gap year personal statement psychology

• Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
• Non-Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
• Oxford PPE 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Economics 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Modern Languages 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Land Economy 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Psychology 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge English 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Human Sciences 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge History 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Geography 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Philosophy 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Classics 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Architecture 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge HSPS Programme 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Biomedical Sciences 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Engineering 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Natural Science 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Maths 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Computer Science 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Physics 24/25 Entry
• Oxford PPL 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Veterinary Science 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Chemistry 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Biology 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Biochemistry 24/25 Entry
• Non-Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
• Non-Oxbridge Dentistry 24/25 Entry
• IMAT Medicine 24/25 Entry
• Can’t Find Your Subject?
• Law Interview Programme
• PPE Interview Programme
• Economics Interview Programme
• Oxbridge Medicine Interview Programme
• Natural Science Interview Programme
• Engineering Interview Programme
• Maths Interview Programme
• Dentistry Interview Programme
• Medicine MMI Interview Programme
• Our Guarantee

Our Students

Student Success Stories

• University Access Scheme
• New Tutor Application Form
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How Does It Work?

Enrol on an Oxbridge Programme before 31st July & benefit from a complimentary session with an ex-Oxford lecturer. Schedule your consultation here today.

Enrol on an Oxbridge Programme before 31st July & benefit from a complimentary session with our study psychologist (an ex-Oxford lecturer). Schedule your consultation here today.

• +44 (0) 208 068 0438
• [email protected]

SCIENCE PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

HUMANITIES PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

GET STARTED

Can't find your subject?

OXFORD TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

CAMBRIDGE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

MEDICINE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

View Our Free admissions guides & resources

How UniAdmissions Cracked The Oxbridge Formula

Applying for Oxbridge is an opportunity seldom approached correctly. So how do you enter the top 16% of a strong cohort of applicants that get an offer? Discover how UniAdmissions get 2/3 of our students in.

UCAT Registration 2024: What You Need To Know

Every year, thousands of medicine applicants take the UCAT aiming for top scores. To take the test, you must register first. This guide provides all the information you need to secure your UCAT registration.

Inside The UniAdmissions Portal: The UA Advantage

UniAdmissions students have access to the world's first dedicated Oxbridge admissions preparation platform, and this guide will help you discover exactly how the Portal will help you get your offer.

Discover all guides

ABOUT UNIADMISSIONS

Learn about who the world's first Oxbridge prep school are.

Learn about the Portal; the heart of our Programmes.

UniAdmissions' Foundation

The Foundation is our charitable arm to support disadvantaged students.

Students & Tutors

Discover who a UniAdmissions student is and our admissions criteria.

Learn about our high-performing Oxbridge tutors.

We're proud of our alumni. Read about their journey with UniAdmissions here.

Admissions Resources

Free Admissions Guides

Visit our Learning Centre and read our in-depth free guides.

We are the world's biggest Oxbridge application publisher. Learn more here.

Teachers Learning Hub

Learn about how to help your students get their place at Oxbridge.

Get Started

• Access Student Portal
• Oxbridge Programmes
• Open Day Webinar
• Tutor Application Form
• Common Questions
• Download Our Prospectus

Successful Personal Statement For Psychology At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Psychology applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Psychology Course at Oxford is a scientific discipline, involving the rigorous formulation and testing of ideas. It works through experiments and systematic observation rather than introspection.

Read on to see how this candidate demonstrates their academic interests and initiative.   

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Psychology comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

Discover our Premium Programmes today to learn how you can enrol and triple your chances of success.  

Psychology Personal Statement

How does the mind work? The mind is a mystery housed within the most complex mechanism known to man: the human brain. My innate curiosity compels me to find out more about such a mystery through the study of Psychology.

I have long been interested in how our minds differ: for example, why have I always been a strong mathematician while my brother finds it challenging? Being a musician, I found Kathryn Vaughn’s research supporting a correlation between musical and mathematical abilities particularly thought provoking, while I have also wondered whether my childhood obsession with jigsaws helped me develop problem-solving skills, which are particularly relevant in Geometry: the area with the biggest rift in our abilities. Ann Dowker’s argument, in ‘Individual Differences’, that educational methods influence such differences was also particularly compelling. Therefore, in my gap year, whilst helping struggling learners in KS3 Mathematics at a local school, and, when I help educate children in Tanzania as an International Citizen Service volunteer with the VSO charity, I will evaluate the success of different educational methods. This will give me experience of carrying out my own research, and, will develop skills such as empathy, which is important in the more sensitive areas of Psychology. Furthermore, I recently assisted a University of Oxford researcher conducting follow-up assessments with children in local primary schools. These measured reading-age, language comprehension and numeracy level, and are used to gauge and refine the Catch-Up charity’s numeracy intervention programme. As some of the children being assessed were from a control group, my involvement also enlightened me to ethical aspects of research.

Differences that occur in the criminal mind are also of great interest to me. As an elected Student Ambassador for the Holocaust Educational Trust, I visited Auschwitz-Birkenau earlier this year, where I learnt about Rudolf Hoess. Hoess exterminated thousands of families, yet lived with his own family just outside the camp. This ignited an interest in complex behaviour; therefore I read Stanley Milgram’s research into whether ‘the Germans are different’, and learnt about his Theory of Obedience. This developed an interest in Forensic Psychology, and I subsequently attended a Forensics course at Nottingham University, where I learnt about a Forensic Psychologist’s role, during Mental Health tribunals, for example.

Deterioration of the mind, and methods to counteract this, also interest me. Reading the Psychologist has given me an insight into how the effectiveness of such methods could be analysed using a high-resolution 3D brain atlas; while a presentation from Claire Rytina enlightened me to useful cognitive treatment designed to rebuild and retrieve memory following her Viral Encephalitis. I have also voluntarily worked at a Nursing Home with some Dementia sufferers, and noticed that many sufferers enjoyed me playing music from their past, and sometimes, this triggered some of their memories. This made me wonder whether the music stimulated neurones which had lain dormant for years, similarly to when neurones are used for the first time, as Hubel and Weisel’s nature/nurture research has shown. Studying this in A level Biology gave me an interest in neuroscience, while Biology also stressed the importance of controls and fair tests, which are invaluable during Psychology experiments too. My mathematical skills in statistics will also be beneficial when analysing empirical evidence; and, the deep level of analysis and evaluation used for varying sources in A level History will be useful when studying case studies, while my essay techniques will help me when writing reports, and when considering issues from different perspectives.

Overall, I feel that my broad interests and skills will enable me to thrive as a Psychology student at a demanding University, where I would also make a positive contribution to University life.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for medicine at oxford university, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for law at cambridge, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge.

