How To Write a Nursing Personal Statement

September 27, 2023
Janelle Thomas MSN, RN
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A well-crafted personal statement can make a powerful impact in nursing. A nursing personal statement is your opportunity to showcase your passion, skills, and commitment to the nursing profession. In this blog, we’ll delve into what a personal statement is, what to include, and provide valuable tips to help you write an impressive nursing personal statement that stands out.

What is a nursing personal statement?

A nursing personal statement introduces you to admissions committees and potential employers. It allows you to communicate your reasons for pursuing a nursing career, relevant experiences, and goals. Whether applying to nursing schools or seeking a nursing position, your personal statement provides insight into your character and aspirations.

What To Include in Your Nursing Personal Statement

  1. Introduction: Begin with a compelling opening that captures the reader’s attention and introduces your passion for nursing.
  2. Motivation: Clearly state why you’re drawn to nursing. Share personal experiences or stories that inspired you to pursue this profession.
  3. Relevant Experiences: Highlight any relevant experiences, such as volunteer work, internships, or clinical placements. Discuss how these experiences shaped your understanding of nursing.
  4. Skills and Qualities: Emphasize the skills and qualities that make you a strong candidate for nursing, such as empathy, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  5. Academic and Professional Goals: Outline your short-term and long-term goals within the nursing field. Explain how the program or position you’re applying for aligns with your aspirations.
  6. Diversity and Inclusion: Address how you value diversity and inclusion in healthcare and plan to contribute to creating an inclusive environment.
  7. Challenges and Growth: Share any challenges you’ve overcome and how they’ve contributed to your personal and professional growth.
  8. Closing: End your personal statement positively, reiterating your enthusiasm for nursing and your commitment to making a difference.

Tips for Writing an Outstanding Nursing Personal Statement

  1. Be Authentic: Write in your voice and be sincere. Admissions committees value genuine and heartfelt statements.
  2. Show, Don’t Just Tell: Instead of stating that you possess certain qualities, provide examples demonstrating how you’ve exhibited those qualities in real-life situations.
  3. Stay Focused: Keep your personal statement focused on your journey to nursing and avoid irrelevant information.
  4. Be Specific: Provide specific examples and anecdotes to support your points and make your personal statement more engaging.
  5. Proofread and Edit: Carefully proofread your personal statement for grammar, spelling, and clarity. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review it as well.
  6. Tailor to the Program or Position: Customize your personal statement for each nursing program or job application. Research the program’s values and mission to align your statement with their expectations.
  7. Start Early: Begin writing your personal statement well in advance to have ample time for revisions and improvements.
  8. Stay within the Word Limit: Adhere to the specified word or character limit to ensure your statement is concise and focused.

Your nursing personal statement is a chance to shine a spotlight on your journey, aspirations, and dedication to nursing. By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling personal statement that captures the attention of admissions and employers alike.

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