Detailed Guide: How to Write a Strong Nursing Statement of Purpose with examples
This detailed guide provides a comprehensive framework for writing a nursing statement of purpose, with specific examples for each section. The examples demonstrate how to effectively incorporate personal experiences, academic achievements, and career goals into a compelling narrative. Also included are Nursing Statement of Purpose examples.
Table of Contents
Definitions of Various Nursing Application Essays
Nursing statement of purpose (sop).
A Statement of Purpose in nursing is a formal essay that outlines your academic and career goals, and explains why you’re pursuing a nursing degree. It typically includes:
- Your motivation for choosing nursing as a career
- Relevant academic and professional experiences
- Specific interests within nursing
- Long-term career objectives
- Reasons for applying to the particular program
- How the program aligns with your goals
An SOP is generally more formal and future-oriented than a personal statement. It focuses on your professional aspirations and how the program will help you achieve them.
Nursing School Goal Statement
A Goal Statement in nursing is a concise document that clearly outlines your short-term and long-term professional objectives in the field of nursing. It typically includes:
- Immediate academic goals (e.g., completing a BSN or MSN program)
- Short-term career goals (e.g., specializing in a particular area of nursing)
- Long-term career aspirations (e.g., becoming a Nurse Practitioner or nursing educator)
- Steps you plan to take to achieve these goals
- How the nursing program fits into your goal trajectory
A Goal Statement is often more focused and specific than a general Statement of Purpose, honing in particularly on your professional objectives.
Nursing Admission Essay
A Nursing Admission Essay is a broad term that can encompass various types of essays required for nursing school applications. It could be similar to a personal statement or statement of purpose, depending on the school’s specific requirements. Generally, it includes:
- Your reasons for choosing nursing as a career
- Relevant personal, academic, or professional experiences
- Your understanding of the nursing profession
- Personal qualities that make you suitable for nursing
- Why you’re interested in the specific nursing program
The exact content and focus of a Nursing Admission Essay can vary widely depending on the program’s requirements, so it’s crucial to carefully read and follow the provided guidelines.
Nursing Entrance Essay
A Nursing Entrance Essay is very similar to a Nursing Admission Essay. The term is often used interchangeably, and the content is generally the same. However, some schools might use this term to emphasize that the essay is a key factor in determining entrance into the program. It typically covers:
- Your background and what led you to pursue nursing
- Relevant skills and experiences you bring to the program
- Your understanding of the challenges and rewards of the nursing profession
- Why you’re a good fit for the specific nursing program
- Your goals within the nursing field
As with all application essays, it’s crucial to tailor your Nursing Entrance Essay to the specific program and prompt provided by the school.
How to Write a Nursing Statement of Purpose with Examples
1. introduction (motivation and goal).
Your introduction sets the tone for your entire statement. It should be engaging, concise, and give a clear picture of your motivations and goals.
Key Elements:
- Hook (nursing-related quote)
- Source of motivation
- Long-term goal
- Reason to pursue the course
- Unique aspects of your personality
- Future goals
“In the words of Florence Nightingale, ‘Nursing is an art: and if it is to be made an art, it requires an exclusive devotion as hard a preparation as any painter’s or sculptor’s work.’ This sentiment resonates deeply with me, as I’ve witnessed the profound impact of skilled nursing firsthand. My journey towards nursing began when my younger sister was diagnosed with leukemia at age 10. During her two-year battle with cancer, I observed the dedication and compassion of her nurses, who not only provided medical care but also emotional support to our entire family. This experience ignited my passion for nursing and solidified my long-term goal of becoming a pediatric oncology nurse. I am drawn to nursing not just as a career, but as a calling that aligns perfectly with my natural empathy, strong communication skills, and ability to remain calm under pressure. These qualities, combined with my academic background in biology and volunteer experience in hospitals, make me an ideal candidate for your nursing program. My future goal is to revolutionize pediatric cancer care by integrating advanced technology with compassionate, family-centered nursing practices.”
2. Body Paragraph I (Learning, Execution, and Impact)
This paragraph should highlight your relevant academic and professional experiences, showcasing your preparedness for nursing studies .
