application.

Want to find out more?

You are ready to take that next step. Ready to make that life-changing decision and work towards your career goals. By downloading our prospectus you will have the world at your fingertips. You can browse our 100+ unique course options and have access to finance and support information to get you started. Discover all of the courses available to you from Arts to Zoology – we’re excited to see what you choose.

Order a Prospectus

More posts you may like

How to write a personal statement for University & give a great interview

How to write a personal statement for University & give a great interview

Get Involved in Carlisle's Culture

Get Involved in Carlisle's Culture

Get involved in London's culture

Get involved in London's culture

Get active in Carlisle

Get active in Carlisle

  • Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford PPE 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Economics 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Modern Languages 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Land Economy 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Psychology 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge English 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Human Sciences 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge History 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Geography 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Philosophy 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Classics 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Architecture 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge HSPS Programme 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biomedical Sciences 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Engineering 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Natural Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Maths 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Computer Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Physics 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford PPL 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Veterinary Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Chemistry 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biology 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biochemistry 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Dentistry 24/25 Entry
  • IMAT Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Can’t Find Your Subject?
  • Law Interview Programme
  • PPE Interview Programme
  • Economics Interview Programme
  • Oxbridge Medicine Interview Programme
  • Natural Science Interview Programme
  • Engineering Interview Programme
  • Maths Interview Programme
  • Dentistry Interview Programme
  • Medicine MMI Interview Programme
  • Our Guarantee

Our Students

Student Success Stories

  • University Access Scheme
  • New Tutor Application Form
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • How Does It Work?

Enrol before the 17th May and get 4 hours of A-Level tutoring. Book your consultation here.

Students who enrol on a Programme before the 17th May will get 4 hours of A-Level tutoring as a complimentary addition. Begin by booking your consultation here.

  • +44 (0) 208 068 0438
  • [email protected]

uniadmissions logo

SCIENCE PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

HUMANITIES PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

GET STARTED

Can't find your subject?

OXFORD TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

CAMBRIDGE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

MEDICINE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

View Our Free admissions guides & resources

How UniAdmissions Cracked The Oxbridge Formula

Applying for Oxbridge is an opportunity seldom approached correctly. So how do you enter the top 16% of a strong cohort of applicants that get an offer? Discover how UniAdmissions get 2/3 of our students in.

How To Stay Motivated During Your A-Level Exams

With A-level exam season in full swing, we've put together 6 useful tips and tricks to stay motivated and achieve those expected grades.

Inside The UniAdmissions Portal: The UA Advantage

UniAdmissions students have access to the world's first dedicated Oxbridge admissions preparation platform, and this guide will help you discover exactly how the Portal will help you get your offer.

Discover all guides

ABOUT UNIADMISSIONS

Learn about who the world's first Oxbridge prep school are.

Learn about the Portal; the heart of our Programmes.

UniAdmissions' Foundation

The Foundation is our charitable arm to support disadvantaged students.

Students & Tutors

Discover who a UniAdmissions student is and our admissions criteria.

Learn about our high-performing Oxbridge tutors.

We're proud of our alumni. Read about their journey with UniAdmissions here.

Admissions Resources

Free Admissions Guides

Visit our Learning Centre and read our in-depth free guides.

We are the world's biggest Oxbridge application publisher. Learn more here.

Teachers Learning Hub

Learn about how to help your students get their place at Oxbridge.

Get Started

  • Access Student Portal
  • Oxbridge Programmes
  • Open Day Webinar
  • Tutor Application Form
  • Common Questions
  • Download Our Prospectus

Successful Personal Statement For Psychology At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Psychology applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Psychology Course at Oxford is a scientific discipline, involving the rigorous formulation and testing of ideas. It works through experiments and systematic observation rather than introspection.

Read on to see how this candidate demonstrates their academic interests and initiative.   

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Psychology comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

Discover our Premium Programmes today to learn how you can enrol and triple your chances of success.  

Psychology Personal Statement

How does the mind work? The mind is a mystery housed within the most complex mechanism known to man: the human brain. My innate curiosity compels me to find out more about such a mystery through the study of Psychology.

