Please Upload A Personal Statement (Max 3 Pages) ✓ Solved
Please Upload A Personal Statement Maximum Three 3 Pages When Writ
Please upload a personal statement, maximum three (3) pages. When writing your personal statement, please tailor it to the program/field to which you are applying. The following bullet points should be used as a guide in writing your personal statement: When did you become interested in this field and what have you learned about it (and about yourself) that has further stimulated your interest and reinforced your conviction that you are well suited to this field? What insights have you gained? How have you learned about this field - through classes, readings, seminars, work or other experiences, or conversations with people already in the field?
If you have worked a lot during your college years, what have you learned (leadership or managerial skills, for example), and how has that work contributed to your growth? What are your career goals? Are there any gaps or discrepancies in your academic record that you would like to explain? Examples might include mediocre LSAT or GRE scores or low grades in your early years of college. Have you overcome any unusual obstacles in your life? Examples might include economic hardships, personal or family problems, or a disability. Why might you be a stronger candidate for graduate school - and more successful and effective in the profession or field - than other applicants? What are the most compelling reasons you can provide for your application to be considered by the admissions committee?
Sample Paper For Above instruction
Personal Statement
My journey towards a career in education began during my time at community college, where I discovered my passion for inspiring and motivating students. Despite not being the top student in high school, I demonstrated perseverance and dedication, which enabled me to earn four degrees by the age of 25. This experience reinforced my belief that it's never too late to change one's educational path and motivated me to help others do the same, especially youth who may feel discouraged about their own educational journeys.
Throughout my years in college, I actively learned about the field of education through coursework, seminars, and practical experiences. Working as a paraeducator and supervisor during my master's program provided me with invaluable insights into instructional strategies, educational leadership, and the importance of fostering a positive learning environment. These experiences deepened my understanding of educational challenges and strengthened my desire to make a difference in this sector.
My professional background includes over three years of teaching different subjects and supporting teachers in various capacities, in addition to seven years of leadership experience as a customer service supervisor at Fry's Electronics. Managing a team at a young age helped me develop essential leadership, communication, and training skills. It also taught me how to meet deadlines, handle diverse customer needs, and motivate team members to perform at their best. These skills are transferable and have prepared me for future leadership roles in education.
While working full-time and attending graduate school full-time, I learned valuable discipline and time-management skills. Handling two full-time jobs while pursuing my master's degree proved my resilience and commitment to my professional goals. These experiences also taught me how to interact effectively with a diverse range of individuals, fostering inclusivity and respect—traits crucial for successful educational leadership.
My long-term career goals involve utilizing my Master of Public Administration and EdD degrees collectively to impact education in Texas. I aspire to work with Title I schools, training and empowering teachers to improve student outcomes. I also aim to serve as a spokesperson for youth in high schools, advocating for their needs and interests. Eventually, I hope to become a professor to influence future educators and possibly serve as a superintendent to enact system-wide improvements.
Addressing my academic record, I recognize that my lower grades during community college reflect the challenges of balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and academic pursuits simultaneously. These circumstances, however, did not deter me; instead, they strengthened my perseverance, work ethic, and commitment to my educational and professional development.
References
- Astin, A. W. (1993). What Matters in College? Four Critical Years Revisited. Jossey-Bass.
- Baker, B. D., & Ratliff, D. (2017). Leadership in Education: Theory and Practice. Routledge.
- Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses on Achievement. Routledge.
- Leithwood, K., & Riehl, C. (2003). What We Know About Successful School Leadership. Teacher College Record, 105(6), 973–1005.
- Miller, R., & Seller, W. (2018). Educational Leadership and Administration. Pearson.
- Murphy, J., & Jacobs, S. (2012). The Special Role of Leadership Development. Leadership and Policy in Schools, 11(3), 293–319.
- Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press.
- Woolfolk, A. (2016). Educational Psychology. Pearson.
- Zeichner, K., & Liston, D. (2013). Reflective Teaching: An Introduction. Routledge.
- Zhao, Y. (2009). Catching Up or Leading the Way: American Education in the Age of Globalization. ASCD.