• Applying to Uni
  • Apprenticeships
  • Health & Relationships
  • Money & Finance

Personal Statements

  • Postgraduate
  • U.S Universities

University Interviews

  • Vocational Qualifications
  • Accommodation
  • ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
  • ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
  • ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
  • ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

  • ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
  • ​​​​​​​Technology
  • ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2023

AS Levels 2023

Clearing Guide 2023

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2023

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

  • Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statements By Subject

Writing Your Personal Statement

  • Postgraduate Personal Statements
  • International Student Personal Statements
  • Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statements By University

  • Personal Statement Changes 2024
  • Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

  • Mature Student Personal Statements
  • Personal Statement Editing Service
  • Personal Statement Writing Guide
  • Submit Your Personal Statement
  • Personal Statement Questions 2025

History Personal Statement Examples

Our history personal statement examples, as well as our top rated statements , should inspire you to write your own unique statement, and help you understand how students have successfully applied for history courses in the past.

Related resources

personal statement template history

Find out more

How To Write A Personal Statement

personal statement template history

UCAS Personal Statement FAQs

personal statement template history

Personal Statement Tips

personal statement template history

10 Personal Statement Don'ts

personal statement template history

Example Statement Analysis

personal statement template history

Starting University: 10 Essential Tips

personal statement template history

Waiting For University Offers

personal statement template history

A Level Results Day

personal statement template history

Clearing Guide

personal statement template history

What is a history personal statement?

Your history personal statement is a creative piece of writing where you can sell yourself to the admissions tutors and convince them that they should offer you a place on their history course.

This is why we recommend you start writing your personal statement early so you can spend as much time as possible polishing it and making it perfect.

How do I write my history personal statement?

Take a look at some of our many history personal statement examples above for inspiration, as well as our top rated statements . This will give you an idea of how a successful statement is structured.

Then, make a list of your main strengths, skills, work experience, goals and achievements, which you can then use to put your paragraphs together.

Once you have an initial draft, make sure you show it to family, friends and tutors for feedback. Incorporate their comments, and then ask them for more feedback.

It's likely you will go through several rounds of this before you have a final draft you can submit on your UCAS form.

What should I include in my history personal statement?

  • What areas of history interest you most? Try to pick out one topic in partiuclar that you enjoy and think about why you are drawn to it. This is where it's a good idea to look at the course content for each university, so you can make sure you talk about something that is relevant.
  • If you're applying for a joint honours, write your personal statement so that it covers both subjects. For example, history and politics, or history and economics.
  • Include your academic achievements, work experience, and any appropriate hobbies or extracurricular activities.
  • Demonstrate skills that are important in studying history, such as research, analysis, interpretation and chronological thinking. Remember to always show, not tell, so back everything up with examples.

For more help and advice on what to write in your history personal statement, please see:

  • Personal Statement Editing Services
  • Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
  • Analysis Of A Personal Statement
  • The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
  • Personal Statement FAQs
  • Personal Statement Timeline
  • 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
  • What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

personal statement template history

Clearing Universities & Courses

Clearing advice.

Recommended Clearing Universities

Popular Course Categories

Course search & discover.

Start the search for your uni. Filter from hundreds of universities based on your preferences.

Search by Type

Search by region.

Recommended Universities

personal statement template history

University of Reading

South East England · 97% Recommended

personal statement template history

University of Portsmouth

South East England · 98% Recommended

personal statement template history

City, University of London

London (Greater) · 93% Recommended

Search Open Days

What's new at Uni Compare

personal statement template history

University of Brighton

Become highly employable with an Accounting degree and a paid placement year.

personal statement template history

UWTSD is the second highest ranked uni in Wales for student satisfaction (NSS, 2023).

Ranking Categories

Regional rankings.

More Rankings

Top 100 Universities

Taken from 65,000+ data points from students attending university to help future generations

About our Rankings

Discover university rankings devised from data collected from current students.

Guide Categories

Advice categories, recommended articles, popular statement examples, statement advice.

personal statement template history

What to include in a Personal Statement

personal statement template history

Personal Statement Tips

Personal statement examples history personal statements.

Discover personal statement examples written by students accepted onto history and related courses. Read through the examples to help shape your own personal statement.

History Personal Statements

Submitted by anonymous

History Personal Statement

Due to my upbringing, I have always been encouraged to question every...

My passion for History stems from a young age through world travel ha...

My interest in history started with stories of my grandparents’ strug...

I am captivated by the ways in which History has moulded the world’s ...

Submitted by Naima

History BA Personal Statement

Studying History has offered me an insight into the structure of soci...

Submitted by Rachel

Ancient History Personal Statement

Studying history throughout my academic years has shown me how we can...

Submitted by Gemma

BA History (V100) Personal Statement

History is such a diverse subject. I find it fascinating because ther...

Submitted by Katie

History and International Relations Personal Statement

I am fascinated by the way the international political system often f...

Submitted by Sarah

History gives us warnings and encouragement. It allows us to celebrat...

History Personal Statement Advice

Writing a personal statement for university is a major part of the application process. When applying through UCAS, you write and submit a history personal statement; Oxbridge, Bristol, Edinburgh course leaders - or whoever you’ve applied to - sit and read them. It’s your moment to show them who you are and why you would thrive on their degree. The same goes for post-grad studies, for your history masters personal statement. Start by reading a personal history statement example to get a feel for structure and content. We’ve got lots here. Bullet-point your main strengths, goals and achievements before turning these ideas into sentences and paragraphs. For your history personal statement opening, get straight to your interest in the course: why do you want to study a history degree? It’s always wise to trade a personal history statement sample essay with a friend or teacher for some feedback. Sometimes errors or omissions are more obvious to fresh eyes. What are your specific passions? If you recently attended a Georgia O’Keefe exhibition or read a book on Rembrandt, include it in your history of art personal statement. Oxford, Cardiff or UEA will all have different departmental specialists, so if your interests align, do mention it. Address both subjects for joint honours applications. E.g. a history and politics personal statement should also include reference to the debate club or some other political activity. Humanities subjects can be very weighty on the writing, so use your history and English literature personal statement to demonstrate your ability to cope. You can draw upon academic achievements (subject results, competitions etc.) and also wider life skills: managing a part-time job alongside college might show the commitment required for a writing-heavy degree in your English and history personal statement. Some courses require direct experience. Be sure to mention any classroom volunteering/mentorship you’ve undertaken for a PGCE history personal statement.

Want to learn more about a university?

Get your questions answered by sending them an enquiry now.

undergraduate Universities

Undergraduate uni's.

Photo of University of Reading

Uni of Reading

400 courses

Photo of University of Portsmouth

Uni of Portsmouth

369 courses

Photo of City, University of London

246 courses

Photo of Ravensbourne University London

Ravensbourne

Photo of The University of Law

West London IoT

Photo of Writtle University College

Writtle Uni College

Photo of Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Met Uni

316 courses

Photo of University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol

UWE, Bristol

252 courses

Photo of Swansea University

Swansea Uni

783 courses

Photo of University Academy 92, UA92

Uni of Surrey

437 courses

Photo of Middlesex University

Middlesex Uni

312 courses

Photo of Wrexham University

Wrexham Uni

168 courses

Photo of University of Hertfordshire

Uni of Hertfordshire

420 courses

Photo of Bangor University

528 courses

Photo of SOAS, University of London

166 courses

Photo of University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

414 courses

Photo of University of Winchester

Uni of Winchester

Photo of Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt Uni

155 courses

Photo of Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett Uni

324 courses

Photo of University of Chester

Uni of Chester

403 courses

Photo of University of Sunderland

Uni of Sunderland

201 courses

Photo of University of East London

Uni of East London

301 courses

Photo of Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths, UOL

272 courses

Photo of Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Met Uni

307 courses

Photo of University of Roehampton

Uni of Roehampton

241 courses

Photo of Coventry University

Coventry Uni

448 courses

Photo of University of Bradford

Uni of Bradford

203 courses

Photo of University for the Creative Arts

Uni for Creative Arts

323 courses

Photo of Northeastern University - London

Northeastern Uni

Photo of Staffordshire University

Staffordshire Uni

276 courses

Photo of New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering, NMITE

Kingston Uni

388 courses

Photo of Leeds Arts University

Leeds Arts University

Photo of University of Bedfordshire

Uni of Bedfordshire

356 courses

Photo of University of Leicester

Uni of Leicester

267 courses

Photo of University of Essex

Uni of Essex

921 courses

Photo of University of Central Lancashire

Uni of C.Lancashire

439 courses

Photo of University of Suffolk

Uni of Suffolk

105 courses

Photo of University of South Wales

376 courses

Photo of University of Brighton

Uni of Brighton

258 courses

Photo of University of Huddersfield

Uni of Huddersfield

453 courses

Photo of Edge Hill University

Edge Hill Uni

249 courses

Photo of Escape Studios

Escape Studios

Photo of University of Kent

Uni of Kent

429 courses

Photo of University of Westminster

Uni of Westminster

335 courses

Photo of Bath Spa University

Bath Spa Uni

290 courses

Photo of Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin Uni

463 courses

Photo of University of Hull

Uni of Hull

278 courses

Photo of Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent

532 courses

Photo of Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier

151 courses

Photo of Queen's University, Belfast

Queen's Uni

409 courses

Find the latest from Uni Compare

Image of University of Brighton

Middlesex University

Ranked in the Top 20 for Business Leaders in the UK by Business Money, click here!

Image of Swansea University

Swansea University

93% of their graduates are in employment or further study (HESA 2022), learn more here!

BrightLink Prep

Sample Personal History Statement

personal statement template history

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

A personal history statement (PHS) provides an insight into your academic and professional endeavors. It should include your notable achievements as well as the challenges you have faced. The purpose of a PHS is to provide the admissions committee with a better understanding of your personality, your motivation, and how your prior experiences have prepared you for the future.

Here is a sample personal history statement of a student who applied to the anthropology program and got into several top schools like Columbia, Harvard, and Stanford.

Growing up in a family and society that strictly adhered to the traditional roles of a “proper conservative woman,” I have found pride in breaking free from these restrictive cultural expectations and in embracing my own identity and self-expression.

As the first female in my family to study arts, I remember feeling discouraged when, during a sixth-grade science class, I was lectured by my teacher on the importance of hard sciences and the perceived uselessness of arts. This came after she saw my notebook filled with a detailed sketch of the circulatory system of a frog. Her face betrayed her disdain. The muffled laughter of my classmates seemed to confirm her notions – as if to say that only the truly intelligent pursued careers in the hard sciences.

During my tenth-grade, my family pressured me to choose a science-based curriculum over one that focused on arts and humanities. But I refused to give in and instead found a way to combine my love of art with my disdain for science. When words failed me and I felt stifled by my circumstances, art became a reliable outlet for self-expression, full of vibrant colors and offering endless opportunities for creativity.

During my senior high school year, I finally took control of my own future and decided to study fine arts. This choice opened the doors to a whole new realm of possibilities, allowing me to pursue the future I had always dreamed of. In college, I approached my studies with a sense of exploration, as if I were an adventurer in uncharted territory. Each new topic and area of knowledge helped me to grow in objectivity, intellect, and wisdom.

My journey through the world of art and culture has been filled with magnificent pieces and spellbinding paintings, as well as the opportunity to learn about and appreciate the glorious civilizations that reached the pinnacle of trade, art, and culture. My coursework in the history of art piqued my interest in anthropology, and I was particularly fascinated by the ancient Egyptian civilization, whose artifacts, hieroglyphics, and art offered a window into its evolving languages, unique architecture, and transformative culture. Similarly, in Greek civilization, I discovered how art and politics intersected and shaped public opinion, and how philosophy and politics were intertwined.

Art is often thought of as an individual expression, but when considered as a collection, it can have a powerful impact on society. I am fascinated by the relationship between the arts and the evolution of social, political, cultural, and religious systems and constructs.

It has been difficult for me to come to terms with the fact that I have lived in two worlds that often seem incompatible. On a daily basis, I find myself immersed in a culture that imposes strict rules that limit my intellectual and expressive freedom. Whenever I had the opportunity, I immersed myself in the emotive world of curiosity, human expression, and perspective, where individuals create cultures that have outlasted even the most famous nations throughout history. Unfortunately, this parallel universe abruptly came to an end when I graduated.

Working as a professional graphic designer and photographer made it clear to me that I wanted to pursue a Master’s degree. Unfortunately, it took me over a year and a half to convince my family to allow me to do so, rather than simply getting engaged and becoming the first female in my family to pursue a graduate degree.

Attending the country’s premier National College of Arts allowed me to expand my education and skills across the fine arts. This broader exposure helped to refine my academic interests, and I was able to bring these interests together in my thesis on self-harm.

My experimental short film, “Pain of Disappointment,” and accompanying paper explored how the society cope with the expectations placed on them by their families to be successful. The film and paper highlighted the prevalence of self-harm in the society, and how it manifests itself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Through this project, I sought to educate people about self-harm and its impact on our society.

As the first woman in my family to pursue an advanced degree outside of the country, I hope to use the science of Anthropology to explore how individuals can transform negative energies into positive expressions that contribute to and benefit society. Additionally, as a woman growing up in a male-domindated society, I am interested in using Visual Anthropology to study suppressed issues and effectively inform all segments of society, including those who are illiterate, in order to empower everyone to reclaim their pride.

WANT MORE AMAZING ARTICLES ON GRAD SCHOOL PERSONAL STATEMENTS?