Download our Free Personal Statement Starter Guide 

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This statement is powered by a broad range of academic interests — all of which the candidate has explored to a deep and commendable level. They are able to articulate how these interests came about, why they are important and how they intersect. In so doing, the candidate clearly demonstrates their ability to think independently, undertake independent projects and foster a wide-ranging curiosity. Furthermore, they clearly illustrate how their academic interests have had a bearing on their actions outside of the classroom; activities that require a substantial amount of initiative and endeavour.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

While the consideration of a range of different areas of psychology is illustrative of a consistently curious individual, this statement would have benefited from greater cohesion as an overall piece. The candidate could have also found a less rhetorical way of opening their statement; their tone at this point is not a mode of speech that they return to elsewhere, and as such, it seems somewhat like a non-sequitur. Their prose thereafter is much more engaging, and it seems unfulfilling and irrelevant to include such mystifying text at the start.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This candidate maturely presents their academic interests and particular areas of personal pursuit. As a result of this, they are able to demonstrate moments at which they have taken impressive amounts of initiative, and have really gone out of their way in order to experience their academic interests outside of the classroom. They are thereby able to fashion themselves as a curious, energetic, academic individual, who is able to think independently and develop their own work. There are potential areas for stylistic improvement within the statement, but they do not hinder the overall impression given of a capable and committed candidate.

This Personal Statement for Psychology is a great example of demonstrating academic interest and initiative. The candidate’s interest and passion are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Psychology application.

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the TSA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

Discover our Premium Programmes by clicking the button below to enrol and triple your chances of success.

UniAdmissions students placed at Oxford And Cambridge

Continue learning about Oxbridge...

Ai writing & ucas personal statements: what you need to know.

When it comes to writing in the 2020s, AI-Generation has become one of the most important issues for many industries,…

Oxbridge Personal Statements: A Complete Teacher’s Guide

As a teacher, you will support students with their UCAS Personal Statements every year, but what about Personal Statements for…

UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

On January 12th 2023, UCAS announced that the traditional Personal Statement would be replaced by a multi-question form for university…

Writing an Economics and Management Personal Statement for Oxford? If so, you’re in the right place! In this post, we…

Successful Personal Statement For Computer Science At Oxford

Read through a successful Computer Science Personal Statement for Oxford with a full analysis by Oxbridge Tutors. Find out why…

TSA Section 2: The Essay

Section 2 of the TSA is an extended essay responding to an excerpt of text. The best way to guide…

The Secrets to Oxbridge Admission.

• We cracked the Oxbridge formula . Find out what we discovered here.
• Looking for application support? Don't work with a random tutor. This is what you need to know first.
• Get up-to-date Oxbridge advice with our webinars. Follow our Open Days led by our experts and stay updated.
• Begin your Oxbridge journey with UniAdmissions through our programmes of support by clicking here.

Personal Statement Starter Guide

We have developed an 80-page E-Book filled with expert Personal Statement Advice. Inside, you’ll find guides on planning and writing your personal statement, as well as our full collection of 25+ Successful Oxbridge Personal Statements.

Get it directly to your inbox by registering your email.

How would you like to speak to an Admissions Consultant?

Guidance from our top admission experts — for free!

• Admit Finder

Discover Past Admits, Gauge Your Chances!

• Shortlist Builder

Personalized University Picks, Just a Click Away.

• Course Finder

Navigate Global Courses Tailored for You

• Scholarship Finder

Unlock Funding Opportunities Worldwide.

Get tailored study abroad advice.

Sign in for exclusive content!

Planning to study abroad?

Build your target shortlist and see your odds of getting into top schools with Ambitio's AI shortlist builder!

Heading Out Already?

Our Ivy League mentors and top admission experts can help with personalized tips to get you into your dream school

23 May 2024

7 minutes read

How To Write A Personal Statement Example If You Take A Gap Year

Dirghayu Kaushik

Key Takeaways

• Highlight how your gap year experiences, volunteering and internships, have prepared you for your chosen course.
• Focus on personal growth and development to show admissions tutors your readiness for university.
• Clearly reflect your experiences to keep the reader engaged and demonstrate your commitment.
• Regularly review your personal statement to ensure clarity and alignment with your career aspirations.
• Use real-life examples to make your personal statement relatable, showcasing your unique journey.

Taking a gap year can be an experience of a lot of ups and downs but it will allow you to gain valuable skills and perspectives that can enhance your personal statement. Many students find that a well-spent gap year can make their application stand out to admissions tutors. Whether you choose to volunteer, travel, or gain work experience, these activities can provide rich content for your personal statement.

Writing a personal statement after a gap year involves highlighting how your experiences have prepared you for your chosen subject. Admissions tutors look for insightful reflections and relevant qualifications, so it’s crucial to re-read your statement multiple times to ensure it aligns with your UCAS application and coursework. With the right approach, your personal statement can effectively convey your enthusiasm for the next step in your academic journey.

In this guide, we have shared expert tips for writing a good personal statement that can help you in your application process and even in your placements.

Worried about the cost of Studying Abroad?

Sign up to access 25 game-changing scholarships that could cover your costs.

• 4 Benefits if you take a gap year 

Taking a gap year can offer numerous advantages, not only for your personal growth but also for your academic and career prospects. Here are four key benefits that can make your personal statement stand out and enhance your overall application:

Enhanced Personal Statement

Believe it when you write your statement, you’ll be surprised at how your experiences outside the classroom can impress admissions tutors. Make sure to include everything you’ve done that’s related to the course you’re applying for. Reflecting on how you’ve gained work experience and developed key skills will keep the admission officers engaged and demonstrate your commitment to your chosen career.

Career Prospects

Taking a gap year in your personal statement can show that you’ve entered this phase with a plan. Don’t go into your gap year without considering your future career path. By gaining relevant work experience or volunteering in health and social care, for example, you’re looking to develop skills that will benefit you at the degree level and beyond. These experiences can highlight your career aspirations and make you a more attractive candidate in the application process.

Personal Growth

You’ve taken the initiative to step outside the traditional school or college path, which can be a significant talking point in your personal statement. Discussing how you’ve encountered different cultures or developed interpersonal skills can make your statement not just a list of qualifications but a narrative of personal development. This approach can help you go into more detail about your interest in the course and show how your gap year has prepared you for study at university.

Fresh Perspective

Returning from a gap year with fresh eyes allows you to read your personal statement more critically. It’s best to re-read your statement to ensure it aligns with your career aspirations and includes all relevant skills and experiences. Don’t write your personal statement in a rush; take the time to review spelling and grammar meticulously. This careful attention to detail can be the difference in convincing admissions tutors to offer you a place.

Stuck on How to Pick Your Ideal College?

Sign up to access your tailored shortlist and simplify finding your ideal college.

• Expert tips to write a personal statement

When it comes to applying to universities, it is advisable to listen to the experts first because they have been in the industry for a while and it is likely that at some point they also had the same problem. Here are five expert tips to help make your statement stand out and reflect your unique experiences and aspirations.

Highlight Relevant Experiences

When you write your statement, it’s best to include everything you’ve done that’s pertinent to the course you’re applying for. Whether you’ve gained work experience in health and social care or developed interpersonal skills through volunteering, showcasing these activities can demonstrate your commitment and readiness for study at university. This approach keeps the reader engaged and highlights your suitability for the chosen career.

