Bioinformatics consists of, two, main fields. That is information technology and molecular biology. Just like any other program, you will need to submit a personal statement together with your application.
It’s sometimes referred to as a motivation letter or cover letter. Since this is a very competitive field; it comes with the pressure of producing a powerful bioinformatics personal statement. Now, this may feel intimidating if you have never been a fan of putting words to paper, and especially if you are talking about yourself.
However, this isn’t a good enough reason to keep you from venturing into the field that your heart desires. The tips below will help you draft your engineering personal statement with a little bit of ease:
- Get Personal
As you jot down the main ideas for your master’s personal statement, you have to keep in mind that you are competing with many other potential candidates. Therefore, it is prudent to put your best foot forward. As we are all unique from each other, try to leverage on this.
Refrain from using statements that are overly ambiguous. When you outline your achievements, then, try and give practical examples. Don’t just say that you have leadership qualities.
Give an example of an instance where you lead a group of people towards a specific goal. Also, remember to address the right person in the letter.
- Share a story
The reviewer has only a few minutes to go through a particular application and make a decision about it. That means that you need to keep them engaged as they go through your statement. Take the reader on a journey as to why you came to decide to apply for this program and that specific field (in this case) of bioinformatics.
Your narrative should follow a logical flow. In that, it should have a beginning, middle and ending. Choose an experience that will help you convince the reader of your suitability. End with a satisfying conclusion.
Also, you need to ensure that you give a coherent account.
- Do your homework
A compelling personal statement is one that meets the expectations and requirements of the institution. To achieve this, you need to identify what the program expects and requires from potential candidates. Showcase the areas where you have put this into practice (e.g. concerning skills).
Go through the activities and projects carried out by the institution that relates to your field of interest. Identify your interests and personal philosophy that correlates with the requirements of the program. Highlight them.
Have a clear goal as to what you would like to achieve, and format your content to meet this.
- Keep it Simple
Pick experiences and qualification that are relevant to what you are applying for; it refers to every cover letter that you write. Don’t forget to address the reason why you chose that particular institution instead of others. Demonstrate your familiarity with the field by using industry-specific terms.
It, however, doesn’t imply that the content should be full of jargon. The terms you choose should be what one professional will use when speaking to a colleague. Use the proper format and style, for the content.
Avoid using very long sentences, and choose your vocabulary with care.
- Proofread before you submit
So, you are excited about this opportunity and have no trouble making your case for the reader. Once you are through with downloading your ideas on paper, you need to find time to go through it.
Take some time off, before you embark on this. It helps to have a fresh mind when editing. Check for grammar or spelling errors and make the necessary changes. If you don’t do this, it may cost you this opportunity.
Conclusion
Make the first paragraph count. It is going to be the first impression that the reader gets about you. Be original, don’t just copy the sample personal statements that you find online. Let them act as a guide.
Remember to be realistic about your achievements and qualifications. Don’t brag; no one expects you to be a superhero. Pick the experiences that best explain your motivation to venture into bioinformatics and expound on them.
Also, have a goal as to why you need to write the personal statement, and ensure that every word you use is in line with this.