  • 100+ Outstanding Examples of Personal Statements
  • The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Winning Personal Statement
  • Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Your Personal Statement
  • Writing a Killer Opening Paragraph for Your Personal Statement
  • Ideal Length for a Graduate School Personal Statement
  • 100 Inspiring Quotes to Jumpstart Your Personal Statement

Sample Personal Statement for Masters in International Business

Sample Personal Statement for Masters in International Business My journey began amidst the kaleidoscope of Qatar's landscapes, setting the stage for a life attuned to cultural nuances. Transitioning to Riyadh in my teens, I absorbed a mosaic of traditions, sparking a...

Sample Personal Statement for Family Medicine Residency

Personal Statement Prompt: A personal letter is required. We are looking for mature, enthusiastic physicians who bring with them a broad range of life experiences, are committed to providing excellent patient care, and can embrace the depth and breadth of experiences...

[2024] 4 Law School Personal Statement Examples from Top Programs

In this article, I will discuss 4 law school personal statement samples. These statements have been written by successful applicants who gained admission to prestigious US Law schools like Yale, Harvard, and Stanford. The purpose of these examples is to demonstrate...

Sample Personal Statement Cybersecurity

In this article, I will be providing a sample grad school personal statement in the field of cybersecurity. This sample was written by an applicant who got admitted into George Mason, Northeastern and Arizona State University. This example aims to show how prospective...

100+ Grad School Personal Statement Examples

Introduction Importance of a Strong Personal Statement A personal statement is essential in the graduate school application process, as it plays a significant role in shaping the admissions committee's perception of you. In fact, a survey conducted by the Council of...

WANT AMAZING ARTICLES ON GRAD SCHOOL PERSONAL STATEMENTS?

  • 100+ Personal Statement Templates

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

  • History Personal Statement Examples

Learn how to write a good History personal statement with guidance from the best student examples. Here, we present two history personal statement examples focusing on the medieval and ancient periods to provide you with inspiration and valuable insights into preparing your own university application.

You can use it for Oxford , Cambridge , or any other university. 

History Personal Statement Example

History, a subject that has captured my imagination from a young age, has shaped my intellectual journey and cultivated a deep passion within me. The decision to teach me History at AS-Level, despite the scepticism of others, proved to be a transformative experience. Through my independent study of the Crusades and the Norman Conquest of England, I not only achieved outstanding results but also honed valuable skills in self-directed learning, meticulous exam preparation, and effective time management. It is with great enthusiasm and an unwavering commitment that I now aspire to pursue a History degree at a prestigious UK university.

My fascination with history was kindled by the cherished Ladybird ‘Adventures from History’ books that were handed down to me, offering tales that spanned from the enigmatic Cleopatra to the captivating era of Charles II. As I progressed, my literary journey evolved, encompassing scholarly works like the “Oxford History of England” series and writings by esteemed historians such as Asbridge and Stubbs. This voracious reading habit has not only broadened my knowledge but has also instilled in me a desire to explore the very essence of historical interpretation and the complexities of historiography. The works of Tosh, in particular, have introduced me to the notion of historical truth and the ever-evolving narrative of the past. Additionally, I have found solace in both factual and fictional literature, with authors like Bernard Cornwell and Sharon Kay Penman expertly bringing history to life.

Beyond the realm of academic study, I have taken the initiative to establish an Ancient History club at my school. This engaging endeavour has not only provided me with immense pleasure but has also honed my abilities in teamwork and leadership. Organizing collective research, delivering presentations, and creating comprehensive lesson plans have been instrumental in my personal growth. Such responsibilities have been effortlessly fulfilled due to my inherent passion for ancient history, evident through my avid consumption of various historical publications, ranging from enlightening National Geographic articles to captivating works like R. L. Fox’s ‘The Search for Alexander’.

My A-level subjects (History, Biology , and German) have not only let me to engage myself in the deeps of historical search but have also fostered an appreciation for the sciences. Supplementary AS-level studies in Mathematics and Chemistry have provided a solid foundation in the scientific principles that underpin the humanities, showing me how scientific insights can illuminate our knowledge of ancient civilisations. Through studying History I learned about many cultures even if did not travel to counties. My study of German has further intensified my fascination with languages, and I learned some basics of ancient languages, recognising their significance in comprehending the past. While I value the importance of languages for communication during travel, it is within the realm of history that my true passion lies—a field that I ardently intend to pursue as a lifelong vocation.

In my dedication to personal development, I have devoted myself to volunteer work over the past year. This experience has strengthened my ability to work collaboratively and effectively communicate with individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups. It has imparted valuable lessons in time management, enabling me to strike a harmonious balance between academic responsibilities and social commitments. This experience has been immensely rewarding, particularly in recognizing the profound impact of companionship on the lives of those who may otherwise feel isolated.

Within my school I have assumed several positions of responsibility, actively contributing to the vibrant fabric of our community. As a musical school student, serving as a perfect, leading the sixth form’s charities team, and fulfilling the role of an emotional and academic mentor to younger students have all fortified my leadership and interpersonal skills. I take great pride in my contributions and look forward to continuing my active engagement through participation in various clubs and activities. Outside of school, I find solace and exhilaration in rowing, frequently collaborating with my local club, nurturing not only my physical fitness but also the camaraderie and discipline that comes with team sports.

My aspirations to undertake a History degree at a distinguished UK university are rooted in a fervent desire to immerse myself in rigorous academic inquiry, broaden my understanding of the past, and contribute to the ongoing discourse within the historical field. With an unwavering dedication to self-improvement, a voracious appetite for knowledge, and a steadfast commitment to community engagement, I am poised to make a meaningful contribution to the university and the wider realm of historical scholarship. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to embark on this intellectual journey, learn from esteemed academics, and shape a future that blends my passion for history with my unwavering determination to make a lasting impact on society.

Ancient History Personal Statement

Throughout the ages and centuries, the bridge between the ancient world and the contemporary era has shaped our cultures. As Michael Crawford astutely observed, the neglect of legitimate grievances by governing classes led to the downfall of the Republican government in Rome, paralleling the importance of a socialist framework in our modern world. This profound interplay between past and present has sparked my intellectual curiosity, inspiring me to delve into the origins of our current global landscape. In my view, the study of classical civilizations serves as a cornerstone in comprehending the character and evolution of our world today.

Growing up in a region abundant with Roman archaeology, my fascination with Ancient History was kindled from an early age. Over the years, my interest has matured, transforming from a passing intrigue to a burning thirst for knowledge. Engaging with numerous historical texts spanning vast periods and exploring ancient literature, including revered works such as The Iliad, The Odyssey, and The Aeneid, has broadened my understanding. Among the many captivating fields of study, the late Roman Republic holds particular allure for me. The multifaceted factors that precipitated political and social unrest during that epoch, culminating in the transition to Empire, have captivated my imagination. I am ardent about unravelling these intricacies in greater detail.

Fuelled by my passion for the ancient world, I established a web portal where I examined art and archaeology while delving into the history and culture of Greek and Roman civilizations. My love for Classical Period culture, art, and literature is complemented by an ardent desire to learn languages. Mastering Ancient Greek and Latin is a paramount objective, as I yearn to read, write, and converse in these languages. Pursuing a university education in this field will undoubtedly furnish me with the ideal platform to accomplish these aspirations.

During my time at college, I honed my skills in debate and discussion by actively participating in the college debating society. The vibrant exchange of ideas and viewpoints has invigorated my intellectual growth, and I am resolute in continuing this enriching pursuit at the university level. Believing in the importance of political engagement, I proudly align myself with the Liberal Democrats. This enthusiasm for debate and discussion shines through in my written essays, as evidenced by my victory in an essay competition held by the college, where I explored political ideologies in modern British politics. Moreover, last year, I had the privilege of embarking on a college study trip to Greece, which provided firsthand encounters with significant sites in the ancient Greek world, including the sacred enclave of Delphi and the historic theatre of Epidaurus.

In my free time, I derive tremendous satisfaction from playing and spectating football, cricket and golf, and I am an active member of the esteemed Surrey Cricket Club. Additionally, I relish the serenity of walking, and this past summer presented an opportunity to traverse a section of the Appalachian Trail in North America. Furthermore, I hold a fervent belief in the preservation and conservation of Britain’s architecturally splendid and historically significant edifices. As a member of the National Trust, I regularly explore a diverse range of properties under their stewardship.

Looking ahead, my aspirations encompass a career in heritage management and conservation, potentially within the realm of museum work. I am currently arranging relevant work experience to gain firsthand exposure to this field. Furthermore, I am open to the prospect of further study as I navigate my post-university trajectory. The primary impetus behind my desire to study Ancient History lies in the captivating figures of antiquity. By engaging with primary sources and the remnants of ancient built environments, I will have the opportunity to uncover their stories. My enthusiasm for discussion, debate, literature, history, politics, and architecture of the ancient world will undoubtedly propel me towards success in all facets of the course.

My passion for Ancient History nurtured through personal exploration and academic pursuits, fuels my desire to embark on a rigorous undergraduate program in this field. The ancient world, with its myriad lessons and timeless allure, beckons me to unravel its mysteries. By embracing the past, I seek to develop a deeper understanding of our present and future. With an insatiable appetite for knowledge and a commitment to intellectual growth, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to contribute to and thrive within the vibrant academic community of the university.

Personal Statement Examples

  • Statistics Personal Statements
  • PPE Oxford Personal Statement Example
  • Classics Personal Statement Examples
  • Theology Personal Statement Examples
  • Physics Personal Statement Examples
  • Chemical Engineering personal statement examples
  • Oncology Personal Statement Examples
  • Psychiatry Personal Statement Examples
  • Earth Sciences Personal Statement Example
  • Veterinary Personal Statement Examples For University
  • Civil Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • User Experience Design Personal Statement Example
  • Finance Personal Statement Examples
  • Neuroscience Personal Statement Examples
  • Graphic Design Personal Statement Examples
  • Film Production Personal Statement Examples
  • Events Management Personal Statement Examples
  • Counselling Personal Statement Examples
  • Forensic Science Personal Statement Examples
  • Children’s Nursing Personal Statement Examples
  • Chemistry Personal Statement Examples
  • Sports Science Personal Statement Examples
  • Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • Quantity Surveying Personal Statement Examples
  • Social Work Personal Statement Examples
  • Physiotherapy Personal Statement Examples
  • Journalism Personal Statement Examples
  • English Literature Personal Statement Examples
  • Marketing Personal Statement Examples
  • Computer Science Personal Statement Examples
  • Fashion Marketing Personal Statement Examples
  • Dietetic Personal Statement Examples
  • Product Design Personal Statement Examples
  • Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • Geography Personal Statement Examples
  • Business Management Personal Statement Examples
  • Politics Personal Statement Examples
  • Psychology Personal Statement Examples
  • Oxbridge Personal Statement Examples
  • Zoology Personal Statement Example
  • Sociology Personal Statement Example
  • Fashion Personal Statement Example
  • Mathematics Personal Statement Examples
  • Software Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • Philosophy Personal Statement
  • International Relations Personal Statement Example
  • Biochemistry Personal Statement Example
  • Dentistry Personal Statement Examples
  • Midwifery Personal Statement
  • Law Personal Statement Example
  • Medicine Personal Statement for Cambridge
  • ICT Personal Statement
  • Primary Teacher PGCE Personal Statement
  • PGCE Personal Statement Example
  • Games Design Personal Statement
  • Paramedic Science Personal Statement Examples
  • Occupational Therapy Personal Statement
  • Pharmacy Personal Statement Example
  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

history personal statement photo

How to write a personal statement for history

Tips for convincing history tutors that you deserve a place on their course

H istory is the tenth most popular subject to study at degree level in the UK, and with many universities forgoing candidate interviews, your personal statement is the most important way to make yourself stand out. The competition is fierce (the top universities require grades of A*AA), and a muddled or mediocre statement will harm your application.

So how can would-be historians impress application tutors? Dr Elizabeth Tingle, of Plymouth University, wants the statement to reflect the candidate who wrote it. She says: "When we talk about originality in personal statements, we really mean individuality."

Southampton University's Dr McHugh agrees that many applications are "too generic and vague. We want to get a sense of who you are as an individual, and what kind of student you would be."

This individuality should not be achieved through wild or outrageous methods; your statement doesn't need to be written in old English, or abstractly represent the consciousness of Thomas Cromwell. If you do something outrageously different, there's probably a reason why no one's done it before.

Instead, a personal statement should show something of you as a person, and convey your own unique engagement with history. Dr Ryrie, historian of religion at Durham says:

"The kind of personal statement that warms an admissions tutor's heart is the kind which is honest: which describes, in genuinely personal terms, quite why the student loves the subject, and conveys something of their passion for it".

'Passion', however, is a controversial word. UCL's Dr Jason Peacey complained that "it gets a bit tiring reading hundreds of forms where the student proclaims that they have a 'passion' for history".

Dr Ansari, head of history at Royal Holloway, agrees, and wants "genuine expressions of interest in history, but not in terms of 'I am passionate about...'. Simply wanting something strongly is not enough".

You need to convince admissions tutors that you have the intelligence and academic ability needed to successfully undertake a degree in the subject.

Dr Peacey says: "Students don't always do enough to explain what it is about history that interests them, why this interest can only be met by undertaking more study at a higher level, and what should make me think that they have the potential and ability to study at this level".

The same sentiments are also mentioned by Dr McGladdery, admissions officer at St Andrews. "Studying and writing about what happened in the past has little purpose if students cannot develop the skill of critical evaluation. Historiographical awareness is very important, as is the ability to present an opinion supported with evidence and cogent analysis."

Students who show that they have considered the subject in relation to other academic avenues are likely to impress. As Dr Gadja, of Oxford university, says:

"Historians like to take insight from a huge range of perspectives, so we are always delighted when students can demonstrate how their interest and ability at foreign languages, philosophy, or political thought, literature, and so on, might intersect with their historical interests, and be of use in their development as historians".