I have long been interested in how our minds differ: for example, why have I always been a strong mathematician while my brother finds it challenging? Being a musician, I found Kathryn Vaughn’s research supporting a correlation between musical and mathematical abilities particularly thought provoking, while I have also wondered whether my childhood obsession with jigsaws helped me develop problem-solving skills, which are particularly relevant in Geometry: the area with the biggest rift in our abilities. Ann Dowker’s argument, in ‘Individual Differences’, that educational methods influence such differences was also particularly compelling. Therefore, in my gap year, whilst helping struggling learners in KS3 Mathematics at a local school, and, when I help educate children in Tanzania as an International Citizen Service volunteer with the VSO charity, I will evaluate the success of different educational methods. This will give me experience of carrying out my own research, and, will develop skills such as empathy, which is important in the more sensitive areas of Psychology. Furthermore, I recently assisted a University of Oxford researcher conducting follow-up assessments with children in local primary schools. These measured reading-age, language comprehension and numeracy level, and are used to gauge and refine the Catch-Up charity’s numeracy intervention programme. As some of the children being assessed were from a control group, my involvement also enlightened me to ethical aspects of research.

Differences that occur in the criminal mind are also of great interest to me. As an elected Student Ambassador for the Holocaust Educational Trust, I visited Auschwitz-Birkenau earlier this year, where I learnt about Rudolf Hoess. Hoess exterminated thousands of families, yet lived with his own family just outside the camp. This ignited an interest in complex behaviour; therefore I read Stanley Milgram’s research into whether ‘the Germans are different’, and learnt about his Theory of Obedience. This developed an interest in Forensic Psychology, and I subsequently attended a Forensics course at Nottingham University, where I learnt about a Forensic Psychologist’s role, during Mental Health tribunals, for example.

Deterioration of the mind, and methods to counteract this, also interest me. Reading the Psychologist has given me an insight into how the effectiveness of such methods could be analysed using a high-resolution 3D brain atlas; while a presentation from Claire Rytina enlightened me to useful cognitive treatment designed to rebuild and retrieve memory following her Viral Encephalitis. I have also voluntarily worked at a Nursing Home with some Dementia sufferers, and noticed that many sufferers enjoyed me playing music from their past, and sometimes, this triggered some of their memories. This made me wonder whether the music stimulated neurones which had lain dormant for years, similarly to when neurones are used for the first time, as Hubel and Weisel’s nature/nurture research has shown. Studying this in A level Biology gave me an interest in neuroscience, while Biology also stressed the importance of controls and fair tests, which are invaluable during Psychology experiments too. My mathematical skills in statistics will also be beneficial when analysing empirical evidence; and, the deep level of analysis and evaluation used for varying sources in A level History will be useful when studying case studies, while my essay techniques will help me when writing reports, and when considering issues from different perspectives.

Overall, I feel that my broad interests and skills will enable me to thrive as a Psychology student at a demanding University, where I would also make a positive contribution to University life.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for medicine at oxford university, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for law at cambridge, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge.

Download our Free Personal Statement Starter Guide 

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This statement is powered by a broad range of academic interests — all of which the candidate has explored to a deep and commendable level. They are able to articulate how these interests came about, why they are important and how they intersect. In so doing, the candidate clearly demonstrates their ability to think independently, undertake independent projects and foster a wide-ranging curiosity. Furthermore, they clearly illustrate how their academic interests have had a bearing on their actions outside of the classroom; activities that require a substantial amount of initiative and endeavour.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

While the consideration of a range of different areas of psychology is illustrative of a consistently curious individual, this statement would have benefited from greater cohesion as an overall piece. The candidate could have also found a less rhetorical way of opening their statement; their tone at this point is not a mode of speech that they return to elsewhere, and as such, it seems somewhat like a non-sequitur. Their prose thereafter is much more engaging, and it seems unfulfilling and irrelevant to include such mystifying text at the start.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This candidate maturely presents their academic interests and particular areas of personal pursuit. As a result of this, they are able to demonstrate moments at which they have taken impressive amounts of initiative, and have really gone out of their way in order to experience their academic interests outside of the classroom. They are thereby able to fashion themselves as a curious, energetic, academic individual, who is able to think independently and develop their own work. There are potential areas for stylistic improvement within the statement, but they do not hinder the overall impression given of a capable and committed candidate.