- Academic accomplishments
- Professional accomplishments
- Strengths and weaknesses
- Impact of cumulative experiences
- Internships and volunteerships (for freshers)
“Throughout my academic journey, I’ve consistently excelled in science-related subjects, maintaining a 3.8 GPA in my pre-nursing courses. I was particularly drawn to human anatomy and physiology, where I not only achieved the highest grade in my class but also served as a peer tutor, helping classmates grasp complex concepts. Professionally, I’ve gained valuable healthcare experience through my role as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Sunset Senior Living. This position has honed my patient care skills and taught me the importance of empathy and patience in healthcare. One of my proudest accomplishments was implementing a music therapy program for dementia patients, which significantly improved their mood and cognitive engagement. My strengths lie in my ability to connect with patients and my attention to detail. However, I recognize that I sometimes struggle with emotional boundaries, a weakness I’m actively working to improve through mentorship and self-reflection exercises. As a volunteer at Children’s Hospital, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside pediatric nurses, observing their techniques for comforting young patients and communicating with families. This experience has been instrumental in confirming my passion for pediatric nursing and preparing me for the challenges ahead.”
3. Body Paragraph II (Why This Course, Why This University)
This paragraph should demonstrate your knowledge of and enthusiasm for the specific nursing program you’re applying to.
- Skills and knowledge related to nursing
- Reasons for choosing this particular university
- What you like about the college/university
- How you can contribute to the institution
“Your university’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program stands out to me for several reasons. Firstly, the program’s emphasis on evidence-based practice aligns perfectly with my belief in the importance of integrating the latest research into patient care. I’m particularly excited about the simulation labs, which I believe will provide invaluable hands-on experience in a controlled environment. Moreover, your university’s partnership with leading pediatric hospitals for clinical rotations will provide unparalleled exposure to my area of interest. The opportunity to learn from renowned pediatric oncology nurses and potentially participate in groundbreaking research is incredibly appealing. I’m also drawn to your university’s commitment to community health, as evidenced by the annual health fair organized by nursing students. This aligns with my passion for health education and community outreach. If accepted, I would be eager to contribute my bilingual skills in English and Spanish to help reach underserved populations in the community. Additionally, I believe I can contribute to the university’s nursing program through my leadership experience as president of my high school’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter. I hope to continue this leadership at the collegiate level, perhaps by organizing study groups or mentoring incoming nursing students.”
4. Conclusion (Closing Statement)
Your conclusion should tie everything together and look towards the future, outlining your goals and potential impact as a nurse.
- Path to achieve career goals (short-term and long-term)
- Plans after completing the course
- Contribution towards society
“Looking ahead, my short-term goal is to excel in your nursing program, taking full advantage of the clinical rotations, research opportunities, and community outreach programs. Upon graduation, I aim to pass the NCLEX-RN on my first attempt and secure a position in a pediatric oncology unit at a leading children’s hospital. In the long term, I aspire to become a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner, combining my passion for direct patient care with advanced practice skills. I also hope to contribute to the field through research, particularly in the area of improving quality of life for pediatric cancer patients undergoing treatment. Ultimately, my goal is to make a lasting impact on pediatric cancer care. I envision establishing a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to families navigating childhood cancer, drawing on my personal experience and professional expertise. Through this work, I hope to not only improve patient outcomes but also provide comfort and hope to families during their most challenging times. I am confident that the education and experiences I will gain from your esteemed nursing program will be instrumental in achieving these goals and shaping me into the compassionate, skilled nurse I aspire to be.”
Remember, your nursing statement of purpose should tell a cohesive story about your journey toward nursing, your qualifications, and your future aspirations. Use specific examples to illustrate your points and demonstrate your passion for nursing. Tailor your statement to each program you apply to, highlighting why that program best fits your goals. With careful planning and sincere expression, your statement of purpose can effectively convey your potential as a future nurse to the admissions committee.