A clear, competent analysis of the ways in which your different subjects interact, and how this has aided your ability as a history student, can be a valuable inclusion in your personal statement.

Dr Gadja says that it is important to mention extra-curriculur interests. For Gadja, an interest in visiting museums, going to public lectures, and anything that shows an interest in history beyond the demands of one's A-level course, would be relevant.

If you have had any relevant work experience, do mention it, but it must have had a definite impact on your approach to thinking about history. If you haven't managed to gain experience in a historical field, though, don't worry too much.

Gadja says: "we certainly don't look for relevant work experience when making decisions – most applicants will not have had the fortunate opportunity to work in jobs relating to the heritage industry or similar, and that doesn't put them at a disadvantage at all".

Mention of non-academic areas in which you are wonderfully talented should be limited to a couple of sentences at most, and should always be linked back to the ways in which they have contributed to your academic or personal development; such as by improving time-management, or organisational skills.

Dr Simon Smith, of Oxford University, say: "Unlike some US universities or colleges, UK universities are not seeking to admit quotas of musicians, sports people, or thespians."

It is important to write the statement in clear, concise prose, avoiding the use of formulaic words or phrases. Dr Peacey says:

"If I had a pound for every time I had been told that history is important because, as George Santayana said, those who fail to understand the mistakes of the past will merely repeat them... then I would be a rich man indeed."

Try and avoid stilted references to the "eternal value" and "enduring fascination" of the past. Far more impressive is to explain and analyse what it is that makes you so interested in history, and specific areas in particular.

Above all, you should engage with the concepts that you are discussing, rather than just stating them. As Dr Ryrie says:

"Make us feel that you are a person of vision and imagination, for whom your outstanding A-level performance is just the beginning."

Avoid anything bland or dull, and make the personal statement a reflection of your individual talents and interests. You want your statement to be different and engaging, otherwise it will slip through admissions tutors' fingers without leaving a mark.

  • Personal statements
  • Higher education
  • Advice for students
  • Applying to university

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

  • Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford PPE 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Economics 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Modern Languages 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Land Economy 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Psychology 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge English 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Human Sciences 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge History 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Geography 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Philosophy 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Classics 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Architecture 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge HSPS Programme 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biomedical Sciences 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Engineering 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Natural Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Maths 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Computer Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Physics 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford PPL 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Veterinary Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Chemistry 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biology 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biochemistry 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Dentistry 24/25 Entry
  • IMAT Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Can’t Find Your Subject?
  • Law Interview Programme
  • PPE Interview Programme
  • Economics Interview Programme
  • Oxbridge Medicine Interview Programme
  • Natural Science Interview Programme
  • Engineering Interview Programme
  • Maths Interview Programme
  • Dentistry Interview Programme
  • Medicine MMI Interview Programme
  • Our Guarantee

Our Students

Student Success Stories

  • University Access Scheme
  • New Tutor Application Form
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Free Expert Consultation
  • +44 (0) 208 068 0438
  • [email protected]

SCIENCE PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

HUMANTITIES PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

GET STARTED

Can't find your subject?

OXFORD TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

CAMBRIDGE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

MEDICINE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

View Our Free admissions guides & resources

How UniAdmissions Cracked The Oxbridge Formula

Applying for Oxbridge is an opportunity seldom approached correctly. So how do you enter the top 16% of a strong cohort of applicants that get an offer? Discover how UniAdmissions get 2/3 of our students in.

Why You Shouldn’t Work With A Random Tutor

University admissions tutors are easy to get. Increased success rates... not so much. Enrolment alone does not provide the boost many students need to be offered their dream university place.

Inside The UniAdmissions Portal: The UA Advantage

UniAdmissions students have access to the world's first dedicated Oxbridge admissions preparation platform, and this guide will help you discover exactly how the Portal will help you get your offer.

Discover all guides

ABOUT UNIADMISSIONS

Learn about who the world's first Oxbridge prep school are.

Learn about the Portal; the heart of our Programmes.

UniAdmissions' Foundation

The Foundation is our charitable arm to support disadvantaged students.

Students & Tutors

Discover who a UniAdmissions student is and our admissions criteria.

Learn about our high-performing Oxbridge tutors.

We're proud of our alumni. Read about their journey with UniAdmissions here.

Admissions Resources

Free Admissions Guides

Visit our Learning Centre and read our in-depth free guides.

We are the world's biggest Oxbridge application publisher. Learn more here.

Teachers Learning Hub

Learn about how to help your students get their place at Oxbridge.

Get Started

  • Student Portal
  • Oxbridge Programmes
  • Open Day Webinar
  • Tutor Application Form
  • Common Questions
  • Download Our Prospectus
  • Book Consultation

Successful Personal Statement For History At Oxford

Author: Rob Needleman

  • Successful Personal Statement For History…

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a History applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The History Course at Oxford combines the examination of large regions over extended periods of time with more focused work on smaller social groups, shorter periods and particular themes.

Read on to see how this candidate demonstrates that they can understand and analyse history.  

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge History comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

History Personal Statement

My passion for history can best be explained by discussing the period of German Unification, which displays the most engrossing virtues of studying the subject. Firstly there is great scope for debate and exploration of the interlocking causations, examining the relative importance of Bismarck’s own role against the military strengthening of Prussia or the shifting international relations. But most interestingly it is a defining period in the shaping of modern Europe and the way in which it links the past to the present is most fascinating. Studying this period reveals how international relations progressed after the Napoleonic era leading to the way in which Germany was unified through war and thus became a country built around war. It is therefore arguable that this era created the state which would then trigger the two wars which have shaped the modern world. This period shows how history can give us a more rounded understanding of the world we live in, linking our mysterious and intriguing past to our all too familiar present surroundings. It is partly this, which motivates me to study history as in doing so I gain immense satisfaction from learning how our world has evolved.

An understanding of history also provides a fundamental backdrop for any other areas of study. I have found this through my other A-Level subjects, for example historical knowledge of politics in Britain was essential to AS politics, particularly when studying the political situation in Ireland. An understanding of past conflicts is indispensable when it comes to managing contemporary politics. Furthermore, whilst taking French the study of Un Sac De Billes by Joseph Joffo unearthed experiences of living under Vichy France. To learn a language fully it is important to immerse oneself in the culture and history of the country in order to develop a more rounded understanding of the people who live there. Thus it seems that history is inescapable; it not only provides vital background knowledge but also helps bring to life every other academic subject, which is why in my opinion, it is the most important.     

During my A Level history course, the Napoleonic era particularly fascinated me and I pursued my interest through further reading, looking specifically at Napoleon’s downfall, an area I found most compelling as it offers the greatest exposition of the psychology of this exceptional man. I read Digby Smith’s ‘The Decline and Fall of Napoleon’s Empire’ as well as Zamoyski’s ‘1812’. I picked up on several themes throughout Zamoyski’s book and developed my own opinions such as sympathetic stances towards General Barclay and the Tsar, but was particularly intrigued by how Napoleon let his ego drive his pre-war diplomacy and how Napoleon’s own role in the breakdown of the Treaty of Tilsit perhaps triggered his eventual downfall. The fact that I was so gripped by so many different themes within an historical study of one war also reveals another aspect of history that is so appealing to me. It offers vast numbers of different avenues to pursue in one’s research, whether it is Napoleon’s diplomacy or the fallibility of the Russian command.

Outside of my academic studies, I am a dedicated sportsman but have particularly flourished musically as a cellist, obtaining a grade 8 standard in year 11 and am a committed member of various ensembles. Music has coloured my historical studies, for example, I played various Shostakovich symphonies coinciding with my study of Stalinist Russia at GCSE, each with a very different feel depending upon his relationship with Stalin, but perhaps most moving was playing his 10 th symphony, a purely self-indulgent expression of relief after the death of the dictator. It is impossible to appreciate this great work without its historical context, which transforms the piece into something personal, attaching the listener emotionally. History is not only fascinating in itself, but it enriches our appreciation of all other interests.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Computer Science At Oxford

Successful personal statement for natural science (physical) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, good points of the personal statement.

The student speaks intelligently and successfully links their interests – both within history and outside of history – to the study of history on a wider scale. The statement is well organised and reads well. Paragraph three, in particular, has many strong points with a greater focus on what really interests the student and why. The student does well to focus on the different areas of exploration within history showing a strong awareness of the nuances within historical study.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

The statement focuses too much on what the student knows, rather than what interests the student – the first paragraph, in particular, reads too much like an essay, and less like an exploration of why this student actually wants to study history. The student risks falling into a trap of trying to teach and impress the admissions tutor with their knowledge instead of offering a more personal approach. The student also needs to try to avoid repetition, for example ‘most interestingly’ and ‘most fascinating’ within the same sentence in order to ensure the whole statement flows better.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is a very strong, well-written Personal Statement. The student has clearly proved they can both understand and analyse history. The student perhaps needs to focus more on their own motivations behind studying history, but overall, the statement suggests a student with great potential and zeal for the subject. What would make the student stand out even more is a stronger closing statement – something to bring the whole personal statement together.

This Personal Statement for History is a great example of a strong, well-written Statement. The candidate’s interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

There are plenty more successful personal statements and expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford History application.

With our  Oxbridge History Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the HAT and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

Discover our  Oxbridge History Premium Programme  by clicking the button below to  enrol and triple your chances of success.

UniAdmissions students placed at Oxford And Cambridge

The Secrets to Oxbridge Admission.

  • We cracked the Oxbridge formula . Find out what we discovered here.
  • Looking for application support? Don't work with a random tutor. This is what you need to know first.
  • Get up-to-date Oxbridge advice with our webinars. Follow our Open Days led by our experts and stay updated.
  • Begin your Oxbridge journey with UniAdmissions through our programmes of support by clicking here.

How would you like to speak to an Admissions Consultant?

How to Write a Strong Personal Statement for Graduate School

  • by Heidi Kerr and Paul David Terry
  • November 10, 2020

A student sits on his laptop at the Silo at UC Davis.

You’ve made the exciting decision to pursue a graduate degree. Congratulations! There are a wide range of graduate programs to explore , and once you’ve selected the right program for you, it’s time to begin the graduate application process. 

The statement of purpose and personal history statement are key components of the UC Davis graduate school application . With fewer than 4,000 characters allowed for each essay, these statements can seem particularly daunting. However, each one has a specific purpose for showcasing your academic journey and creating a holistic application.

Below, we’ve analyzed the differences between the statement of purpose and personal history statement and provided tips for writing these graduate school admissions essays. 

Statement of Purpose and Personal History: What’s the Difference?

A student examines chemicals through a beaker while wearing a lab coat and goggles.

The statement of purpose shares your academic objectives with the admissions committee and explains why you want to obtain a graduate degree. The personal history statement provides background about who you are and how your experiences have shaped your interests and ability to overcome challenges. Each essay has specific goals to showcase your experience, passion and story. 

How to Write a Strong Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should highlight your academic preparation , motivation and interests, along with any specializations and career goals that contribute to your program of study. As you write your statement of purpose, it should encompass some of the following:

  • Academic and research experiences - Include any relevant academic studies or research pursuits, internships or employment, presentations, publications, teaching, and travel or study abroad experiences that prepare you for this graduate program. Explain your motivation or passion for these experiences and how they can enrich your graduate study.
  • Interests, specializations, and career goals - Highlight your research interests, disciplinary subfields, area(s) of specialization, and professional objectives.
  • Fit - Explain how your preparation, experiences, and interests match the specific resources and characteristics of your graduate program at UC Davis. Identify specific faculty within your desired graduate program with whom you would like to work and how their interests match your own.

The statement of purpose should also address why you want to pursue the particular graduate degree program at the university and what your goals are in pursuing a degree. Remember, the statement of purpose should explain exactly that, your purpose for becoming a graduate student. This is the primary way it stands apart from your personal history statement. 

What to Include in Your Personal History Statement

A student smiles as she inspects yellow liquid underneath a microscope, while her professor watches on.

The personal history statement helps the reader learn more about you as an individual and potential graduate student. Use this opportunity to describe how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Tell a story that  includes any experiences, challenges or opportunities relevant to your academic journey. Consider how your life experiences contribute to the social, intellectual, or cultural diversity within a campus community and your chosen field.

A strong personal history statement begins with an authentic voice and personal narrative. This can reflect your journey to graduate school, any obstacles you’ve encountered, and how you've overcome challenges. Talk about your personal goals and dreams. Explain what motivates and drives you toward this degree. The more your personal statement tells your school about you as an individual, the more it will stand out. Don't write something to impress someone else. This includes language, style and tone. Authenticity is important and resonates well. Tell the truth, in your voice, from your perspective. Use your story to connect.

More Tips and Resources for Applying to Graduate School

Applying to graduate school may be daunting to some, but UC Davis has a variety of resources to help you create a strong graduate school application. Check out the Applying to Graduate School: A Guide and Handbook for ideas and worksheets on how to construct your essays. Or visit our Office of Educational Opportunity and Enrichment Services website for more graduate school prep resources. 

Paul David Terry is the assistant director of special interest and affinity networks and alumni diversity lead at the Cal Aggie Alumni Association. He oversees the UC Davis Health Improving OUTcomes blog and enjoys cycling and brewing ginger beer.

Heidi Kerr works as the content and media manager at UC Davis’ Graduate Studies. She has worked as a communications professional at multiple higher education institutions and is passionate about promoting student success.

The authors acknowledge current and former leaders from Pre-Graduate/Law Advising in Office of Educational Opportunity and Enrichment Services, especially Annalisa Teixeira, Ph.D. and Cloe Le Gall-Scoville, Ph.D., who granted us permission to reference Applying to Graduate School: A Guide and Workbook .