This Personal Statement for Psychology is a great example of demonstrating academic interest and initiative. The candidate’s interest and passion are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Psychology application.

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the TSA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

Discover our Premium Programmes by clicking the button below to enrol and triple your chances of success.

UniAdmissions students placed at Oxford And Cambridge

uniadmissions-successful-students-collage

Continue learning about Oxbridge...

AI Writing & UCAS Personal Statements: What You Need To Know

AI Writing & UCAS Personal Statements: What You Need To Know

When it comes to writing in the 2020s, AI-Generation has become one of the most important issues for many industries,…

Oxbridge Personal Statements: A Complete Teacher's Guide

Oxbridge Personal Statements: A Complete Teacher’s Guide

As a teacher, you will support students with their UCAS Personal Statements every year, but what about Personal Statements for…

Personal Statements Are Changing In 2025

UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

On January 12th 2023, UCAS announced that the traditional Personal Statement would be replaced by a multi-question form for university…

Successful Personal Statement For Economics & Management At Oxford

Writing an Economics and Management Personal Statement for Oxford? If so, you’re in the right place! In this post, we…

Successful Personal Statement For Computer Science At Oxford

Successful Personal Statement For Computer Science At Oxford

Read through a successful Computer Science Personal Statement for Oxford with a full analysis by Oxbridge Tutors. Find out why…

psychology personal statement mature students

TSA Section 2: The Essay

Section 2 of the TSA is an extended essay responding to an excerpt of text. The best way to guide…

The Secrets to Oxbridge Admission.

  • We cracked the Oxbridge formula . Find out what we discovered here.
  • Looking for application support? Don't work with a random tutor. This is what you need to know first.
  • Get up-to-date Oxbridge advice with our webinars. Follow our Open Days led by our experts and stay updated.
  • Begin your Oxbridge journey with UniAdmissions through our programmes of support by clicking here.

UniAdmissions Personal Statement Starter Guide Book

Personal Statement Starter Guide

We have developed an 80-page E-Book filled with expert Personal Statement Advice. Inside, you’ll find guides on planning and writing your personal statement, as well as our full collection of 25+ Successful Oxbridge Personal Statements.

Get it directly to your inbox by registering your email.

New Oxbridge Admissions Tests Explained!

How much do you know about the admissions tests changes for this application cycle? Join us this 1st of June at 2 pm and learn everything you need to know to prepare effectively with the new updates on the ESAT, TMUA & BMSAT .

How would you like to speak to an Admissions Consultant?

  • Personal Statements
  • Psychology Personal Statement

Psychology Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

Should people accept the status quo, or should they look at why things have become a certain way and look for deeper insights? Can we ever say that something is an absolute fact, or is everything really a belief? I have found pondering questions like this in my psychology A-level course really fascinating. My reading around each topic has propelled me into a new world, and one that I want to stay within to study at an even higher level, which is why I have chosen to study psychology at university.

The other A-levels that I have studied have become supportive elements to my interest in psychology. Biology has enable me to understand more about how the brain works on a physical and chemical level and chemistry has made the biology of neurotransmitters make much more sense. I am looking forward to finding out more about the interface between the physical workings of the brain and how chemistry and chemical signalling can bring about nerve signals and, ultimately, thought.

I have also found a strong link between psychology and the humanities subjects I studied at GCSE. During the first year of college I chose English literature as an additional AS subject. I won’t pursue it to A2 level but I feel I now have a more thorough grounding in literature that will give me a life-long interest. Reading novels and fiction is a great relaxation and provides me with a different perspective on my hard science reading. Combining four subjects has made my first year at college very busy but this has made me more aware of the need to organise my time, to focus on key tasks and to not waste time.

Outside academic work I am a committed rider and although I don’t own a horse of my own, I go riding at my local stables at weekends and help out two mornings a week with mucking out. This means getting up very early, before I go to college, so it’s a good motivator. I’ve also volunteered with the riding school for disabled children that the stables has run for the past three years and I have enjoyed helping children to ride confidently when they may not be able to walk. To see their obvious pleasure in this achievement is very humbling.

