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Tips &
Guidance
Rule Number 1:
READ THE QUESTION or REQUIREMENT
Rule Number 2: Answer ALL PARTS of the question
or requirement
Rule Number 3: When you have finished, check
Rules 1 & 2 again!
Read each application form carefully, ensure you
thoroughly answer each of the specific questions, do not answer questions which
are not there.
Do not exceed the requested word count.
Each statement must be unique - tailor it to the application.
Research the
institution and the program.
Endeavour to mention the name of the school or
institution you are applying to at least twice in the essay.
Start early,
allow yourself plenty of time.
Prepare an outline and create a draft.
Include your past
successes, core values, your contributions and
your career goals, what makes you stand out
above your peers.
Keep the tone of your essay
or statement cheerful and positive at all times, with emphasis on
your achievements and accomplishments.
Remember to put your name and
identification number (if applicable) at the top
of the document.
Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.
Write in a mixture of short and long sentences.
Avoid the repetitive "I" by using "my" and "me" whenever possible.
Write a clear introductory paragraph, include the name of the institution to
which you are applying, and your reason for choosing it.
Develop at least one good paragraph dedicated to your personal attributes.
Include your strengths, talents and ability to overcome adversity, and follow up
with examples of your successes and strengths.
Give a sense of
you as a person, how the program/degree will
build on your previous experiences and what
contributions you can make to the speciality
and/or residency program.
Do not dwell on poor academic grades, explain them but do not offer excuses for them.
Concentrate on the traits, skills and attributes which you believe will ensure
your success in the program you are applying to.
Expand on your reasons for selecting the school, institution or program, endeavour to mention
the research/work of a prominent faculty member where appropriate.
Dedicate one paragraph of your document to your life goals and career aspirations, linking them
to the course work available.
Mention people who have influenced your choices, motivated and inspired you.
In your final paragraph, briefly re-state the main themes you have presented in
your letter, essay or personal statement.
Do not:
Allude to sensitive issues such as politics or
religion
Be negative
Use clichés, analogies or metaphors
Lie
Use big words you would not normally use
Brag
Pretend to be someone you think they want you to
be
Exceed the stated word count
Talk about money as your motivation for the
field you have chosen
Ignore format instructions
Print your document, personal statement, essay or
application on cheap or inferior quality paper
Fold your letter, statement or application in
the mailing process
Do:
Proofread. Proofread. And proofread
your document.
Correct grammar and syntax are absolutely essential.
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