At MGH Institute of Health Professions, we read thousands of personal statements every year across our graduate programs in health sciences, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language pathology, and beyond. What stands out isn’t lofty language or a perfectly polished origin story. It’s clarity. It’s honesty. It’s purpose. Oh, and it’s those who follow the prompt.  

The strongest statements help us see you: your judgment, your growth, and why this field—and this program—are the right next step for your journey. Below, we’ll walk through what admissions committees look for, common mistakes to avoid, and a step-by-step approach to writing a personal statement that reflects both your authenticity and your readiness.

Personal Statement vs. Statement of Purpose  

Programs use these terms differently, but here’s what’s most important:

  • Personal Statement: your story, values, and lived experiences that shape your motivation for the profession; plus what you’ve learned about yourself along the way.
  • Statement of Purpose: make sure your story shines through with your academic/professional goals, research or clinical interests, and why the specific program is the right fit, while addressing the essay prompt.

Many prompts blend both. When in doubt, answer the exact question asked and mirror its language. If the prompt emphasizes “experiences that led you to pursue the profession,” lead with story and reflection. If it emphasizes “goals and preparation,” lean into your plan and program fit.  

What Admissions Committees Actually Look For

When we recommend an applicant for admission, their writing usually demonstrates these key elements:

  1. Clarity and Grammar – We understand why you’re pursuing this field now (without grammatical errors). Read and re-read your writing.
  2. Reflection and growth – You don’t just list experiences or challenges; you show accountability and how those experiences changed your thinking.
  3. Readiness – You connect experiences to skills you’ll bring to graduate study (communication, teamwork, resilience, problem solving).
  4. Fit – You’ve done your homework and can articulate why this program’s approach, values, and outcomes align with your goals. Research each program’s mission, values and community. Does it align with your values?
  5. Professional voice – Warm, human, and precise; all while staying true to your voice. Your essay should stay true to your voice, while also meeting the requirements presented by the Admissions Committee. The faculty Admissions Committee takes a considerable amount of time in crafting an ideal essay prompt that is designed for the applicant to share more about themselves and their goals and fit for the program and institution.  

“A strong personal statement isn’t about perfection, it’s about reflection,” says my colleague Nada Jovanovic, Director of our Writing Center. “We encourage applicants to focus less on sounding impressive and more on being themselves, answering the question specifically, and expressing sincerity. When your voice and values come through, that’s what resonates with readers.”

What To Do Before You Hit ‘Submit'

  • Read aloud once. You’ll hear what to cut.
  • Ask two readers. One who knows you well (for voice), one who doesn’t (for clarity).
  • Swap in action verbs. Replace “I was able to” with “I conducted,” “I designed,” “I partnered,” “I learned.”
  • Program. Ensure that the program name and school is accurate prior to submitting your essay.