<p>I know this is probably like, the stupidest question anyone has ever asked on here seriously, but a lot of the apps ask for a personal statement, and I dont' really know what one writes in a personal statement.</p>
<p>So yes, I feel ridiculous asking this. But I'd feel even more ridiculous doing it wrong on my apps.</p>
<p>It's just an "essay" that says something about you. It can be pretty much anything, as long as it gives some insight into who you are, what makes you tick, what you're passionate about, etc.</p>
<p>thank you for answering me. I was afraid no one would take my question seriously.</p>
<p>Schmivy, that's a great question to ask -- and if you are sincere, I don't think anybody should be put off by a valid question such as yours.</p>
<p>As ILoveBrown said, it's an "essay" that's part of your application for admission to a school. Many colleges do not weight the importance of the essays (or personal statements) highly, but there are others (particularly private colleges, such as the LACs) who place particular value on them. It is your opportunity to create an impression of who you are apart from your grades and test scores. I have no doubt that colleges who consider the personal statement to be important are seeking to hear your own "voice", your passion, and the kind of impact/influence something may have had on your life and perhaps others' lives. There is nothing formulaic about this -- but consider what says the most about you, and then say it in your own way. There's no doubt that admissions people have sometimes complained about the more common stories, such as going off to Mexico during the summer and building a home for a family. This said, don't be shy about creating your own context and describing your own deeply-felt meaning from a some profound experience. I once reviewed an essay written by the son of some friends, who talked about his relationship growing up with his disabled younger sibling. It was a "killer" essay that was so touching that I honestly think it made all the difference in his acceptance to a notable LAC (certainly it wasn't his GPA and test scores, which were so-so). In his case, it was such a clear reflection of his persona that it may have been a compelling factor to his acceptance. I always suggest to students to start by asking, and asking again, "Who am I?" Good luck to you!</p>