Weekly Reflection Week #6

This week's Personal Statement workshop was really helpful in helping me concentrate on the fundamental parts. Before this workshop, I would not have known what to include in a personal statement, nor what the reader wants to hear. It was great to sort of have a main objective of what you want the reader to know about you, and from that, build a story using a template of questions that builds into that.

What was challenging for me was making certain information pop out. I guess in my mind, I thought my story and successes would speak for itself, but there are certain ways of describing your story with embellished word that leave the reader saying "oooh!"—out-loud.

There was similar feedback where they believed I had great experience but the way I was explaining my story was very neutral; very beige (in my words). Words that I used were also pointed out to be very formal for the type of audience that will be reading it.

My peers were able to catch what the main theme I wanted my personal statement to be but they wanted there to be stronger traces of those elements inserted into the story. I think they seemed to believe my theme was more interesting that what they read.

Though writing and literature have not been my strong suit, I must admit, I wouldn't say I'm a horrible writer. I have been told by my Story professor that I'm amazing at storyteller. Maybe I just don't know how to tell my own story. I have taken all the feedback to improve my personal statement. Now, I have been using the feedback on my cover letters, as well.

I have not applied to as many internships as I would like to because I actually wanted to turn in cover letters. Cover letters that are quality. Not just turn in an application without considering attaching a cover letter. From what I have heard, it tells the story my resume doesn't. It also shows the Hiring Managers that you care enough about the company—even if they might just skim over it. I will still finish my goal by the end of the week; like I said, it's just taking me longer since I am now concentrating on quality over quantity. Hopefully this way I will receive all of the amazing callbacks like my peers have been getting, and be one step closer to getting my an internship!