i'm writing a personal admission essay for graduate school. anyone know where i can get some samples.?

Answer 1

I don't know where you can get samples, because as soon as these statements are received, they become confidential. Some applicants may post theirs on their own personal websites, but those might be rather hard to find.

So the best I can do is tell you what goes in one of these essays:

The purpose of the statement of purpose / letter of intent is to convince the graduate admissions committee of each department to which you are applying that you are an excellent candidate for admission to THAT particular department.

Here's what you should include:
(And it does not matter in what order. Just make sure your narrative makes sense.)

Your academic interests, and how your academic background suits you for further study of these interests. Be as specific as you possibly can, making SURE to show your familiarity with current theory and method in your intended area of study!

Delineate your goals, too. (Do you intend to become a professor? a researcher? Do you want to work for an NGO or a nonprofit? Say so.)

If there are blemishes on your record, explain them. For example, if you were working 30 hours a week as an undergrad, this might help the committee understand a less-than-perfect GPA.

Be sure to include any information about you that cannot be found on your undergraduate transcripts (like awards, special projects you did, independent studies, work experience related to your field of study, etc.)

Articulate your reasons for choosing THIS particular program. Show familiarity with the faculty and their fields of specialization. Don't just list the faculty - specify with whom you'd like to work and why.

Mention your desire to be considered for teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or fellowships. But only briefly. Like once.

And for goodness sake, proofread. Statements/essays with spelling or grammatical errors go directly to the bottom of the pile.

Best wishes to you!