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Writing a personal statement

The UCI UROP Research Experience Fellowship application requires students to submit a personal statement for their proposals. This document is here to help you understand what your personal statement needs, as well as an example from the 2023 Ojos Project Proposal.

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This information is taken directly from the 2024 Research Experience Fellowship Application Guide, pages 11-12.

Requirements​

  • Interest and Motivation for Research or Creative Activity
    • Describe your academic or professional interest in conducting research or this creative activity.
    • Explain what sparked your curiosity or passion for this specific research topic or creative activity.
  • Personal Connection to the Project
    • Share any personal experiences, values, or life events that uniquely connect you to this project.
    • Discuss any personal motivations or values driving your commitment to this project.
  • Alignment with Goals and Impact
    • Explain how pursing this project will help you move toward your academic, career, and/or personal goals. Discuss the skills, knowledge, or experiences you aim to gain from this project.
    • Discuss the impact your project can make in your field and community.
  • Background and Experience
    • Highlight your background and experience related to this project, including any previous relevant accomplishments.
    • Include information about any previous research projects, coursework, internships, or relevant activities.
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Disclaimer for Group Projects: Each group member must write their own personal statement. All personal statements must be combined into one PDF or Microsoft Word file that will be uploaded to your group's online application. Please include each student's name at the beginning of their statement.

Formatting​

  • Name: At the top of the page
  • Page Count: Typically 1-2 pages
  • Spacing: Double spaced
  • Margins: 1" margins
  • Font: 11-point or larger, Times New Roman/Calibri/Arial
  • Document: 8.5"x11" size, MS Word or PDF

Example: Ojos Project's 2023 Personal Statements​

In 2023, the Ojos Project submitted personal statements for their UROP proposal, successfully earning them funding.

View the 2023 Ojos Project personal statements here.