Subscribe to the Majors Blog

Primary Category

  • AI Content Shield
  • AI KW Research
  • AI Assistant
  • SEO Optimizer
  • AI KW Clustering
  • Customer reviews
  • The NLO Revolution
  • Press Center
  • Help Center
  • Content Resources
  • Facebook Group

Tips for Drafting a Free Example of Personal History Statement

Table of Contents

A personal history statement can be crucial to many applications, from university admissions to job search processes.

This blog will provide readers with a guide to writing an example of a personal history statement that is effective and meaningful. Read on to learn tips to draft an example of personal history statement .

What Is a Personal History Statement?

A personal history statement is an autobiographical essay describing an individual’s activities, experiences, and accomplishments . It should be written clearly and directly, focusing on key events or achievements.

The purpose of a personal history statement is to provide insight into the individual’s background, motivations, challenges, and successes.

Tips for Writing an Example of Personal History Statement

1. Begin by determining your purpose for writing the statement – Are you writing it for university admissions? A job application?

2. Brainstorm ideas about what to include in your statement- Consider experiences from childhood through adulthood that helped shape who you are today.

3. Write down key points – Make sure these are easy to find when drafting your statement.

4. Write an outline – This will help you organize the flow of your essay and stay on track.

5. Write the main body of the personal history statement

Begin with a strong introduction that outlines who you are, followed by a few paragraphs describing key events or experiences that have shaped you.

6. Conclude with reflections on what you have learned from these experiences and how they have prepared you for the next step.

7. Proofread and edit – Make sure there are no errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation before submitting your example of personal history statement .

Examples of Personal History Statements

man jumping on edges

Personal history statements can be written in many different ways, depending on individual experiences. To give an idea of what a personal history statement might look like, here are two examples:

I am a 22-year-old recent graduate from Montshire University with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Growing up, I overcame many obstacles and adversities, including poverty and homelessness.

Despite these hardships, I was able to find strength through my family and succeed academically, graduating at the top of my class. My experiences have taught me resilience, hard work, and dedication – essential qualities needed for success in any field. In the future, I hope to use my knowledge and experience to make a positive change and impart in the lives of others.

I am a 45-year-old veteran of the US Army, serving for over 20 years. Growing up in an unstable home environment caused me to develop resilience and independence at an early age.

My experiences in the military were also hugely influential as I was able to travel around the world. I gained valuable life lessons that have helped shape who I am today. After leaving active duty, I returned to college and obtained a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Now, I hope to use my education and experiences from both my civilian and military life to help lead successful businesses in the future.

A personal history statement is a great way to provide meaningful insight into an individual’s background, motivations, and successes . By following the tips outlined in this blog, you are on your way to writing an effective example of a personal history statement. This will demonstrate your capabilities and achievements. Good luck!

Tips for Drafting a Free Example of Personal History Statement

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

Explore All Write Personal Statement Articles

How to draft meaningful length of law school personal statement.

Are you confused on how to write a law school personal statement? One of the essential elements of your application…

  • Write Personal Statement

Effective History and International Relations Personal Statement to Try

Are you considering studying history and international relations? Or you may be curious about what a degree in this field…

Guide to Quality Global Management Personal Statement

Are you applying for a global management program and want to stand out from the crowd? A well-written personal statement…

How to Draft Better Examples of Personal Statements for Residency

Achieving a residency can be a massive accomplishment for any aspiring medical professional. To secure your spot in one of…

A personal history statement can be crucial to many applications, from university admissions to job search processes. This blog will…

Writing Compelling Dietetic Internship Personal Statement

Applying for a dietetic internship is a rigorous process and requires submitting a personal statement, which is an essential part…

Stanford University

Latest information about COVID-19

Writing Your Personal Statements

Your personal statement must demonstrate to the admissions committee that you have considered graduate school and their specific program seriously. It’s your opportunity to summarize your academic and research experiences. You must also communicate how your experiences are relevant to preparing you for the graduate degree that you will be pursuing and explain why a given program is the right one for you.

The personal statement is where you highlight your strengths. Make your strengths absolutely clear to the reviewers, because they will often be reading many other statements. Your self-assessments and honest conversations with peers and advisors should have also revealed your strengths. But you must also address (not blame others for) weaknesses or unusual aspects of your application or academic background.

Your personal statement should focus on two main aspects: your competence and commitment.

1. Identify your strengths in terms of competence that indicate that you will succeed in the grad program and provide examples to support your claims. Start your statement by describing your strengths immediately. Because faculty will be reading many statements, it’s important to start off with your strengths and not “bury your lede.” Consider traits of successful graduate students from your informational interviews, and identify which of these traits you have. These traits could involve research skills and experiences, expertise in working with techniques or instruments, familiarity with professional networks and resources in your field, etc.

  • Check your responses from the exercises in the self-assessment section. You may wish to consult notes from your informational interviews and your Seven Stories . Write concise summaries and stories that demonstrate your strengths, e.g. how your strengths helped you to achieve certain goals or overcome obstacles.
  • Summarize your research experience(s). What were the main project goals and the “big picture” questions? What was your role in this project? What did you accomplish? What did you learn, and how did you grow as a result of the experience(s)?

Vannessa Velez's portrait

My research examines the interplay between U.S. domestic politics and foreign policy during the Cold War. As a native New Yorker, I saw firsthand how dramatically my city changed after 9/11, which prompted my early interest in U.S. policy at home and abroad. As an undergraduate at the City College of New York, I planned to study international relations with a focus on U.S. foreign affairs. I also quickly became involved in student activist groups that focused on raising awareness about a wide range of human rights issues, from the Syrian refugee crisis to asylum seekers from Central America.

The more I learned about the crises in the present, the more I realized that I needed a deeper understanding of the past to fully grasp them. I decided to pursue a PhD in history in order to gain a clearer understanding of human rights issues in the present and to empower young student-activists like myself.

— Vannessa Velez, PhD candidate in History

Addressing weaknesses or unusual aspects

  • Identify weaknesses or unusual aspects in your application—e.g., a significant drop in your GPA during a term; weak GRE scores; changes in your academic trajectory, etc. Don’t ignore them, because ignoring them might be interpreted as blind spots for you. If you’re unsure if a particular issue is significant enough to address, seek advice from faculty mentors.
  • Explain how you’ll improve and strengthen those areas or work around your weakness. Determine how you will address them in a positive light, e.g., by discussing how you overcame obstacles through persistence, what you learned from challenges, and how you grew from failures. Focusing on a growth mindset  or grit  and this blog on weaknesses might also help.
  • Deal with any significant unusual aspects later in the statement to allow a positive impression to develop first.
  • Explain, rather than provide excuses—i.e., address the issue directly and don’t blame others (even if you believe someone else is responsible). Draft it and get feedback from others to see if the explanation is working as you want it to.
  • Provide supporting empirical evidence if possible. For example, “Adjusting to college was a major step for me, coming from a small high school and as a first-generation college student. My freshman GPA was not up to par with my typical achievements, as demonstrated by my improved  GPA of 3.8 during my second and third years in college."
  • Be concise (don’t dwell on the issues), but also be complete (don’t lead to other potentially unanswered questions). For example, if a drop in grades during a term was due to a health issue, explain whether the health issue is recurring, managed now with medication, resolved, etc.

2. Explain your commitment to research and their graduate program, including your motivation for why you are applying to this graduate program at this university. Be as specific as possible. Identify several faculty members with whom you are interested in working, and explain why their research interests you.

  • Descriptions of your commitment should explain why you’re passionate about this particular academic field and provide demonstrations of your commitment with stories (e.g., working long hours to solve a problem, overcoming challenges in research, resilience in pursuing problems). Don’t merely assert your commitment.
  • Explain why you are applying to graduate school, as opposed to seeking a professional degree or a job. Discuss your interest and motivation for grad school, along with your future career aspirations.

Jaime Fine's portrait

I am definitely not your traditional graduate student. As a biracial (Native American and white), first-generation PhD student from a military family, I had very limited guidance on how best to pursue my education, especially when I decided that graduate school was a good idea. I ended up coming to this PhD in a very circuitous manner, stopping first to get a JD and, later, an MFA in Young Adult Literature. With each degree, I took time to work and apply what I’d learned, as a lawyer and as an educator. Each time, I realized that I was circling around questions that I couldn’t let go of—not just because I found them to be fascinating, but because I did (and still do!) feel that my research could help to bridge a gap that desperately needs bridging. Because my work is quite interdisciplinary, I strongly feel that I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this line of research without the degrees and life experience I gained before coming to this program.

— Jamie Fine, PhD candidate in Modern Thought and Literature

Statement of Purpose: subtle aspects

  • Think in terms of engaging faculty in a conversation rather than pleading with them that you should be admitted. Ask reviewers to read drafts with this concern in mind.
  • With later drafts, try developing an overall narrative theme. See if one emerges as you work.
  • Write at least 10 drafts and expect your thinking and the essay to change quite a bit over time.
  • Read drafts out loud to help you catch errors.
  • Expect the "you' that emerges in your essay to be incomplete. . . that’s OK.
  • You’re sharing a professional/scholarly slice of "you."
  • Avoid humor (do you really know what senior academics find funny?) and flashy openings and closings. Think of pitching the essay to an educated person in the field, but not necessarily in your specialty. Avoid emotionally laden words (such as "love" or "passion"). Remember, your audience is a group of professors! Overly emotional appeals might make them uncomfortable. They are looking for scholarly colleagues.

Stanford University

© Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305

woman shaking man's hand in a professional setting

Writing the Personal Statement

Helpful tips and advice for drafting a compelling personal statement when applying for graduate admission.

Make sure to check the appropriate program website to find out if your statement should include additional or specific information.

What does this statement need to accomplish?

The personal statement should give concrete evidence of your promise as a member of the academic community, giving the committee an image of you as a person.

This is also where you represent your potential to bring to your academic career a critical perspective rooted in a non-traditional educational background, or your understanding of the experiences of groups historically under-represented in higher education and your commitment to increase participation by a diverse population in higher education.

What kinds of content belongs here?

Anything that can give reviewers a sense of you as a person belongs here; you can repeat information about your experiences in your research statement, but any experiences that show your promise, initiative, and ability to persevere despite obstacles belongs here. This is also a good place to display your communication skills and discuss your ability to maximize effective collaboration with a diverse cross-section of the academic community. If you have faced any obstacles or barriers in your education, sharing those experiences serves both for the selection process, and for your nomination for fellowships. If one part of your academic record is not ideal, due to challenges you faced in that particular area, this is where you can explain that, and direct reviewers’ attention to the evidence of your promise for higher education.

The basic message: your academic achievement despite challenges

It is especially helpful for admissions committees considering nominating you for fellowships for diversity if you discuss any or all of the following:

  • Demonstrated significant academic achievement by overcoming barriers such as economic, social, or educational disadvantage;
  • attendance at a minority serving institution;
  • ability to articulate the barriers facing women and minorities in science and engineering fields;
  • participation in higher education pipeline programs such as, UC Leads, or McNair Scholars;
  • Academic service advancing equitable access to higher education for women and racial minorities in fields where they are underrepresented;
  • Leadership experience among students from groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education;
  • research that addresses issues such as race, gender, diversity, and inclusion;
  • research that addresses health disparities, educational access and achievement, political engagement, economic justice, social mobility, civil and human rights, and other questions of interest to historically underrepresented groups;
  • artistic expression and cultural production that reflects culturally diverse communities or voices not well represented in the arts and humanities.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Examples of Successful Statements

OWL logo

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Media File: Examples of Successful Statements

This resource is enhanced by an Acrobat PDF file. Download the free Acrobat Reader

Below are samples of personal statements. You may also select "Sample Statement" in the Media Box above for a PDF sample.

Statement #1

My interest in science dates back to my years in high school, where I excelled in physics, chemistry, and math. When I was a senior, I took a first-year calculus course at a local college (such an advanced-level class was not available in high school) and earned an A. It seemed only logical that I pursue a career in electrical engineering.

When I began my undergraduate career, I had the opportunity to be exposed to the full range of engineering courses, all of which tended to reinforce and solidify my intense interest in engineering. I've also had the opportunity to study a number of subjects in the humanities and they have been both enjoyable and enlightening, providing me with a new and different perspective on the world in which we live.

In the realm of engineering, I have developed a special interest in the field of laser technology and have even been taking a graduate course in quantum electronics. Among the 25 or so students in the course, I am the sole undergraduate. Another particular interest of mine is electromagnetics, and last summer, when I was a technical assistant at a world-famous local lab, I learned about its many practical applications, especially in relation to microstrip and antenna design. Management at this lab was sufficiently impressed with my work to ask that I return when I graduate. Of course, my plans following completion of my current studies are to move directly into graduate work toward my master's in science. After I earn my master's degree, I intend to start work on my Ph.D. in electrical engineering. Later I would like to work in the area of research and development for private industry. It is in R & D that I believe I can make the greatest contribution, utilizing my theoretical background and creativity as a scientist.

I am highly aware of the superb reputation of your school, and my conversations with several of your alumni have served to deepen my interest in attending. I know that, in addition to your excellent faculty, your computer facilities are among the best in the state. I hope you will give me the privilege of continuing my studies at your fine institution.

(Stelzer pp. 38-39)

Statement #2

Having majored in literary studies (world literature) as an undergraduate, I would now like to concentrate on English and American literature.

I am especially interested in nineteenth-century literature, women's literature, Anglo-Saxon poetry, and folklore and folk literature. My personal literary projects have involved some combination of these subjects. For the oral section of my comprehensive exams, I specialized in nineteenth century novels by and about women. The relationship between "high" and folk literature became the subject for my honors essay, which examined Toni Morrison's use of classical, biblical, African, and Afro-American folk tradition in her novel. I plan to work further on this essay, treating Morrison's other novels and perhaps preparing a paper suitable for publication.