Reflect on Your Gap Year

If you’ve taken a gap year, make sure to mention it in your personal statement. A gap year could provide a wealth of experiences that can enhance your application. Discuss how you’ve entered different cultures, developed key skills, and taken the initiative to pursue relevant work experience. These insights can go into more detail about your career aspirations and show that your gap year was spent productively.

Showcase Personal Growth

Your personal statement isn’t just a list of qualifications; it should reflect your personal growth. Discussing experiences outside the classroom, such as extracurricular activities or travel, can make your statement more relatable and engaging. You’ll be surprised how demonstrating personal development can keep the reader interested and showcase your readiness for degree-level study.

Be Clear and Concise

It’s crucial to write your personal statement clearly and concisely. Don’t write lengthy paragraphs, instead, try to include relevant personal experiences and skills in a structured manner. Admissions tutors often have many statements to read, so a well-organized statement with a clear line count is going to help you stand out.

Review and Revise

After writing your personal statement, read it with fresh eyes. Re-read your statement to check for spelling and grammar errors and ensure it aligns with your future career path. Don’t go overboard, but make sure your statement answers the following questions:

Why are you interested in the course? What have you done to prepare? How does this fit into your career aspirations? This thorough review can convince admissions tutors to offer you a place.

See how Successful Applications Look Like!

Access 350K+ profiles of students who got in. See what you can improve in your own application!

• 2 personal statement examples for students with a gap year

Here are two strong and useful personal statement templates that you would want to try in your application:

Personal statement sample for students without experience

During my gap year, I took the opportunity to reflect on my future and prepare for the challenges of university. Although I did not gain experience of work or travel, I used this time to focus on my personal growth and academic interests. I dedicated myself to self-study, reading extensively about my chosen subject of psychology, which deepened my understanding and passion for the field.

Additionally, I spent time volunteering at my local library, where I helped organise events and assisted with community programs. This experience allowed me to develop strong organisational and interpersonal skills. It also reinforced my desire to pursue a career in psychology, as I saw firsthand the impact of community support and engagement.

My gap year has made me more mature and focused, ready to take on the academic challenges ahead. I am eager to bring my dedication and enthusiasm to my university studies and continue growing both personally and academically.

Personal statement sample for students with experience and internships

Taking a gap year was one of the best decisions I’ve made. During this time, I was able to volunteer at a local animal shelter, which provided me with invaluable hands-on experience in animal care and welfare. Working closely with veterinarians and animal behaviourists, I learned about the various aspects of animal health and the importance of compassion and patience in this field.

In addition to volunteering, I also took a part-time job at a community centre, where I assisted in organizing events and activities for children. This role helped me develop strong organisational and leadership skills, as I was often responsible for coordinating schedules, managing resources, and leading group activities. These experiences have not only improved my ability to work effectively in a team but also strengthened my communication and problem-solving skills.

Furthermore, I traveled to several countries during my gap year, immersing myself in different cultures and broadening my perspective. These travels have made me more adaptable and open-minded, qualities that I believe are essential for success in any academic or professional setting.

My gap year has been a period of significant personal and professional growth. It has reaffirmed my commitment to studying veterinary science, as I have seen the direct impact that skilled and compassionate care can have on animal welfare. I am eager to bring the knowledge and skills I’ve gained during my gap year to my university studies and contribute positively to the academic community.

Start Your University Applications with Ambitio Pro!

Get Ambitio Pro!

Begin your journey to top universities with Ambitio Pro. Our premium platform offers you tools and support needed to craft standout applications.

Unlock Advanced Features for a More Comprehensive Application Experience!

Start your Journey today

Taking a gap year can be a great experience that helps make your personal statement stronger and your university application stand out. By talking about what you did during your gap year, showing how you learned new skills, and explaining how these experiences have prepared you for college, you can write a statement that grabs the attention of admissions tutors.

Make sure to review and edit your personal statement carefully so it’s clear and easy to read. This careful attention will show that you are ready for the next step in your education and serious about your future career. With these tips, you can write a personal statement that really shines.

Craft your success narrative with Ambitio Elite . Personalized guidance, AI-driven strategies, and expert mentorship await. Enroll now to elevate your academic journey! Join Ambitio Elite

How do I explain my gap year in my personal statement?

When explaining your gap year in your personal statement, be honest and provide context. You can mention the reasons why you took a gap year, what you did during that time (e.g., work, travel, volunteer), and how those experiences have helped you grow and prepare for college. Highlight any skills or insights you gained that are relevant to your academic pursuits.

Should I apologize for taking a gap year in my personal statement?

No, you shouldn’t apologize for taking a gap year. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your experience and how it has contributed to your personal growth and readiness for college. Show the admissions committee that you used your gap year productively and that it has made you a stronger candidate.

How do I connect my gap year experiences to my academic goals?

To connect your gap year experiences to your academic goals, think about how the skills or insights you gained during your gap year can be applied to your chosen field of study. For example, if you worked in a related industry, highlight the skills you developed and how they will help you succeed in your program. If you traveled, discuss how your experiences broadened your perspective and prepared you for a diverse academic environment.

What if I didn’t do anything “impressive” during my gap year?

You don’t need to have done something “impressive” during your gap year to write a strong personal statement. Focus on what you learned about yourself, how you grew as a person, and what you’re bringing to the table as a result of your gap year. Even if you simply worked to save money or took care of family obligations, you can discuss how those experiences taught you responsibility, time management, and other valuable skills.

How much space should I dedicate to my gap year in my personal statement?

The amount of space you dedicate to your gap year in your personal statement will depend on the specific prompt and the word count. Generally, aim to devote about 1-2 paragraphs to your gap year, depending on its relevance to your academic goals and the rest of your application. Make sure to balance your discussion of your gap year with other important aspects of your application, such as your academic achievements and career aspirations.

Can I use my gap year as a way to address any weaknesses in my application?

Yes, you can use your gap year as an opportunity to address any weaknesses in your application. For example, if your grades weren’t strong, you can discuss how you used your gap year to take additional courses or prepare for standardized tests.

Spread the Word!

Share across your social media if you found it helpful

Table of Contents

• • 4 Benefits if you take a gap year 
• • Expert tips to write a personal statement
• • 2 personal statement examples for students with a gap year
• • Conclusion

Build your profile to get into top colleges

Phone Number

What level are you targetting

Almost there!

Just enter your OTP, and your planner will be on its way!

Code sent on

Resend OTP (30s)

Your Handbook Is Waiting on WhatsApp!

Please have a look, and always feel free to reach out for any detailed guidance

Click here to download

Meanwhile check out your dashboard to access various tools to help you in your study abroad journey

Recent Blogs

Ultimate Guide: 3 Fashion Design Personal Statement Example

Font for Statement of Purpose

Tips To Write Executive Letter Of Recommendation Template

Find your Dream school now⭐️

Welcome! Let's Land Your Dream Admit.

Let us make sure you get into the best!

• 2024 Winter
• 2024 Spring
• 2024 Summer

Enter verification code

Code was sent to

• Our Experts

Connect with us on our social media

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

How To Write A Personal Statement For Psychology

Writing a personal statement for a psychology course in the UK can be a daunting task. Your personal statement is an opportunity to highlight your achievements, experiences, and goals, and to showcase your fit for a specific programme or institution.

