computer science personal statements

Computer Science Personal Statement (Guide + Examples!)

Applying to study computer science can be quite a complicated programs. There are so many programs out there with so many application requirements. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

Table of Contents

What Is a computer science personal statement?

A computer science personal statement is a document that you submit as part of your application to study computer science.

In this statement, you’ll need to talk about your motivation for wanting to study computer science, as well as your skills and experience . This is your chance to sell yourself to the admissions committee and demonstrate why you’re the perfect candidate for their program.

Anatomy of a personal statement

Now that we’ve covered what a computer science personal statement is, let’s take a look at what it should include.

1. Introduction

2. your motivation for wanting to study computer science.

In this section, you’ll need to explain your motivation for wanting to study computer science. What is it about computer science that interests you? What are your long-term career aspirations? This is your chance to sell yourself to the admissions committee and demonstrate your commitment to the subject.

3. Your skills and experience

In this section, you’ll need to talk about your skills and experience . What computer science-related courses have you taken? Do you have any industry experience? This is your chance to show the admissions committee that you have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in their program.

4. Conclusion

Who reads my computer science personal statement.

The computer science personal statement is read by the admissions committee of the computer science department to which you’re applying.

How long should my computer science personal statement be?

Your computer science personal statement should be between 500 and 1000 words . This is enough space for you to introduce yourself, talk about your motivation for wanting to study computer science, and discuss your skills and experience.

What should I include in my computer science personal statement?

Some things that you may want to include in your computer science personal statement are:

Your personal statement may also include other information that you feel is important for the admissions committee to know about you. However, make sure that whatever you include is relevant to computer science and will help you stand out as a strong candidate.

What should I not write in my computer science personal statement?

Second, avoid including information that is not relevant to computer science . The admissions committee is looking for evidence that you’re passionate about computer science and have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in their program, so including information about your hobbies or extracurricular activities may not be the best way to go forward.

An exception to this is if you’re including information about extenuating circumstances that have impacted your academic performance, in which case you should briefly explain how these circumstances have affected you and why you’re still a strong candidate for their program.

Tips on writing a top-notch computer science personal statement

Now that we’ve gone over what to include and what not to include in your computer science personal statement, let’s talk about how you can write a top-notch personal statement.

First, start by brainstorming a list of your computer science-related experiences, skills, and accomplishments . This will give you a good starting point for your personal statement and help you determine what information is most relevant to include.

By following these tips, you can write a computer science personal statement that is sure to impress the admissions committee and increase your chances of getting into your dream program.

Computer science personal statement examples

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what a computer science personal statement should include, let’s take a look at some computer science personal statement examples.

“I have been programming since I was 12 years old, and ever since then I have been fascinated by the possibilities that computer science offers. I am motivated by the idea of being able to create something from scratch and see it come to life, and I know that computer science will allow me to do just that. In addition, I have experience in working with code from different languages, which has taught me how to think critically and solve problems. My skills in critical thinking and problem solving are essential for studying computer science, as they will allow me to tackle complex challenges head-on.

Apart from my skills and experience, I am also passionate about learning new things. This is why during my free time I volunteered for Code for America, where I worked with a team of designers and developers to build a civic engagement platform. This experience showed me the importance of collaboration when it comes to creating something amazing, and it solidified my belief that teamwork is key to success.

Last year, I also had the opportunity to intern at Lyft, where I worked on a team that developed a new feature for the Lyft app. This experience was invaluable, as it gave me insights into the inner workings of one of the world’s most successful companies. It also showed me how computer science can be used to solve real-world problems.

Ultimately, I believe that I would be an excellent candidate for your computer science program because of my passion for the field combined with my skills and experience. I am confident that I have what it takes to succeed in computer science, and I hope to use my skills and knowledge to make a difference in the world.”

“I have always been interested in the way computers work and how they can be used to solve problems. This interest began when I was very young and has continued to grow as I have gotten older. My father is a computer scientist, so I have been exposed to computer science my entire life. In high school, I took several computer science courses and really enjoyed them. I also competed in several programming competitions and did well in them. In the following essay, I want to highlight my accomplishments as a computer science candidate and express my passion for this exciting field.

I am a computer science major at *NAME* University. I have taken several computer science courses and have gotten exceptional grades. My favorite course so far has been Introduction to Algorithms, for which I worked as a teaching assistant during my third year. I also competed in the Association for Computing Machinery International Collegiate Programming Contest, and our team placed in the top 100 out of 6,000 teams worldwide. This experience showed me that I have the ability to solve complex problems and work well under pressure.

As a student, I also worked as a part-time research assistant in the AI and Robotics laboratory, where I assisted in the development of a computer vision system for an autonomous robot. This experience allowed me to develop my skills in programming and computer science. In addition, I have also been a member of the Student Senate and have served on the Executive Board of the Student Government Association. These experiences have allowed me to develop leadership skills and learn how to work with others.

I am interested in computer science because it is a field that is constantly changing and evolving. There are always new problems to solve and new ways to solve them. I find this challenge exciting and invigorating. I am also interested in computer science because it is a field that combines creativity with logic. I enjoy using both my creative and logical sides when solving problems.

I am applying to your program specifically because I believe that it will allow me to further develop my skills in computer science. I am looking forward to taking classes from renowned professors and working with other talented students. I believe that your program will provide me with the skills and knowledge that I need to become a successful computer scientist.”

“Computers have always been a part of my life. As a toddler, I would watch my father work on computer programs for his business. Fascinated by the blinking cursor on the screen, I would ask him what he was doing and how it worked. My parents bought me my first computer when I was in grade school and I taught myself how to program in BASIC.

One of my biggest accomplishments in the field of computer science so far has been developing a computer program that can generate 3D models of human faces. This program has the potential to be used in a variety of applications, such as video game development, computer-aided design, and even law enforcement. I am currently working on submitting this program to a computer science conference for publication.

I have also been involved in a number of extracurricular activities related to computer science. I am a member of the Association for Computing Machinery and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. I have also volunteered my time to teach computer science to elementary and middle school students through a local program called Girls Who Code.

Besides this, I have worked on several personal coding projects of my own. For example, I created a computer program that can solve Sudoku puzzles by using a technique called constraint satisfaction. I also developed a website for a local business called Joe’s pizzeria. My skills in computer science have also helped me in my other hobbies, such as photography and video editing. For the latter, I made a light correction tool that can automatically color-correct a video based on the primer of a still image.

I believe that my passion for computer science, as well as my experience in the field, makes me an ideal candidate for a graduate program in computer science. I am excited to continue learning and expanding my skills in computer science so that I can make an impact in this field. For this reason, I am excited to submit an early decision application to your computer science graduate program.”

What should I do after I have my first draft?

After you have completed the first draft of your computer science personal statement, you should follow these steps to edit, polish, and finalize your computer science personal statement:

2. Proofread and edit it : This step is crucial. A well-written and error-free computer science personal statement will make you look more professional and competent. Use spell check and grammar check , and then have someone else proofread it for you.

3. Ask for feedback : Once you’ve proofread and edited your computer science personal statement, ask a few people for their feedback. Choose people whose opinions you trust and who will be honest with you.

5. Modify personal statement for each program : Don’t just submit the same computer science personal statement to every program you apply to. Tailor it to each individual program, highlighting why you’re a good fit for that specific school.

6. Submit : Once you’re happy with your computer science personal statement, submit it along with the rest of your application.

Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.

Personal statement advice: computer science

Applying to university.

Getting started
UCAS Tariff points
Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
Amendments to the Tariff consultation
Offer rate calculator
How to use the offer rate calculator
Understanding historical entry grades data
Admissions tests
Deferred entry
Personal statement advice and example: computer science
Personal statement advice: English
Personal statement advice: Midwifery
Personal statement advice: animal science
Personal statement advice: biology
Personal statement advice: business and management
Personal statement advice: chemistry
Personal statement advice: dance
Personal statement advice: dentistry
Personal statement advice: drama
Personal statement advice: economics
Personal statement advice: engineering
Personal statement advice: geography
Personal statement advice: history
Personal statement advice: law
Personal statement advice: maths
Personal statement advice: media studies and journalism
Personal statement advice: medicine
Personal statement advice: modern languages
Personal statement advice: music
Personal statement advice: nursing
Personal statement advice: pharmacy
Personal statement advice: physiotherapy
Personal statement advice: politics
Personal statement advice: psychology
Personal statement advice: social work
Personal statement advice: sociology
Personal statement advice: sports science
Personal statement advice: statistics
Personal statement advice: teacher training and education
Personal statement advice: veterinary medicine
Personal statement: finance and accounting
Filling in your application
Staying safe online
How to write a personal statement that works for multiple courses
The new personal statement for 2026 entry
How To Write Your Undergraduate Personal Statement
Fraud and similarity
How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber
How to end your personal statement
Introducing the personal statement tool
Personal statement dos and don'ts
What to include in a personal statement
Using AI and ChatGPT to help you with your personal statement
Using your personal statement beyond a university application
Carers, estranged students, refugees, asylum seekers, and those with limited leave to remain
Personal statement guides
References for mature students

What to include in your computer science statement

A strong opening: explain succinctly where your enthusiasm for computer science comes from, and why – but avoid the temptation to begin with a potted history describing when you got your first computer!
How you're engaged with the subject: talk about what’s inspiring you or motivating you to study it, whether it’s a relevant book or news articles you’ve read, or maybe a bit of programming you've done.
An understanding of what's involved: tutors love to read statements where your enthusiasm for the subject comes across, alongside a clear sense that you understand what computer science as a discipline is all about. Don't actually tell them what it is – they know that already. Show them that you know.
Your personal goals: what are you hoping to achieve by studying this subject for the next three to four years?
Show you're a team player: according to the engineering and computer science department at Durham University, 'try to write about how you work with others. Have you been part of a team or led a team? Have you had to organise something complex such as an event, a play or a football league?'

Computer science personal statement pitfalls

Not standing out: Professor Lowe from the University of Oxford says that lots of the personal statements he sees 'are similar, bland, impersonal and don’t stand out – so make it personal, specific, and concrete'.
Using clichés: avoid phrases such as 'computers are important in the modern world' or just saying 'I’m fascinated by artificial intelligence' without explaining why.
Quoting Wikipedia: 'We already know what computer science is so we don’t need a Wikipedia definition. We’re interested in your understanding of it and your desire to learn', Robert Zimmer from Goldsmiths adds.

Engagement with the subject

Admissions tutors at University of Portsmouth and University of Warwick both agreed that clichés like ‘I want to do computing because it’s the future’ or opening lines like ‘I got my first computer when I was three’ are a big turn-off.

However, they do like to see evidence of your most recent engagement with the subject, or something current that’s inspired you. In fact, the kind of statement that would really hit the mark would include your reflections on some or all of the following:

a programme you wrote or side project you've been working on
an internship or some relevant work experience you did
how your studies or wider reading have boosted your understanding or sparked your curiosity
your opinions on a key topic such as data privacy
any extracurricular interests that have given you relevant transferable skills
an area or module you're particularly looking forward to studying. Something along those lines should engage the tutor reading your statement

Successful Personal Statement Example For Computer Science At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Computer Science

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present an example of a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it.

