Personal Statement Writing Prompts
All applying students are encouraged to submit a personal statement essay to accompany their application for admission. While not required, it does assist in the decision-making process.
A list of writing prompts is provided below. All personal statements should be a minimum of 250 words in length and can be submitted via the application portal.
- Have you faced a challenge or failure? How has that affected you? How did you learn and grow from the experience?
- We’re looking for students who will become positive additions to our student body. If this describes you, share how you’ll become involved at Shepherd, and how your background, identity, interests, or talents will add to our well-rounded student community.
- Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization, sparking a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
- Describe an engaging topic, idea, or concept of personal importance to you. What interests you about this, and where do you turn to learn more?
- If these writing prompts aren’t resonating with you, students are welcome to write an essay on the topic of their choice. However, we ask that the topic remain relevant and appropriate for the college admission process.