Nursing Statement of Purpose Example
“To do what nobody else will do, in a way that nobody else can do, in spite of all we go through; that is to be a nurse.” – Rawsi Williams The profound impact of nursing on individual lives and communities has always captivated me. My passion for this noble profession was ignited by my grandfather, a retired army medic who dedicated his life to serving others. His stories of providing care in challenging circumstances, coupled with the compassion and resilience he demonstrated, inspired me to pursue nursing as my calling. My academic journey has been carefully tailored to support my ambition of becoming a nurse. I completed my senior secondary education at Greenwood High School, focusing on a science-heavy curriculum that included advanced biology, chemistry, and psychology. These courses not only deepened my understanding of the human body and mind but also reinforced my desire to apply this knowledge in a healthcare setting. Outside the classroom, I actively participated in the school’s first aid team, where I honed my basic medical skills and learned the importance of quick thinking in emergency situations. During my final year of high school, I had the opportunity to intern at a local hospice. This experience was transformative, exposing me to the critical role nurses play in providing end-of-life care. I assisted the nursing staff in basic patient care tasks and observed their ability to offer both medical support and emotional comfort to patients and their families. This experience solidified my decision to specialize in palliative care nursing, as I witnessed the profound impact of compassionate, skilled nursing in easing the journey of those in their final stages of life. The Bachelor of Nursing program at the University of Melbourne particularly appeals to me due to its comprehensive curriculum and focus on holistic patient care. The program’s emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills aligns perfectly with my learning style and career goals. I am especially excited about the palliative care modules and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through clinical placements in various healthcare settings. Moreover, the university’s state-of-the-art simulation laboratories will provide a safe environment to develop and refine my clinical skills before applying them in real-world situations. The interdisciplinary approach of the program, which encourages collaboration with students from other healthcare disciplines, resonates with my belief in the importance of teamwork in providing optimal patient care. If accepted, I would be eager to contribute to the university community beyond academics. My experience as captain of my high school debate team has equipped me with strong communication and leadership skills, which I hope to apply by joining the university’s healthcare advocacy group. Additionally, I am fluent in Mandarin, which I believe will be an asset in providing culturally sensitive care to diverse patient populations. My short-term goal upon graduation is to secure a position in a hospital’s palliative care unit, where I can apply my skills and continue to learn from experienced professionals. In the long term, I aspire to become a Nurse Practitioner specializing in palliative care, with the aim of improving end-of-life care practices and advocating for better support systems for terminally ill patients and their families. I am confident that the rigorous education and invaluable experiences offered by the University of Melbourne’s nursing program will equip me with the knowledge, skills, and compassion necessary to excel in this challenging yet rewarding field. I am excited about the prospect of joining your esteemed institution and contributing to the nursing profession’s noble mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care to those in need.
FAQs on nursing statement of purpose
What is an example of a nursing statement of purpose.
A nursing statement of purpose outlines your motivation for pursuing nursing, relevant experiences, and career goals . Here’s a brief example:
“My passion for nursing was ignited during my volunteer work at a local hospital, where I witnessed nurses’ profound impact on patient care. This experience, combined with my academic background in biology, has prepared me for the challenges of nursing school. I am particularly drawn to your program’s focus on community health, as it aligns with my goal of becoming a public health nurse. With your program’s rigorous curriculum and hands-on clinical experiences, I am confident I will develop the skills necessary to make a meaningful difference in underserved communities.”
What is an example of a nursing statement of intent?
A nursing statement of intent is similar to a statement of purpose but often more focused on your immediate plans. Here’s an example:
“I intend to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at [University Name] to build a strong foundation in nursing theory and practice. My goal is to specialize in pediatric nursing, inspired by my experience as a camp counselor for children with chronic illnesses. I plan to take full advantage of your program’s simulation labs and pediatric clinical rotations to hone my skills. Upon graduation, I intend to work in a children’s hospital while pursuing certification as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.”
What is an example of a good personal statement for a nurse?
A personal statement for nursing often includes personal experiences that led you to choose nursing. Here’s a brief example:
“The day my grandmother suffered a stroke, I witnessed firsthand the compassion and skill of the nurses who cared for her. Their ability to provide both medical care and emotional support during our family’s most challenging time inspired me to become a nurse. Since then, I’ve volunteered at a nursing home and obtained my CNA certification, experiences that have reinforced my decision. I am drawn to nursing not just as a career, but as a calling to make a difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments.”
What is a purpose statement in nursing?
