Introduction
(Remove these instructions and the sample introduction/photo after reading)
Instructions: Create an introduction using the statements below and include a photo of yourself:
A personal statement or profile is a quick and effective way to leave a lasting impression and “hook” your reader. In less than three sentences, you will introduce yourself, your experience, highlight your strengths, and optionally mention your passions. In many ways, it is the “Cliff Notes” version of your résumé. Personal statements are an effective way to highlight your strengths on a resume, introduce yourself on LinkedIn or on the first page of your ePortfolio.
Step One: Outline
- Select your audience: Grad School or Potential Employer
- Who are you? (Don’t include this line on your resume, as your name and education is listed. This is for your ePortfolio page, LinkedIn, email, etc.)
Example: “Hello, my name is […] and I’m a student majoring in […] at Boise State University.”
2. What is your objective? What experience do you bring to the table?
Examples:
“I am looking for a rigorous graduate program where I can further my studies in Spanish linguistics.”
”I am a double major in Political Science and Spanish, with over seven years of experience working in the language.”
3. What are your strengths? These should relate specifically to the job or grad program.
Example: “My studies at Boise State University have instilled a strong background in writing well, thinking critically, and making connections with linguistics across different disciplines. I plan to use those skills at [University Name] to collaborate on innovative research on bilingualism in the United States.”
4. (Optional) What is your passion? Or what do you do best?
Example: “I am interested in one day creating a preschool program for bilingual families to promote the continued use and importance of both languages at home.”
Step Two: Craft into a Short Paragraph
Using your work from step one, create a short paragraph that flows together.
Finished ePortfolio Examples:
Graduate School Focused
Hello, I’m Joe Anderson, currently pursuing a degree in Spanish at Boise State University. I’m seeking a challenging graduate program to deepen my expertise in Spanish linguistics. My studies at Boise State University have instilled a strong background in writing well, thinking critically, and making connections with linguistics across different disciplines. I plan to use those skills at the University of Wisconsin to collaborate on innovative research on bilingualism in the United States.
Career Focused
I’m Jane Clark, a German major at Boise State University who is deeply passionate about environmentalism. I’m enthusiastic about using my language skills to support global efforts in sustainability and conservation, bridging language barriers to advocate for eco-conscious practices. My coursework has not only sharpened my German proficiency but also fueled my interest in environmental policies and initiatives in German-speaking countries. Beyond academics, I’m actively involved in campus sustainability projects and enjoy educating others about the importance of environmental stewardship. I’m excited to merge my love for the German language with my dedication to environmentalism in roles where I can contribute to positive change
About Me
I’m Jane Clark, a German major at Boise State University who is deeply passionate about environmentalism. I’m enthusiastic about using my language skills to support global efforts in sustainability and conservation, bridging language barriers to advocate for eco-conscious practices. My coursework has not only sharpened my German proficiency but also fueled my interest in environmental policies and initiatives in German-speaking countries. Beyond academics, I’m actively involved in campus sustainability projects and enjoy educating others about the importance of environmental stewardship. I’m excited to combine my love for the German language with my dedication to environmentalism in roles where I can contribute to positive change
