does university of alabama require a personal statement

University of Alabama

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University of Alabama’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Work experience short response.

List your work experiences. You must provide the dates (duration) of and total hours worked at each experience and indicate whether it was full-time, part-time, or for summer only.

Leadership Short Response

List any formal leadership positions and/or leadership qualities/experience you have over the last three years. Indicate the appropriate year beside each item. For example, SGA President (2020-2022).

Significant Academic Achievements Short Response

List your significant academic achievements/honors/awards over the last three years. Note: Indicate the appropriate year beside each honor. For example, 1st Place in state Spanish convention (2022) and National Honor Society (2021-2022)

Extracurricular Short Response

List your volunteer activities over the last three years. Indicate the total hours and appropriate years of involvement beside each item. For example, Special Olympics (30 hours from 2020-2022):

List your extracurricular activities, like student organizations, sports, or arts, over the last three years. Indicate the appropriate year of involvement beside each item. For example, Varsity Cheer (2021-2022):

Additional Info Short Response

List any other activities or information you would like The University of Alabama to know about.

Explain any extraordinary circumstances or special needs (for example: family situation, medical history, financial circumstances).

Common App Personal Essay

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

How to Write a Compelling Personal Statement for University of Alabama School of Law

Learn how to craft a powerful personal statement that will impress the admissions committee at the University of Alabama School of Law.

Posted May 12, 2023

Featuring Machmud M.

Deciding Which Law School to Attend

Tuesday, april 2.

7:00 PM UTC · 60 minutes

If you're considering applying to the University of Alabama School of Law, then you'll know that writing a great personal statement is crucial to your application. A well-written personal statement can distinguish you from other applicants and help you stand out in a competitive applicant pool. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of writing a compelling personal statement that will impress the admissions committee and help you gain admission to the University of Alabama School of Law.

Why a Strong Personal Statement is Crucial for Admission

Before we dive into the specifics of how to write a great personal statement, let's take a moment to understand why it's so important. Your personal statement is a reflection of your personality, experiences, and aspirations. It allows the admissions committee to get to know you on a deeper level than just looking at your academic record or test scores.

Your personal statement is also an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, which are essential for success in law school and in the legal profession in general. A well-written personal statement can demonstrate that you have the communication skills necessary to succeed in law school and beyond.

Furthermore, a strong personal statement can set you apart from other applicants who may have similar academic backgrounds or test scores. It can highlight your unique qualities and experiences that make you a valuable addition to the law school community. Admissions committees are looking for well-rounded individuals who will contribute to the school in meaningful ways, and a personal statement can help you demonstrate that you are such a candidate.

Finally, a personal statement can also help you clarify your own goals and motivations for pursuing a legal education. Writing about your experiences and aspirations can help you reflect on your own values and priorities, and can give you a clearer sense of what you hope to achieve through your legal career. This self-reflection can be a valuable exercise in itself, and can help you approach law school with a greater sense of purpose and direction.

Understanding the Admissions Process at University of Alabama School of Law

Before you start writing your personal statement, it's important to have a good understanding of the admissions process at the University of Alabama School of Law. The admissions committee will evaluate your entire application package, which includes your LSAT score, undergraduate academic record, letters of recommendation, and your personal statement.

It's important to note that while the personal statement is an important part of the application process, it's only one component of your overall application. You'll need to make sure that all aspects of your application are strong in order to stand out in a competitive pool of applicants.

In addition to the components mentioned above, the University of Alabama School of Law also considers extracurricular activities, work experience, and community involvement when evaluating applications. These factors can help demonstrate your leadership skills, time management abilities, and commitment to serving others.

Furthermore, the admissions committee at the University of Alabama School of Law values diversity and seeks to create a student body that represents a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Therefore, it's important to highlight any unique perspectives or experiences you may have in your application.

Researching and Tailoring Your Personal Statement to the School's Values and Culture

One important step in writing a successful personal statement is researching the values and culture of the University of Alabama School of Law. Take a look at the school's website and mission statement to get a sense of what's important to them. You can also reach out to current students and faculty members to get a better understanding of the school's culture.

Once you have a good understanding of the values and culture of the school, you can tailor your personal statement to align with those values. This will demonstrate that you are a good fit for the school and that you have taken the time to research and understand what sets the University of Alabama School of Law apart from other institutions.