In my studies toward a doctoral degree, I hope to examine more closely the relationship between high and folk literature. My junior year and private studies of Anglo-Saxon language and literature have caused me to consider the question of where the divisions between folklore, folk literature, and high literature lie. Should I attend your school, I would like to resume my studies of Anglo-Saxon poetry, with special attention to its folk elements.

Writing poetry also figures prominently in my academic and professional goals. I have just begun submitting to the smaller journals with some success and am gradually building a working manuscript for a collection. The dominant theme of this collection relies on poems that draw from classical, biblical, and folk traditions, as well as everyday experience, in order to celebrate the process of giving and taking life, whether literal or figurative. My poetry draws from and influences my academic studies. Much of what I read and study finds a place in my creative work as subject. At the same time, I study the art of literature by taking part in the creative process, experimenting with the tools used by other authors in the past.

In terms of a career, I see myself teaching literature, writing criticism, and going into editing or publishing poetry. Doctoral studies would be valuable to me in several ways. First, your teaching assistant ship program would provide me with the practical teaching experience I am eager to acquire. Further, earning a Ph.D. in English and American literature would advance my other two career goals by adding to my skills, both critical and creative, in working with language. Ultimately, however, I see the Ph.D. as an end in itself, as well as a professional stepping stone; I enjoy studying literature for its own sake and would like to continue my studies on the level demanded by the Ph.D. program.

(Stelzer pp. 40-41)

Find Info For

  • Current Students
  • Prospective Students
  • Alumni and Friends
  • Engage with Purdue
  • Research and Innovation

Quick Links

  • Report a Concern
  • Calendar of Events, Dates, and Deadlines
  • Current Graduate Students
  • Alumni and Giving
  • Rankings and Recognition
  • Information Management and Analysis
  • Data Requests
  • All Graduate Programs at Four Campuses
  • Graduate Degree Programs
  • Certificate Programs
  • Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs (OIGP)
  • University Academic Catalog
  • Course Information
  • Publications
  • Graduate Programs Office
  • Office of Graduate Assistance (OGA)
  • Guidelines for Graduate Student Mentoring and Advising
  • Preparing for Graduate School
  • Graduate Program Requirements
  • Why Choose Purdue?
  • Tuition & Fees
  • How to Apply
  • Check Application Status
  • Transcript Upload Tips
  • Admitted Students
  • Visit Campus
  • Global Ambassadors
  • Purdue Graduate Student Center
  • International Students
  • Request Information
  • Fellowship Office
  • Professional Development
  • Thesis Office

personal statement template history

  • Personal History Statement

The Personal History Statement helps reviewers learn more about you as a whole person and as a potential graduate student. This may include relevant details on community service, leadership roles, participation in diverse teams, and significant barriers that you overcame to attend graduate school.

The Purdue University Graduate School application allows applicants to select up to three graduate campuses and/or majors per application.  If you are applying to a 2nd or 3rd choice program, you are only required to submit one personal history statement with your application. Be sure your personal history statement is is all-inclusive, and supports your suitability for your enrollment in all the graduate programs listed on your application. 

Required of all applicants:

  • Describe how your background and life experiences contribute to your ability to be both persistent and resourceful in graduate school.
  • Describe how your life experiences have prepared you to contribute to an academic community where scholars with diverse research interests, abilities, backgrounds, and experiences are supported, respected, and valued.
  • Please address concerns that you may have that your academic record does not reflect your true capabilities and discuss mitigating factors that have affected your academic record. Reviewers will be interested in understanding your accomplishments relative to your opportunities.

The Academic Statement of Purpose and the Personal History Statement are two of the most important documents in your graduate school application. The documents should be concise, clear, and free of spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. You should have others review your document for content, organization, and to ensure that there are no errors. Information in the Personal History Statement should complement but not duplicate information in the Academic Statement of Purpose.

  • Application Deadlines
  • Application Fee
  • Application Fee - Foreign Currency
  • Documents Required by Country
  • English Proficiency Requirements
  • GRE Requirements
  • Recommendation Letters
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Submitting Transcripts
  • Technical Help Questions
  • Testing Information
  • Third Choice Programs

Communication

  • OneCampus Portal
  • Brightspace
  • BoilerConnect
  • Faculty and Staff
  • Human Resources
  • Colleges and Schools
  • Find Workshops
  • Funding Support
  • Purdue Graduate Student Government
  • Graduate School Directory
  • Graduate School Toolkit
  • Catalogs, Manuals, Policies

Ernest C. Young Hall, Room 170 | 155  S. Grant Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2114 | 765-494-2600

If you have trouble accessing this page because of a disability, please contact The Purdue University Graduate School .

  • Business Templates
  • Sample Statements

FREE 7+ Sample Personal History Statement Templates in MS Word | PDF

A personal history statement tells what kind of colleague you will become. It gives its readers, usually a screening committee, a peek into your personality, your motivations, your inclinations, your personal background and information, etc. It serves as your introduction to an institution you want to join. In short, you’re selling yourself when you make one. . .well, figuratively.

Personal History Statement

Sample research statement - 10+ examples in pdf, word, sample personal financial statement - 9+ examples in pdf, word ..., sample personal brand statement - 9+ examples in word, pdf.

But that doesn’t mean that there is only one kind of personal history statement that you can use everywhere. Depending on which institution—a graduate school, business, law enforcement—your personal statement differs. These free downloadable  Sample Statements  give details that you can use when you make your own.

Sample Post Personal History Statement

post personal history statement sample

Size: 235 KB

Personal History Statement for Graduate School

personal history statement graduate school

Size: 42 KB

Printable Law Enforcement Personal History Statement

law enforcement personal history statement

Size: 741 KB

Modern Personal History Statement in PDF

modern personal history statement

Size: 166 KB

Overview of Different Personal History Statements

Whether you are applying for graduate school, law enforcement, or business, a personal history statement will be asked of you. However, it’s a bit tricky to make one considering that sometimes there are many similarities among other requirements like cover letters, resumes, or curriculum vitae. A personal history statement, unlike the rest and as the name implies, is more concerned on your personal background and information and history rather than listing your job experiences. The following are some of our free samples of personal history statements:

  • Personal History Statement for Graduate School. Most graduate schools require its applicants to write a personal history statement to see what kind of student you will become. Many academic institutions look for a particular kind, and your personal history statement will show them your image as a person and as a future academician.
  • Personal History Statement for Law Enforcement. As a candidate for law enforcement, your personal history statement is necessary to ensure that you will not become a problem and that you are trustworthy. This is also used to check your background information. Make sure that you do not misstate anything in the form, or else you’ll get disqualified.
  • Personal History Statement for Business. Asks for your background information in business and employment. Personal history statements for business ask specific questions about your experience in business.

A personal history statement usually goes with other job requirements like a cover letter and a resume. So imagine if you’re the one screening applicants. If you have to read a mountain-like mound of applications, wouldn’t you somehow skip parts of a resume? In that case, you will need a resume summary statement to give the employer a quick peek into your skills. Check out our  Sample Resume Summary Statements  to make sure that your resume stands out.

Basic Personal and Business History Statement

personal and business history statement

Size: 281 KB

Personal/Criminal History Statement Example

personal criminal history statement example

Size: 372 KB

Police Department Personal History Statement

police department personal history statement

Size: 99 KB

Free Personal History Statement Form

personal history statement form

Personal History Statement in Word

personal history statement in word

Size: 164 KB

As a final note, personal history statements are mostly asked from those who want to enter the academe. In which case, you will also be asked for other requirements especially concerning your academic background and accomplishments. One requirement is your research statement, which will show the screening committee if your research will follow your previous accomplishments and if they are novel and necessary. Look at our  Sample Research Statements   and use them as a model in writing your own.

Our other samples of personal statements come in Word (.docx) format or are PDFs. You can download them for free and study how they are written or what information are asked in the forms. Your personal history statements are necessary, so do them well and honestly.

Related Posts

Free 10+ independent subcontractor statement samples in ms word | google docs | apple pages | pdf, free 10+ trust distribution statement samples in pdf, free 13+ sample personal statement templates in pdf | ms word, free 14+ compliance statement samples & templates in pdf | ms word, free 10+ extension impact statement samples in pdf | doc, free 10+ bank reconciliation statement samples and templates in pdf | ms word, free 10+ diversity mission statement samples in ms word | pdf, free 11+ research problem statement samples [ marketing, quantitative, nursing ], free 10+ architecture statement of purpose samples [ sustainable, graduate, master ], free 10+ vision statements samples in pdf, free 24+ statement of purpose templates in pdf | ms word, free 13+ project scope statement samples in pdf | ms word, free 50+ thesis statement samples in pdf, free 11+ internship statement of purpose samples in pdf | doc, free 20+ sample personal statement templates in ms word | pdf, sample medical school personal statement - 7+ examples in word ..., sample resume summary statement - 9+ examples in word, pdf, personal statement residency sample - 7+ examples in pdf, sample resume objective statement - 7+ documents in pdf, word.

U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Consumer Alerts

Did you have a lasik consultation with lasikplus or joffe medicenter you might be eligible for a refund..

View all Consumer Alerts

Get Consumer Alerts

Credit, Loans, and Debt

Learn about getting and using credit, borrowing money, and managing debt.

View Credit, Loans, and Debt

What to do if you can’t make car payments

Jobs and making money.

What to know when you're looking for a job or more education, or considering a money-making opportunity or investment.

View Jobs and Making Money

Job scams targeting college students are getting personal

Unwanted calls, emails, and texts.

What to do about unwanted calls, emails, and text messages that can be annoying, might be illegal, and are probably scams.

View Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts

Fake shipping notification emails and text messages: What you need to know this holiday season

Identity theft and online security.

How to protect your personal information and privacy, stay safe online, and help your kids do the same.

View Identity Theft and Online Security

  • Search Show/hide Search menu items Items per page 20 50 100 Filters Fulltext search

Think you know what the top scam of 2023 was? Take a guess

Facebook

Every day people report to the FTC the scams they spot. Every year, the FTC shares the information we collect in a data book which tells a story about the top scams people tell us about – so we can all spot and avoid them.

The Data Book tells us that people lost $10 billion to scams in 2023. That’s $1 billion more than 2022 and the highest ever in reported losses to the FTC – even though the number of reports (2.6 million) was about the same as last year. One in four people reported losing money to scams, with a median loss of $500 per person. And email was the #1 contact method for scammers this year, especially when scammers pretended to be a business or government agency to steal money.

Here are other takeaways for 2023:

  • Imposter scams. Imposter scams remained the top fraud category, with reported losses of $2.7 billion. These scams include people pretending to be your bank’s fraud department, the government, a relative in distress, a well-known business, or a technical support expert.
  • Investment scams . While investment-related scams were the fourth most-reported fraud category, losses in this category grew. People reported median losses of $7.7K – up from $5K in 2022.
  • Social media scams . Scams starting on social media accounted for the highest total losses at $1.4 billion – an increase of 250 million from 2022. But scams that started by a phone call caused the highest per-person loss ($1,480 average loss).
  • Payment methods . How did scammers prefer that people pay? With bank transfers and payments, which accounted for the highest losses ($1.86 billion). Cryptocurrency is a close second ($1.41 billion reported in losses).
  • Losses by age . Of people who reported their age, younger adults (20-29) reported losing money more often than older adults (70+). However, when older adults lost money, they lost the most.

Check out the graphic for the top scams of 2023. Read the 2023 Data Book for more details and to learn what happened in your state.

A scammy snapshot of 2023

Want to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your communities from scams? Go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov to report fraud. Reports like yours help law enforcement take action with education and enforcement. By reporting what you see and experience, you can help protect your community.

Add new comment

Read our privacy act statement.

It is your choice whether to submit a comment. If you do, you must create a user name, or we will not post your comment. The Federal Trade Commission Act authorizes this information collection for purposes of managing online comments. Comments and user names are part of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) public records system, and user names also are part of the FTC’s  computer user records  system. We may routinely use these records as described in the FTC’s  Privacy Act system notices . For more information on how the FTC handles information that we collect, please read our privacy policy .

Read Our Comment Policy

The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

  • We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
  • We won’t post comments that include vulgar messages, personal attacks by name, or offensive terms that target specific people or groups.
  • We won’t post threats, defamatory statements, or suggestions or encouragement of illegal activity.
  • We won’t post comments that include personal information, like Social Security numbers, account numbers, home addresses, and email addresses. To file a detailed report about a scam, go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

Thank you for sharing information that I was not aware of. When people take pleasure in being deceitful! You can no longer trust in laws (especially) or your own family. The more J know the more I am aware of protecting myself and helping others as well!!

I think Congress should pass a bill to penalize the scammers.

In reply to I think Congress should pass… by Hi Nguyen

Thoroughly agree with Nguyen- scammers should be punished/penalized for their crimes. If Congress is required to do so, then Congress should pass the necessary laws to make this happen. Peter

In reply to Thoroughly agree with Nguyen… by Peter

You’re right

I think there are laws but the problem is finding out who and where they are.

In reply to I think there are laws but… by Wren

If they would hold some of the social media platfroms accountable for thier lack of care about any of these issues it would help a lot. Hackers are allowed to use accounts to scam people freely.

Yes definitely they should put them in jail longer than other crimes because it affects you mentally and socially more than a in person crime . This is because you do not know in reality who did the scam. The scammers are working with the person in the scam to rob you. Is gang stalking.