Although I’m not intending to have a gap year, I have planned to travel for 3 months in the summer and go to Chile, where I hope to be able to combine riding with more volunteering. This experience will be challenging but will help me mature, ready to face the bigger challenges of university life and a career in psychology.

Applytouni _guides _button

University Guides

  • Accommodation
  • + much more!

Sign up for news & advice about applying to uni

  • Universities
  • Fees & Finance
  • For Parents
  • International Students
  • Terms and Conditions

Apply to Uni logo

Glenn Geher Ph.D.

Tips for Writing a Personal Statement

Keep your writing straightforward and honest..

Posted October 16, 2019

PublicCo / Pixabay

Here are some situations that require writing a personal statement:

  • Applying to college
  • Applying to special camps or programs
  • Applying to graduate school, law school, or medical school
  • Applying to an internship program
  • Applying for a job
  • Applying for a promotion
  • … and more!

Like it or not, you’ll be writing personal statements (sometimes referred to as a "statement of purpose") pretty much throughout your adult life. I bet that some retirement communities may even require personal statements in their application process!

As a college professor for over two decades, I’ve advised and edited hundreds—even thousands—of personal statements for students. I take this work seriously, as I know how these statements have the capacity to make or break an application.

Based on this experience (see my new book Own Your Psychology Major! A Guide to Student Success ), below are some tips for making your personal statement sing, along with some classic no-nos in the process.

Tips for Making Your Personal Statement Sing

First and foremost, realize this: A large but often-unstated purpose of this statement-of-purpose assignment is to allow folks to get a sense of your writing skills. Keep this point in mind the whole while. Here are some other tips:

1. Keep it short! Students often develop this idea that the longer their paper is, the better. As my mom would say, the opposite! All things being equal, you should use as few words as possible in trying to make your point. Think about the points you are trying to make and then make those points.

Efforts to add fluff are always pretty obvious. Further, the people reading your application may have dozens or even hundreds of applications to sift through. Do them a favor by keeping it short!

2. Avoid the big-word trap. Sometimes, students feel a need to use all kinds of fancy, multi-syllabic words in their writing. Try to avoid this trap at all costs! All things being equal, I suggest this approach: Write exactly as you speak (minus slang and, of course, any profanity!).

Sure, you may use some fancy words every now and again in your speech. But speech is all about communication—trying to get someone else to understand something. Writing is no different. Big words used for the sake of using big words are not doing anyone any favors.

3. Follow the guidelines. Whatever the details of the particular application process, know that there are going to be specific guidelines. This all may pertain to word count, specific questions that you are asked to address, etc.

Here is the simplest possible suggestion I can give you: Read those guidelines and follow them 100 percent in every single way. Doing so will make sure that you make it into the pile of applications to be even considered.

4. Proofread your work. Imagine this scenario: You are applying to a job at Southeast State University. After you have submitted the application, you reread your cover letter. Check it out:

“… I am thrilled to be considered for this position at Southeast State University. …. In conclusion, let me say that I am excited about this opportunity at Fresno Institute of Technology. …”

Given that you are applying to multiple positions and/or programs, it is very likely that you are writing statements that are “tailored” for each particular position and program. That is fine and is typical. But the second that you write the name of the incorrect institution in your letter due to a lack of detailed proofreading, you might as well be throwing your application into the recycling bin. Proofread your letter carefully before sending it.

5. Have an “expert” look things over. When I was a senior in college, I recall my advisor, the formidable Dr. Gwen Gustafson of the Psychology Department at UCONN, suggesting that I bring a draft of my personal statement for her to look over before applying to Ph.D. programs. So I did.

I was surprised by how much red ink she put on my paper. But I was also grateful . And I also learned a lot. Every suggestion that she had made sense. And, at the end of the day, I took those suggestions, worked hard, and got into a great Ph.D. program in psychology that shaped the rest of my life in positive ways.