It is an important part of your application and can be the deciding factor in whether or not you are accepted. 

Many students want to study psychology in the UK since it has one of the best universities in the world. Also, many international students are applying to UK universities every year. In total, around 60000 students study psychology in the UK.

In this blog post, we will provide tips and guidelines on how to write a compelling personal statement for a psychology degree and university. We will also discuss common mistakes to avoid and give some examples to help you get started preparing for your university application.

What is a personal statement for psychology?

A personal statement for psychology is a written document that is typically submitted as part of a UCAS application in the UK.

It is an opportunity for you to show your unique background, experiences, how strong the secondary school education you have, and your interests, and to explain how these have prepared you for a career in psychology.

In your personal statement, you should highlight your passion for psychology and your goals for the future. This part is very important for admission tutors at universities.

You should also write about a relevant research project or work experience, as well as any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities. 

However, the personal statement for psychology needs to be a very well-written and thoughtful reflection of your strengths and goals and should demonstrate your readiness to pursue a degree in psychology.

Recommended guides:

• How To Write A Dentistry Personal Statement
• How to Write a Personal Statement for a Masters Degree
• How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD
• UCAS Personal Statement:
• Tips for Personal Statement for the University
• How to Write a Personal Statement That Stands Out

What makes a good personal statement for psychology

Writing a good personal statement for psychology can be intimidating, but this is the most important part of your university application process. You will have only one chance to grab the attention of very detailed admission tutors.

When creating your personal statement for psychology, it’s essential to focus on your passion and demonstrate your desire to pursue an undergraduate degree in psychology. To make your application stand out, be specific and provide concrete examples of your experiences and accomplishments.

It’s also essential to use a clear and concise writing style, avoiding jargon – this is something that is not appropriate for university admission tutors. And don’t forget to carefully edit and proofread your statement to ensure it’s error-free and presents a polished, professional image.

Finally, make sure to tailor your statement to the specific psychology programme applying for. Since you will study Psychology, you can choose from many programmes. See the list below. 

Consider the values and goals of the programme, and explain how your experiences and interests align with these. Asking a friend or family member to review your statement before submitting it can also be helpful. Also, you can hire a professional writer to proofread your application.

Check out our UCAS-specific guide: Perfect your application with these useful guides.

• UCAS Reference Letter
• UCAS Tariff Points Table: How does it work [Example table]
• UCAS Application: Process and Deadlines Explained in Details
• UCAS Extra 2023: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
•   UCAS Clearing
• UCAS Application Process for International Students  

How to structure a psychology personal statement

Well-written psychology personal statements increase your chances of getting a place on your desired course and help you stand out from other applicants.

Learning what to include and how to structure your psychology personal statement can improve its quality. As a general framework for your psychology personal statement, we have included some steps below.

Research before starting writing 

Ensure that you are familiar with any specific guidelines or information that needs to be included in your psychology personal statement.

For example, formatting advice, examples of the kind of experience that would be relevant to mention, or what they are looking for in candidates may be included. Your writing can be guided and informed by this information.

Outline ideas on paper 

Prepare a brief outline of what you want to discuss in your psychology personal statement. An introduction to yourself, your experiences (shown in an example), your knowledge, research projects (if you have it), important skills, and why you are interested in this particular course might be included.

The outline can help you plan the structure and content of your personal statement.

Write an amazing personal statement introduction

You will have the first opportunity to demonstrate to admission tutors why you are the best candidate for a psychology course during your introduction.

Stand out while staying on topic by highlighting what makes you unique in terms of your skill sets, experience, and passions.

Engage Tutors with your statement

The opening sentences of your personal statement are crucial in making an impact on admission tutors. To capture their attention and interest, try starting with punchy, short, and relevant sentences that stand out and create a smooth flow for the reader.

Experiences, skills, and interests in psychology

A personal statement is much more than a representation of yourself. It emphasises why the psychology course is appropriate for you.

Highlight to university members why you’re interested in psychology and what abilities you’ll bring to your studies to achieve.

Always back up your views with real-world examples from your own life, whether it’s a personal experience, something you witnessed secondhand, or something you read about that inspired you to pursue this job.

Make a clear conclusion

An excellent conclusion to your psychology personal statement , like the start, may create a lasting influence on the tutors . Try to cover all of the essential arguments you’ve raised in a clear, succinct manner. Show why you want to study a specific course at a university.

Stick to the subject and avoid using fluffy, long boring sentences. Make sure you leave the admission tutor in a good, enthusiastic tone so that they end your statement with a positive view.

Check to spell and proofread errors

Before you submit your UCAS personal statement , be sure to thoroughly proofread it for any grammar or spelling errors. Reading it out loud or having someone else read it for you can help catch mistakes.

Keep in mind that a successful psychology personal statement is clear , informative , and personal , so avoid using overly long sentences and aim for a professional yet energetic tone.

Highly recommended to read:

• Applying To Medicine in the UK
• Writing a Winning Medical Personal Statement

Tips for writing your psychology personal statement

1. start early.

Writing a psychology personal statement is a time-consuming process if the writing is not your “thing”, so it’s essential to start early . This will allow you to brainstorm ideas, gather materials, and revise your statement multiple times before submitting it.

2. Understand the Purpose of the Personal Statement

Before you begin writing your personal statement for the UCAS application , it’s important to understand the purpose of the statement. A personal statement for psychology university should:

• Explain your motivations for pursuing a degree in psychology
• Describe your research interests and career goals
• Highlight your relevant experiences and achievements
• Demonstrate your fit for the subject and school you are applying to

3. Follow the Prompt

Most programmes will provide a prompt or guidelines for creating your psychology personal statement. It’s important to follow these guidelines closely and address all of the points requested in the prompt. If the programme doesn’t provide a prompt, you can use the list above as a general guide.

4. Be Specific and Personal

A personal statement should be specific and personal. Avoid vague or general statements, and focus on specific experiences, A-levels, subjects, achievements, and goals.

Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and help the reader understand your motivations and interests.

5. Use a Clear and Cohesive Structure

Psychology personal statement should be well-organised and easy to follow. Use a clear and cohesive structure to help the reader understand your story and the progression of your experiences and goals.

Don’t use headings or subheadings to divide your statement into sections. Use transitional phrases to help connect your ideas.

6. Edit and Proofread

Once you have completed a personal statement, it’s important to take the time to edit and proofread your work. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and spelling mistakes, and make sure your statement is clear and concise.

You can ask a trusted friend, family, alumni student, teacher from the same subject or professional tutor to review your application for feedback and suggestions.

7. Avoid Common Mistakes

There are several common mistakes to avoid when writing a personal statement for a psychology course:

• Failing to follow the prompt or guidelines
• Being too general or vague
• Focusing too much on your weaknesses
• Using overly technical language or jargon
• Submitting a statement that is too long or too short
• Not including experience and example

8. Use Examples to Illustrate Your Points

To make your personal statement more engaging and memorable, use examples to illustrate your points. This can help the reader better understand your motivations, interests, and goals, and it can help bring your statement to life.

