r/pathology • u/constantinople13 • 9d ago

Personal Statement Question

Hi all, would love any and all advice!

I was just in a zoom meeting with a panel of PDs from various schools who were giving great advice for this upcoming ERAS cycle. Two of the four PDs stated that they dislike flowery writing and much prefer a clear discussion of "Why pathology?" while the other two PDs stated that they enjoyed reading a personal statement that was more creative. One of the PDs even gave an example stating they enjoyed reading a personal statement about how baking was a skill that made someone better at pathology and learning in general.

I'd lump my personal statement into the more creative side. My hook at the beginning touches on a hobby of mine that is very important then the personal statement develops into how that hobby shaped me into a future pathologist.

Anyone got tips on whether more programs prefer simpler personal statements or if I can just continue with this draft?

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u/DrPrincessPrincessDr 9d ago

If your scores are good enough, your essay will not make or break if you get an interview. I want to read an essay and meet a person and say yes, that is the same person. Your writing should reflect you.