temple university personal essay

Temple University

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Temple University’s 2023-24 Essay Prompts

Common app personal essay.

The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don‘t feel obligated to do so.

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you‘ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

What will first-time readers think of your college essay?

Mastering Your Temple University Personal Statement: A Comprehensive Formatting Guide

Are you ready to embark on your journey to Temple University? The personal statement is your golden ticket to stand out from the crowd and showcase your unique qualities. But how do you format this crucial document to make a lasting impression? This guide will walk you through the essential steps to create a well-structured personal statement that aligns perfectly with Temple University's expectations. From understanding the basics to implementing expert tips, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and unlock the secrets to crafting a personal statement that will captivate the admissions committee and bring you one step closer to your dream of becoming an Owl!

• What is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is your opportunity to shine in the college application process. It's a carefully crafted essay that goes beyond your grades and test scores, offering a glimpse into your personality, experiences, and aspirations. Think of it as your chance to have a heart-to-heart conversation with the admissions committee, sharing your story in a way that transcends the limitations of a standard application form.

For example, imagine you're applying to Temple University's renowned film program. Your personal statement could recount the moment you first held a camera, describing how that experience ignited your passion for storytelling through visual media. You might discuss how you've nurtured this passion over the years, perhaps by creating short films for local businesses or organizing a film festival at your high school. This narrative not only demonstrates your commitment to film but also showcases your initiative and leadership skills – qualities that Temple University values in its students.

Importance of a Well-Formatted Personal Statement

The format of your personal statement is just as crucial as its content. A well-structured document not only makes your story more accessible but also demonstrates your ability to organize thoughts coherently – a skill highly valued in academic settings.

Consider this scenario: Two applicants with similar qualifications apply to Temple University's business school. One submits a personal statement that's a wall of text, while the other presents a neatly formatted essay with clear paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of their journey and aspirations. Which do you think will leave a stronger impression on the admissions committee?

The well-formatted statement is likely to stand out. It shows respect for the reader's time and attention, making it easier for them to follow your narrative and connect with your experiences. Moreover, a thoughtfully structured personal statement reflects your attention to detail and your ability to present information effectively – skills that are particularly valuable in fields like business, where clear communication is paramount.

Additionally, a well-formatted personal statement can help you make the most of the limited word count typically allowed. By organizing your thoughts into distinct sections, you can ensure that you cover all the essential points without redundancy, maximizing the impact of every word.

• General Formatting Guidelines for Personal Statement

When it comes to formatting your personal statement for Temple University, following these guidelines will help ensure your document is professional, readable, and impactful:

Length : Adhere strictly to the word limit specified by Temple University. If no limit is given, aim for 500-650 words.

Font : Use a clear, professional font such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri . Avoid fancy or decorative fonts.

Font Size : Stick to 11 or 12 point font size for easy readability.

Spacing : Use 1.5 or double spacing to improve readability and allow room for notes.

Margins : Set 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.

Paragraphs : Use clear paragraph breaks. Indent the first line of each paragraph or leave a blank line between paragraphs.

Alignment : Left-align your text. Avoid justified text as it can create awkward spacing.

Headers : Include a header with your name and application ID number (if provided) on each page.

Page Numbers : If your statement spans multiple pages, include page numbers in the bottom right corner.

File Format : Save and submit your document in a widely compatible format like PDF to preserve formatting across different devices.

Proofreading : Thoroughly proofread your statement for grammar, spelling, and formatting consistency.

File Naming : Name your file clearly, including your name and "Personal Statement" (e.g., "JohnDoe_PersonalStatement.pdf").

• Introduction to Temple University

Temple University, founded in 1884 by Dr. Russell Conwell, has grown from a night school for ambitious young adults into a comprehensive public research university with a strong commitment to community engagement and academic excellence. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Temple offers a unique blend of urban energy and collegiate atmosphere, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for learning, research, and personal growth.

With a diverse student body of over 39,000 students from all 50 states and 128 countries, Temple University fosters a rich, multicultural learning environment. The university boasts 17 schools and colleges, offering more than 500 academic programs across various disciplines. Temple's commitment to innovation and research is evident in its numerous research centers and institutes, which tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time.

Temple University has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. These include Bob Saget (comedian and actor), Tamron Hall (broadcast journalist), Diplo (DJ and record producer), and Kevin Negandhi (ESPN SportsCenter anchor), among others. The university's impact extends beyond its alumni, with its community engagement initiatives and partnerships contributing significantly to the Philadelphia region and beyond.

