Blog

February 24, 2025

Think Your Story Isn’t Unique? Why That Doesn’t Matter

Rob Humbracht and Ryan Kelly
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If you think your story isn’t dramatic or original enough for a personal statement, here’s the good news: admissions committees don’t need to be dazzled by something they’ve never read before. They need to be convinced by you.

1. Everyone Has a Story—It’s How You Tell It That Matters

The most ordinary experiences can become extraordinary with the right perspective. Maybe you didn’t save someone’s life during a mission trip, but did you learn empathy while working a part-time job? That’s powerful too. It’s all about how you frame it.

2. Authenticity Always Beats "Originality"

Admissions committees value sincerity over attempts to impress. Your authentic passion for your field will always outshine a manufactured “unique” story. Don’t try to be someone you’re not—they’ll spot it a mile away.

3. Growth Is More Compelling Than Perfection

Your journey’s arc matters more than a single defining moment. What makes you stand out isn’t that you’ve never failed, but that you’ve learned and grown. Let them see how challenges have shaped your perspective.

4. Focus on Emotional Resonance, Not Just Facts

How your story makes the reader feel is more important than the events themselves. Your experiences are important, but it’s your reflections on them that will stick. Make them laugh, cry, or think—just make them feel something.

5. Ordinary Experiences Can Reveal Extraordinary Qualities

Everyday moments can highlight resilience, empathy, or curiosity. The seemingly mundane moments—like mentoring a younger sibling or navigating a tough class—often reveal the qualities that matter most in your career. Don’t underestimate them.

Your story doesn’t have to be groundbreaking; it just needs to be yours. Embrace your journey, tell it authentically, and trust that your unique perspective will resonate.

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