Today, we are looking through a Computer Science applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Computer Science Course at Oxford is about understanding computer systems and networks at a deep level. Read on to see how this excellent Personal Statment gives attention to the mathematical side of Computer Science and showcases their achievements.

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant came very close to the 4,000 character limit):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

LOUGHBOROUGH

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Computer Science comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts.

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success. Discover our Oxbridge Computer Science Premium Programme , enrol and triple your chances of success!

Example Computer Science Personal Statement

My first experiences with mathematics throughout school were always enjoyable but not inspiring. While I loved working with maths, and enjoyed representing our school in both the UKMT and Hans Woyda team competitions, I felt that maths could not be the end-in-itself the school syllabus presented it as. As I progressed through secondary education, however, I began to really see it as the powerful tool to understand and structure reality that it is.

The first time I saw that my interpretation of the use of maths had some substance was during a work experience placement I organised at IMSO (International Mobile Satellite Organization). There I encountered some examples of the mathematical and computing problems involved in working with satellites: from the difference between the Euclidean geometry on a map and the Elliptical geometry on a globe, to the logistics of moving satellites around to meet demand while keeping them in orbit. These were problems that demanded much more than mere number crunching, and being exposed to this gave me a taste of what maths beyond school might involve. A second work experience spell at Siemens provided me a much more in-depth view of the important role that communication systems play in keeping a company running efficiently and effectively.

My passion for mathematics and computing was further extended while reading ‘The Magical Maze’ by Ian Stewart. The description of maths as the exploration of a maze of our own creation had an incredibly profound effect on my understanding of what research in mathematics involves. What interested me especially was the visual part of resolving problems, so that they did not rely completely on resolving long calculations. This was close to how I like to understand and explain my ideas in mathematics.

Douglas Hofstadter’s ‘Gödel, Escher, Bach’ gave me a much deeper understanding of the axiomatic systems that make up maths and how parallels can be drawn between different subjects to gain a further understanding of them all. Connected by the theme of Gödel’s Incompleteness Theorem, the author passes through seemingly unrelated topics, such as the problem of consciousness and the mathematics of Zen principles, to explain the theorem. Although not the focus of the book, I have also enjoyed reading the links that are presented between maths and computing; it seems to me that maths is not just related to computing – computing is the physical manifestation of mathematics.

Maths and computing are about describing mental processes in a precise, logical way. The rigour required for mathematical proof leaves little room for subjectivity: something can be proven, disproven or unproven, but this depends completely on the validity of your logic. The idea of being able to extract order from apparent chaos, working through concepts until they click is what I love about these subjects, and what has attracted me to take those as an integral part of my further education.

However passionate I am about my academic studies, I also enjoy being involved in extracurricular activities. As head of mentoring and a prefect, I have improved my organizational abilities working with staff and mentors in developing study programmes for those students requiring extra help. Completing the Duke of Edinburgh bronze award – now working on the silver award – has allowed me to practice and develop my leadership and teamwork skills.

In my spare time I enjoy playing tennis, skiing and swimming; the latter I practice at competition level. I also love travelling, as having spent my childhood in Denmark, Egypt, United Kingdom and Spain has given me a hunger for mixing with different cultures. I like to unwind by playing the piano – I find that the pleasure one derives from making a piece your own is one that few activities can match.

I am thrilled about the prospect of further study in these subjects with some of the leading professors in the fields, and look forward to participating in university life.

Access "The Big Book Of Oxbridge Applications" For FREE

Your Personal Statement is only one step in your application, so discover everything you need to know in The Big Book Of Oxbridge Applications , available for free here! Through over 350 pages , you will find:

28 example Oxbridge Personal Statements
Over 40 admissions test practice questions
Interviews with Oxbridge students and graduates
Additional downloadable resources

Fill in your details below to claim your digital copy today!

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This is a well-written, structured statement. The student explains their reasons to pursue a dual-honours degree and gives equal attention to both disciplines to which they are applying. The student adds personality to the statement by thoroughly explaining their own views on all of the examples of literature read around maths and computing.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

There are quite a lot of short paragraphs. The student could have saved space by consolidating some paragraphs into one, hence shortening the statement. The student starts three paragraphs with ‘My’ or ‘In my’. This is quite repetitive. There are too many paragraphs, seven in total. Paragraphs five and six could be shortened and grouped into one paragraph. In the third paragraph, it appears as though the student has either forgotten to add an addition space (in order to start a new paragraph) or has incorrectly started a new line for the sentence ‘Douglas Hofstadter’s…’.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is a very good statement. The student has clearly achieved a lot and writes in a clear and easy-to-understand way. Attention is given to both maths and computer sciences, which is essential as the student is applying for a dual honours course. With some restructuring, this could be an excellent statement.

This Personal Statement for Computer Science is a great example of how to tackle applying to two different degrees or dual honours. The candidate’s interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

You can find more successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Personal statements are just one area of the application process for Computer Science. We also have a comprehensive guide on the wider Computer Science entry requirements .

Successful Personal Statement For Law At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for natural science (physical) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychology at oxford, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Computer Science application.

With our Oxbridge Computer Science Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal Statement , score highly on the MAT and teach you how to Interview effectively .

Discover our Oxbridge Computer Science Premium Programme by clicking the button below , learn about the programme, enrol and triple your chances of success.

UniAdmissions students placed at Oxford And Cambridge

Continue learning about Oxbridge...

Computer science university ranking uk: 2024 ranking.

The standard of English degrees in the UK is very high, but it's a fact that some are better than…

Successful Personal Statement For Medicine At Oxford University

Writing a Medicine Personal Statement for Oxford? If so, you’re in the right place! In this post, we go through…

Writing a Law Personal Statement for Cambridge? If so, you’re in the right place! In this post, we go through…

What A-Level Subjects Are Needed For Computer Science?

Applying for Computer Sciences at university is a tricky process and one of the most important requirements is the A-Levels.…

Computer Science Degree UK Entry Requirements

Computer Science has become one of the most competitive university courses available due to the ever-growing importance of technology. Each…

5 Study Secrets From Actual Oxbridge Students

We reached out to some successful Oxbridge students to find out exactly what their study secrets are. Here's what we…

The Secrets to Oxbridge Admission.

We cracked the Oxbridge formula . Find out what we discovered here.
Looking for application support? Don't work with a random tutor. This is what you need to know first.
Get up-to-date Oxbridge advice with our webinars. Follow our Open Days led by our experts and stay updated.

View Computer Science Premium Programme

Computer Science Quick Links

How would you like to speak to an Admissions Consultant?

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

Computer Science Personal Statement Examples

Use our free and unique Computer Science personal statement examples for inspiration to write your statement.

Computer Science courses are highly competitive in the UK.

A good personal statement for Computer Science can make a big difference and will help you stand out from other applicants.

Computer Science Personal Statement Example

My passion for computer science began at an early age when I was introduced to the world of technology by my father, who has been a Chief Technology Officer in the telecommunications industry for many years.

His work inspired me to start exploring computers and the endless possibilities that technology had to offer.

Throughout my school years, I have excelled in mathematics and science courses, which provided me with a solid foundation for computer science.

I took A-Levels in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics, which allowed me to delve deeper into the world of computer science and understand the concepts behind coding and programming.

I also have practical experience in the field of computer science. During my summer holidays, I worked as an intern at One Beyond, a web software agency.

During my time there, I had the opportunity to work with a team of experienced software developers and was exposed to a wide range of technologies such as the C programming language and Linux and Microsoft servers.

I was also able to gain hands-on experience in developing software and web applications, which reinforced my love for computer science.

My passion for computer science has also led me to explore the field further through various extracurricular activities.

I have attended computer science camps for young leaders in the ICT industry, which took me to various countries in Europe. These experiences allowed me to meet like-minded individuals and learn about new technologies and techniques from industry experts.

I was also able to apply the knowledge I gained to various projects, which further enhanced my skills and prepared me for a career in computer science.

I hold a certificate in Linux and HTML programming, which serves as evidence of my technical skills and dedication to the field.

I am confident that I have the passion, dedication, and skills necessary to succeed in a computer science program in the UK.

I believe that studying computer science at a university in the UK would provide me with the opportunity to further develop my skills and knowledge in the field.

I am motivated and driven to pursue a career in computer science, and I am confident that the program will provide me with the foundation I need to achieve my goals.

I am eager to apply my passion and dedication to the field, and I am confident that I will make a valuable contribution to the university community.

Recommended : ICT personal statement examples

Personal Statement Example For Computer Science Course

As a student with a strong academic background in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and economics, I have always been fascinated by the world of computer science and its impact on the modern world.

My interest in the field began at the age of 14 when I started experimenting with free website programming and developed my first website at the age of 16.

This experience sparked my passion for web development and led me to pursue a deeper understanding of computer science.

During my time at school, I have had the opportunity to develop my skills and knowledge in a variety of programming languages such as C, Laravel, and PHP.

I have also gained experience working with Linux and Microsoft servers, as well as with popular content management systems such as WordPress.

This has provided me with a broad understanding of the different technologies used in web development and has allowed me to apply my skills to a range of projects.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have also had practical experience in the field through my internship at Web3, a web software agency.

During my time there, I worked with a team of experienced developers and was exposed to a wide range of technologies and development methodologies.

This experience allowed me to gain hands-on experience in developing web applications and has reinforced my love for computer science.

I am also constantly seeking to expand my knowledge and skills in the field through various extracurricular activities. I have attended numerous IT and web development conferences around the UK, where I have had the opportunity to learn about the latest technologies and trends in the industry.

These experiences have inspired me to continue exploring the field and have further fueled my passion for computer science.

My ultimate goal is to become a backend web developer, and I believe that a degree in computer science from a university in the UK would provide me with the foundation I need to achieve this goal.

I hold a certificate in CSS and HTML programming, which serves as evidence of my technical skills and dedication to the field.

In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis and cricket, which allows me to take a break from my studies and relax.

However, I always make sure to balance my leisure activities with my academic pursuits, as I am dedicated to achieving my goals and making a positive impact in the world of computer science.

I am confident that my passion, dedication, and skills make me an excellent candidate for a computer science program in the UK.

I am eager to apply my knowledge and experience to the program and to continue developing my skills and understanding of the field.

I am confident that I will make a valuable contribution to the university community and am excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Best Computer Science Personal Statement Example

From an early age, I was fascinated by technology and data analysis, and I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in this field.

During my time at Emmanuel Christian School Leicester, I captained the school’s football team and gained valuable leadership skills, teamwork and time management abilities. This experience helped me to develop a strong work ethic and a willingness to take on new challenges.

I have also had the opportunity to gain real-world experience through my summer jobs at Burger King, where I learned to prioritize tasks and work efficiently under pressure.

This has given me a strong understanding of the importance of attention to detail and has prepared me for the fast-paced and demanding environment of the computer science industry.

I have always excelled academically, particularly in mathematics, chemistry and physics, which I studied at A-Level.

I believe that my strong foundation in these subjects will enable me to succeed in computer science and tackle the complex algorithms and data structures that are central to the field.

