brainstorming for personal statements

Written By Katherine Anderson

If you are struggling to generate ideas for your CaRMS or ERAS personal statement, try reviewing your:

  • diaries and notebooks

  • thank you cards or letters you may have kept

  • physical photo albums and yearbooks, or the camera roll on your phone

  • archived emails; calendars or planners

  • old social media posts

  • previous versions of your resume

  • transcripts, LORs, etc.

  • awards and commendations; performance evaluations.

Next, use the following list of prompts to help generate more ideas:

  • In my career, the moments that have brought me the most joy are:

  • I envision my future career to include:

  • My friends describe me as:

  • My colleagues describe me as:

  • An achievement that has meant a lot to me is:

  • Outside of work, I am / I enjoy:

  • I am most grateful for:

  • I knew I was on the right path when:

  • A challenge that changed me for the better was:

  • The kind of impact I hope to make is:

  • A belief that has guided my decisions is:

  • I want to be known for:

  • A mentor once taught me that:

  • I feel fulfilled when I am helping others by:

Katherine Anderson
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