Your professors and mentors have sat on admissions and hiring committees for years. Use their wisdom to your advantage. And pay things forward when you are older and wiser.

Personal Statement No-No’s

1. Don’t overemphasize personal details. A letter that focuses on your own personal traumas and history will only go so far. Sure, it is often the case that someone has a significant personal event or history that is influential in shaping his or her interests. Myself included.

psychology personal statement mature students

But letters that over-emphasize one’s own adversities lose a bit when it comes to getting members of a committee to see the applicant in a professional setting. Sure, you may have baggage. And it may well ultimately have come to shape you in a positive manner. But unless the guidelines of the letter are asking about that in particular, don’t make that your headline.

2. Remember that you are not texting your friend. Be professional in your statement of purpose. Don’t use emojis. Don’t use acronyms. Use your most professional and respectful writing and communication skills. You can send all kinds of silly texts to the group chat about it after you’ve been accepted...

3. Seem like you care about them. A statement of purpose, or a personal statement, is largely about you. But the last thing you want to come across as is unempathetic and disinterested in the organization and/or program that you are applying to.

If you are applying to the master’s program in mental health counseling at Western State College, learn about who they are. Care about who they are. And include something in your statement which demonstrates that you both know about them and care about who they are.

Bottom Line

Modern professional life these days includes writing personal statements/essays at various junctions. Pretty much forever. Don’t be daunted by this task. You should be proud of who you are and capable of describing yourself, your interests, and your goals in a clear, engaging, and powerful manner.

Write from your heart. Follow the guidelines. And follow the common-sense suggestions here. You’ll go far.

Geher, G. (2019). Own Your Psychology Major! A Guide to Student Success. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Glenn Geher Ph.D.

Glenn Geher, Ph.D. , is professor of psychology at the State University of New York at New Paltz. He is founding director of the campus’ Evolutionary Studies (EvoS) program.

  • Find a Therapist
  • Find a Treatment Center
  • Find a Psychiatrist
  • Find a Support Group
  • Find Online Therapy
  • International
  • New Zealand
  • South Africa
  • Switzerland
  • Asperger's
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Chronic Pain
  • Eating Disorders
  • Passive Aggression
  • Personality
  • Goal Setting
  • Positive Psychology
  • Stopping Smoking
  • Low Sexual Desire
  • Relationships
  • Child Development
  • Self Tests NEW
  • Therapy Center
  • Diagnosis Dictionary
  • Types of Therapy

May 2024 magazine cover

At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Gaslighting
  • Affective Forecasting
  • Neuroscience

IMAGES

  1. Psychology personal statement example in Word format

    psychology personal statement mature students

  2. Personal Statement

    psychology personal statement mature students

  3. Advanced Services for Psychology Personal Statement to Submit

    psychology personal statement mature students

  4. How to write ucas personal statement mature student

    psychology personal statement mature students

  5. How To Write A Personal Statement For Grad School Psychology

    psychology personal statement mature students

  6. Psychology Personal Statement copy.pdf

    psychology personal statement mature students

VIDEO

  1. Personal statement advice: Psychology

  2. Write an Incredible Personal Statement: 3 Steps with Examples

  3. How to write a Sociology personal statement

  4. Outfit ideas #over60 #over60fashion #classicfashion #fashionover60

  5. What's it like being a MATURE STUDENT at #Oxford Uni?!

  6. Revealing psychology discoveries about mature partners #shorts

COMMENTS

  1. Psychology Personal Statement Example (Mature Student) 1

    I am passionate about studying psychology, and looking forward to extending my knowledge in this exciting discipline, and contributing to it in the future. This personal statement was written by Chocoholic for application in 2005. Chocoholic's university choices. University of Leeds. Green: offer made.

  2. Psychology Personal Statement Advice

    The University of Bristol highlights five elements of a strong, academically focused psychology statement: Ensure it is well structured and well written. Give details of any specific interests or ambitions you have that relate to the content of the course. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for psychological research as a focus for academic study.

  3. Mature students: five things to include in your personal statement

    5. Keep your statement story honest - and personal. You might have fewer tangible reasons for applying to university as a mature applicant than simply training for a new career. 65 year old Peter White is a retired programmer who decided to fulfil another ambition and apply for a fine arts degree. Pete successfully wrote a very personal ...