It's important to note that tailoring your personal statement doesn't mean simply regurgitating the school's values and culture. Instead, you should use your research to highlight specific experiences or qualities that make you a good fit for the school. For example, if the school values community service, you could discuss a volunteer experience that demonstrates your commitment to giving back. By showcasing how your experiences align with the school's values, you can make a compelling case for why you would be an asset to the University of Alabama School of Law.

Crafting an Attention-Grabbing Introduction

Your personal statement should start with an attention-grabbing introduction that will hook the reader and make them want to keep reading. This could be a personal anecdote, a quote, or a strong statement that highlights your passion for law. Make sure that your introduction is relevant to the rest of your personal statement and sets the tone for the rest of your writing.

One effective way to craft an attention-grabbing introduction is to start with a question that will pique the reader's curiosity. For example, you could ask a rhetorical question that relates to your personal statement topic, or pose a thought-provoking question that will encourage the reader to think about the issue at hand. Just make sure that your question is relevant to your personal statement and that it leads smoothly into the rest of your writing.

Highlighting Your Unique Experiences and Achievements

One of the goals of your personal statement is to showcase your unique experiences and achievements. This is your opportunity to show the admissions committee what sets you apart from other applicants. Whether you've had a unique internship, volunteer experience, or academic achievement, make sure to highlight what makes you stand out.

Another way to highlight your unique experiences and achievements is to discuss any challenges you have overcome. Admissions committees want to see that you have resilience and determination, and discussing how you have overcome obstacles can demonstrate these qualities. Additionally, sharing personal stories can help the committee get to know you better and understand your motivations for pursuing your chosen field.

It's important to remember that highlighting your unique experiences and achievements doesn't mean you need to have had extraordinary experiences. Even if your experiences may seem ordinary, it's all about how you present them and what you've learned from them. Don't be afraid to showcase your personality and what makes you who you are, as this can make your personal statement stand out and leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

Emphasizing Your Passion for Law and Legal Studies

Another important aspect of your personal statement is demonstrating your passion for law and legal studies. This could involve discussing a particular area of law that interests you, or explaining how your previous experiences have prepared you for a career in law. Emphasize why you are passionate about the law and why attending the University of Alabama School of Law is important to you.

One way to demonstrate your passion for law and legal studies is by discussing any extracurricular activities or volunteer work you have done related to the field. For example, if you have volunteered at a legal aid clinic or participated in a mock trial competition, you can highlight these experiences and explain how they have further fueled your interest in pursuing a career in law. Additionally, you can discuss any relevant coursework or research projects you have completed that have deepened your understanding of the legal system and its complexities.

Demonstrating Your Skills, Traits, and Goals Relevant to Law School

It's also important to highlight the skills, traits, and goals that are relevant to success in law school. This could involve discussing your research, writing, or analytical skills, or explaining how your past experiences have prepared you for the rigor of law school. Emphasize why you are ready for the challenges of a legal education and what you hope to achieve during your time at the University of Alabama School of Law.

Another important aspect to consider when demonstrating your skills, traits, and goals relevant to law school is your ability to work in a team. Law school involves a lot of group work and collaboration, so it's important to showcase your ability to work well with others. You can discuss any experiences you've had working in a team, whether it be in a professional or academic setting, and how those experiences have prepared you for law school.

Additionally, it's important to highlight any leadership skills you possess. Law school provides many opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as serving on the executive board of a student organization or leading a group project. If you have any experiences in leadership positions, be sure to discuss them and explain how they have prepared you for the challenges of law school.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls and Mistakes in Personal Statements

When writing your personal statement, it's important to avoid common pitfalls and mistakes. This includes using clichéd language or repeating information that can be found elsewhere in your application. Make sure that your writing is clear, concise, and free of errors. Avoid using overly complicated language or jargon that may be unfamiliar to the reader.

Another common mistake to avoid is making your personal statement too generic. Your statement should be tailored to the specific program or institution you are applying to. Research the program and highlight how your experiences and goals align with their mission and values. Additionally, be sure to showcase your unique qualities and experiences that set you apart from other applicants. This will help you stand out and make a strong impression on the admissions committee.

Editing, Proofreading, and Polishing your Personal Statement for Maximum Effectiveness

Once you've written a draft of your personal statement, it's important to edit, proofread, and polish your writing for maximum effectiveness. This includes checking for spelling and grammar errors, making sure that your writing is clear and concise, and ensuring that your writing flows smoothly from one paragraph to the next.