9. Show, Don’t Tell

When working on your personal statement, use descriptive language and action verbs to show interest, rather than tell, the reader about your experiences and achievements. This can help paint a vivid picture for the reader and make your statement more engaging and memorable.

Advice From Psychology Students

Here is advice from students who have undergraduate degrees.  

I structured it by introducing myself first and then talking about my passion for psychology. I then talked about my experiences and how they adapted me for my studies, before talking about why I wanted to come to USW and study Psychology. – First-year student Keira

If I was to do it all again, I would talk more about my current interest in Psychology and read around this subject, as I think this would have demonstrated initiative and real passion. – First-year student Keira

Here in our Psychology personal statement examples section, we have amazing samples you can use as guidance for yours. Make sure you check them before you start perfecting your application for UCAS .

Psychology Courses to Apply In The UK

A list of psychology degrees available for undergraduate applicants in the UK are:

• Child psychology
• Clinical 
• Developmental 
• Educational 
• Experimental 
• Forensic  
• Social 
• Sport 
• Criminal 

Final Thoughts

Preparing a personal statement for psychology is a vital part of the university application process. It’s your first contact with admission tutors as a future student.

A compelling personal statement focuses on your passion for psychology and your future goals, provides specific examples of your experiences and achievements, and it’s tailored to the specific course you are applying for. 

With these tips and guidelines in mind, you can start preparing for an application that will increase your chances of getting accepted.

Most universities in the UK recommend that a personal statement for psychology be around 4,000 characters or 47 text lines long.

In your personal statement, you should include your passion for psychology and your future goals, any relevant research, coursework, or extracurricular activities, and how these experiences have prepared you for a career.

This page has been archived and is no longer being updated regularly.

Preparing your personal statement for graduate school applications

Nearly all doctoral programs and many master’s degree programs in psychology require submission of a personal statement as part of the application package. In my experience advising students as well as serving as a graduate dean for many years, few things in the application process cause students as much anxiety and prompt so many questions.

Why so much concern? Several reasons. First, what we generically call the personal statement goes by different names at different institutions: “statement of goals,” “purpose and interests” and a host of other terms. Second, institutions have varying requirements for length and specific topics. Third, you have to compose it from scratch, in contrast to your transcript (which the registrar sends), your letters of recommendation (which other people compose) and any required test scores (which the testing agency sends).

Here are answers to students’ four most common questions.

Is the personal statement important?

Absolutely yes. Summaries of research on what is important in the application process, particularly for doctoral programs, show that the statement of purpose plays a key role in admission decisions — often more important than such standbys as your GPA and GRE scores. Admission committees really do pay attention. Each program in APA’s (2018) Graduate Study in Psychology  provides a rating of the importance of the statement of purpose, so you can check for your target programs. This is where you display your:

• Fit with the program.
• Especially desirable qualifications.
• Clarity of plans.
• Writing skill. 

Do I use the same one for all?

Absolutely not. Customize your statement for each program to which you apply. Each program will provide a brief description of what it wants in the applicant’s statement of purpose, the length and topics. One program may want 500 words covering topics A, B and C. Another program may want 1,500 words covering topics A, B, D and E. Pay attention to these directives. If, as program director, I want the latter and you give me the former, you have just done yourself a great disfavor — and irritated me. If you are applying to many programs, make a little spreadsheet showing what each program wants in the statement. Then, cross-check your customized statements against your spreadsheet.

What do I include?

Despite the latter advice about customizing, many programs ask about similar topics. The most common topics include your professional/career plans, academic objectives related to a particular program, research experience and other applied experience (for example, internships). Doctoral programs (but not usually master’s programs) often ask for your interest in or fit with particular faculty members (just two or three — not everyone). Of course, that fit relates to your objectives and the faculty members’ areas of expertise/research.

Because these topics appear frequently in programs’ requests, a useful strategy calls for developing a boilerplate statement covering the latter topics. Thus, you don’t have to start from scratch for every program. Construct the boilerplate, the common statement, first. Get it in good shape. Then customize it as needed for different programs.

You should certainly have a paragraph or two focusing on what you want to do in terms of career goals, academic specialty and research interests. And sift through your experiences to see which might set you apart and make you especially attractive as a candidate. Perhaps you have a strong research record, an exceptionally meaningful field experience or a few advanced undergraduate courses. Maybe all three of these.

When writing about your goals and experiences, aim for precision and detail. Avoid generic statements (“I have a lot of research experience,” “I did an internship”). Provide details, as space permits. What exactly did you do in your research, and what did you learn from it? What did your internship entail, and, again, what did you learn from it?

While on the topic of what to include, let’s identify a few things to not include. Norcross and Sayette (2016) call these the 3 Hs: humor, hyperbole, hard luck . No jokes or funny stories in the personal statement. Watch out for hyperbole in your statement: I’m the most qualified; I had the greatest major; I never have interpersonal conflicts. And don’t describe your own depression, substance abuse or family turmoil. Appleby and Appleby (2007) included such items among their “kisses of death” for applicants’ personal statements.

Will you read it for me?

The answer will vary for different faculty members and your relationship with them, but many will be happy to help. Please, however, do not ask a faculty member to read your first rough draft. Get it cleaned up. No half-sentences, no typos. Your institution may have a writing center that will prove helpful. When you have it in pretty good shape, ask a faculty member for feedback. 

Finally, proofread your statement before hitting the submit button. Remember, it’s used partly to evaluate your writing skill.

Watch this free video series for more information on graduate school applications.

American Psychological Association. (2016). Graduate study in psychology: 2017 edition . Washington, D.C.: Author.

Appleby, D.C., & Appleby, K.M. (2007). How to avoid the kisses of death in the graduate school application process. Eye on Psi Chi, 11 (3), 20-21.

Norcross, J.C., & Sayette, M.A (2016). Insider's guide to graduate programs in clinical and counseling psychology: Revised 2016/2017 edition . New York: Guilford.

About the author

Gap Years, Taking Time Off, and Fear of Falling Behind

A college gap year is an important option when mental health needs attention..

Posted March 5, 2024 | Reviewed by Tyler Woods

• What Is Fear?
• Take our Generalized Anxiety Disorder Test
• Find a therapist to combat fear and anxiety
• Gap years are opportunities to find purpose and address challenges.
• Deciding to take a gap year requires communication with the school and family.
• A successful gap year is defined by planning, communication, execution, and review.
• Gap years pose risks of missing out on social activities and academic matriculation.

A gap year refers to a student hitting pause on traditional academic work to take a breath if they’re overwhelmed with school (or life). I often work with parents who only see two options when their kid is bombing out of college—bring them home or force them to stick it out on campus. Sometimes, one of the most powerful things for a struggling kid is a change of scenery and context.

More and more, a gap year or semester is being used to get depression , anxiety , eating disorders, or substance use under control. Many therapeutic programs are well-suited to admit college students for a semester or two with the intent of providing assessment and treatment. In many instances, if a student graduated from high school with untreated behavioral health challenges, things will only get more challenging once they get to college.