My ultimate goal is to become a system administrator, where I can utilize my technical and problem-solving skills to ensure the smooth running of computer systems. I am confident that a degree in computer science will provide me with the necessary knowledge and experience to achieve this goal.

In my free time, I enjoy playing football and reading books. I find that these activities help me to relax and to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

I am also an avid learner, and I am always seeking out new information and techniques to improve my knowledge and skills.

I am eager to begin my studies at a UK university and to contribute to the computer science community. I believe that this program will provide me with the opportunities and resources that I need to achieve my goals and make a positive impact in the field.

Other Personal Statement Examples

Animal Science Personal Statement Examples
Anthropology personal statement examples
Statistics Personal Statements
PPE Oxford Personal Statement Example
Classics Personal Statement Examples
Theology Personal Statement Examples
Physics Personal Statement Examples
Chemical Engineering personal statement examples
Oncology Personal Statement Examples
Psychiatry Personal Statement Examples
Earth Sciences Personal Statement Example
History Personal Statement Examples
Veterinary Personal Statement Examples For University
Civil Engineering Personal Statement Examples
User Experience Design Personal Statement Example
Finance Personal Statement Examples
Neuroscience Personal Statement Examples
Graphic Design Personal Statement Examples
Film Production Personal Statement Examples
Events Management Personal Statement Examples
Counselling Personal Statement Examples
Forensic Science Personal Statement Examples
Children’s Nursing Personal Statement Examples
Chemistry Personal Statement Examples
Sports Science Personal Statement Examples
Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Examples
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Personal Statement Examples
Quantity Surveying Personal Statement Examples
Social Work Personal Statement Examples
Physiotherapy Personal Statement Examples
Journalism Personal Statement Examples
English Literature Personal Statement Examples
Marketing Personal Statement Examples
Fashion Marketing Personal Statement Examples
Dietetic Personal Statement Examples
Product Design Personal Statement Examples
Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples
Geography Personal Statement Examples
Business Management Personal Statement Examples
Politics Personal Statement Examples
Psychology Personal Statement Examples
Oxbridge Personal Statement Examples
Zoology Personal Statement Example
Sociology Personal Statement Example
Fashion Personal Statement Example
Mathematics Personal Statement Examples
Software Engineering Personal Statement Examples
Philosophy Personal Statement
International Relations Personal Statement Example
Biochemistry Personal Statement Example
Dentistry Personal Statement Examples
Midwifery Personal Statement
Law Personal Statement Example
Medicine Personal Statement for Cambridge
ICT Personal Statement
Primary Teacher PGCE Personal Statement
PGCE Personal Statement Example
Games Design Personal Statement
Paramedic Science Personal Statement Examples

Writing the Perfect Computer Science Personal Statement

How to write a perfect computer science personal statement

Introduction.

Securing a place in a prestigious university computer science course can be highly competitive. If you are aiming for a Russell Group University or even an Oxbridge University, you need to know that they expect high standards. With numerous applicants vying for limited seats, it's crucial to present yourself as an exceptional candidate. One powerful tool at your disposal is the personal statement. This blog post will guide you through the process of crafting a winning personal statement, showcasing your passion for computer science, unique experiences, and future goals. By following these tried-and-tested techniques, you will be equipped to impress admissions committees, increase your chances of acceptance, and embark on an exciting academic journey.

1. Know Your Audience

Before diving into writing your personal statement, it's crucial to understand the expectations and values of the university admissions committee. Research the university's mission, vision, and curriculum to align your goals with theirs. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the computer science program, highlighting key characteristics and skills they are seeking in applicants. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your personal statement to resonate with the selection panel and demonstrate your suitability for the course.

2. Reflect on Your Journey

To create a compelling personal statement, delve into your personal and academic experiences that have shaped your passion for computer science. Reflect on any challenges you have faced and how these have reinforced your determination. Highlight standout moments, such as participation in coding contests, internships, or research projects, that have nurtured your interest in the field. Articulate how these experiences have driven your decision to pursue a computer science course at the university.

3. Showcase Your Skills and Achievements

Highlighting your relevant skills and achievements is essential to demonstrate your competence and distinguish yourself from other applicants. Discuss your proficiency in programming languages, problem-solving abilities, and any noteworthy projects you have undertaken. Provide evidence of your skills using concrete examples, including software development projects, technical challenges overcome, or academic awards attained. By emphasizing your capabilities, you will exhibit your potential value to the computer science program.

4. Convey Your Passion

Universities seek individuals who are passionate about computer science and can contribute to the academic community. Communicate your enthusiasm by explaining how the subject captivates you, discussing influential readings or inspirational innovators. Illustrate how you have pursued your passion outside of formal education, such as attending conferences, participating in coding boot camps, or engaging in open-source projects. Conveying your fervor for the subject will demonstrate your dedication and drive for success.

5. Define Your Future Goals

Admissions committees are interested in candidates with clear vision and ambition. Outline your long-term objectives in the field of computer science, showing how the university's program aligns with your goals. Discuss your aspirations to contribute to cutting-edge technology, address industry-specific challenges, or make a positive societal impact through your work. Demonstrating your future plans will assure the admissions panel of your determination and long-term commitment, increasing your chances of acceptance.

6. Be Authentic and Engaging

While ensuring your personal statement meets academic and professional standards, it should also serve as a reflection of your authentic self. Use a conversational tone and inject your unique personality into your writing. However, strike a balance by maintaining professionalism and avoiding overly informal language. Engage the reader with captivating anecdotes, personal experiences, or thought-provoking ideas. By standing out from the crowd and captivating the admissions committee, you increase the chances of leaving a lasting impression.

Crafting a perfect personal statement for a university computer science course is a meticulous yet rewarding process. By understanding the expectations of the admissions committee, reflecting on your journey, and showcasing your achievements and skills, you can effectively highlight your strengths. Coupled with a genuine passion for computer science and clear future goals that align with the program's objectives, you set yourself apart from other applicants. Remember to remain authentic, engaging, and proofread meticulously to ensure your statement shines. Your well-crafted personal statement will undoubtedly make a compelling case for your acceptance, propelling you towards a successful future in the field of computer science.

See the list of DOs and DONTs when writing a computer science personal statement.

FindAMasters
Computer Science Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Hannah Slack

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Computer Science. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

Having grown up in a world increasingly dependent on computers, I have witnessed the fast-paced innovative world that computer scientists work in. From a young age I have been following the advanced technical developments humanity has made in exciting fields such as AI and Robotics. I remember being in awe at what was possible with technology after seeing the footage in 2017 of Atlas, the robot made by Boston Dynamics, doing a backflip. The work conducted in Japan is equally, if not more, impressive, with the development of Pepper, the first robot designed to read emotions, in 2014. Watching what computer scientists make possible greatly inspires me and I believe a Masters in Computer Science at your university will help me enter a fascinating field.

I am on track to graduate from my undergraduate degree in Computer Science with a first. I have enjoyed studying the subject at this level and look forward to continuing to more advanced content.

Since school age I have been good at mathematical subjects. I believe that logical thinking comes naturally to me. During my teenage years I took an interest in self-assembling my own computer. This allowed me to explore the inner workings of computers and learn how each part fits together to work as a larger system. What I enjoy about computers is that behind the complex structures, it is just a lot of simple elements.

After working with the hardware side, I went on to explore software. I first became interested in the different operating systems available. I then went on to learn different coding languages, mainly Python, after starting a GCSE in Computing. I believe that coming from a multilingual family helped me learn coding languages. After finishing my GCSE course, I continued to develop my abilities in Python and began to read about other languages and their uses.

During the first year of my undergraduate I also had the fortunate opportunity to build a robot for the Robot Wars reboot with a team made up of my course mates. Not only was this a particularly valuable learning experience, but I greatly enjoyed the teamwork element of creation. Being able to bounce ideas off each other showed me just how exciting technological creation can be as you face a world of possibilities. Unfortunately, our robot did not win but we had a lot of fun and were able to learn from our mistakes.

Throughout my life my hobbies and qualifications have led up to a growing passion for computers. The world is becoming increasingly reliant on computers to help solve many of humanity’s problems. In addition, Computer Science also a fun medium to work with because of the many possibilities it presents. It is rare to find a field that is so vital to society and is extremely enjoyable and that is why I hope to work in a Computer Science field one day. I believe the education opportunities that this course can provide will help me get there.

What are some of my options for studying a Masters in Computer Science?

Emerging digital technologies msc, university college london faculty of engineering sciences, information management - msc, uwe bristol school of computing and creative technologies, computer science and international business - msc, university of cumbria institute of business, industry and leadership, information technology with management (msc), university of st andrews school of computer science, university of st andrews school of management, our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice, find a masters in computer science.

If you're interested in a studying Computer Science, then why don't you check out our regularly updated catalogue of available Computer Science Masters courses .

Select your nearest city

Aberystwyth
Beaconsfield
Bishop Burton
Bournemouth
Bridlington
Chatham Maritime
Cirencester
East Malling
Hemel Hempstead
High Wycombe
Huddersfield
Isle of Man
Jordanstown
London Central
London East
London South
London West
Londonderry
Loughborough
Middlesbrough
Milton Keynes
Musselburgh
Northampton
Potters Bar
Saffron Waldon
Scarborough
Southampton
St Leonards on Sea
Stoke on Trent
Wolverhampton

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAMasters, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, application tips and much more
Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAMasters.com

or begin browsing FindAMasters.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Do you want hassle-free information and advice?

Create your FindAMasters account and sign up to our newsletter:

Find out about funding opportunities and application tips
Receive weekly advice, student stories and the latest Masters news
Hear about our upcoming study fairs
Save your favourite courses, track enquiries and get personalised subject updates

Create your account

Looking to list your Masters courses? Log in here .

Let us help you find a Masters

Never miss a course

Enter our ambassador competition

Get funding news, tips and advice

Hear about upcoming events

Sign up to our newsletter today

We've been helping students find the right postgraduate course for over a decade.

Login to your account

Enter your username below to login to your account.

Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School: Computer Science

A student writing their application essay

Crafting a Standout Computer Science Personal Statement

Crafting a compelling personal statement is crucial for graduate school acceptance. Successful statements showcase your academic and professional accomplishments. They also put a spotlight on your personality, goals, and motivations. When you master this process can make your application stand out and secure your place in graduate school. That’s where our expertise comes into play. Our expertise is here to guide you through the graduate application complexities, providing insights, guidance, and feedback to enhance your writing and engage admissions committees.

Successful Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School

In this post, we’re excited to open our collection of personal statement examples for graduate school. We’re sharing two that students just like you used to get into graduate Computer Science programs:

First this Master’s application essay for California State University delves into the transformative power of technology in the public sector and reflects on personal experiences and research aspirations. This essay is a strong example of blending personal narrative with professional goals.

Second, this PhD application essay for Vanderbilt University shows a profound passion for computer science, driven by undergraduate studies, professional experience, and a keen interest in cloud technology and volunteer work. As a result, it’s a strong example of weaving together various aspects of life.