Can’t penalize foreign nationals who reside in foreign countries unfortunately

what a great idea. Robocalling already is illegal but doesnt seem to stop them. MOST coming from Jamacia. Only reason I know that is b.c I did the no no of calling back and it was on my phone bill

Thank you for the information!

I’m surprised that text messages wasn’t listed as a means of fraud or attempted fraud. I get phishing texts the most, followed by phone calls. Lately, I’ve received a few emails with a PDF attachment that is an alleged invoice. I don’t open it. It’s very interesting to watch the scammers attempts to get information or money from me. I’m already a victim of identity theft due to some major data breaches in 2021 to current, so I’m especially careful.

In reply to I’m surprised that text… by MN

Absolutely agree with MN. The phone calls start at 8:30 AM with so-called Medicare plans, or now it's Credit help! 99% of the time I don't answer. It doesn't stop there text comes in with "Hello how are you?" From some unknown number. I print them out in the event that someday I can help catch these creeps.

In reply to Absolutely agree with MN… by Bette Burton James

Bette if you receive the calls on your mobile phone you can block them. If you have an iphone, after the call ends, go to RECENTS, click on the i (information) button, scroll down to the end of the info and click on Block this Caller Forewarning though, they just have another number they can use :-\ Any number you don't recognize, don't answer . . . if it's legit, there should be a message, no message it's not legit. Unfortunately this doesn't stop the robocalls - I've blocked over 1,000 on my iphone in the last year. Good luck!

I've been gettng over 50 "lewd and suggestive" emails every day. I have blocked these and as of this morning there were over 199. Can this list be sent directly? They are insulting, and I would rather forward this to you, if possible.

Enid Hurwitz

In reply to I've been gettng over 50 … by Enid Hurwitz

call the opt out # for robocalls.... google it, it's everywhere... there must be an opt out for spam emails also. ask FTC and FCC and any other agency to report. This may stop it completely...if you're serious. sounds awful. good luck!

Thank you. Very important info!

So, My comment is simple---why isn't there more done to stop this? You have the most sophisticated people people working within the US---there should be a cure for this--shame on America for not having the answer!!!

In reply to So, My comment is simple--… by Deborah K Grimm

if this govt wold only pay folks like Snowden more than they've already made, have him and those like him work for the gov, we'd be In much better shape.

I have brighten a few items on line and got scared. It is hard to tell the difference between a legit company and a phoney one.

My 90 year old trusting and naive Mom has been sending 50 + small checks a month to various 'non-profits' associated with USA Cash Draw and other socalled million dollar sweepstakes. The operation is associated with many unfamiliar 'non-profits', giving her the idea that she is helping folks while assuring she will win at least one of the 20,000 prizes. She does not read the fine print, which has a deadline for a specific draw. However, she is already in the habit of sending 'gifts'. Examples are Citizens behind the badge, advancing American freedom, Fund for integrative Cancer treatment and some familiar ones like Am Against Drug abuse.

A second issue is all the political solicitations (she gets six to 12 inch stacks of mail per day. Some scare tactics of Lawyers requesting money - "they have put her on an important congressional committee" that leads her to believe without her money the political job wont get done. I think This is abusive of her and misuse/disrespectful of free speech. Nevertheless, being a generious person and wanting to help, all the solicitation become a burden and upsetting to this senior. Help!

Thank you Patricia Sargent

thanks for the great work you do....I am seeing lots of iCloud scammers trying to get me to reply to emails saying I have won a prize from big name companies like CVS, Lowes, etc .,,, I delete but would like to start reporting these....I am trying but can't figure out an easy way to report these scammers.

In reply to thanks for the great work… by Bess H Parks

Most big companies have email addresses you can forward scam emails to. You can open the companies' legit webpage & search for scam addresses or customer service. Always good to report to FTC as well.

I would add aggressive sales practices from car dealers to the list, the CARS act does not go far enough to protect consumers.

Publishers clearing house scammers keep calling my home. I cuss them out,hang up on them,etc. and it doesn't stop them from calling.

Thought ID theft has highest losses. ?

Why don't we have a govenment service to locate, arrest and shut them down.

Thank you for this information. We seniors are particularly vulnerable to scammers, and this helps us a lot.

I just contacted the FTC because I got a scam e-mail telling me my Social Security Number was used for Drug Trafficking in Texas and New Mexico! I don't even live anywhere these states! FYI... NEVER click on or open these scam e-mails!

I hope law enforcement is treating this like the huge crime wave it is. It is more than an inconvenience or annoyance. I hear stories of people loosing their life savings.

I report most of the email scams, but it takes time. It would be much easier if your program would allow us to forward these without going through the reporting portal. It is a constant battle. I have a call screen on my phone so never answer something I don't recognize, but I have seen texts that I have to block as I know they are scams. There really needs to be a crack down task force working on this. Lots of them are from out of the country.

Emails for payments to Geek Squad, Renewal charges for anti-virus programs like McAfee & Norton, I've dumped & blocked hundreds of them.

It is basically impossible to block the spam emails. Yes, they can be reported to the FTC but only individually, and the form is time consuming. EVERY spam email will have a different phony “From” email, even if there are multiple ones that appear to be from the same sender with same subject matter. There is absolutely no way to stop them. All advice says to just delete them - don’t open or reply. I was getting over 1000 spam emails daily, but interestingly that dropped to about 100-150 daily when I got a new phone. I check and group delete several times a day. Text messages (phone numbers) can at least be blocked. I also refuse cookies or modify them to “strictly necessary”; turning off all marketing and promotional settings. I agree that more aggressive measures are needed.

I have been getting emails from different vendors like Norton security thanking me for the purchase of their service on the day and time of the transaction mostly everyday with different names on them with a phone number for me to call them if I have any questions of the transaction. I just delete them and I have not reported them yet but I will now. Another thing that I have experienced is mostly all the people who walk in front of my door to try to sell some product or service without any proof of the company they represent are fraud and try to get my name and phone number for them to call me later but I do not give it to them. I do not trust no one at all. I get phone calls wanting to know if I have any Master Card and ask me to give them my name and date of birth to make sure it is me and I just hang up on them. I hope this helps somebody and make sure to put a Fraud Alert on your credit report with any of the 3 Credit Bureaus Like Experian.

Consumer education has no chance against fear and greed so ignorance and naivete will continue. Perhaps if the telco's had strong protection against SIM swaps and banks provided more than the weakest forms of 2FA we might have a fighting chance before the data brokers sell our PII to anyone with a credit card.

Please include Scam GAMES claiming PayPal or Cash App payouts. I've followed the game rules and watched HUNDREDS of ads, and as soon as I reached enough to get paid, the site stalls never to reopen, or they want you to do tasks, like spin the wheel 100 times and the error page pops up saying come back tomorrow day after day... granted all that is lost is time, but time is money!

Someone called me today at 5:28 PM, on February 14th, from: caller ID; YELLOWST, 1-307-227-9080, and ask if this was Stephen? They said "Stephen, is this Stephen", I replied "yes this is Stephen". They said then "have a good rest of your day" and abruptly hung up. I searched the number on the internet to try to find out who it was, could not find anything out without paying a fee. So I called them back within about three minutes, it rang a few times then went to a busy signal, I tried twice later that same evening, and got the same answer. I am wondering what kind of scam this is.

How can I know this site isn't a scam?

Advertisement

Supported by

Why the Case Against Fani Willis Feels Familiar to Black Women

In interviews, professional women were dismayed by the personal attacks on the Georgia prosecutor, but not surprised.

  • Share full article

A portrait of Fani Willis, the district attorney of Futon County, Ga.

By Clyde McGrady and Katie Glueck

Tangala L. Hollis-Palmer felt a sense of pride when she learned that Fani T. Willis, the district attorney of Fulton County, Ga., and one of the nation’s few elected Black female prosecutors, would lead the election interference case against former President Donald J. Trump.

Listen to This Article

Open this article in the New York Times Audio app on iOS.

But that pride would be tempered by dismay as news emerged of Ms. Willis’s personal relationship with a fellow prosecutor, Nathan J. Wade , an outside lawyer she hired to help run the case. Ms. Hollis-Palmer, a Black, 40-year-old attorney from Mississippi, is mostly upset at critics trying, she said, to discredit Ms. Willis. At first, she was skeptical of the allegations. But when Ms. Willis herself conceded the relationship, Ms. Hollis reserved some disappointment for the prosecutor who should have used a “little more discretion and a little better judgment,” she said.

Mr. Trump and several co-defendants are calling Ms. Willis’s hiring of Mr. Wade a conflict of interest and want Ms. Willis and Mr. Wade disqualified, potentially upending a critical case against the former president and doing grievous damage to Ms. Willis’s reputation.

“We just have to be so careful when we are in these positions to not give people the ammunition to come after us,” Ms. Hollis-Palmer said.

On Thursday, a Georgia judge is scheduled to hear evidence on the relationship between the two prosecutors.

A defense lawyer for one of Mr. Trump’s co-defendants argues that Ms. Willis’s hiring of Mr. Wade is a “form of self-dealing” that provides Ms. Willis with incentive to keep the case going.

Mr. Wade has earned more than $650,000 since his hiring in 2021 while also spending money on joint vacations he has taken with Ms. Willis, issues that will be central to the hearing this week. Ms. Willis has said that the costs of joint personal travel have been “divided roughly evenly” between her and Mr. Wade.

Interviews with a dozen Black women at varying stages of their careers found them to be painfully conflicted about Ms. Willis’s situation and her treatment in the public eye.

To many, there is something galling about watching Mr. Trump and his allies attack Ms. Willis over a consensual romantic relationship when he has faced accusations of sexual misconduct and assault. Mr. Trump was recently ordered by a Manhattan jury to pay $83.3 million to the writer E. Jean Carroll for defaming her after she accused him of a decades-old rape. A civil jury also found Mr. Trump liable for sexually abusing Ms. Carroll.

Some lamented Ms. Willis’s conduct as a mistake, but not one that should remove her from the case against Mr. Trump. Others, thinking about their own experiences in the workplace, suggested another concern: They feel that Black women are held to a different standard and that Ms. Willis should have known that her identity, along with the enormous political stakes of the case, would create a white-hot spotlight on her personal conduct.

“I can’t sit in judgment of her as a human being, but I can say, in terms of her role as a public prosecutor, yeah, she showed bad judgment,” said Donna Brazile, a former chair of the Democratic National Committee, adding that she had always kept a clear separation between her own personal and professional life with “a bright red line.”

She said Ms. Willis faced “vitriol” and “racial animus” as a woman of color in a position of power.

But, Ms. Brazile said, some of the attention is to be expected for a high-profile person involved in a high-profile case, especially one that concerns a former president of the United States.

“She is undergoing public scrutiny — she’s a public official,” Ms. Brazile said. “Comes with the territory.”

Jeff DiSantis, a spokesman for Ms. Willis’s office, declined to comment.

The discussions about race, gender and Ms. Willis’s dilemma have played out in group chats with text messages flying back and forth, in kitchen table discussions between couples and at student hangouts.

“We deal with the sexism as well as the racism,” Ms. Hollis-Palmer said. “But sometimes the sexism is a little worse.” She practices law with her husband and said that when they walk into a courtroom, people automatically assume that he’s the lead counsel. “A lot of times people have thought that I was his assistant,” she added.

When publicly discussing Ms. Willis’s predicament, some women of color have tried to walk a tightrope of empathy and anger.

Those conflicting feelings played out during a recent discussion on the daytime talk show “The View.”

“I’m very pissed off, too,” said the co-host Ana Navarro-Cárdenas, who is a Nicaraguan American. “Because when you are a woman of color in such a high-profile position, you know that the scrutiny that’s going to befall you is greater than on anybody else, and she needed to have kept her house clean.”

The co-host Sunny Hostin, who is Black and Latina, chimed in, “Your stuff cannot stink,” before adding that she agreed with Ms. Navarro-Cárdenas.

In some cases, the concerns about Ms. Willis’s treatment are balanced with uneasiness over how her behavior could jeopardize a potential Trump conviction.

“My initial reaction was that it seemed to be kind of a halfhearted attempt to get the entire case thrown out, which I thought was just an incredible stretch,” said Faith Udobang, 25, president of the University of Chicago Black Law Student Association.

But now she is worried that the misconduct accusations against Ms. Willis could delay the outcome until after the election.

“I believe the American people deserve to have adequate information once they go to the polls,” she said.

Some legal observers have said the attempts to disqualify Ms. Willis rest on shaky legal ground. They say the allegations against Ms. Willis have nothing to do with whether or not Mr. Trump interfered with the state’s election in 2020, and conspired to subvert the will of Georgia voters. But lawyers for defendants could use the misconduct allegations to undermine perceptions about the fairness of the prosecution by calling into question Ms. Willis’s judgment.

In a January address at one of Atlanta’s oldest Black churches, Ms. Willis suggested that her critics are playing the “race card.” She defended her hiring of Mr. Wade and said that his “impeccable credentials” were only being questioned because they are both Black.

“Obviously, it was in somebody’s interest to bring her down,” said the former Senator Carol Moseley Braun, Democrat of Illinois and the first Black woman to serve in the Senate. “The fact that she’s a high-profile Black woman just means that she’s a bigger target.”

Others are less sure that race or gender are central to fueling the accusations, but instead argue that anyone in Ms. Willis’s position would be the target of personal attacks from Mr. Trump.

Luci Walker, a 54-year-old data analyst from Decatur, Ga., said she doesn’t believe Ms. Willis’s race or gender had played a role in the scrutiny.

“It would be some reason or another, but I think they might just be looking for excuses to get out of it, or to get her off the case,” Ms. Walker said.

Leah D. Daughtry, a veteran Democratic strategist, said that the focus on Ms. Willis’s personal life was, in some ways, in keeping with the kind of attention that follows many in public life. But there is an added complication for Black women, she said.