Reaching Out to Advisors, Professors, or Alumni for Feedback and Guidance on Your Statement

Finally, don't hesitate to reach out to advisors, professors, or alumni for feedback and guidance on your personal statement. They can offer valuable insights into what the admissions committee is looking for in a successful applicant and help you craft a personal statement that highlights your strengths and unique qualities.

In conclusion, writing a compelling personal statement for the University of Alabama School of Law requires careful research, planning, and attention to detail. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this article, you can craft a personal statement that will impress the admissions committee and help you gain admission to this prestigious institution.

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The Harold Loyd Murphy Graduate School at Alabama State University offers various graduate-level programs leading to advanced degrees in education, accountancy, general sciences, health sciences, history, and social work. ASU's graduate programs are designed to prepare constituents to be part of a vanguard of professionals through the 21st century.

How to Apply

• Click here to  Apply Onlin e
• $63 application fee
• GRE/MAT test scores (Waived for 2023 Fall term)
• GMAT scores for Master of Accountancy only  (Waived for 2023 Fall term)
• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
• Three professional letters of recommendation from persons qualified to evaluate your ability to do graduate-level work in your field of study
• Statement of Purpose specifying your purpose and objective in pursuing graduat e study at ASU and relevant employment and academic experiences to your chosen field of study.
• Alternative, Educational Specialist, Doctoral, Instructional Leadership and Social Work programs require additional documents.

Admissions Requirements

To be considered for graduate admission at Alabama State University, you must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university and a minimum GPA of 2.5. A grade point average of 2.5 is required for the Alternative A and Traditional Master’s program in Education.  The Master of Accounting program requires a minimum 2.75 GPA (undergraduate) and 3.0 GPA (graduate).

(To see the complete disclaimer,  refer to the title page of the Graduate Bulletin.) 

Your application and all other admissions documents should be received by The Harold Loyd Murphy Graduate School by the dates for each enrollment term listed below in order to be given priority processing for admission consideration; however, the application process will remain open:

>> Fall -- April 15

>> Spring -- October 15

>> Summer -- March 15

International Students

If you are an international student, you must submit the following items in addition to the regular application materials to be considered for graduate admission to Alabama State University:

• Satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

Original copy of college transcript, evaluated in English on a 4.0 scale, from World Education Services ( www.wes.org ) or any other accredited international transcript evaluation agency. 

Affidavit of financial support that documents your ability to pay for all expenses

Notice Regarding Online Programs and International Applicants:  

Currently, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Service (USICS) does not provide F-1 or M-1 visa for nonimmigrant students enrolled in an online degree program after March 9, 2020, "As a result, new or initial nonimmigrant students who were not previously enrolled in a program of study on March 9, 2020 and intend to pursue a full course of study that will be conducted completely online should not be granted an F-1 or M-1 visa." (https://www.ice.gov/doclib/coronavirus.covid19faq.pdf) 

Nonimmigrant students that wish to apply and participate in an online degree program at Alabama State University may do so while located outside of the U.S. but are responsible for understanding several conditions and specific requirements related to international authorization and licensure within their home country. 1.) Degree recognition and ability to secure licensure varies by country for online degrees, and 2.) the home country's laws and regulations may not permit students from accessing online content.

Special Admissions

If you are interested in taking graduate-level classes at ASU but do not wish to pursue an advanced degree, you may apply for admission as a special student non-degree. To do so, you must:

• Apply Online  (Application Only)  
• $25 application fee
• Official transcript verifying you have obtained a bachelor's degree

The admission policies of Alabama State University are predicated upon the presumed competence of the individual rather than upon any consideration whatsoever of race, color, sex, religion or national origin.

Financial Aid Information/ Tuition Fees

https://www.alasu.edu/cost- aid/tuition-costs/student- accounts/tuition-and-fees

Alabama State University 915 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104

(334) 229-4800

FACULTY, STAFF & STUDENT RESOURCES

Alabama State University (ASU) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award Bachelor’s, Master’s, education specialist and doctorate degrees. Questions about the accreditation of ASU may be directed in writing to SACSCOC at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Ga., 30033-4097, or by calling 404-679-4500 or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website ( www.SACSCOC.org )

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