Both essays, while strong in their current form, nevertheless offer learning opportunities on how further refinement can enhance clarity, coherence, and impact. Our commentary on these pieces provides actionable advice on how to approach revisions, ensuring that each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to the overall narrative effectively.

How We Can Help You Write A Successful Personal Statement

Explore our graduate school personal statement examples and feedback to grasp the detailed analysis and attention that perfects a statement. Whether starting your draft or finalizing revisions, our insights will help you showcase your strengths, improve weaknesses, and express your future vision.

Finally, remember that a great personal statement does not just happen—it is crafted. Let us guide you through this process, offering the expertise and feedback necessary to turn a good personal statement into an outstanding one. Explore our blog for more tips. If you want even more consider a Magoosh Premium Plan to get expert help with both the GRE and your graduate application. You’ll get expert lessons and explanations, real ETS questions, 6 full-length practice tests, and access to more real Personal Statement, CV, and Statement of Purpose examples.

View all posts

More from Magoosh

Please leave any questions or suggestions in the comments, we try our best to respond within a few days! Your email address will not be published.

Writing a computer science personal statement: expert advice from universities

Ace your computer science personal statement with these insider tips

Share this page

Email & print.

One of the first big steps towards studying computer science at university is writing your personal statement. But where do you start?

We spoke to experts at the University of Hull and the University of Kent to find out what computer science admissions are looking for in your personal statement.

The university application personal statement is changing in 2025
University admissions service Ucas has announced that a new style of personal statement will be launched in 2025. This will affect anyone making a university application from autumn 2025 onwards. .

Show them what you already know

Read more: personal statement FAQs

Explain why you want to study computer science

Read more: how to write an excellent personal statement in ten steps

It doesn’t matter if you haven’t studied computer science before

Read more: universities reveal all about personal statements

Highlight the skills you’ve developed outside the classroom

Read more: universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang

Share specific examples of projects you’ve attempted

Read more: how to write your personal statement when you have nothing interesting to say

Reflect on the key elements of the degree

Read more: how long does it take for universities to reply to your application?

Explain why you deserve a place on the course

You may want to look at these..., how long does it take for universities to reply to your application.

It might feel like it's taking forever for your uni offers to come through. Find out what's going on, and when you should hear back

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Help and advice on putting your application together

Personal statement secrets – universities reveal all

Want to know how to craft an amazing personal statement? Take some advice from the experts...

Promoted universities

Durham University
Lancaster University
University of Glasgow
University of the Arts London
University of Southampton
Swansea University
Aston University, Birmingham
Ulster University
Cardiff University
University of Essex

Browse expert advice

Oxbridge applications
Personal statements
University open days
Ucas deadline 2024 countdown
A-level choices
GCSE choices and university
Making firm and insurance choices
Student life
Advice for parents

About this site

Cookie policy
List of universities and colleges
Privacy notice
Terms and conditions
Where we get our info

Who we work with

Your account settings

Ad privacy settings

Popular tools and features

A-level Explorer
Course search

Connect with us

Guidance from our top admission experts — for free!

Admit Finder

Discover Past Admits, Gauge Your Chances!

Shortlist Builder

Personalized University Picks, Just a Click Away.

Course Finder

Navigate Global Courses Tailored for You

Scholarship Finder

Unlock Funding Opportunities Worldwide.

Get tailored study abroad advice.

Planning to study abroad?

Build your target shortlist and see your odds of getting into top schools with Ambitio's AI shortlist builder!

Heading Out Already?

Our Ivy League mentors and top admission experts can help with personalized tips to get you into your dream school

28 November 2023

7 minutes read

Crafting an Outstanding Computer Science Personal Statement: Tips and Examples

Dirghayu Kaushik

Worried about the cost of Studying Abroad?

Introduction

When it comes to applying for a computer science degree, your personal statement is a critical component of your university application. It’s more than just a summary of your academic achievements and extracurricular activities; it’s a window into your passion for the subject, your understanding of its complexities, and your readiness to embrace the academic challenges ahead.

This comprehensive guide offers essential advice, detailed examples, and practical tips to help you craft an impactful computer science personal statement.

Stuck on How to Pick Your Ideal College?

Understanding the Essence of a Computer Science Personal Statement

The Role and Importance of Your Personal Statement in University Applications

The gateway to your future in computer science.

Your computer science personal statement is not just a formality; it’s a pivotal part of your university application. It’s where you can articulate your interest in computer science, your understanding of the field, and how your experiences have prepared you for this course of study.

This section of your application gives you the opportunity to stand out from other candidates by highlighting your unique insights, experiences, and aspirations.

Showcasing Your Personality and Passion

A personal statement goes beyond academic achievements. It’s a platform to show your genuine enthusiasm for computer science. You can discuss what aspects of the subject fascinate you, such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, or software development, and why. Share what drives your interest in these areas and how you have pursued this passion through projects, reading, or relevant experiences.

Demonstrating Your Suitability and Preparedness

Admissions tutors want to know why you are a good fit for their computer science program. This is your chance to showcase your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and any relevant work or project experience.

Talk about specific instances where you’ve applied your computer science knowledge, whether it’s in coding a simple app, participating in hackathons, or taking additional courses related to computing.

Structuring Your Computer Science Personal Statement Effectively

Crafting a compelling introduction.

The opening of your personal statement should grab the reader’s attention. Start with a compelling anecdote, a fascinating fact about computer science, or a personal experience that sparked your interest in the field. This will set the tone for your statement and engage the admissions tutors right from the start.

Developing the Body with Relevant Content

In the body of your statement, delve into your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and work experiences. Explain how these experiences have prepared you for a degree in computer science.

Be specific about the skills you’ve developed, such as programming languages you’re proficient in, mathematical competencies, and any notable projects or achievements.

Concluding with Your Future Aspirations

Conclude your statement by tying your past experiences and current interests to your future goals. Discuss how a degree in computer science will help you achieve your career aspirations. This not only shows your commitment to the field but also your potential to contribute meaningfully to it.

See how Successful Applications Look Like!

Access 350K+ profiles of students who got in. See what you can improve in your own application!

Key Components of a Strong Computer Science Personal Statement

Demonstrating Academic Preparedness and Intellectual Curiosity

Showcasing academic achievements and potential.

It’s essential to highlight your academic strengths, especially in subjects relevant to computer science like mathematics, physics, or computing.

Discuss any special projects, extended essays, or research you’ve undertaken that demonstrate your ability to handle complex concepts and your readiness for university-level study.

Illustrating Intellectual Curiosity

Express your intellectual curiosity about computer science. Discuss books, articles, podcasts, or lectures that have deepened your understanding and interest in the field. This shows that you are engaged with computer science beyond the classroom and are eager to explore its different aspects.

Reflecting on Relevant Experiences and Extracurricular Activities

Leveraging extracurricular activities.

Highlight how your extracurricular activities have contributed to your passion for computer science. Whether it’s a coding club, robotics team, or personal projects, these experiences can demonstrate your practical skills and commitment to learning more about the field.

Gaining Real-World Experience

If you have had internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer experiences related to computer science, discuss what you learned from these opportunities.

Describe any projects you worked on, challenges you faced, and how these experiences have shaped your understanding of what a career in computer science entails.

Personalizing Your Statement with Unique Insights and Experiences

Sharing personal stories and experiences.

Personal anecdotes can make your statement memorable. Share stories about how you became interested in computer science, challenges you’ve overcome in your journey, or moments of success and what they meant to you. This personal touch can make your statement stand out.

Connecting Your Past Experiences to Your Future Goals

Reflect on how your past experiences have shaped your current interests and future aspirations in computer science. This shows a coherent narrative and a clear understanding of how a computer science degree fits into your long-term goals.

Start Your University Applications with Ambitio Pro!

Get Ambitio Pro!

Begin your journey to top universities with Ambitio Pro. Our premium platform offers you tools and support needed to craft standout applications.

Unlock Advanced Features for a More Comprehensive Application Experience!

Start your Journey today

Crafting Your Narrative: Tips and Techniques

Writing Tips for a Compelling Personal Statement

Creating a compelling personal statement for your computer science application can be a pivotal factor in your admission process. Here are some key points to consider when crafting your statement:

Start with a Strong Opening : Capture the reader’s attention from the beginning. Use an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or an interesting fact about computer science to start your statement.
Be Authentic : Write in your own voice. Your personal statement should reflect your personality and enthusiasm for the subject. Avoid trying to sound overly formal if it doesn’t come naturally.
Show, Don’t Just Tell : Demonstrate your passion and skills through specific examples. Instead of simply stating that you love computer science, describe projects, experiences, or challenges that showcase your interests and abilities.
Make It Personal and Unique : Share personal experiences or stories that influenced your decision to pursue computer science. This can include anything from an inspiring teacher to a particular problem you solved or software you developed.
Structure Your Content Wisely : Organize your statement in a clear and logical manner. Start with your interest in computer science, follow with your experiences and achievements, and conclude with your future aspirations.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Achievements : Discuss your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any work experience relevant to computer science. Be specific about the skills you’ve developed, such as programming languages, mathematical aptitude, or analytical thinking.
Reflect on Your Learning Journey : Talk about what you have learned from your experiences and how they have prepared you for a degree in computer science. Reflect on both successes and challenges and what they taught you.
Connect Past Experiences with Future Goals : Illustrate how your previous experiences have shaped your current interests and how they align with your future career aspirations in computer science.
Keep It Concise and Focused : Avoid unnecessary details and keep your statement to the point. Each paragraph should contribute to building a comprehensive picture of your passion and suitability for a computer science degree.
Proofread and Revise : Ensure your statement is free from grammatical errors and typos. Read your statement multiple times, and have it reviewed by teachers, mentors, or peers for feedback.
Avoid Clichés and Overused Phrases : Steer clear of generic statements and clichés that don’t add value to your narrative. Strive for originality in both content and expression.
Balance Confidence with Humility : While it’s important to showcase your accomplishments and skills, maintain a tone of humility. Acknowledge that there is always more to learn and grow.
Respect the Word Limit : Adhere to any specified word limits or guidelines provided by the university. This shows that you can follow directions and express yourself concisely.
End with a Strong Conclusion : Conclude your statement by reinforcing your passion for computer science and your eagerness to further explore this field at the university level.