A purpose statement in nursing is a concise declaration of your professional goals and the impact you hope to make in the field. It’s often shorter than a full statement of purpose. Here’s an example:
“My purpose as a future nurse is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to patients while specializing in oncology nursing. I aim to not only treat the physical symptoms of cancer but also to offer emotional support to patients and their families throughout their cancer journey. Additionally, I aspire to contribute to nursing research, focusing on improving quality of life for long-term cancer survivors.”
Do nursing schools require a statement of purpose?
Many nursing schools do require a statement of purpose as part of their application process, but not all do. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Bachelor’s programs: Some BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs require a statement of purpose, especially for competitive programs or for students applying through special admission routes (e.g., transfer students or second-degree seekers).
- Master’s programs: Most MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) programs require a statement of purpose. This is often a crucial part of the application for graduate-level nursing education.
- Doctoral programs: Nearly all DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) and Ph.D. in Nursing programs require a statement of purpose. At this level, it’s considered an essential component of the application.
- Accelerated programs: Accelerated BSN or MSN programs for career changers almost always require a statement of purpose to understand the applicant’s motivation for switching to nursing.
It’s important to note that even if a program doesn’t explicitly require a “statement of purpose,” they may ask for a similar document under a different name, such as a “personal statement,” “admission essay,” or “letter of intent.” Always carefully review the application requirements for each specific program you’re applying to.
What is a personal statement in nursing?
A personal statement in nursing is a written document submitted as part of your nursing school application. It’s an opportunity for you to express your motivations, experiences, and goals related to pursuing a nursing career. Here are key aspects of a nursing personal statement:
- Purpose: The personal statement allows you to showcase your personality, passion for nursing, and suitability for the program beyond what’s visible in your transcripts and test scores.
- Relevant experiences (work, volunteer, personal) that have prepared you for nursing
- Your understanding of the nursing profession and its challenges
- Your short-term and long-term career goals in nursing
- Why you’re interested in the specific nursing program you’re applying to
- Personal qualities that make you well-suited for nursing
- Length: This can vary by program, but typically ranges from 500 to 1000 words. Always adhere to the specific guidelines provided by each school.
- Tone: While professional, a personal statement often allows for a more narrative and personal tone compared to a statement of purpose. You can share personal anecdotes that have shaped your decision to pursue nursing.
- Focus: Unlike a resume which lists accomplishments, a personal statement should tell a cohesive story about your journey towards nursing, connecting your past experiences with your future goals.
- Customization: While you may use a similar core for multiple applications, it’s important to tailor each personal statement to the specific program you’re applying to, highlighting why that particular program is the best fit for your goals.
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Band 6 Nurse Personal Statement Examples & Tips | Get Helpful Advice from CVLocum
Get a Head Start on Writing Your Nurse Personal Statement with our Band 5, 6, and 7 Examples.
A nursing personal statement is one of the essential elements of a successful nursing application. It is a chance to showcase your skills, knowledge, and experiences that make you the best possible candidate for the course and the profession.
For a band 6 nursing personal statement, you need to provide detailed evidence of your abilities, including communication skills, multi disciplinary working, and evidence-based practice. In this blog post, we will explore some successful examples of band 6 nurse personal statements, highlighting what you should include and how you can make your statement unique.
What to Include in a Nursing Personal Statement
Writing an effective personal statement is important because it serves as a reflection of one’s passion, commitment, and suitability for a career in nursing.
It provides an opportunity to showcase relevant experiences, skills, and qualities that make an individual a strong candidate for nursing school or a nursing position. A well-crafted personal statement allows applicants to convey their understanding of the nursing profession, their motivation for choosing this path, and their potential to contribute to the field.
It helps admissions committees and employers gain insight into an applicant’s character, values, and potential for success as a registered nurse. A compelling personal statement can set an applicant apart from others and demonstrate their genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and the healthcare community as a whole.
Related: Crafting the Perfect CV Nurse Writing Tips, Templates and examples included.
Related: 11 Example Nurse Safeguarding Questions for Interview + Answers | CVLocum
It is worth mentioning these important points when writing your nursing personal statement:
– Introduce yourself and explain your passion for nursing.
