4. Dr. Simon Blakey’s Advice
• Discuss research experience, expectations, career goals
• State who you would like to work for and display an aptitude for
the type of research taking place at the university
• Display a passion for science and a vision for where you see the
field progressing over the next couple of years
• Show how past experiences have driven their personal goals and
how those experiences will help in graduate school
• DO NOT include personal hardships
• DO NOT make general statements
5. Research Summary vs Personal Statement
• Research Summary
– Detailed scientific accomplishments
• Personal Statement
– Educational scientific experience
– College experiences
– How your interest in science began