Remember, your personal statement is a critical component of your application. It’s your opportunity to make a memorable impression and demonstrate why you are an ideal candidate for a computer science program.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Personal Statements

When crafting a personal statement, especially for a competitive field like computer science, it’s just as important to know what to avoid as it is to know what to include. Here are some key points to help you steer clear of common pitfalls:

Steer Clear of Clichés : Avoid overused phrases and generic statements that don’t add a unique perspective to your application. Phrases like “I have always been passionate about computers” are too vague and don’t tell the admissions committee anything specific about you.
Avoid Repetition : Don’t repeat information that can be found elsewhere in your application, like grades or test scores. Use the personal statement to provide new insights into your character, experiences, and aspirations.
Resist Exaggeration or Untruths : Be honest and authentic. Overstating your accomplishments or skills can backfire if you’re unable to back them up. Stay true to your actual experiences and achievements.
Don’t Neglect the Basics : Spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes can detract from your statement’s impact. Proofread thoroughly and consider having someone else review your statement for errors.
Avoid a Negative Tone : Keep the tone positive and forward-looking. Even when discussing challenges or failures, focus on what you learned or how you’ve grown from those experiences.
Don’t Make It a Resume : Your personal statement shouldn’t be a list of accomplishments and activities. Instead, it should tell a story about who you are and why you’re passionate about computer science.
Beware of Being Too Vague or Broad : Be specific in your examples and explanations. General statements don’t convey a deep understanding or genuine interest in the field.
Avoid Controversial Topics : Steer clear of polarizing or controversial subjects unless they are directly relevant to your interest in computer science and you can discuss them in a thoughtful and respectful manner.
Don’t Rely on Quotes or Clichéd Inspirations : Opening with a quote or a very common source of inspiration can come across as unoriginal. It’s better to use your own words to express your motivations and aspirations.
Avoid Underestimating the Importance of Structure : A disorganized personal statement can be difficult to follow. Ensure your statement has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Don’t Ignore the Prompt : If the university provides a specific prompt or question for the personal statement, make sure you address it directly. Ignoring the prompt can give the impression that you’re not attentive to details.
Resist the One-Size-Fits-All Approach : Customize your statement for each application. A generic statement that doesn’t address specific aspects of the program or university may come across as insincere.
Avoid Technical Jargon Overload : While it’s important to demonstrate your knowledge, overly technical language can make your statement less accessible. Remember, your audience may not have the same level of expertise in computer science.
Don’t Forget to Show Your Human Side : While technical skills and academic achievements are important, also show aspects of your personality and life outside of academics. This can include hobbies, volunteering, or other interests that have shaped you as a person.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, your personal statement will have a better chance of resonating with the admissions committee, showcasing not only your qualifications for a computer science program but also your unique character and perspective.

A well-written computer science personal statement can significantly enhance your university application. It allows you to showcase not just your academic abilities and technical skills, but also your passion for the subject and your vision for the future.

Use the tips and advice provided in this guide to create a compelling and authentic personal statement that resonates with admissions tutors and paves the way for your academic journey in computer science.

Q1: How much emphasis should I place on discussing programming languages and technical skills?

While technical skills are important, balance them with your passion for the subject, problem-solving abilities, and how these skills have contributed to your interest in computer science.

Q2: Can I include my hobbies and interests outside of computer science in my statement?

Yes, especially if they demonstrate skills relevant to computer science, such as analytical thinking, creativity, or teamwork.

Q3: How can I make my personal statement stand out among many applicants?

Focus on being authentic, share unique personal experiences or insights, and clearly articulate your passion and understanding of computer science.

Q4: Is it okay to mention a specific university program or professor in my statement?

If you’re writing a statement for a specific university, it can be beneficial to mention specific aspects of their program that attract you. However, if you’re using the same statement for multiple applications, keep it general.

Spread the Word!

Share across your social media if you found it helpful

• Introduction
• Understanding the Essence of a Computer Science Personal Statement
• Key Components of a Strong Computer Science Personal Statement
• Crafting Your Narrative: Tips and Techniques
• Conclusion

Build your profile to get into top colleges

Phone Number

What level are you targetting

Almost there!

Just enter your OTP, and your planner will be on its way!

Code sent on

Resend OTP (30s)

Your Handbook Is Waiting on WhatsApp!

Please have a look, and always feel free to reach out for any detailed guidance

Click here to download

Meanwhile check out your dashboard to access various tools to help you in your study abroad journey

Recent Blogs

How To Write a Film and Media Studies Personal Statement

Good Psychology Books to Read for Personal Statement

Good Economics Books for Personal Statement

Find your Dream school now⭐️

Welcome! Let's Land Your Dream Admit.

Let us make sure you get into the best!

2024 Winter
2024 Spring
2024 Summer

Enter verification code

Code was sent to

Our Experts

Connect with us on our social media

Sample Personal Statement for Computer Science

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to the master’s program in computer science. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at the University of Utah, Stanford and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in CS should look like.

Sample Personal Statement in Computer Science

While SpaceX was launching satellites into space, my country was hoping for another loan from World Bank. I, for one, wondered when power outages would end in my home country. The delipidated condition of my country made me value the small things in life – from dreaming with my siblings about our future to just lying in the backyard gazing into the very depths of space, determined to make ourselves proud. Though my family comes from humble beginnings, my parents left no obstacle unturned to educate us. My father’s love for technology and education grew stronger with age and time. I still remember when he purchased a Pentium-1 for us, the first computer in my family and perhaps in my neighborhood. Almost every week, it needed repair because of our doings, but he kept encouraging us.

Inspired by my passion for technology, I applied to the topmost computer science undergrad program. My parents were overjoyed when I was accepted because I was the first in my family to attend college. One month into my undergrad, I founded “The CS Media Club,” a society with a vision to share success stories of software developers. It was the same time the following year when I handed over the elective office of the President to the freshmen students. For me, it was the start of a versatile voyage, an inherent determination to change lives, which fostered other ventures. Eventually, I volunteered as Brand Ambassador for International Youth Coding Challenge (IYCC). Under IYCC, I vowed to promote coding competitions among students. Again, I received an overwhelming response. Gradually this initiative expanded into astronomy and astrophysics, which still gives me goosebumps.

I faced many financial and academic challenges, and I had two options: either give up my education or don my diligence glasses to compete with the best. I chose the latter. Hence started my struggle as a freelance programmer. As a freelancer, I built lasting relationships with clients and enriched my communication skills. In addition, the soft skills I learned boosted my confidence to participate in MUN Conferences. I also leveraged my confidence and took two paid summer internships with Google and Apple. This provided real-life coding experience, amplified my interpersonal skills, and revamped my career path.

So, this journey from lying and looking into the depths of the space to now typing this essay in Microsoft’s office is full of adventures and emotions. All the years of hard work landed me a dream job with Microsoft, but like my late grandfather used to say, it is always lonely at the top. Thus, my inner self urges me to excel further and bring world-class coding and development knowledge to my home country.

We have a vast talent pool but not enough guidance and opportunities. My college professor often called our young minds the ambitious unguided missiles. I want to change this narrative and become a symbol of hope for many like me. I aim to join academia and research to guide the youth. I also want to establish a community of young developers and form research alliances with other organizations in exchange for ideas. This way, I hope to bring reality to some other kid aiming to build something wondrous for his home country under the fading light of our home.

WANT MORE AMAZING ARTICLES ON GRAD SCHOOL PERSONAL STATEMENTS?

100+ Outstanding Examples of Personal Statements
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Winning Personal Statement
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Personal Statement
Writing a Killer Opening Paragraph for Your Personal Statement
Ideal Length for a Graduate School Personal Statement
100 Inspiring Quotes to Jumpstart Your Personal Statement

Sample Personal Statement for Masters in International Business

Sample Personal Statement for Masters in International Business My journey began amidst the kaleidoscope of Qatar's landscapes, setting the stage for a life attuned to cultural nuances. Transitioning to Riyadh in my teens, I absorbed a mosaic of traditions, sparking a...

Sample Personal Statement for Family Medicine Residency

Personal Statement Prompt: A personal letter is required. We are looking for mature, enthusiastic physicians who bring with them a broad range of life experiences, are committed to providing excellent patient care, and can embrace the depth and breadth of experiences...

[2024] 4 Law School Personal Statement Examples from Top Programs

In this article, I will discuss 4 law school personal statement samples. These statements have been written by successful applicants who gained admission to prestigious US Law schools like Yale, Harvard, and Stanford. The purpose of these examples is to demonstrate...

Sample Personal Statement Cybersecurity

In this article, I will be providing a sample grad school personal statement in the field of cybersecurity. This sample was written by an applicant who got admitted into George Mason, Northeastern and Arizona State University. This example aims to show how prospective...

100+ Grad School Personal Statement Examples

Introduction Importance of a Strong Personal Statement A personal statement is essential in the graduate school application process, as it plays a significant role in shaping the admissions committee's perception of you. In fact, a survey conducted by the Council of...

WANT AMAZING ARTICLES ON GRAD SCHOOL PERSONAL STATEMENTS?

100+ Personal Statement Templates

Ask a question Ask
go advanced Search
Please enter a title
Please enter a message
Your discussion will live here... (Start typing, we will pick a forum for you) Please select a forum Change forum View more forums... View less forums... GCSEs A-levels Applications, Clearing and UCAS University Life Student Finance England Part-time and temporary employment Chat Everyday issues Friends, family and work Relationships Health News Student Surveys and Research
post anonymously
All study help
Uni applications
University and HE colleges
University help and courses
University student life

Postgraduate

Careers and jobs
Teacher training
Finance and accountancy
Relationships
Sexual health
Give feedback or report a problem
University and university courses
Universities and HE colleges
Life and style
Entertainment
Debate and current affairs
Careers and Jobs
Scottish qualifications
Foreign languages
GCSE articles
A-level articles
Exam and revision articles
What to do after GCSEs
What to do after A-levels
When is A-level results day 2024?
When is GCSE results day 2024?
Studying, revision and exam support
Grow your Grades

Exam results articles and chat

Exam results homepage
A guide to GCSE and A-level grade boundaries
Year 13 chat
Year 12 chat
Year 11 chat

A-level results

Guide to A-level results day
Get help preparing for results day
A-level retakes and resits
Exam reviews and remarks
Here’s what to expect on A-level results day
Six ways to help results day nerves
Understanding your A-level results slip

GCSE results

Guide to GCSE results day
How GCSE combined science grades work
Stressed about GCSE results day?
Understanding your GCSE results slip

Finding a uni in Clearing

Clearing articles and chat
UK university contact details
Guide to Clearing
Seven things people get wrong about Clearing
How to make a great Clearing call
Finding accommodation after Clearing
How Clearing can help you prepare for results day
All universities
Applying through Ucas
Student finance
Personal statement
Postgraduate study
Uni accommodation
University life
All uni courses
Apprenticeships
Arts and humanities courses
Stem courses
Social science courses

Universities by region

North of England
South of England
Greater London
Distance learning
International study

University guides and articles

All university articles
Applying to uni articles
Personal statements
Personal statement examples
University open days
Studying law at university
Student life at university
Careers and jobs discussion
Apprenticeships discussion
Part-time and temp jobs
Career forums by sector
Armed forces careers
Consultancy careers
Finance careers
Legal careers
Marketing careers
Medicine and healthcare careers
Public sector careers
Stem careers
Teaching careers
General chat
Relationships chat
Friends, family and colleagues
Advice on everyday issues
General health
Mental health
UK and world politics
Educational debate

Undergraduate

Postgraduate Master’s Loan
Postgraduate Doctoral Loan
Disabled Students’ Allowances
Taking a break or withdrawing from your course

Further information

Parents and partners
Advanced Learner Loan
Computer science, computing and IT personal statement examples

Computer science and mathematics degree personal statement example (1a)

This is a real personal statement written by a student for their university application. It might help you decide what to include in your own. There are lots more examples in our .