Here are a few examples of more specific reasons for a college student to take time off:

• They’re seeking treatment for medical, mental health, or substance abuse challenges
• They need to make money working
• They want to get some life experience outside of school to help find direction or purpose
• They may want to boost or build a resume for a targeted industry or company

A gap year is a broad term that can have a bunch of variations. While these are just a few reasons to take a gap year, there are many things to do during the time off. Here are some examples of productive and healthy ways college students could use a gap year:

• Volunteering overseas to teach English
• Participating in a wilderness program
• Spending time with a sick family member
• Working a full-time job
• Participating in intensive therapy for depression, anxiety, or substance use
• Taking easier classes at a community college
• Traveling through Europe

Some gap years are focused on academics and include opportunities like a study-abroad program or internship. This type of break from traditional studying can be helpful for kids that are getting burnt-out from being on campus but don’t need to move back home or get specialized treatment. They may just want to pursue career options or combine traveling with some course credits. I love this type of time off since it typically provides lots of life lessons around personal responsibility, budgeting, and exploration that would be difficult to get otherwise.

Another option is adventure. Two of the most well-known programs are National Outdoor Leadership School (or NOLS) and Outward Bound. Both run programs of varying lengths throughout the year, and in all sorts of different environments. The primary focus of these programs is skill development—not only outdoor skills, like rock climbing or rafting, but also soft skills, like leadership, communication, and problem-solving. While outdoor skills may not be necessary for your college student’s degree or career path, soft skills are absolutely essential. There are many programs, but, in my opinion, NOLS and Outward Bound, the two oldest and most famous, are also, in my opinion, the best run.

Keys to a Successful Gap Year Experience

Regardless of the purpose of the gap year, it’s essential for parents and college students to discuss the following points as soon as possible.

To start with:

• Set Some Goals . Determine the goal of the gap year. I tell parents and their kids that this is one of those situations where everyone needs to be on the same page, which means everyone needs to be honest about why the kid is taking time off. Encourage the use of SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-sensitive) to further tease this out.
• Communicate with the School. Communicate with the university if your student is already enrolled. Find out if and how to earn credit for activities during the time off. Make sure your kid does not need to re-enroll, have any outstanding or upcoming bills due and that there will be no negative consequences from taking time off.
• Scheduling. Plan out the semester schedule (when they plan to start and when they plan to return to school). How is your kiddo going to spend most days/weeks? I don’t think they need to have every hour defined, but they do need to have a routine that fills time well and is consistent. This is also a good time to talk about if and how friends and family might be able to visit if they’re traveling. Finally, scheduling, or at least discussing when they’ll check in if they’re traveling, is super important.
• Requirements. Identify all requirements (e.g. passport, plane ticket, rail pass, volunteer application, shots). Passports and visas take longer than ever to process. It’s never too early to update a passport, even if the gap year is just an idea at this point.
• Budget. How much will it all cost and who is paying? Have this conversation early in the process and create a budget. Just like when remodeling a house—pad in an extra 10 percent for emergencies and surprises. Budgeting is not just for finances, it’s also for time and energy. Budgeting for how much time they (or you want them to) spend on certain activities is a big part of the conversation. Even if you’re wealthy, talking about structural constraints around spending is a value that gets generalized to other parts of life.
• Deadlines. Put all requirements’ deadlines on the calendar. Gap periods without specific deadlines or dates can easily turn into wasted weeks and months buttressed by promises of what will get done next week.
• Presentation. This one might sound a bit cheesy but actually has some profound impact. What will your kid get out of this experience? How will they communicate this at the end to you? It’s easy to push this aside, but I encourage parents and their kids to come up with some sort of way to share what they learned. It’s a way to teach them to organize their thoughts and communicate effectively. Learning how to debrief from an experience is another one of those soft skills that pays dividends throughout life. My go-to question sandwich for students is to ask themselves and maybe provide to parents after they've taken time off: What? So What? Now What? What did I do and what happened? What impact did this gap have on my life? What comes next, and how can I take these big and small lessons forward?
• Keep Active. It’s essential that whether your college student takes time off for healthcare, travel, or making money, they plan to stay active, mentally and physically. It’s so important for them to keep reading, working out, and challenging themselves.

At the outset, many college students I’ve worked with get really excited and do a ton of research on places they want to go or programs they want to participate in. One thing often gets overlooked: the risks and real consequences of taking time off. Friends are moving forward through classes, going to parties, and developing relationships. If your child took loans out, they may actually start coming due for payment unless your kid is officially enrolled with a minimal number of credit hours. Plan on having real conversations about the real costs of time off. It’s not an attempt to get them to change their mind—it’s an opportunity to level-set and incorporate what skin in the game they need to have.

As exploratory and insightful as a gap year can be, it can also create confusion about one’s life in a more philosophical way. When we are isolated or spend large chunks of time out of what seems like the mainstream social environment, our norms and self-concept start to change. We may challenge who we are and what we stand for and, ultimately, what we want out of life. A gap year may be better confined to a gap semester. A gap semester might be better consolidated to a fall or winter break. Figuring out the goal of time off will help define what length of time is best.

Rob Danzman is a licensed professional counselor and mental health counselor and founder of Motivate Counseling in Bloomington, Indiana.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Center
• Find a Psychiatrist
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United States
• Brooklyn, NY
• Chicago, IL
• Houston, TX
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• Portland, OR
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Washington, DC
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

Sticking up for yourself is no easy task. But there are concrete skills you can use to hone your assertiveness and advocate for yourself.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

• Personal statement dos and don'ts

Applying to university

• Getting started
• UCAS Tariff points
• Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
• Amendments to the Tariff consultation
• Offer rate calculator
• How to use the offer rate calculator
• Understanding historical entry grades data
• Admissions tests
• Deferred entry
• Personal statement advice and example: computer science
• Personal statement advice: English
• Personal statement advice: Midwifery
• Personal statement advice: animal science
• Personal statement advice: biology
• Personal statement advice: business and management
• Personal statement advice: chemistry
• Personal statement advice: dance
• Personal statement advice: dentistry
• Personal statement advice: drama
• Personal statement advice: economics
• Personal statement advice: engineering
• Personal statement advice: geography
• Personal statement advice: history
• Personal statement advice: law
• Personal statement advice: maths
• Personal statement advice: media studies and journalism
• Personal statement advice: medicine
• Personal statement advice: modern languages
• Personal statement advice: music
• Personal statement advice: nursing
• Personal statement advice: pharmacy
• Personal statement advice: physiotherapy
• Personal statement advice: politics
• Personal statement advice: psychology
• Personal statement advice: social work
• Personal statement advice: sociology
• Personal statement advice: sports science
• Personal statement advice: statistics
• Personal statement advice: teacher training and education
• Personal statement advice: veterinary medicine
• Personal statement: finance and accounting
• Filling in your application
• Staying safe online
• How to write a personal statement that works for multiple courses
• How To Write Your Undergraduate Personal Statement
• Fraud and similarity
• How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber
• How to end your personal statement
• Introducing the personal statement tool
• What to include in a personal statement
• Using AI and ChatGPT to help you with your personal statement
• Using your personal statement beyond a university application
• Carers, estranged students, refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain
• Personal statement guides
• References for mature students

Shona Barrie – Director of Admissions, University of Stirling

UCAS asked admissions tutors – the people who read and score your personal statement – for their advice on what you should and shouldn’t do when writing your personal statement. 

