When you’re applying to law school, scholarships, internships, or other competitive programs, strong grades and activities are table stakes. When it’s down to choosing between you and someone else who looks the same in data points, your personal statements may be what tips it.

Here’s what you risk if you don’t take this seriously:

1. Sounding like everyone else

Everyone tends to use the same standard phrases when first writing about themselves. Committees are picking between you and five other 3.7s with leadership experience. Forgettable writing = instant "next."

You’re not like everyone else. So how do you write to stand out in a crowd?

2. Accidentally sending the wrong message

You know what you want to say. But the wrong focus, tone, or level of detail can make you seem less prepared, less reflective, or less clear about your goals than you really are. Part of what many people get wrong is writing like they’re writing for a grade. Wrong audience = wrong vibe.

How are you making it clear that you’re the right choice for the program?

3. Constantly struggling to frame your best self

You’re focused on applying to schools and scholarships for now, but trust me, you’ll need to learn how to talk yourself up continually in your future.

Learning how to talk about yourself, to describe yourself accurately and with authenticity and not like you’re bragging, and to tell stories that corroborate your claims will give you early advantages when applying and interviewing for jobs and other opportunities.