– Highlight any relevant experiences, such as clinical placements or healthcare volunteering, and describe how they have shaped your desire to pursue nursing as a career.
– Discuss your understanding of the nursing profession, including the challenges and rewards it entails.
– Demonstrate your knowledge of and commitment to providing compassionate and patient-centred care.
– Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively with patients, families, and a multi disciplinary team.
– Showcase your dedication to lifelong learning and medical profession development in the field of nursing.
– Discuss any specific areas of nursing that you are particularly interested in or have experience in, such as adult nursing, mental health nursing, or paediatric nursing.
– Highlight any relevant skills and qualities, such as empathy, resilience, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
– Reflect on any personal qualities or experiences that have prepared you for a career in nursing, such as being a good listener, working well under pressure, or being able to adapt to changing situations.
– Conclude by summarising your commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of patients and your enthusiasm for embarking on a nursing career.
Example of Band 6 Personal Statement:
A Band 6 person statement may differ from other bands as it represents a higher level of experience, expertise, and responsibility. As a Band 6 Registered nurse, you are expected to demonstrate advanced clinical skills, leadership abilities, and the capacity to work autonomously.
Additionally, showcasing your ability to adapt to changing healthcare environments and your dedication to delivering person-centred care will set you apart as a strong candidate for a Band 6 nursing role.
Band 6 Personal Statement Example 1:
”As a dedicated and compassionate nurse, I am excited to apply for the Band 6 position in your hospital. With several years of experience working in various healthcare settings, I have developed a deep understanding of patient care and a passion for delivering high-quality services.
My clinical expertise extends across different specialties, including medical-surgical, paediatric, and geriatric nursing. I pride myself on my ability to establish therapeutic relationships with patients and their families, providing empathetic and patient-centred care.
My goal is to contribute to the enhancement of healthcare delivery, advocate for patient rights, and promote evidence-based practice. I believe that my experience, skills, and passion make me a strong candidate for the Band 6 role, and I am eager to contribute to the team and make a positive difference in the lives of patients”
Band 6 Personal Statement Example 2:
”As an experienced nurse with a strong passion for patient care since a young age, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the your team. With a solid foundation in various healthcare settings, I possess the skills and knowledge necessary to provide compassionate and evidence-based care.
My commitment to continuous professional development ensures that I stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in nursing practice. I thrive in collaborative environments and am dedicated to working alongside interdisciplinary teams to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
With a patient-centred approach and a focus on delivering high-quality care, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact as a Band 6 nurse.”
Adult Nursing Personal Statement Example:
Your adult nursing personal statement should highlight your knowledge and skills related to adult care. Additionally, showcasing your understanding of the unique challenges and needs of adult patients.
Your personal statement should also highlight your commitment to continuing professional development and your dedication to staying updated with evidence-based practices in adult nursing.
Adult Nursing Personal Statement Example 1:
”I have always been passionate about providing high-quality care to individuals during their most vulnerable moments. As an aspiring adult nurse in the UK, I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of adult patients and their families in your nursing home.
I possess excellent communication skills, enabling me to establish trusting relationships with patients and effectively collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. My empathetic nature and ability to remain calm under pressure allow me to provide compassionate support to patients facing challenging health conditions.
With a commitment to lifelong learning and a desire to continuously enhance my skills, I am eager to embark on the next step of my career as an adult nurse, contributing to the well-being of individuals in need.”
Adult Nursing Example 2:
”I am a dedicated and compassionate nurse and particularly a nurse for elderly patients. Through my experience as a healthcare assistant, I have developed essential skills in administering medications, providing personal care, and supporting patients with diverse needs.
I possess excellent communication and teamwork abilities, which enable me to establish rapport with patients and collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals. With a focus on delivering patient-centred care, I am committed to upholding the highest standards of nursing practice.
I am excited to embark on the next chapter of my career as an adult nurse in your nursing home and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals in need.”
Example of Band 5 Personal Statement:
Band 5 personal statement example 1:.
”As an enthusiastic and dedicated nurse, I am excited to start my career as a Band 5 nurse after completing my nursing degree. With extensive experience in various healthcare settings, including medical-surgical units and mental health facilities, I possess strong assessment and medication administration skills.