Understanding Temple University's Personal Statement Requirements

When applying to Temple University, it's crucial to understand their specific requirements for personal statements:

• Temple University typically requires a personal statement as part of the application process, especially for certain programs or scholarships.
• The university values authenticity and encourages applicants to share their unique stories and perspectives.
• While Temple doesn't provide a strict word limit for personal statements, it's generally advisable to keep your essay between 500-650 words.
• Academic and career goals
• Reasons for choosing Temple University
• Relevant experiences that have shaped your aspirations
• Personal qualities that will contribute to the Temple community
• Challenges you've overcome and lessons learned
• Temple appreciates essays that demonstrate clear writing skills, critical thinking, and self-reflection.

Format Personal Statement Following Requirements

When formatting your personal statement for Temple University, consider these two effective approaches that align with their requirements:

• Chronological Narrative Format:

Introduction: Begin with a compelling anecdote or statement that encapsulates your journey and aspirations. Early Influences: Discuss experiences from your childhood or early education that sparked your interest in your chosen field. Academic Journey: Detail your academic progression, highlighting key moments of growth and achievement. Extracurricular Involvement: Explain how your activities outside the classroom have shaped your skills and perspectives. Future Goals: Articulate your career aspirations and how Temple University fits into your plans. Conclusion: Summarize your journey and reaffirm your enthusiasm for joining the Temple community.

• Thematic Approach Format:

Introduction: Start with a powerful statement that introduces the central theme of your essay (e.g., leadership, innovation, community service). Theme Development: Use 3-4 paragraphs to explore different aspects of your chosen theme, each supported by specific examples from your life. Paragraph 1: Academic achievements related to the theme Paragraph 2: Extracurricular activities that demonstrate the theme Paragraph 3: Personal experiences that reinforce the theme Connection to Temple: Explain how your theme aligns with Temple's values and offerings. Future Vision: Describe how you plan to continue developing this theme at Temple and beyond. Conclusion: Tie everything back to your opening statement, emphasizing your readiness to contribute to Temple's community.

• Get a Well-Formatted Personal Statement for Temple University by Gauth PS Writer

Gauth Personal Statement Writer is your ultimate tool for crafting a compelling personal statement tailored to Temple University application. This tool simplifies the daunting process of writing a personal statement. With Gauth PS Writer, you can write a personal statement and craft a powerful narrative that reflects your unique journey and aspirations.

Let's see how easily Gauth Personal Statement Writer can help you to write a personal statement with a lasting impression for Temple University application.

Step 1. Access Gauth Personal Statement Writer's official website, and select the "School Application" from the top menu bar.

Step 2. Fill in some of your basic information. For Temple University's applications, do remember to enter Temple University in the "Target School" input box.

Step 3. Click the "Start Writing" button to immediately generate a personal statement that is tailored to your Temple University's application.

Tip: You can always rewrite your Temple University's personal statement if you are not satisfied with the PS generated.

Helpful Tips on Personal Statement Formatting

To ensure your personal statement for Temple University stands out, consider these additional formatting tips:

• Use clear, concise language throughout your statement
• Start each paragraph with a strong topic sentence
• Incorporate transition phrases to ensure smooth flow between paragraphs
• Use active voice to make your writing more engaging and direct
• Include specific examples to illustrate your points, rather than general statements
• Avoid overuse of "I" statements; vary your sentence structure
• Use subheadings if appropriate to organize longer statements
• Ensure consistency in tense and point of view throughout the essay
• Use powerful verbs to describe your actions and achievements
• End with a strong conclusion that ties back to your opening and leaves a lasting impression

Formatting your personal statement for Temple University is more than just following a set of rules; it's about presenting your unique story in the most compelling and organized manner possible. By understanding the importance of a well-structured essay, adhering to general formatting guidelines, and tailoring your content to Temple's specific requirements, you're setting yourself up for success. Remember, your personal statement is your chance to shine and stand out in the competitive admissions process.

Whether you choose a chronological narrative or a thematic approach, ensure that your personality and passion come through in your writing. Utilize tools like the Gauth Personal Statement Writer to help streamline the process, but always infuse your own voice and experiences into the essay. With careful attention to both content and format, your personal statement can become a powerful advocate for your admission to Temple University.

As you embark on this important step in your academic journey, keep in mind that your personal statement is more than just words on a page – it's the beginning of your Temple story. Make it count, make it memorable, and most importantly, make it uniquely yours. Good luck, future Owl!

• Temple University - About
• Temple University Admissions
• The Princeton Review - How to Write a Personal Statement
• College Essay Guy - How to Write a Personal Statement
• Purdue Online Writing Lab - Writing the Personal Statement

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