Personal statement specification from UMich
Personal Statement (500 word limit)
How have your background and life experiences, including cultural, geographical, financial, educational, citizenship status, or other opportunities or challenges, motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree at the University?
For example, if you grew up in a community where educational, cultural, or other opportunities were either especially plentiful or especially lacking or you are undocumented or DACAmented, you might discuss the impact this had on your development and interests. This should be a discussion of the journey that has led to your decision to seek a graduate degree. If you will be a graduate student with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA), it is important to mention DACA in your personal statement since this is a consideration for some financial aid.
Do not repeat your Academic Statement of Purpose.
Note: Who will read this statement?
The following information is required on the header of your Personal Statement:
Write “Personal Statement” at the top of your document
Your name
The name of the graduate program
Your 8 digit U-M ID (if known)