The most common piece of advice was not to worry about it – and don’t be tempted to copy anyone else’s.

Read our step-by-step guide to writing your personal statement

Then follow our simple tips below.

• Do talk about why you’re a good candidate – talk about you, your motivations and what brings you to this course.
• Do be enthusiastic – if you show you’re interested in the course, it may help you get a place.
• Do make it relevant . Connect what you’re saying with the course and with your experiences.
• Do outline your ideas clearly .
• Do avoid the negatives – highlight the positives about you, and show you know your strengths.
• Do expect to produce several drafts of your personal statement before being totally happy with it.
• Do ask people you trust for their feedback.
• Don’t be modest or shy . You want your passions to come across. 
• Don’t exaggerate – if you do, you may get caught out in an interview when asked to elaborate on an interesting achievement.
• Don’t use quotes from someone else, or cliches.
• Don’t leave it to the last minute – your statement will seem rushed and important information could be left out.
• Don’t let spelling and grammatical errors spoil your statement , but don't just rely on a spellchecker. Proofread as many times as possible.
• Don’t copy and paste – make yours original.
• Don’t post your personal statement on the internet or on social media or share your personal statement with anyone including your friends and family, unless asking for feedback from people you trust.
• Don’t worry about it – we have all the advice you need to help you stand out in your personal statement. 

The personal statement tool image

Don’t be tempted to copy or share your statement.

UCAS scans all personal statements through a similarity detection system to compare them with previous statements.

Any similarity greater than 30% will be flagged and we'll inform the universities and colleges to which you have applied. 

Find out more

Ana ghaffari moghaddam – third year law student and careers coach, university of liverpool.

You’ve got this. Follow those simple steps and use your personal statement as your chance to shine .Use the below as a checklist to make sure you've avoided all common pitfalls.

Want more tips on what to include in your personal statement? Use the links below.

• Get started with our personal statement builder . 
• Five things all students should include in their personal statement. 
• See how you can turn your personal statement into a CV, apprenticeship application or covering letter. 
• Read How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber .

Sponsored articles UCAS Media Service

Start your academic journey in dubai, clearing places available. get in touch, clearing: find your future at kent.

Addressing Gaps in Your Personal Statement

Many residency candidates have some aspect of their application background that may be perceived as a gap, weakness, or red flag in the eyes of those who review application materials.

Some examples of red flags are:

• Attempts on USMLE exams
• A gap in medical education or professional career
• Low test scores
• Lack of US clinical experience
• Failing a class, or former residency

The presence of these circumstances is an understandable– and often unavoidable, part of life, but it can be hard to find the right time and place to explain to programs what happened. There are a few appropriate places for you to talk about your gaps such as the ERAS Common Application, but this may not feel sufficient. You may feel the need to make your case in your Personal Statement.

While it is not suggested to bring up these weaknesses in your Personal Statement , sometimes it can work in your favor to identify what parts of your application may raise red flags for programs. This way, you can answer any questions programs may have as they review your credentials and soothe any misgivings about your worthiness as a candidate. With the right wording, you can even show programs you are capable of taking a bad situation and turning it into an opportunity for growth, improvement and resilience.

When writing about gaps, there are three rules to keep in mind:

• Keep it brief.

Limit the whole disclosure to 2 or 3 sentences maximum . It’s best not to write any more than you have to. There isn’t a lot of space to work with in your Personal Statement and you don’t want to waste any more than strictly necessary on something that could be perceived as negative.

• Stick to the facts

Keep it honest, but don’t get wrapped up in the emotion of the circumstances. Programs don’t really want a bunch of sad excuses, and you could make your red flag sound worse than it is are by showing your negativity, bitterness or frustration through your writing. Programs want candidates who can face challenges with maturity and strength, and rise above.

• Make it positive.

Show the programs you have grown from your experiences, that your struggles have made you stronger. What did you learn from the experience? Are you a better, stronger, smarter or wiser person?

Being able to clearly address red flags in your application is vital to clearing up any potential misunderstandings programs may have about your credentials, and can also show you are honest and reflective about your past mistakes.

Related Posts

Engaging Body Paragraphs in Residency Personal Statements

• Interview Prep: Anticipating Questions Based on Your Personal Statement

Just Say No: 3 Reasons to Avoid Quotes in Your Personal Statement

Hi, Thank you for the informational article. While explaining the reason for the gap, do I have to mention “this reason caused a gap in my career”?For example:- I had a surgery.Can I just write this made me a stronger and determined person or do I have to write that because of this surgery I had a gap?Thank you

Great question! You would first mention you had a surgery, which caused you to have a gap, but then you would end the section by explaining how this experience getting a surgery has made you stronger and a better doctor.

Leave a Comment

Cancel reply.

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

Stay Updated

Recent posts.

• 7 Essential Residency Personal Statement Components for a Winning Application
• Crafting a Cohesive Application: Aligning Your Personal Statement with LORs
• Why Writing Your Residency Personal Statement Early Pays Off
• Residency Interview Planning: How To Plan Cost-Effective Trips
• Common Mistakes
• ERAS Application
• Post-Match SOAP
• Residency Personal Statement
• Residency Programs
• Tips and Hints

Quick Reply

Related discussions.

• Deferred entry in personal statement
• Will admission tutor focus on the module that I mention in personal statement?
• Applying for Linguistics 2025
• personal statement for med
• Economics personal statement
• Personal Statement Gap Year
• Can I send off more than one personal statement + GCSE requirements
• what do i do :(
• Dentistry or Economics
• Gap year for doxbridge law
• Gap year for law students
• Anyone taking a gap year before Lse/oxbridge application?
• What is wrong with ucas??!!
• Gap year and further maths at year 2 ?
• Should I reapply to Oxbridge after getting 3 A*s?
• Got A*AB will i get offer for AI at kings if i take gap year

Last reply 49 minutes ago

Last reply 16 hours ago

Last reply 3 days ago

Last reply 4 days ago

Last reply 6 days ago

Last reply 1 week ago

Last reply 2 weeks ago

Articles for you

Is it a good idea to take a gap year before university?

What to do if you don’t get an offer from your first choice university

How do universities view gap years?

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

More From Forbes

Why taking a gap year can be beneficial for u.s. students.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Rear view of young female tourist on a gap year.

The traditional path for high school graduates in the United States is to immediately go to college.

This narrative says high school students must work hard to get accepted into a college or university, then immediately head off to chase their dreams as soon as they can. If high school seniors take any time off, they are scared into thinking they may be left in their hometown with all the kids who had no plans to go to college or do anything with their lives. Basically, if they don't go to college now, they may never go at all.