“There are people who will be emboldened and invigorated by the fact that she’s a Black woman and make it, then, their business to go further and farther than they may have gone,” she said. It is “easy to argue that white men are not often held to the same scrutiny.”

She pointed to the many accusations of misconduct Mr. Trump has faced, including from Ms. Carroll.

“No one made that a disqualifier,” she said of the current Republican presidential front-runner. “But for Fani Willis, the fact that she’s in a consensual relationship with another adult person somehow makes her disqualified, or unqualified, to continue the work that she’s been doing. In that sense there’s a double standard, absolutely.”

Glynda C. Carr, the leader of Higher Heights for America, an organization focused on engaging Black women in politics, said she had been raised with the idea that Black women must be “twice” as good to navigate challenging dynamics in the workplace.

“Yes, we have a playbook about how we have to be twice as better, that we have to dot all the i’s and cross the t’s,” she said. When the public thinks Black women have made a mistake, she added, they “fall harder on the sword.”

Audio produced by Patricia Sulbarán .

Clyde McGrady reports on how race and identity is shaping American culture. He is based in Washington. More about Clyde McGrady

Katie Glueck is a national political reporter. Previously, she was chief Metro political correspondent, and a lead reporter for The Times covering the Biden campaign. She also covered politics for McClatchy’s Washington bureau and for Politico. More about Katie Glueck

Our Coverage of the Trump Case in Georgia

Former president donald trump and 18 others face a sprawling series of charges for their roles in attempting to interfere in the state’s 2020 presidential election..

RICO Charges:  At the heart of the indictment in Georgia  are racketeering charges under the state Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act . Here’s why such charges  could prove to be a powerful tool for the prosecution .

Who Else Was Indicted?:   Rudy   Giuliani , who led legal efforts in several states to keep the former president in power, and Mark Meadows , the former White House chief of staff, were among the 18 Trump allies  charged in the case.

Plea Deals: Sidney K. Powell , Kenneth Chesebro  and Jenna Ellis  — three lawyers indicted with Trump in the case — pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors   against the former president.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones: Since the indictment of Trump and his allies, a question has gone unanswered: Would charges also be filed against the longtime Trump supporter? It is now up to a state agency to find a special prosecutor to investigate him .

Kansas City Chiefs parade shooting stemmed from personal dispute, police say: Live updates

A personal dispute between several people erupted in gunfire at a packed celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory, injuring over 20 people and killing a mother of two, authorities said Thursday.

Nearly 1 million people were estimated to have been in downtown Kansas City on Wednesday when gunshots sent scores of people running for cover around 2 p.m. outside Union Station, a historic depot. Twenty-two people ages 8-47 were wounded by gunfire, said Kansas City, Missouri, Police Chief Stacey Graves at a news conference. About half of the victims are under the age of 16, Graves said.

Kansas City police officer Alayna Gonzalez told USA TODAY that officers detained three juveniles but have released one who they determined wasn’t involved. Officers are working with juvenile prosecutors to “review investigative findings and determine applicable charges," Gonzalez said.

One of the three people who was questioned by law enforcement was tackled by bystanders before being detained, Gonzalez said. More than 800 officers were providing security for the event. Graves noted several firearms were recovered from the scene.

Investigators were working to determine "the involvement of others," Graves said, adding that "there was no nexus to terrorism or home-grown violent extremism."

Lisa Lopez-Galvan , a mother of two and a beloved host of "Taste of Tejano," was killed in the shooting, radio station KKFI confirmed. “This senseless act has taken a beautiful person from her family and this KC Community," the station said in a statement.

Bullets ripped through the crowd near the end of the parade, after hundreds of thousands of fans in Kansas City's red, white and gold walked several miles through the heart of the city's downtown to Union Station, where a rally was held on an outside lawn with speeches by players and coaches.

Videos from the scene showed throngs of people running as gunfire and screams could be heard in the background. One video showed two people tackle and pin another person to the ground until officers arrived and took the person into custody.

Gun violence: Kansas City parade shooting shows gun violence danger lurks wherever people gather in US

Seven child victims of shooting released from hospital

Seven children who were treated after the shooting at Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City have been released, Stephanie Meyer, the hospital's chief nursing officer, said at a press briefing on Thursday.

Meyer said nine of the eleven child victims of the shooting admitted to the hospital had suffered gunshot wounds. The youngest is aged six, she said.

Doctors expect all of the three children still in treatment to fully recover, she added.

"They are stabilized. They're doing well," Meyer said. "I think prayers and hope for them is exactly what they need."

Five gunshot victims released from Kansas City hospital

Five of the eight gunshot victims of the shooting admitted to the emergency department at University Health hospital in Kansas City have been released, Dr. Mark Steele, the hospital's chief clinical officer, said at a press conference on Thursday afternoon.

Of the three remaining, one is in stable condition, Steele said. The other two "remain in critical condition in our ICU, but they both are improving, so that's good news," he said.

Dr. Dustin Neel, a trauma surgeon, said the first victim of the shooting to arrive at the hospital is still in critical condition. He said the victim, a young man likely over 18, sustained an injury that was "90% lethal."

"Had he not made it here at fast as he had, he might not be with us now," Neel said.

Neel said some patients came to the hospital with broken bones sustained from the rush to escape the gunfire.

More: Photos show Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade go from celebration to deadly shooting

All victims taken to children's hospital expected to recover

Nine of 12 people taken to Children’s Mercy hospital in Kansas City after the shooting have been released as of Thursday afternoon, said Lisa Augustin, a spokesperson for the hospital. Three were still being treated and are expected to recover.

Of the 12 patients, 11 were children 6 to 15. Nine of the minors had gunshot wounds.

Police have said the youngest victim of the shooting is 8 years old.

'There was a frenzy': Wichita man tackles suspected shooter

Trey Filter, a 40-year-old lifelong Chiefs fan, joined a group effort to tackle a person who may have opened fire into the crowd of fans.

“There was a frenzy,” Filter told USA TODAY. “People were freaking out.”

Filter and his family were leaving the parade for their home in Wichita when shots first broke out, scattering the crowd. When he heard a woman shout that someone had a gun, he “just went for it."

As another man tried to restrain the suspected shooter’s hands, Filter reached underneath the man but couldn’t find any gun.

“I started hitting him in the ribs,” Filter said.

He didn’t let up until police pulled him off by his feet. Meanwhile, Filter’s wife picked up a “huge assault rifle” nearby.

Once police had the situation under control, Filter and his family didn’t stick around. “Let's get the hell out of here,” he told his wife. “We didn't know if there was more drama or what was going on.”

– Cybele Mayes-Osterman

At least two people remain in critical condition

University Health, a hospital in Kansas City, announced on Thursday that two people with gunshot wounds remain in critical condition.

The hospital received eight of the gunshot victims. As of Thursday afternoon, five have been discharged and one was in stable condition, according to an email to USA TODAY from hospital spokesperson Leslie Carto. Four people with non-gunshot injuries were sent to the hospital; three have been sent home.

FBI creates webpage for videos of shooting

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, in collaboration with Kansas City police, set up a webpage where people with videos of the deadly shooting can share it with investigators.

The website asks users to upload files along with a short description of what is shown in the recording. The FBI, in a news release, said it is looking for any videos "from the Super Bowl shooting and any video of the shooters attempting to flee the scene."

Lisa Lopez-Galvan, mother and music aficionado, remembered

Lisa Lopez-Galvan, whose DJ name was "Lisa G, " was one of the well-known hosts of a radio show that specialized in Tejano, often called Tex-Mex, a style of music known for its blend of Mexican and U.S. influences.

For years, Lopez-Galvan, 43, listened to the "Taste of Tejano" radio show while working as a private DJ, often hired to perform at local weddings, quinceañeras and an American Legion bar. After several stints volunteering for the show, she was hired as a co-host in March 2022.

"For Lisa music is life and a source of happiness," a biography of Lopez-Galvan on the KKFI website .

Rosa Izurieta and Martha Ramirez, two childhood friends who worked with her at a staffing company, told the Associated Press Lopez-Galvan’s family is active in the Latino community and her father founded the city’s first mariachi group, Mariachi Mexico, in the 1980s.

Manny Abarca, a Jackson County legislator who knew Lopez-Galvan for over a decade, said among the things he'll remember most clearly about Lopez-Galvan is her smile.

"I have witnessed that smile across DJ equipment, and on the stage of our largest Fiesta in #KansasCity," he wrote on X . "I will not let her death go in (vain). I will legislate, I will fight and I WILL do everything in my power to change this State and City for the better."

Mental health resources

As families across Kansas City cope with the aftermath of Wednesday's shooting, local officials and groups are offering mental health resources to help the community heal.

Children's Mercy Hospital launched a guide for parents and children on mental health resources, including how to talk to kids about a traumatic event and when to seek help.

The Jackson County prosecutor's office arranged free counseling sessions and a hotline , and Kansas City has a general list of mental health resources for residents.

The American Counseling Association offers some tips for people coping in the aftermath of a shooting, including attending to self-care, keeping in touch with loved ones and maintaining practices that bring emotional relief.

Gun safety advocates push for legislative action

Gun safety advocates in Missouri are once again pressuring lawmakers to act.

Alison Shih, senior counsel at Everytown for Gun Safety, said people have become energized in the past day in calling for more gun control in Missouri. But she doesn’t have high hopes for the state Legislature to act in what she said are residents’ best interests. 

“My instinct is that it's unlikely to happen unless the makeup changes, but I hope they hear the rallying cry of our people,” Shih said. “But this year is an election year and I hope Missourians can vote out politicians who aren't protecting them or acting in their best interest.”

Kansas City Police Department spokesperson Alayna Gonzalez said the city had a record-high of 182 homicides in 2023. According to the police department's daily homicide analysis , the city has had 12 homicides less than two months into 2024, which doesn't include Wednesday's shooting. This time last year, police tracked 17 homicides in Kansas City. 

“We have to do something to address gun violence in this country and this state with Kansas City and St. Louis having high gun rates,” said Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas increased the number of police officers, according to his 2024 State of the City address , which Grant said isn’t a viable solution, noting the shooting on Wednesday unfolded despite a heavy law enforcement presence.

Lucas’s office didn’t immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment.

“If we want to ensure or prevent or decrease the level of violent crime, we have to make a commitment to address the problem in a very comprehensive and systemic manner,” Grant said.

– Krystal Nurse, John Fritze, USA TODAY; Galen Bacharier, USA TODAY Network

Chiefs players react to deadly shooting

Multiple Kansas City Chiefs players , some of whom spoke to the massive crowd shortly before shots were fired, took to social media to ask for prayers for the victims, thank first responders and demand gun reform.

Quarterback Patrick  Mahomes said  on X he is "praying for Kansas City" in the wake of the shooting.

"I am heartbroken over the tragedy that took place today," wrote Travis Kelce , the Chiefs' tight end. "My heart is with all who came out to celebrate with us and have been affected. KC, you mean the world to me."

Austin Reiter, the Chiefs offensive lineman said, "We are still struggling to make sense of the tragedy that happened today. Our hearts are with the victims and all those traumatized by this experience. Thank you to the police, first responders, and all those who worked together to get people out of harms way."

Charles Omenihu, defensive end, asked "When are we going to fix these gun laws? How many more people have to die to say enough is enough?" He added that "It’s too easy for the wrong people to obtain guns in America and that’s a FACT."

'Nervous, scared': People recount chaos when gunfire broke out

Kevin Sanders, 53, of Lenexa, Kansas, said he heard what sounded like firecrackers and then saw people running. After that initial flurry, calm returned, and he didn’t think much of it. But he said 10 minutes later, ambulances started showing up.

“It sucks that someone had to ruin the celebration, but we are in a big city,” Sanders said.

Ofilio Martinez, 48, said he heard shots fired a couple blocks away about 10 or 15 minutes before the gunfire near the Union Station rally.

“This is making me nervous, scared,” he said.

Gunfire broke out less than half an hour after Chiefs fans concluded their parade in celebration of their Super Bowl victory.

Crowdfunding platform GoFundMe has a page on its website of verified fundraisers to support victims of the shooting.

Contributing: Associated Press

Judge fines Donald Trump more than $350 million, bars him from running businesses in N.Y. for three years

The judge who presided over a civil business fraud trial against Donald Trump on Friday ordered the former president, his sons, business associates and company to pay more than $350 million in damages and temporarily limited their ability to do business in New York.

Judge Arthur Engoron ordered the former president and the Trump Organization to pay over $354 million in damages , and barred Trump “from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation or other legal entity in New York for a period of three years,” including his namesake company.

New York Attorney General Letitia James, whose office brought the case, said that with pre-judgment interest, the judgment totals over $450 million, an amount “which will continue to increase every single day” until the judgment is paid.

“Donald Trump is finally facing accountability for his lying, cheating, and staggering fraud. Because no matter how big, rich, or powerful you think you are, no one is above the law,” James said in a statement, calling the ruling “a tremendous victory for this state, this nation, and for everyone who believes that we all must play by the same rules — even former presidents.”

The ruling also bars Trump and his company from applying for any bank loans for three years.

In his first public remarks after the ruling, Trump said, “We’ll appeal and we’ll be successful.”

Speaking to reporters at Mar-a-Lago on Friday night, Trump bashed the ruling as “a fine of 350 million for a doing a perfect job.” He also repeated previous attacks by calling the judge “crooked” and the attorney general “corrupt.”

Trump did not take any questions from reporters after speaking for about six minutes.