  4. Psychology Personal Statement Examples

    Browse our range of Psychology personal statement examples. Gain inspiration & make sure you're on the right track when writing your own personal statement. ... Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto psychology and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.

  5. Writing a psychology personal statement: expert advice from

    Remember that a personal statement should be written to persuade the admissions tutor that you're a good fit for the course and have the skills to succeed. Put yourself in their shoes and think about what would convince you. Be honest but avoid false modesty. Sell yourself as a future psychologist in the making.

  6. PDF Writing a Personal Statement

    The personal statement is almost impossible to get right on the first try. Be prepared for multiple drafts and get feedback from others. It's a good idea to solicit a variety of advice about your personal statement (a professor, another psychology student, someone who doesn't know anything about I/O).

  7. PDF Writing a Strong Personal Statement for Graduate School

    Minority Associaon of Pre-Health Students, University of Oklahoma What is a personal statement? • A.K.A. "Professional Statement" or "Statement of Purpose" • Introduc=on to you as a candidate for graduate school • Your chance to "sell yourself" by telling your unique story • Maturity, self-knowledge, purpose, drive

  8. Psychology personal statements

    These psychology personal statements are written by real students. Among them you will find personal statements that have formed part of successful applications to universities such as Royal Holloway, Aberystwyth and Aberdeen. Bear in mind, these personal statements are presented in exactly the way they were originally submitted to Ucas.

  9. Preparing your personal statement for graduate school applications

    Nearly all doctoral programs and many master's degree programs in psychology require submission of a personal statement as part of the application package. In my experience advising students as well as serving as a graduate dean for many years, few things in the application process cause students as much anxiety and prompt so many questions.

  10. How to write a personal statement for Psychology

    We want to know where this interest in psychology comes from, what excites you and how you indulge your passion. Simply saying: "I have always been interested in psychology" is meaningless without presenting any evidence. Demonstrate how this interest has manifested itself and what you have done to take it further. Research the profession.

  11. Example Personal Statement: Psychology : Unifrog Blog

    It is included as standard for Unifrog partner schools. This student applied to study Psychology and Criminology at Southampton, Royal Holloway and Swansea, as well as Psychology at Liverpool and Oxford Brookes. They received offers from all five of their universities. Here we break their personal statement down into parts, analysing each ...

  12. How to write a good personal statement for a degree in Psychology

    Prepare and plan. Rather than diving in and starting writing your personal statement straight away, bullet point and brainstorm a list of the items you wish to include. Try and write them in order of importance to really catch the eye of the reader with your passion and enthusiasm for psychology. It will take a few drafts to get your thoughts ...

  13. PDF Personal Statement Workshop

    Example: UNC-CH Personal Statement Prompt § On a separate page, write a personal statement that includes the following: • a. Description of any work experience relevant to psychology and research (bibliographic, laboratory or other) that you may have done (or are doing) either as part of employment or to complete your present program.

  14. How to write a Psychology personal statement

    Psychology student, Beth, takes us through some hints and tips for writing your personal statement when applying to study Psychology at Edge Hill University....

  15. Successful Personal Statement For Psychology At Oxford

    This Personal Statement for Psychology is a great example of demonstrating academic interest and initiative. The candidate's interest and passion are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors. Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal ...

  16. Psychology Personal Statement

    My reading around each topic has propelled me into a new world, and one that I want to stay within to study at an even higher level, which is why I have chosen to study psychology at university. The other A-levels that I have studied have become supportive elements to my interest in psychology. Biology has enable me to understand more about how ...

  17. Tips for Writing a Personal Statement

    1. Don't overemphasize personal details. A letter that focuses on your own personal traumas and history will only go so far. Sure, it is often the case that someone has a significant personal ...

  18. PDF Writing a Personal

    Your interest in the course is the biggest thing. Start with why you chose it. The best personal statements get to the point quickly. It's your enthusiasm for the course we want to know about - start with that. Start with a short sentence that captures the reason why you are interested in studying the area you are applying for and that ...