Department of Sociology and Social Work - Appalachian State University

Your personal statement is an opportunity to communicate with the MSW Admissions Committee regarding your interest in social work. It is also an opportunity to demonstrate your skills in written communication. Your personal statement should be typed in 12 pt. font, double-spaced, with one inch margins on all four sides, 3-4 pages in length. Please address the following topics:

Discuss the development of your interest in and commitment to a career in social work. Include the particular aspects of social work that most interest you. Describe the personal and professional experiences you have had that influenced your choice to pursue the profession of social work.
Discuss your personal traits and characteristics that you perceive as strengths for and/or as congruent with the profession of social work. Discuss the personal traits and characteristics you would like to change and/or improve and explain why.
Explain how completing a Master’s Degree in Social Work will help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Discuss the contributions you hope to make on behalf of others.

Include any additional information you believe will be helpful to the MSW Admissions Committee in evaluating your application.

Personal Statement