The personal statement is a critical part of your application to the TESOL Certificate Program. It is a valuable opportunity for the Admissions Committee to get to know you as more than transcripts and a resume. We often receive questions from applicants on what makes a strong personal statement, so we recently sat down with a member of the TCP Admissions Committee for their insight.

Q: What should applicants be addressing in their personal statement?

A: This is your opportunity to flesh out the facts on your resume with more qualitative information about yourself. Here you should tell your story: what brought you to apply to the TESOL Certificate Program and how your skills and personal qualities make you a good match for the program. If you describe yourself as a person who can ‘stay the course’, give an example of a situation where you did this. Say how your academic, career and life experiences have given you skills and know-how which you can bring to the program to help you succeed.

Q: Does the admissions committee prefer a certain writing style or format? How long should the personal statement be?

A: This is a formal application so you should use a neutral or professional register while at the same time allowing your personality to come through. Make sure you proofread your statement carefully for any slips or typos before you submit. It should be more than a single paragraph but no more than two pages long and written in Times New Roman size 12 with 1.5 line spacing.

Q: What elements make a personal statement really stand out?

A: A really good statement makes a strong case that the program is right for the candidate and vice-versa. This is where you should tell us why you should be accepted and what you would contribute to the program.

Q: Do you have any other advice for students considering applying for the TESOL Certificate Program?

A: Do your research on the TESOL Certificate Program, link your skills and qualities to the program, and let your personal statement breathe before sending it off. That way you can polish it up and give any final tweaks to make sure you present yourself at your best.