I excel in building rapport with patients, families, and interdisciplinary teams, prioritising effective communication. Committed to lifelong learning, I stay updated with evidence-based practices to provide high-quality care.
With my passion for nursing and drive for continuous improvement, I am ready to make a positive impact as part of a healthcare team as that is where my own personal fulfilment lies.”
Band 5 Example 2:
”As a passionate and caring individual, I am thrilled to embark on my journey as a Band 5 nurse. With a solid foundation in nursing education and hands-on clinical experience, I have honed my skills.
I am adept at fostering therapeutic relationships with patients and their families, providing emotional support, and promoting their well-being. Collaborating effectively with healthcare teams is a priority for me, as I believe in the power of multidisciplinary care to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
Through ongoing professional development and a commitment to evidence-based practice, I strive to deliver compassionate and patient-centred care. With a strong work ethic and a genuine passion for nursing, I am eager to contribute to the healthcare profession.”
Example of Band 7 Personal Statement:
Band 7 personal statement example 1:.
”As an experienced Band 7 nurse, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care, leading quality improvement initiatives, and mentoring junior staff.
With advanced clinical expertise and a commitment to ongoing professional development, I strive to enhance patient outcomes through evidence-based practices. By fostering collaborative relationships and prioritising patient well-being, I create a supportive and innovative healthcare environment.
I am eager to utilise my skills and passion for nursing to make a positive impact.”
Band 7 Example 2:
”As a Band 7 nurse, I want to feel a high level of job satisfaction in a rewarding field of healthcare, I possess extensive clinical knowledge and leadership skills that enable me to deliver high-quality care and drive positive change in healthcare settings.
With a focus on evidence-based practice, I continuously seek opportunities for professional development and stay abreast of advancements in nursing. Through effective communication, teamwork, and a patient-centred approach, I strive to provide personalised care and create a supportive environment for both patients and colleagues.
With a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for nursing, I am dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the field.”
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a nursing personal statement is a chance to showcase your skill sets, knowledge, and nursing experience that make you the best possible candidate for the profession. Emphasise your passion, commitment, and desire to provide the best possible care for patients.
Good luck in your journey towards becoming a great nurse!
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Nursing Personal Statement Examples
What is a nursing personal statement?
Your nursing personal statement should tell the universities you are applying to all about your strengths and where you see yourself in the future as a nurse.
It should give nursing admissions tutors a good picture of who you are and why you would make a valuable candidate for their course.
If you are applying for a job as a nurse , it's possible you’ll need to provide a nursing personal statement for this, too.
To show that you’ve met the minimum requirements for promotion, you may need to write a band 6 or 7 nursing personal statement.
This piece of writing tells an employer all about your hands-on patient contact experience and why you are a good fit for the job.
How do I become a nurse?
Most people become a nurse by applying to study for a degree at university.
However, there are alternative routes available, such as Nursing Degree Apprenticeships , and starting out as an Associate Nurse .
You will also need to hold the correct entry requirements to secure a place on a degree course, and will also be expected to have some level of work experience.
Take a look at our blog post for more in-depth information on how to become a nurse .
How do I write a nursing personal statement for university?
If you're applying for a nursing degree to set youself on a nursing career path, we always recommend starting your personal statement by brainstorming ideas. Your notes should cover the following:
- achievements
- academic results
- part-time or Saturday jobs
- volunteering
- wider reading
- extracurricular activities
as well as anything else you can think of.
Take a look through our nursing personal statement examples above to give yourself an idea of what a successful nursing statement looks like.
Once you have put together an initial draft, it's a good idea to ask for feedback from family, friends and tutors. They will be able to look at your statement objectively and suggest ways it could be improved.
Incorporate their comments, and ask for further feedback. Don't worry if you have to do this three or four times - it's important you get your statement as perfect as possible before sending it off on your UCAS form.
How do I structure my nursing personal statement?
Your nursing personal statement should be structured with a clear beginning, middle and end, with the opening telling an anecdote or explaining why you are passionate about nursing.
The middle should generally focus on your work experience and current/past academic studies, and how these have helped you to develop skills that are useful and relevant to a career in nursing.