Computers have always fascinated me, even from a young age. Back in my last year of primary school, I bought a book on websites - specifically how to write HTML. From then onwards, my interest in the technical side of computers grew. The next thing I learned about was programming in C++. I used my self-taught knowledge of the programming language to create DOS programs to help me with all sorts of basic mathematical problems. For example, one of the first programs I created was to quickly work out the Surface Area and Volume of Shapes.

Mathematics is another subject I have been interested in for quite some time, although I feel it is only now that my real potential with the subject is showing and consequently, I have decided to study Further Maths as an extra AS Level in my Upper 6th year, having achieved an A grade at AS. Maths and Computer Science complement each other very well and I would relish the opportunity to further my studies of the subject to a greater depth.

Throughout my AS Level courses, I have developed numerous skills and vastly broadened my knowledge of the subjects that really interest me. Within my Mathematics course I have learned new and interesting topics such as Calculus and Decision Mathematics, the latter which I found very appealing due to its link with computing and ergo, has encouraged me to continue to study Mathematics at university and at the same time support and nurture my understanding and development within the field of Computer Science. The coursework tasks on the AS Level Computing course proved to be thoroughly enjoyable and informative, such as creating a computer game in Visual Basic; and they also allowed me to delve deeper into the theoretical algorithmic side of computing. Furthermore, I recently attained an A grade in AS Computing. My Geography A-Level course has provided me with a better understanding of the environment and the economic workings of the world itself, while fieldwork tasks have helped boost my team-working, data analysis and presentation skills. I was required to work together with others to collect data and then represent this using various techniques, e.g. proportional bars and circles and; statistical methods such as Spearman's Rank to create a 50 page report on my findings.

A great deal of my spare time is devoted to the sport of sailing, in which I regularly represent Pilkington Sailing Club at local and national level; competing for the club in the Southport 12 Hour- and the West Lancashire 24 Hour Race each year. I also practise the martial art of Ju-Jitsu twice a week and have passed Kobudo weapons courses with the Bokken and the Bo Staff. From September 2007 to May 2008, I was the Finance Director of a Young Enterprise company, 'Sprise'. Through this experience my team-working skills and sales techniques have both developed extensively. My public speaking skills have also improved vastly through twice delivering a five minute presentation to over 150 representatives from a variety of Young Enterprise companies across Merseyside. My team won four awards including those for the best and most innovative company. I am currently working towards my Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, which requires precise planning and teamwork and in college, I have also been elected to serve as Complaints Co-ordinator on the student council for 2008-2009, which places me as one of the first points-of-call for the 1,600-strong community.

I am dedicated to my future study of Computer Science and Mathematics and I firmly believe that innovative ideas lie with the next generation of computer scientists who will strive to push forward new ideas and different technologies. I want to be part of this new generation.

Share this story :
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on Google+
Share on Pinterest
Latest Latest
Trending Trending
create my feed
Edit my feed
0 new posts
Started by: anouk_
Forum: Performing arts and music
Last post: 1 minute ago
Started by: Yinbeemie
Forum: Grow your Grades
Replies: 38
Started by: Talkative Toad
Forum: UK and World Politics
Replies: 4520
Started by: Anonymous
Forum: Brunel University London
Started by: Lazlay
Forum: Civil service, public sector and public services
Replies: 879
Started by: Kelsey1125
Forum: Graduate Schemes
Forum: University of Wolverhampton
Started by: Bamideledare
Forum: A-levels
Last post: 2 minutes ago
Started by: Sinnoh
Forum: GCSEs
Replies: 440
Started by: SookieGilmore
Forum: Applications, Clearing and UCAS
Started by: agent_duck343
Replies: 18
Forum: Coventry University
Last post: 3 minutes ago
Started by: emm4nuella
Forum: English and linguistics
Started by: lowxwil
Started by: kayleigh_t.27
Forum: University Blogs
Replies: 25
Last post: 4 minutes ago
Started by: AnnoyinHuman
Replies: 117
Last post: 5 minutes ago
Started by: sdfj
Forum: Forum games
Replies: 6442
Started by: Jonjon7
Forum: Medicine
Started by: geopolitical-grl
Forum: King's College London
Last post: 6 minutes ago
Started by: Oatmilklattepls
Replies: 2903
Started by: 04MR17
Forum: University of Manchester
Replies: 742
Last post: 26 minutes ago
Started by: Durham University
Forum: Durham University
Replies: 1606
Last post: 45 minutes ago
Started by: Lc627183
Replies: 288
Last post: 47 minutes ago
Forum: University College London
Replies: 209
Last post: 1 hour ago
Started by: Sandtrooper
Forum: Cambridge Postgraduate
Replies: 8250
Last post: 2 hours ago
Started by: Saracen's Fez
Replies: 1037
Last post: 5 hours ago
Started by: Scotland Yard
Replies: 639
Last post: 23 hours ago
Forum: Advice on everyday issues
Replies: 192
Last post: 2 days ago
Started by: maiarhysdavies
Replies: 799
Started by: Chi chi5
Replies: 939
Last post: 3 days ago
Replies: 975
Started by: PileaP
Replies: 210
Last post: 4 days ago
Started by: Blinkr
Replies: 387
Started by: ma_they
Forum: University of Bristol
Replies: 120
Started by: normaw
Replies: 50
Started by: KA_P
Replies: 1125
Last post: 1 week ago
Started by: Student294886
Forum: Medical Schools
Replies: 187
Started by: unsure-student
Started by: shooks
Forum: Secondary school, sixth form and FE college
I know my ideal uni and course
I know my ideal uni but not course
I know my ideal course but not uni
I'm not sure yet
Tell us more about your answer in the thread!

The Student Room and The Uni Guide are both part of The Student Room Group.

Main topics
GCSE and A-level
Exam results
Life and relationships

Get Started

Today's posts
Unanswered posts
Community guidelines
TSR help centre
Cookies & online safety
Terms & conditions
Privacy notice

Connect with TSR

The Student Room and The Uni Guide are trading names of The Student Room Group Ltd.

Register Number: 04666380 (England and Wales), VAT No. 806 8067 22 Registered Office: Imperial House, 2nd Floor, 40-42 Queens Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 3XB

Applying to Uni
Apprenticeships
Health & Relationships
Money & Finance

Personal Statements

Postgraduate
U.S Universities

University Interviews

Vocational Qualifications
Accommodation
Budgeting, Money & Finance
Health & Relationships
Jobs & Careers
Socialising

Studying Abroad

Studying & Revision
Technology
University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Clearing Guide

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

Postgraduate Personal Statements

International Student Personal Statements

Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Chemistry and Physics have both helped to improve my analytical and evaluative skills. Within maths I have been lucky enough to have a teacher who was very interested in computer science. He has been especially helpful, lending me books such as Gödel, Escher, Bach: an Eternal Golden Braid. This has given me an insight into the richness that is computer science.

My interest in computing has not been restricted to the classroom and college life. Within the last twelve months I’ve used the knowledge that I’ve gained over the past twelve years together with the help of my family to set up my own computer related business. This has given me a totally new perspective on how certain things function, and how business operates.

The writing of a business plan was a totally alien experience for me, but over the course of 9 months I researched and planned, and finally when the plan was complete I was rewarded with the satisfaction of knowing that I had completed something that most people would never have the chance to do especially at my age.

Through the setting up of the company and its subsequent running I have learnt many things. These include how to balance tasks effectively, how critical teamwork can be and how to delegate tasks to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

As well as spending time both studying and helping to run the business I understand the importance of having time to relax. One of my hobbies that I try to make time for is learning to fly, and gaining my private pilots license.

As a child I dreamed of becoming a pilot and luckily its one dream that I’ve managed to follow. I love the freedom that flying gives you and the control that you have when in the air. Training for my private pilots license (PPL) has also involved me taking onboard a lot of responsibility for the safety of those onboard, and those around the aircraft.

From ensuring that I carry out the pre-flight checks correctly, and knowing what’s around you both while you’re on the ground and in the air to ensuring that I’m prepared for any eventuality.

I also enjoy both playing and watching tennis. I’ve played in various competitions before, and have helped to umpire junior matches at my club. To ensure that I can fit everything in I’ve had to develop very good time management, prioritising what I need to do efficiently.

I’m looking forward with great anticipation to the challenges that studying for a degree in computer science will bring.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by Soulfish.

Soulfish's university choices Cambridge University The University of Edinburgh The University of York

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Degree Computer Science at The University of York

Related Personal Statements

A good profile but have you.

Fri, 04/06/2004 - 00:00

a good profile but have you READ the books you mention and also elaborate more on Maths - it's very crucial to your Computer Science degree. Why Comp Sci not SW Engineering or Comp Games, what do you hope to learn?

ignore the h8r comment above

Mon, 06/09/2004 - 00:00

I just graduted from a Comp Si degree and your PS covers waay more than I did. Ignore the comment above adding more academi will make your PS seem too rehearsed. It is lear you have a passion for computing that is all the admissions officers are looking for. Good luck!

This is one of the best

Thu, 20/01/2005 - 00:00

This is one of the best computer science personal statements that I have ever set my eyes on. You clearly have a deep interest in the subject. You'll secure places easily! All the best for University.

if n really wrote this ps by

Wed, 02/11/2005 - 00:00

if n really wrote this ps by urself then it is really good. nice one

I enjoyed reading this. Very

Mon, 07/11/2005 - 00:00

I enjoyed reading this. Very straight to the point and is what everyone does too.

Needs Work..

Wed, 26/04/2006 - 00:00

Sentences are too attenuated...Grammatical reconstruction is required...In other words, some sentences are too long and muddled. They can confuse the reader. Just my 2 cents...BLE$$.

L6 personal statement researcher

Fri, 16/06/2006 - 00:00

Thank You for this brilliant personal statement. It has played a huge part my planning.

Thank you very much this has

Mon, 16/10/2006 - 22:18

Thank you very much this has helped me out greatly. I was killing myself on how to write mine

Looks great but...

Tue, 16/01/2007 - 18:25

Well I have read some of your statement. I am considering Uni, but not sure what cource to take....... I ahve no idea what computer science is but, i dont think i'll do well at it becasue i do not no what it is. HOw long did it take you, did you use a dictionary? Does it really have to be that loooooooonnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggg?????

overall this is good,

Fri, 02/03/2007 - 23:43

overall this is good, although the first paragraph leaves a lot to be desired. the first line is grammatically incorrect, and the following two are clumsy. i can see why cambridge wouldn't have liked this.

first impressions are key with a personal statement, it is very like an interview in this respect.

Wed, 14/03/2007 - 19:25

The lack of details raises red flags for me; I've no idea what business this student initiated, don't know his father's job, or the name of the very helpful teacher.

wel..this is how it goes.

