Personal statement -- Rough draft worksheet

Use these questions to facilitate your discussion. You may not have time to get full answers to all of them, so focus first on those issues most applicable to your own document.

1. In what way do my opening paragraphs characterize me? Is there a clear indication of who I am and what I want? As a reader, do you know why your are reading about me?
2. In what way or ways does the remainder of the document confirm that opening impression? How and where might I strengthen coherence and unity?
3. What specific qualities make me suited for the position/program for which I am applying? Do I introduce any qualities that need further clarification, definition, illustration or background?
4. If I've had to say something negative about myself, does it work to my benefit in any way?
5. What qualities about me and the document I have produced will most stand out in my reader's mind?
6. What general improvements would you suggest for this document?