Writing an English literature personal statement that hooks? Easier said than done. Or…
An English literature personal statement is one of the popular tasks students encounter in their academic journey. This project is your opportunity to demonstrate that literature is your true and only passion and that you do understand this niche.
Plus, by means of a professionally crafted personal statement, you show your professor that you’re 100% ready for the challenges of the academic routine in general and English literature in particular. Below, we have some tips on how to compose a winning personal statement and what key points for an English-lit personal statement should be included.
What’s the Purpose?
When it comes to the personal statement in English literature, you have to remember that it is not just a formal requirement. It is your unique chance to make an impression that will last. The reps of the college admission board use it to see how enthusiastic and passionate you are about literature. They check your critical thinking skills and how well you can convey your messages in a written form. That is why when you decide what to include in your English lit personal statement, keep in mind that every detail should reflect your interests, unique personality, and academic achievements. If you’re not sure whether your skills are enough to craft something as powerful as that, get some guidance from a trusted custom dissertation writing service with personal approach. You will thank yourself later.
Use a Strong Opening
It’s in the English literature personal statement introduction that you have to hook your reader’s attention and keep it until the last line. Don’t go cliché! Stay away from overused phrases like “I am a huge fan of reading and literature in general.” Instead, make sure to start your work with a quote that will fuel their brains. Or use a vivid anecdote for a nice start. As an alternative, focus on a unique fact that is linked to the topic of your paper and highlights your connection to the world of literature. For example:
“The main reason why I put Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” on my to-read list is because this author is a wonderful example of how to be the first in what you do. With “Frankenstein,” the woman was the first to craft a major science fiction novel. But there’s more to it! It was Mary who invented the well-known concept of “mad scientist” and actually established what we call horror fiction.”
Prove Your Knowledge and Passion
Use specific examples in order to show how much you are interested in literature and how genuine your interest is. If you browse multiple English lit personal statement examples online, you will see that authors usually do that by mentioning particular books, authors, and literary periods that have influenced them and changed their lives. For example, you can mention how English libertine writers and playwrights of the rococo period changed your state of mind and enabled you to look at literature from a new angle.
Talk about the aspects of literature that fascinate you as a vivid reader and someone who would like to investigate the field of English literature from A to Z. It can be some effective narrative techniques, character development, thematic depth, some historical context, etc. Your task here is to prove that your interest is not only genuine but also deep and broad.
Talk about Your Academic Background
Let the reps of the admission board know what kind of academic journey you have already had to make them see how exactly you were prepared for the English literature program you target. Highlight some special projects you worked on, relevant coursework, and/or research projects that you have conducted. If there are any awards and/or recognitions in the field, include them too. Things like seminars and workshops related to English literature will add interest to your personal statement.
Mention Extracurriculars (If Any)
If you were previously involved in some extracurricular activities related to (English) literature, discuss them to spark the reader’s curiosity. For example, you can mention that you were an active participant in the book club or wrote articles for you’re the literary magazine of the high school that you attended. All the activities that you describe must demonstrate how exactly they boosted your understanding of English literature and your writing skills.
Explain Why You’re the Best Fit for the Program
Do some research about the program that you would like to apply to and explain why it appeals to you. It is recommended to mention some faculty members, specific courses, smartcards of education, and resources that are directly related to your interests, passions, and goals. Thus, you will prove that you know very well what is offered by the program and how you can benefit from it in order to achieve all the academic and career goals you have on the list.
Demonstrate Analytical/Critical Thinking Skills
At English literature programs in colleges, they value candidates who have solid analytical and critical thinking skills. It means that they can analyze texts deeply and apply their other skills in academic studies. For example, you can mention some essay or book review you completed before with a unique interpretation of a particular work of literature or text. Let them see how you approached the most challenging piece of literature and provide a new perspective on it.
Finally, be yourself. The reps of the college or university admission committee are on the lookout for passion and originality. You have to be unique, i.e., be yourself. Stay away from exaggerating or talking about things that never happened. Admissions committees hate fakes the most. It is your genuine voice, experiences, aspirations, interests, and true passion for English literature that will impress more than any made-up story. When it’s time to conclude, end your English literature personal statement with a strong conclusion that restates your passion for belles-lettres and how committed you are to pursuing it at a brand-new level – higher education.
The Lit Bitch 