Personal Statement

Many applicants find authoring a personal statement to be among the most challenging elements of their ERAS application. Allow yourself plenty of time to write this essay; it is challenging to present yourself in less than a single written page, and you may have to work through several different drafts before you find a narrative that resonates. When you’re happy with a draft, plan to have it reviewed by at least one person who knows you well, and several mentors who are familiar with the match process. It may be helpful to establish specific messaging goals before writing. For example, why did I choose neurosurgery? What do I bring to neurosurgery? Why will I be a good neurosurgeon? Identify, and briefly explain how one of your personal experiences or achievements is aligned with those qualities.

In general, it is a good idea to keep it simple — remember your audience consists of busy academic neurosurgeons who will read hundreds of personal statements. An interesting anecdote or framing device may help grab (and hold) your reader’s attention. Unique aspects of your personal biography are also helpful to emphasize — for example, if you were born in another country, overcame specific obstacles in obtaining an your education, or endured a significant family hardship. Do not write more than a single page, and consider using short, pithy paragraphs that are easy to digest. Although a captivating introduction may help garner interest, do not be overly dramatic. It may take several drafts to produce the final product. Know that some programs will rate your personal statement, and that such ratings will in turn contribute to your overall ranking in those departments.