For example, you might talk about how your experience working in a care home helped you build and offer empathy to elderly people.
You should then write a memorable conclusion that mentions your plans for the future, and how you hope your nursing degree will help you achieve these.
What should I include in my nursing personal statement?
- Look at the content of the course and make sure your statement addresses the specific branch of nursing you are applying for, i.e. mental health , adult or child nursing .
- Demonstrate important skillls that are required for a nursing degree , e.g. patience, empathy, teamwork and communication. Talk about how you have developed these, either at school/college, at your job or during hobbies or other activities.
- Most applicants spend the opening of their personal statement talking about why they want to study nursing , e.g. an unwell family member, or a friend who was in a car accident. Think carefully about whether there was one particular incident that sparked your interest in nursing.
- Don’t include any over-used phrases or quotes in your statement that university admissions tutors will have seen and heard before.
- Now is also not the time for jokes or humour - it often doesn't work well and admissions tutors might not be impressed!
For more help and advice on what to write in your nursing personal statement, please see:
- Personal Statement Editing Services
- Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
- Analysis Of A Personal Statement
- The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
- Personal Statement FAQs
- Personal Statement Timeline
- 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
- What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.
How do I write an introduction to my nursing personal statement?
Like with any type of personal statement for university, we recommend you open with a paragraph on what you enjoy most about nursing, and why you want to study it at university. Again, an anecdote that inspired you to learn more about nursing will work well here, as long as you have a relevant story to tell.
For example, this applicant chose to talk about how their mother's illness inspired them to go into nursing:
"There has been many occasions during my life that I have spent hours sitting at a hospital bedside.
My mother battled a long term illness and as I sat with her trying to keep her spirits up, the Nurses who cared for her always drew my admiration. I feel there are a handful of truly inspirational professions and Nursing is without doubt one of them.
Along with doctors and other medical staff, nurses provide an invaluable service to society and to be part of that group has long been an ambition of mine."
Another applicant chose to talk about how their experience with mental health services as a teenager made them want to help others and make a difference in the world as an adult:
"I have wanted to work in Mental Health since I was 15 years old. When in crisis, I received a level of care which changed my life and I aspire to do the same for others. I also received care that was detrimental at times so I want to be a part of making a difference. I have seen a wide range of nursing approaches and I have learnt so much from my colleagues since working within the NHS, I now know what kind of nurse I want to be when I complete my training."
However you choose to open your nursing personal statement, make sure it's engaging and explains why you want to pursue nursing at degree level. You can see more examples of introductions over at our nursing personal statements section.
How do I write a conclusion for my nursing personal statement?
Try to round off your nursing personal statement with something memorable. This often includes talking about your extracurricular activities, hobbies and/or your ambitions for the future. For example:
" I am confident in my ability to communicate with people from any cultural background and an example of this would be during my time volunteering in a dog sanctuary in Paraguay. This was difficult due to the language barrier, and a virus outbreak between the dogs. I had to organize my time efficiently, an important skill for a nurse, communicate with vets and host families, in often very distressing times.
I acted effectively, thinking on my feet, all whilst remaining calm and treating the animals with compassion. This was a very challenging time for me but it was also very rewarding. I feel a career as a nurse, whilst challenging at times would also be very rewarding, educational, and encourage personal growth."
This applicant demonstrates that as well as communicating what you do currently, or have done in the past, it's also a good idea to try to include how these experiences have helped to shape you as a person, and how they make you a better candidate for a nursing course.
For more inspiration on how to write your conclusion, please see our nursing personal statement examples section.
Further information
- UCAS Nursing Advice
- Indeed.com - How To Write A Nursing Personal Statement
- Nursing Times - How To Write An Effective Personal Statement
- University of Cumbria - How To Write A Good Nursing Personal Statement For University
- Nurses.co.uk - How To Write A Personal Statement For A Nursing Course
- University of South Wales - How To Write A Personal Statement For Nursing & Midwifery
Related resources
Nursing university interview questions.
Find out more
How To Become A Nurse
Getting Into Nursing
Writing A Nursing Personal Statement
RCN Nursing Careers
National Careers Service: Nursing
Nursing & Care Community
NHS Nursing Careers
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