This story is commonly repeated by parents who don't want their children to lose momentum in their lives and careers, and for good reason. Gap year research cited by the Wall Street Journal noted that 10% of students who took a gap year before college hadn't enrolled in college for the following year.

But there are serious upsides that can come with taking a year off between high school and college, and no, this time off won't necessarily turn your high schooler into a grifter. Experts I spoke to even said some of these benefits could lead to higher lifetime earnings and more career satisfaction down the line.

Benefits Of A Gap Year

According to Dr. Ann Marie Klotz, who serves as vice president for development, enrollment, and student success at Naropa University , students who take a gap year do so for a range of different reasons, many of which come with benefits that can last a lifetime.

Some students spend their time off traveling abroad and strengthening their foreign language skills, whereas others work full time so they can save the money required to pay for college in the first place. Klotz says that clarification of goals and taking time to ensure an investment in higher education is the right next step is another valid reason to take a gap year. This is especially true for students who are unsure of what they want to study and why, as well as those who could benefit from some real life experiences before heading off to university.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

A gap year is also the perfect time to pursue specific opportunities that can help in one's career later on, from internship work on a political campaign to volunteer or mission opportunities or a stint with AmeriCorps.

"This current generation often talks about how they don’t see their professional life mirroring prior generations, and they want to explore their options and have more flexibility," says Klotz. "A gap year is in line with that philosophy."

There are also students who just need time to mature, as well as time to properly transition from one major era of their lives to the next. College consultant Jennifer Post Draeger of Bright Outlook Global Prep says she frequently coaches gap year students and finds they can often prepare more thoughtful and compelling university applications if they aren't also trying to carry a heavy 12th grade course load and school activities at the same time.

Also, teen brains are still developing, and the change in maturity and confidence from age 18 to age 19 can be significant.

"When families are looking at U.S. college costs upward of $50,000 per year, it makes sense to make this investment when a student is better prepared to make good choices and benefit from what the college has to offer," Draeger says.

Why Students Avoid Gap Years

There are numerous reasons students never consider taking a gap year, even when it's obvious many could benefit from taking this time. First off, Draeger says gap years are still out of the norm in many social circles. And in our social media-influenced culture where even dorm room decorating has become a trend, attending college can become just another source of "bling" for both students and parents.

Another reason may be that families are unclear on how they could put together a meaningful and successful gap year. So, they aim for college simply because they know how to do that, she said.

Christopher Hamilton of Hamilton Education also points out that some families see college as a practical endeavor only, versus a time for the student to explore and learn about themselves. For these families, college education may mean little more than a pathway to a career in medicine, law, or engineering. So, instead of delaying that journey by a year, they look for ways to speed it up. That may mean taking more courses each year to graduate faster and save money , or pursuing an accelerated program of some kind, like a seven-year BS/MD program. Whatever is decided, a gap year is never part of the equation.

Of course, there are also students who want to avoid any potential downsides that come with taking a gap year. And despite the benefits of taking time off before college, there are some negative consequences that often come into play.

Admissions consultant Mary Banks of Quad Education says that delaying college for a year can leave some students out of sync with friends and people in their age group. These students may find themselves with a totally different viewpoint on life once they head off to college as a result. The re-entry process is often bumpy given the added year of maturity and life experience that can result from taking a gap year.

Hamilton also points out what economists would call "opportunity costs" that come with taking a gap year. There's a cost involved in what you might be doing (advancing toward a degree) compared to what you are actually doing.

Then again, the opportunity cost of taking a gap year will depend on how students spend their time. If they head overseas to learn about the world and study a new language, that could be an incredible investment on their part. The same is true if students participate in important internships or mature another year so they're ready to take college seriously.

If a student takes a year off without accomplishing anything or winds up losing all motivation, on the other hand, the price tag for a gap year won't be worth it in the end.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance
• Personal Statements
• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities
• University Interviews
• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising
• Studying Abroad
• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Blogs

Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

Postgraduate Personal Statements

International Student Personal Statements

Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Personal Statement Changes 2025

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

Psychology and education personal statement example.

As I've grown up, I've watched my mum graduate from a PGCE student to a senior-level alternative curriculum teacher. With powerpoints, worksheets and notepads about the dining room table weekly, I've learned to realise how much effort she truly puts into her career and into the students she works with. Not only does she develop lesson plans for whole classes, but she must develop the work for each student with a different need. As a student, you don't realise how much effort teachers put in- seeing my mum work to make connections with students that are often forgotten, and hearing students rave about her as a favourite teacher has been incredibly inspiring.

In Psychology A-Level, I've learned to connect our everyday thoughts and actions with the intricate science behind it. Particularly during the social influence topic, I was interested in the idea of complacency to authority- particularly poignant in society at the moment. I read Influence: The Psychology Of Persuasion by Dr Robert Cialdini as well as The Lucifer Effect by Phillip Zimbardo and enjoyed the idea of obedience being a perversion of human perfectionism. I was also able to apply their different theories to current events through the Speaking of Psychology podcast episode on obedience in relation to the Covid-19 vaccine. I have also applied my psychology knowledge to my own experiences in education such as through the documentary Babies, considering their ideas of nature vs nurture in relation to disobedience in education. This has also allowed me to develop my ideas on free will and determinism and use this in my A-Level studies.

Taking Maths A-Level I have had the opportunity to grow my ability to critically think about complex problems. It has also helped me to develop statistical analysis skills, something key to the scientific study of Psychology. English Literature has similarly helped me develop my academic analytical skills and has allowed me to advance my essay writing skills, essential for my future studies.

I have also dedicated time to volunteering at a local non-profit organisation that helps adults with disabilities find employment in the hospitality sector. As well as assisting and supervising volunteers, I have worked alongside the director of the organisation which has taught me essential skills such as teamwork and independence in the workplace. It has motivated me to speak out more about the inequalities found in everyday life. I would also like to learn more about the ways Psychology can be applied to assist people with disabilities, such as in the education system. In the future I would like to work with children and young people in education.

As a student from a working class family attending a grammar school in a middle class area I have felt the differences between myself and students of a higher class, and have particularly felt disadvantaged socially in relation to my peers. I would like to work toward removing this split within places of education, as well as ensuring that all students have equal opportunities. I would also like to be able to take my experiences working in the charity sector, my own time in secondary education and my future studies to find a career where I can help young people in any way I can.

I currently undertake a student leader role in school, particularly working to put together charity fundraising events and collections in school as well as independently creating a transition booklet for future students. This has helped me to develop my leadership and organisational skills, which I find beneficial for work and external volunteering roles. I also compete in local competitions in Karate, and I take pride in my progress in learning to play a variety of brass instruments throughout primary and secondary school. Learning these skills has taken patience and shows my focus and perseverance when learning. I would also like to be able to continue these extracurriculars whilst in future studies.

Profile info

There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

This is my personal statement used to apply for Psychology and Education or Educational Psychology depending on the University. This got me offers from UCL, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds and Keele along with predicted grades A*AA

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

Add new comment.