Personal statements are an important part of the application process to nursing school. To start a personal statement about nursing, begin by reflecting on your motivations, experiences, and goals. Focus on why you want to become a nurse, what inspires you, and how the school aligns with your aspirations.
For those preparing for college applications, you’re likely familiar with the typical college essay designed to give admissions reviewers a deeper look at who you are beyond your academic record. However, aspiring nursing students will need a personal statement to help nursing schools assess whether they’re the right fit for the program.
Personal statements shouldn’t be something to fear or put off. Instead, think of it as an opportunity to help nursing schools understand who you are, what drives you, and why you’re passionate about pursuing a nursing career. It’s a crucial part of the application process that, when done thoughtfully, can only work in your favor. So, how do you start a personal statement about nursing?
Why the Introduction Matters in a Personal Statement for Nursing School
When writing essays for school, a strong introduction is crucial to grab the reader’s attention and encourage them to keep reading. This holds true for personal statements as well. Nursing schools want to understand what motivated you to pursue this path and what drives your passion for nursing.
Your introduction should serve as a hook that introduces you to the admissions committee and sets the stage for the rest of your statement. In your introduction, aim to include:
- How you first become interested in nursing or what led you to decide to pursue this career
- Who or what has inspired you to become a nurse
- What you hope to accomplish in nursing school or what you want to achieve with your nursing degree
This opening paragraph is your chance to briefly share your background and show your enthusiasm for nursing. Maybe a nurse made a difference in your life, or you’ve seen firsthand how important healthcare is. Whatever your story is, it should feel authentic and personal.
If your reason for pursuing nursing includes practical concerns like job stability or salary, that’s okay, but try to give it some depth. Instead of simply stating you want a secure job, perhaps share how growing up, you watched your family struggle to make ends meet, and you want a career that ensures financial security. Or maybe you dream of traveling the world and nursing offers the flexibility to do so.
Everyone has their own unique reasons for choosing nursing, and the key is to make your story resonate with the admissions committee. Make it personal, honest, and relevant to why you’re passionate about the field.
See 9 Best Questions to Ask Nursing School Admissions.
Tips for Starting a Strong Nursing Personal Statement
A strong nursing personal statement grabs the reader’s attention right from the start. Why should the admissions committee care about you and your nursing journey? Your personal statement is your opportunity to showcase the aspects of yourself that can’t be captured in a transcript or resume. Aspects like character, motivations, and long-term career goals.
To craft an opening, consider what keeps you committee to the nursing path. What drives your passion? How does this specific nursing program align with your goals? These are essential questions to ask yourself before you start writing.
Don’t just state that you want a nursing degree, as many schools offer this. Instead, reflect on what sets this school apart for you, whether that be its mission, values, or program. Is there a unique opportunity or aspect of their curriculum that excites you? This is where you make a connection with the school, showing that you’ve done your research and genuinely see yourself thriving in their environment.
By addressing these points in your introduction, you’ll create a foundation for a strong, personalized statement that captures the reader’s attention and paves the way for the rest of your application.
Nursing School Personal Statement Examples
Knowing what to expect can help get your creative juices flowing, whether that’s grabbing a pencil or typing away at the keyboard. Here is an example of a nursing school personal statement to give you a reference for what they might look like.
Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by the power of healthcare to transform lives. It was during my volunteer work at a local nursing home that I realized how much I wanted to be part of that transformation. I saw firsthand the impact that nurses had on patients, not just through their medical skills, but through their compassion and empathy. That is when I decided to pursue a career in nursing.
I am drawn to nursing because it is a perfect blend of science and human connection. The opportunity to build relationships with patients, guide them through difficult times, and contribute to their healing process is something that resonates deeply with me. Nursing offers the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others daily.
I have taken steps to prepare myself for nursing school, including volunteering, shadowing professionals, and completing relevant coursework. I am excited to dive deeper into the field, learn from experienced nurses, and develop the skills I need to provide the best care possible.
Nursing is not just a career for me, but a calling. I am looking forward to becoming a part of a community of healthcare professionals who share my passion for helping others.
See the Qualities of a Good Nurse.
Time to Start Writing
By now, writer’s block should be behind you. If you’re still wondering the secret to how to start a personal statement about nursing, the most important about nursing, the most important step is simply to start writing. Don’t worry about perfection at first because editing and refinement can come later. If there is nothing on the page, then there is nothing to work with. Behind by getting your thoughts down, even if they’re just ideas and concepts. That’s the key to unlocking the writing process.
The best part of this essay is that it’s about you. There’s no research or studying on some complex topic. You’re the best person to advocate for your passion and tell your own story.
Reach out today to find the right nursing school for you.
