How to Write a Personal Statement for BSN Programs
Getting into a BSN program requires a student to write a personal statement. A personal statement is thoughtfully written essay introducing yourself to the admissions committee. You are trying to sell yourself as a dedicated, professional nurse. This is the only part of the application in which you get to completely control what is said.
- Start
your personal statement with a story. By telling a story, you begin
your essay with an interesting action. The story should be short,
but relevant to your nursing career or personal history. The story
should also be personal and give the admissions committee a good
idea about who you are as a person. - Discuss
your relevant skills and experiences in nursing. Skills to highlight
to a BSN program admissions committee include communication,
organization, professionalism and a caring nature. Don't be afraid
to sell your achievements and talents. If you were a 4.0 student in
high school or nursing school, say that. If won an award for being a
nurse of the month, mention it. You need to sell yourself as the
best possible BSN candidate. - Discuss
your personal attributes that led you to nursing. If you helped to
take care of your elderly grandmother for years and this lead you to
be a nurse, share it with the committee. If you are a passionate
marathon runner who loves to train, this is something unique they
will want to know about you. - Discuss
your career goals and what you would like to do in the nursing
field. - Remember
that your application is one of hundreds. Be unique and sell
yourself to the best of your ability. Be sincere, assertive and use
good grammar and spelling in your personal statement. - Edit
and proofread carefully. You should always edit and proofread your
own work, but have a friend or family read over your personal
statement to check for errors, bad grammar or awkward phrasing.