Tue, 08/05/2007 - 15:05

wel..this is how it goes..pretty average..nahin to special...cud rite better in my sleep son..get ur act together and show me that u have general interest inthis subject and that u didnt copy this from a book or a sheet which ur careers advisor probably gave u!

this statement is 2 reheresed

Wed, 09/05/2007 - 14:13

this statement is 2 reheresed and sounds like the write isjus trying to make things up which would impress the reader surely a more honest statement would go down better?!?

wadup man dis is a gd

Mon, 02/07/2007 - 08:38

wadup man dis is a gd personal statment i was looking for a gd 1 to help me with me with my one and dw iam not gonna copy it but i got a gd lk at how a gd ps should be

Thu, 16/08/2007 - 20:37

This is horrible. Do you people read admissions websites. This will get rejected. They don't care about your past when you were a little boy. They want to hear about your college years. Every sentence should mean something, and this was just a bunch of bologna.

this was quite a good

Fri, 14/09/2007 - 10:17

this was quite a good personal statement i found it very useful

Thu, 20/09/2007 - 09:22

I do not understand why everyone is going off it with this PS. It is obvisouly good or else all of the universities would not have made an offer would they??

Great personal statement.

Mon, 22/10/2007 - 10:21

Great personal statement. thank yuour for giving me an idea on how to do mines.!!!

Very interesting

Wed, 31/10/2007 - 09:45

very nice!! i really enjoy reading your personal statment and it helped me alot to write my personal statment. GOOD KEEP IT UP!!! ALL BEST WISHES FOR U 4RM SIMRAN

Fri, 02/11/2007 - 07:19

its was such a nice statement...thank you...it has been of great help to me

Tue, 06/11/2007 - 18:23

Very nicely done. Just wanted to say thanks because you've just helped me write mine as I didn't know where to start.

sounds too forced and tries

Thu, 29/11/2007 - 21:26

sounds too forced and tries hard to be the stereotypical computing essay. lacks depth. a person who wasn't doing computing a levels or knows nothing about it could have written the same kind of essay.

I am so much overwhelmed by

Sat, 08/12/2007 - 19:55

I am so much overwhelmed by your interesting and inspiring Personal Statement on computer science. I love it.

Dwumfour's Applauds

Sat, 08/12/2007 - 20:02

I could not afford to stop reading your all inspiring and motivating Personal Statement on Computer Science. You've really giving me a wonderful beginning I never thought of.Great Job.

this really heleped me!thanks

Tue, 01/04/2008 - 15:58

this really heleped me!thanks a lot :) really good statement

Sun, 06/07/2008 - 03:16

Humm not bad not bad

Spectacular

Sat, 23/08/2008 - 19:26

Never in all my years have I been so amazed. This personal statement is truely a work of art. Absolutely super.

Wow, every uni you've put

Sun, 21/09/2008 - 20:52

Wow, every uni you've put here (excluding cambridge) is what im applying for. How have you found york and its courses?

[X]erver Killah!{}

Mon, 17/11/2008 - 10:17

Thankyou for this, it has guided me through the structure well, good luck

Good PS there man!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mon, 17/11/2008 - 12:42

I have spent a few minutes looking for samples of personal statements but this beats all I have seen and it is really helping me in writing mine .

Wed, 19/11/2008 - 23:38

i wish this was my work ,the PS is the best so far,its worth more than an admission.keep it up

you obvioulsy love yourself

Fri, 02/01/2009 - 20:03

wow i'm so impressed dis is

Wed, 27/05/2009 - 01:08

wow i'm so impressed dis is good

Fri, 09/10/2009 - 15:04

I've just read your PS and surprised how you could mixed all these things and organized them perfectly to showing us a great story to enjoy

thanks alot and good luck

It does sound impressive. Yet

Tue, 10/11/2009 - 11:55

It does sound impressive. Yet at the same time it lacks computer science, which involves a lot of maths. It sounds like you're applying for a course involving computer engineering

Excellent statement, thanks

Thu, 07/01/2010 - 15:42

Excellent statement, thanks for the inspiration. I have long had difficulty in decided how to start my PS.

Personal Statement

Sat, 08/01/2011 - 02:26

Nice to see an entusiastic wrong en with a computer fetish on such a cracking website

Mon, 25/04/2011 - 19:08

Excellent start point

excellent brilliant it's much

Sun, 08/05/2011 - 16:03

excellent brilliant it's much help of mine to write my own personal statement.

Mon, 12/09/2011 - 22:15

This ps was amazing, thanks for letting me use it for mine. Im sure to get in with this!

excellent ps. The passion for

Wed, 02/11/2011 - 12:15

excellent ps. The passion for the subject have been keenly expressed. If u are honest with what you have said then you should definitely get a place at the university. "GOOD LUCK"

What Grades did you get,

Mon, 09/01/2012 - 01:53

What A-level grades and as grades did you achieve. who ever wrote this personal statement

not so long

Tue, 14/02/2012 - 11:08

You are obviously interested in the subject area, but you could have done it much more concisely.

With 100's of application to read, admissions aren't looking for your life's history. A short and to the point statement will work as well if not better.

Thu, 25/10/2012 - 18:41

Competent but standard, bland and boring. Admissions tutors receive hundreds of applications like this daily and this does not stand out from the crowd at all. It is, in fact, more of an archetype for a run of the mill application, encapsulating everything that everyone else will have included in theirs. Small wonder Cambridge declined you. You must be different.

NERD! no really well done bro

Wed, 25/09/2013 - 12:50

Wow! An Awesome Personal

Mon, 30/09/2013 - 17:57

Wow! An Awesome Personal Statement! =)

Add new comment

Career Exploration
Arts, Communications, & Media
Education, Nonprofit, & Public Health
Business, Consulting, Finance, & Marketing
Government, International Affairs, Law, & Public Policy
Health Professions Advising
Career Essentials Resources
Graduate School
Application Support
Short Internship Projects (SHIPs)
Fellowships for Undergraduates
Fellowships for Graduates
Class of 2025 Fellowship Planning
Fellowships for International Students
Civic Engagement

Writing a Personal Statement

Preparing to Write

Brainstorming, don't forget, sample prompts.

A personal statement is a narrative essay that connects your background, experiences, and goals to the mission, requirements, and desired outcomes of the specific opportunity you are seeking. It is a critical component in the selection process, whether the essay is for a competitive internship, a graduate fellowship, or admittance to a graduate school program. It gives the selection committee the best opportunity to get to know you, how you think and make decisions, ways in which past experiences have been significant or formative, and how you envision your future. Personal statements can be varied in form; some are given a specific prompt, while others are less structured. However, in general a personal statement should answer the following questions:

Who are you?
What are your goals?
How does this specific program/opportunity help you achieve your goals?
What is in the future?

A personal statement is not:

A variation of your college admissions essay
An academic/research paper
A narrative version of your resume
A creative writing piece (it can be creative, though)
An essay about somebody else

Keep in mind that your statement is only a portion of the application and should be written with this in mind. Your entire application package will include some, possibly all, of the materials listed below. You will want to consider what these pieces of the application communicate about you. Your personal statement should aim to tie everything together and fill in or address any gaps. There will likely be some overlap but be sure not to be too repetitive.

Personal Statement(s)
Transcripts
Letters of recommendations
Sample of written work
Research proposal

For a quick overview of personal statements, you might begin by watching this "5 Minute Fellowships" video!

If you are writing your first personal statement or working to improve upon an existing personal statement, the video below is a helpful, in-depth resource.

A large portion of your work towards completing a personal statement begins well before your first draft or even an outline. It is incredibly important to be sure you understand all of the rules and regulations around the statement. Things to consider before you begin writing:

How many prompts? And what are they? It is important to know the basics so you can get your ideas in order. Some programs will require a general statement of interest and a focused supplementary or secondary statement closely aligned with the institution's goals.
Are there formatting guidelines? Single or double spaced, margins, fonts, text sizes, etc. Our general guideline is to keep it simple.
How do I submit my statement(s)? If uploading a document we highly suggest using a PDF as it will minimize the chances of accidental changes to formatting. Some programs may event ask you to copy and paste into a text box.
When do I have to submit my statement(s)? Most are due at the time of application but some programs, especially medical schools, will ask for secondary statements a few months after you apply. In these instances be sure to complete them within two weeks, any longer is an indication that you aren't that interested in the institution.

Below is a second 5 Minute Fellowships video that can help you get started!

Before you start writing, take some time to reflect on your experiences and motivations as they relate to the programs to which you are applying. This will offer you a chance to organize your thoughts which will make the writing process much easier. Below are a list of questions to help you get started:

What individuals, experiences or events have shaped your interest in this particular field?
What has influenced your decision to apply to graduate school?
How does this field align with your interests, strengths, and values?
What distinguishes you from other applicants?
What would you bring to this program/profession?
What has prepared you for graduate study in this field? Consider your classes at Wellesley, research and work experience, including internships, summer jobs and volunteer work.
Why are you interested in this particular institution or degree program?
How is this program distinct from others?
What do you hope to gain?
What is motivating you to seek an advanced degree now?
Where do you see yourself headed and how will this degree program help you get there?

For those applying to Medical School, if you need a committee letter for your application and are using the Medical Professions Advisory Committee you have already done a lot of heavy lifting through the 2017-2018 Applicant Information Form . Even if you aren't using MPAC the applicant information form is a great place to start.

Another great place to start is through talking out your ideas. You have a number of options both on and off campus, such as: Career Education advisors and mentors ( you can set up an appointment here ), major advisor, family, friends. If you are applying to a graduate program it is especially important to talk with a faculty member in the field. Remember to take good notes so you can refer to them later.

When you begin writing keep in mind that your essay is one of many in the application pool. This is not to say you should exaggerate your experiences to “stand out” but that you should focus on clear, concise writing. Also keep in mind that the readers are considering you not just as a potential student but a future colleague. Be sure to show them examples and experiences which demonstrate you are ready to begin their program.

It is important to remember that your personal statement will take time and energy to complete, so plan accordingly. Every application and statement should be seen as different from one another, even if they are all the same type of program. Each institution may teach you the same material but their delivery or focus will be slightly different.

In addition, remember:

Be yourself: You aren’t good at being someone else
Tragedy is not a requirement, reflection and depth are
Research the institution or organization
Proofread, proofread, proofread
How to have your personal statement reviewed

The prompts below are from actual applications to a several types of programs. As you will notice many of them are VERY general in nature. This is why it is so important to do your research and reflect on your motivations. Although the prompts are similar in nature the resulting statements would be very different depending on the discipline and type of program, as well as your particular background and reasons for wanting to pursue this graduate degree.

