Even though the details of your personal statement are about you, for the admissions committee, it's ultimately about how you will benefit the program. Reviewers want to know whether you will:

1. Add value in class and to your cohort.

2. Complete the degree with minimal bumps along the way.

3. Be a strong representative of the program as an alum in your career pursuits.

Basically, your personal statement is about them. Knowing this, you're in the best position to write a persuasive case for why you deserve a spot.

Here's how to avoid clichés, take admissions reviewers on a journey, and get them excited to send your acceptance letter after reading your personal statement for graduate school.

“Tell me about yourself.” That common interview question takes on new life when you write a personal statement for graduate school. After 10 years of reading 1000s of applications, I can share that the best essays and statements have one thing in common: strong self awareness. To boost how you express this self-awareness, outsource the language you use to describe yourself. These 3 tools will help.