This statement should illustrate your academic background and experiences and explain why you would excel in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (UMass Amherst - M.S. in Civil Engineering).
Describe your academic and career objectives and how the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies can help you achieve them. Include other considerations that explain why you seek admissions to the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies and your interests in the environmental field (Yale - Master of Environmental Management).
Please discuss your academic interests and goals. Include your current professional and research interests, as well as your long-range professional objectives. Please be as specific as possible about how your objectives can be met at Clark and do not exceed 800 words (Clark University - M.A. in International Development and Social Change).
Write a 500- to 700-word statement that describes your work or research. Discuss how you came to focus on the medium, body of work, or academic area you wish to pursue at the graduate level. Also discuss future directions or goals for your work, and describe how the Master of Fine Arts in Studio (Printmedia) is particularly suited to your professional goals (School of the Art Institute of Chicago - MFA in Studio, Printmaking).
Your statement should explain why you want to study economics at the graduate level. The statement is particularly important if there is something unusual about your background and preparation that you would like us to know about you (University of Texas at Austin - Ph.D in Economics).
Your personal goal statement is an important part of the review process for our faculty members as they consider your application. They want to know about your background, work experience, plans for graduate study and professional career, qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the program, and any other relevant information (Indiana University Bloomington - M.S.Ed. in Secondary Education).
Your autobiographical essay/personal statement is a narrative that outlines significant experiences in your life, including childhood experiences, study and work, your strengths and aspirations in the field of architecture, and why you want to come to the University of Oregon (University of Oregon - Master of Architecture).
Personal history and diversity statement, in which you describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. You may refer to any educational, familial, cultural, economic or social experiences, challenges, community service, outreach activities, residency and citizenship, first-generation college status, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field; or how you might serve educationally underrepresented and underserved segments of society with your graduate education (U.C. Davis - M.A. in Linguistics).
A Personal Statement specifying your past experiences, reasons for applying, and your areas of interest. It should explain your intellectual and personal goals, why you are interested in pursuing an interdisciplinary degree rather than a more traditional disciplinary one, and how this degree fits into your intellectual and personal future (Rutgers University - Ph.D in Women’s and Gender Studies).
Your application requires a written statement to uploaded into your application and is a critical component of your application for admission. This is your opportunity to tell us what excites you about the field of library and information science, and what problems you want to help solve in this field. Please also tell us how your prior experiences have prepared you for this next step toward your career goals and how this program will help you achieve them (University of North Carolina Chapel Hill - Master of Science in Library Science).
After watching the video, please describe what strengths and preferences as a learner you have that will facilitate your success in this innovative curriculum. What challenges in our curriculum do you anticipate and what strategies might you use to address these challenges? (MGH Institute of Health Professions PT - They recently redesigned their curriculum)
Your personal goal statement should briefly describe how you view the future of the field, what your goals are to be part of that future, and what brought you to pursue an advanced education degree in your chosen field. You may include any other information that you feel might be useful. (Northeastern PT)
Personal Statement: In 500 words or less, describe a meaningful educational experience that affected your professional goals and growth and explain how it impacted you. The educational experience does not need to be related to this degree. Focus on the educational experience and not why you think you would be a good professional in this field. (Simmons PT)
Personal Statement (500 word minimum): State your reasons for seeking admission to this program at this institution. Include your professional goals, why you want to pursue a career in this field and how admission to this program will assist you in accomplishing those goals. (Regis College Nursing)
“Use the space provided to explain why you want to go to this type of program.” (AMCAS)
Address the following three questions(Though there is no set limit, most statements are 1–2 pages, single-spaced.): What are your reasons for pursuing this degree? Why do you wish to pursue your degree at this institution? How do you intend to leverage your degree in a career of this field? (Boston University MPH)
Please submit a personal statement/statement of purpose of no more than 500 words for the department/degree of choice. Professional degree essays require a clear understanding of the _______ field and how you hope to work within the field. Be sure to proofread your personal statement carefully for spelling and grammar. In your statement, be sure to address the following: what interests you in the field of _____ what interests you in a specific degree program and department at this institution and what interests you in a particular certificate (if applicable). Please also describe how you hope to use your ________ training to help you achieve your career goals. (Columbia PhD in Public Health - Epidemiology)
Because each Home Program requires significant original research activities in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree, we are interested in obtaining as much information as possible about your previous research experiences. Those who already have such experience are in a better position to know whether they are truly interested in performing ______ research as part of a graduate program. Please include specific information about your research experience in your Statement of Purpose. You may also use the Statement to amplify your comments about your choice of Home Program(s), and how your past experiences and current interests are related to your choice. Personal Statements should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). Make sure to set your computer to Western European or other English-language setting. We cannot guarantee the ability to access your statement if it is submitted in other fonts. (Stanford Biosciences PhD)
Your statement of purpose should describe succinctly your reasons for applying to the Department of ____ at ___ University. It would be helpful to include what you have done to prepare for this degree program. Please describe your research interests, past research experience, future career plans and other details of your background and interests that will allow us to evaluate your ability to thrive in our program. If you have interests that align with a specific faculty member, you may state this in your application. Your statement of purpose should not exceed two pages in length (single spaced). (Stanford Bioengineering PhD)
Statement of purpose (Up to one page or 1,000 words): Rather than a research proposal, you should provide a statement of purpose. Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at this institution and your relevant experience and education. Please provide an indication of the area of your proposed research and supervisor(s) in your statement. This will be assessed for the coherence of the statement; evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study; the ability to present a reasoned case in English; and commitment to the subject. (Oxford Inorganic Chemistry - DPhil)

Related resources

IMAGES

Free personal statement example: computer science (download in Word)
Computer Science Personal Statement (8)
Personal Statement
Computer Science Personal Statement Example (7)
Writing Computer Science Personal Statement http://www
How to write a Winning Statement of Purpose for Computer Science with

VIDEO

Boller Dust cleaner ll PC Printer service #shorts #computer
System Unit Of Computer / कंप्यूटर में सिस्टम यूनिट किसे कहते हैं / What Is System Unit 💥
💻 The World's First Computer: ENIAC's Legacy! 🚀 #shorts #viral #trending
First Computer Game
Computer Science
How Personal Computers Changed Everything #shorts

COMMENTS

Computer Science Personal Statement Examples
Computer Science & AI Personal Statement Example 1. I don't want to change the world. I want to change the way we interact with it and programming is a good way to accomplish it. Every day I challenge myself to imagine new possible solutions for real-world problems and create them by writing new lines of code...
Computer Science Personal Statement Examples
PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLES Computer science personal statements . Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto computer science and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement. All Statements Search Computer Science Courses.
Computer science, computing and IT personal statement examples
Find out how to write a successful computer science personal statement with real examples from students who got into top universities. Learn from tips and advice from admissions experts and explore computer science courses on The Uni Guide.
Computer Science Personal Statement (Guide + Examples!)
Learn how to write a compelling computer science personal statement that showcases your motivation, skills, and experience. See examples of successful statements and get tips on what to include and avoid.
Personal statement advice: computer science
Computer science personal statement pitfalls. Not standing out: Professor Lowe from the University of Oxford says that lots of the personal statements he sees 'are similar, bland, impersonal and don't stand out - so make it personal, specific, and concrete'.
Successful Personal Statement Example For Computer Science At Oxford
With some restructuring, this could be an excellent statement. This Personal Statement for Computer Science is a great example of how to tackle applying to two different degrees or dual honours. The candidate's interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors. Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are ...
Computer Science Personal Statement Examples For UCAS
Personal Statement Example For Computer Science Course. As a student with a strong academic background in mathematics, chemistry, physics, and economics, I have always been fascinated by the world of computer science and its impact on the modern world. My interest in the field began at the age of 14 when I started experimenting with free ...
Writing the Perfect Computer Science Personal Statement
2. Reflect on Your Journey. To create a compelling personal statement, delve into your personal and academic experiences that have shaped your passion for computer science. Reflect on any challenges you have faced and how these have reinforced your determination. Highlight standout moments, such as participation in coding contests, internships ...
Computer Science Masters Personal Statement Sample
This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Computer Science. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement. Having grown up in a world increasingly dependent on computers, I have witnessed the fast-paced innovative world that computer scientists work in.
Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School: Computer Science
Explore our graduate school personal statement examples and feedback to grasp the detailed analysis and attention that perfects a statement. Whether starting your draft or finalizing revisions, our insights will help you showcase your strengths, improve weaknesses, and express your future vision. Finally, remember that a great personal ...
Writing a computer science personal statement: expert advice from
Dr Neil Gordon, admissions tutor at the University of Hull says: "Use your personal statement to show your interest in computer science, and that you understand what it is about. "A key aspect is programming - so you may be able to talk about your experience programming, or how you want to learn to program.". Read more: personal ...
Computer Science Personal Statement Example 101
Course: BSc Computer Science. Course code: G401. There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous. This personal statement is unrated. Having gained life experience in troubleshooting computers, and a desire to understand how they work, led me to realise I want to study computer science.
Computer Science (with AI) Personal Statement
Computer Science MEng (with Artificial Intelligence) Personal Statement Submitted by Alex Computer science is a vast subject, covering many topics that I am interested in, and of all fields it has the greatest implications for the future of society.
Crafting An Outstanding Computer Science Personal Statement: Tips And
Here are some key points to consider when crafting your statement: Start with a Strong Opening: Capture the reader's attention from the beginning. Use an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or an interesting fact about computer science to start your statement. Be Authentic: Write in your own voice.
Sample Personal Statement for Computer Science
The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to the master's program in computer science. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at the University of Utah, Stanford and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in CS should look like.
Computer Science Personal Statement 4
Primary Education Personal Statement. Submitted by Lily. "Let's play teachers, I'll be Miss Lily": the words that led me to realise I wanted to be a primary school teacher. It was 'Miss Lily' as somehow Miss 'surname' seemed too formal as well as being a little too complicated for 4 year olds to call you on work experience.
Computer Science Personal Statement Example 5
My future aspirations are to leave the university to enter into the world of work to pursue a career in Computer Science and ultimately, to start my own business in Computer Science. This personal statement was written by adolivant for application in 2014. adolivant's university choices. University of Lincoln. Sheffield Hallam University.
Postgraduate Computer Science Personal Statement Example
This personal statement is unrated. I want to study computer science because it pairs together two wonderful things; mathematics and technology. Although I have enjoyed working with computers since a young age, it wasn't until I began studying decision mathematics that I decided this is the field I want to study at university.
Computer science and mathematics degree personal statement example (1a
Computer science and mathematics degree personal statement example (1a) This is a real personal statement written by a student for their university application. It might help you decide what to include in your own. There are lots more examples in our collection of sample personal statements. Computers have always fascinated me, even from a ...
Computer Science Personal Statement 11
Computer Science Personal Statement Submitted by Andrei Nowadays, we mostly rely on technology and computers to strive and advance in fields such as artificial intelligence, script writing and programming to make our lives easier.
Computer Science Personal Statement Example 1
Computer Science Personal Statement Example 1. From an early age I've always been deeply interested in computing. It was my dad, introducing me to the computer systems at his work place that first sparked this interest. I can always remember the feeling of wanting to know just how computers worked, why they worked and what else they could do.
Writing a Personal Statement
A personal statement is a narrative essay that connects your background, experiences, and goals to the mission, requirements, and desired outcomes of the specific opportunity you are seeking. It is a critical component in the selection process, whether the essay is for a competitive internship, a graduate fellowship, or admittance to a graduate school program.
Computer Science Personal Statement 9
Computer Science Personal Statement Submitted by Rosette Studying computer science is an exciting life-changing experience, offering me the opportunity to discover the important strategies, used in the computing sector.
Computer Science Personal Statement 13
Primary Education Personal Statement. Submitted by Lily. "Let's play teachers, I'll be Miss Lily": the words that led me to realise I wanted to be a primary school teacher. It was 'Miss Lily' as somehow Miss 'surname' seemed too formal as well as being a little too complicated for 4 year olds to call you on work experience.