The judge’s decision is a potential blow to both Trump’s finances and persona — having built his brand on being a successful businessman that he leveraged in his first run for president. Trump is currently running for the White House for a third time. This case is just one of many he is currently facing, including four separate pending criminal trials, the first of which is scheduled to begin on March 25.

Engoron also ordered the continued “appointment of an Independent Monitor” and the “the installation of an Independent Director of Compliance” for the company.

In posts on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump called the ruling “an illegal, unAmerican judgment against me, my family, and my tremendous business.”

“This ‘decision’ is a complete and total sham,” he wrote.

During the trial, Trump and executives at his company, including his sons Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump, attempted to blame exaggerated financial statements that were the heart of New York Attorney General Letitia James’ fraud case on the accountants who compiled them. Engoron disagreed.

“There is overwhelming evidence from both interested and non-interested witnesses, corroborated by documentary evidence, that the buck for being truthful in the supporting data valuations stopped with the Trump Organization, not the accountants,” he wrote.

In explaining the need for a monitor, the judge cited the lack of remorse by Trump and his executives after the fraud was discovered.

“Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological. They are accused only of inflating asset values to make more money. The documents prove this over and over again. This is a venial sin, not a mortal sin. Defendants did not commit murder or arson. They did not rob a bank at gunpoint. Donald Trump is not Bernard Madoff. Yet, defendants are incapable of admitting the error of their ways,” Engoron wrote.

“Defendants’ refusal to admit error — indeed, to continue it, according to the Independent Monitor — constrains this Court to conclude that they will engage in it going forward unless judicially restrained,” he added.

The ruling also bars the Trump sons — who’ve been running the company since their father went to the White House — “from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation or other legal entity in New York for a period of two years.” Both were fined over $4 million, plus interest, for their roles in the scheme.

Donald Trump Jr. posted on the social media site X that “We’ve reached the point where your political beliefs combined with what venue your case is heard are the primary determinants of the outcome; not the facts of the case! It’s truly sad what’s happened to our country.”

In a statement, Eric Trump called the judge “a cruel man.”

“He knows that every single witness testified to that fact that I had absolutely NOTHING to do with this case (as INSANE as the case truly is),” Eric Trump said.

He also attacked the ruling as “political vengeance by a judge out to get my father.”

 Trump attorney Alina Habba called the verdict “a manifest injustice — plain and simple.”

“Given the grave stakes, we trust that the Appellate Division will overturn this egregious verdict and end this relentless persecution against my clients,” she said in a statement.

A spokesperson for Trump Organization called the ruling “a gross miscarriage of justice. The Trump Organization has never missed any loan payment or been in default on any loan.”

High legal costs

An appeal in the case would likely take years, but Trump could have to post a bond for the full amount if he does so.

Read more: Trump faces about $400 million in legal penalties. Can he afford it?

The judgment is the second this year against Trump after he was hit last month with an $83.3 million verdict in writer E. Jean Carroll’s defamation case against him. Trump has said he plans to appeal that verdict as well, but would have to post a bond for that amount as well.

James had been seeking $370 million from Trump, his company and its top executives, alleging “repeated and persistent fraud ” that included falsifying business records and financial statements. James had argued those financial statements were at times exaggerated by as much as $2.2 billion.

James contended the defendants used the inflated financial statements to obtain bank loans and insurance policies at rates he otherwise wouldn’t have been entitled to and “reaped hundreds of millions of dollars in ill-gotten gains.”

Trump had maintained his financial statements were conservative, and has called the AG’s allegations politically motivated and a “fraud on me.”

“This is a case that should have never been brought, and I think we should be entitled to damages,” Trump told reporters when he attended closing arguments in the case on Jan. 11.

Trump testimony knocked

The monthslong civil trial included testimony from Trump and his oldest children . The former president was combative in his day on the stand, blasting James as a “hack” and calling the judge “extremely hostile.”

Trump repeatedly complained about Engoron before and throughout the trial, and the judge slapped him with a partial gag order after he started blasting the judge’s law clerk as well. Trump’s complaints led to a flood of death threats against the clerk, as well as Engoron, court officials said, and Trump was fined $15,000 for twice violating the order.

Among the examples cited as fraud by the attorney general’s office during the trial was Trump valuing his triplex home in Trump Tower in New York City at three times its actual size and value, as well as including a brand value to increase the valuation of his golf courses on the financial statements, which explicitly said brand values were not included.

Another example pointed to by the attorney general clearly got under his skin — a dispute over the value of Mar-a-Lago, his social club and residence in Florida. Trump’s financial statements from 2011 to 2021 valued Mar-a-Lago at $426 million to $612 million, while the Palm Beach County assessor appraised the property’s market value to be $18 million to $27 million during the same time frame. Trump had also fraudulently puffed up the value of the property by saying it was a private residence, despite having signed an agreement that it could only be used as a social club to lower his tax burden.

Trump maintained during the trial the property was worth much, much more .

“The judge had it at $18 million, and it is worth, say, I say from 50 to 100 times more than that. So I don’t know how you got those numbers,” Trump testified, adding later that he thinks it’s actually worth “between a billion and a billion five.”

In his ruling Friday, Engoron said he didn’t find Trump to be a credible witness.

“Overall, Donald Trump rarely responded to the questions asked, and he frequently interjected long, irrelevant speeches on issues far beyond the scope of the trial. His refusal to answer the questions directly, or in some cases, at all, severely compromised his credibility,” the judge wrote.

Michael Cohen testimony ‘credible’

James’ investigation into the former president’s business began in 2019 as a result of congressional testimony from his former personal lawyer Michael Cohen , who told the House Oversight Committee that Trump would improperly expand and shrink values to fit whatever his business needs were.

Cohen testified during the trial about his role in the scheme, and said while Trump didn’t explicitly tell him and then-Chief Financial Officer Allen Weisselberg to inflate the numbers in the financial statement, he was like a “mob boss” who tells you what he wants without directly telling you.

Trump claimed Cohen’s testimony exonerated him while also painting him as an untrustworthy liar because he admitted having previously lied under oath.

In his ruling, Engoron called Cohen an “important witness” and said he found his testimony “credible.” “This factfinder does not believe that pleading guilty to perjury means that you can never tell the truth. Michael Cohen told the truth,” the judge wrote.

Former CFO ‘evasive’

Engoron was less forgiving about former Trump CFO Weisselberg, who previously pleaded guilty to carrying out tax fraud at the company.

Weisselberg’s “testimony in this trial was intentionally evasive, with large gaps of ‘I don’t remember.’”

“There is overwhelming evidence that Allen Weisselberg intentionally falsified hundreds of business records during his tenure” at the company, the judge wrote. “Weisselberg understood that his assignment from Donald Trump was to have his reported assets increase every year irrespective of their actual values. The examples of Weisselberg’s intent to falsify business records are too numerous to itemize,” he added.

The judge permanently barred Weisselberg “from serving in the financial control function of any New York corporation or similar business entity operating in New York State,” and ordered him to pay the $1 million he’s already received from his $2 million separation agreement from the company as “ill-gotten gains.”

AG initially sought less

James filed her suit seeking $250 million in damages from Trump in 2022, and the judge appointed a monitor to oversee the company’s finances that November.

In a summary judgment  ruling the week before the trial started, Engoron found Trump and his executives had repeatedly engaged in fraud. The “documents here clearly contain fraudulent valuations that defendants used in business, satisfying [the attorney general’s] burden to establish liability as a matter of law against defendants,” the judge wrote, while denying Trump’s bid to dismiss the case.

Engoron summarized the Trump defense as “the documents do not say what they say; that there is no such thing as ‘objective’ value; and that, essentially, the Court should not believe its own eyes.”

The order, which Trump appealed, held that Trump’s business certificates in New York should be canceled, which could have wreaked havoc on Trump’s company and forced the sell-off of some assets.

Engoron backed off of that decision in his ruling Friday, saying the addition of the “two-tiered oversight” of the monitor and the compliance director makes that move “no longer necessary.”

Trump had complained about the summary judgment ruling while he was on the witness stand. “He said I was a fraud before he knew anything about me, nothing about me,” Trump said. “It’s a terrible thing you did.”

personal statement template history

Adam Reiss is a reporter and producer for NBC and MSNBC.

personal statement template history

Dareh Gregorian is a politics reporter for NBC News.

IMAGES

  1. Personal History Statement: Instructions

    personal statement template history

  2. FREE 20+ Sample Personal Statement Templates in Google Docs

    personal statement template history

  3. FREE 7+ Sample Personal History Statement Templates in MS Word

    personal statement template history

  4. FREE 7+ Sample Personal History Statement Templates in MS Word

    personal statement template history

  5. Personal History Statement(PHS)Form

    personal statement template history

  6. Writing a PhD Personal Statement With Subject-Related Expert

    personal statement template history

COMMENTS

  1. History Personal Statement Examples

    History and Politics Personal Statement Example 1 History and politics have had a profound impact on my outlook. From childhood, the tangible history I found in castles, museums and family photographs appealed uniquely to my imagination.

  2. History Personal Statement Examples

    Submitted by Gemma BA History (V100) Personal Statement History is such a diverse subject. I find it fascinating because ther... Submitted by Katie History and International Relations Personal Statement I am fascinated by the way the international political system often f... Submitted by Sarah History Personal Statement

  3. PDF Personal Statement Sample #1

    senior year of high school, I wrote three "history papers": (1) an exploration of sameness versus difference feminism in the querelle des femmes; (2) a look at marriage and passion in Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë's novels; and (3) an analysis of gender fluidity and essentialism in the writings of Virginia Woolf and Simone de Beauvoir.

  4. Sample Personal History Statement

    by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad in Personal Statement Samples by Field A personal history statement (PHS) provides an insight into your academic and professional endeavors. It should include your notable achievements as well as the challenges you have faced.

  5. History personal statements

    History personal statements Scroll down this page to find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study history and related courses at university. Plus, over on The Uni Guide, we've also got advice from universities on what they want to see in a history personal statement .

  6. History Personal Statement Examples For University

    11 Jul,2023 Alan Withworth Learn how to write a good History personal statement with guidance from the best student examples. Here, we present two history personal statement examples focusing on the medieval and ancient periods to provide you with inspiration and valuable insights into preparing your own university application.

  7. Personal statement advice: history

    History personal statements: how to impress. It's all about selecting examples and experiences that really help to demonstrate your love of the subject. Also show how - and why - you're interested in a particular historical topic, trend or period. 'Don't simply write things such as "I think history is vital to understanding the world ...

  8. History Masters Personal Statement Sample

    Written by Hannah Slack This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in History. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement. The Black Lives Matter protests over the last few years have sparked interesting debates about the role of nationality, memorial and history in our modern society.

  9. How to write a personal statement for history

    It is important to write the statement in clear, concise prose, avoiding the use of formulaic words or phrases. Dr Peacey says: "If I had a pound for every time I had been told that history is ...

  10. Successful Personal Statement For History At Oxford

    Good Points Of The Personal Statement. The student speaks intelligently and successfully links their interests - both within history and outside of history - to the study of history on a wider scale. The statement is well organised and reads well. Paragraph three, in particular, has many strong points with a greater focus on what really ...

  11. How to Write a Strong Personal Statement for Graduate School

    A strong personal history statement begins with an authentic voice and personal narrative. This can reflect your journey to graduate school, any obstacles you've encountered, and how you've overcome challenges. Talk about your personal goals and dreams. Explain what motivates and drives you toward this degree.

  12. The Personal Statement

    1. The general, comprehensive personal statement: This allows you maximum freedom in terms of what you write and is the type of statement often prepared for standard medical or law school application forms. 2. The response to very specific questions:

  13. Tips for Drafting a Free Example of Personal History Statement

    1. Begin by determining your purpose for writing the statement - Are you writing it for university admissions? A job application? 2. Brainstorm ideas about what to include in your statement- Consider experiences from childhood through adulthood that helped shape who you are today. 3.

  14. Writing Your Personal Statements

    1. Identify your strengths in terms of competence that indicate that you will succeed in the grad program and provide examples to support your claims. Start your statement by describing your strengths immediately. Because faculty will be reading many statements, it's important to start off with your strengths and not "bury your lede."

  15. Writing the Personal Statement

    The personal statement should give concrete evidence of your promise as a member of the academic community, giving the committee an image of you as a person. This is also where you represent your potential to bring to your academic career a critical perspective rooted in a non-traditional educational background, or your understanding of the ...

  16. PDF TCOLE Personal History Statement (06.19.2020)

    The Personal History Statement will be used as a basis for a background investigation that will determine your eligibility for becoming an employee. Your application must be printed legibly in BLACK INK by the applicant or typed. Answer all questions truthfully and accurately. If a question is not applicable to you, enter N/A in the space provided.

  17. Examples

    Below are samples of personal statements. You may also select "Sample Statement" in the Media Box above for a PDF sample. Statement #1. My interest in science dates back to my years in high school, where I excelled in physics, chemistry, and math.

  18. Personal History Statement

    Personal History Statement. The Personal History Statement helps reviewers learn more about you as a whole person and as a potential graduate student. This may include relevant details on community service, leadership roles, participation in diverse teams, and significant barriers that you overcame to attend graduate school. ...

  19. How should I write a "Personal History Statement"

    (Note that the Personal History Statement is not the Statement of Purpose; it is a separate statement that is required in addition to the Statement of Purpose. ... (These are just examples to give you an idea.) Share. Improve this answer. Follow edited Nov 24, 2016 at 5:53. answered Nov 23, 2016 at 21:38. aparente001 aparente001.

  20. FREE 7+ Sample Personal History Statement Templates in MS Word

    FREE 7+ Sample Personal History Statement Templates in MS Word | PDF A personal history statement tells what kind of colleague you will become. It gives its readers, usually a screening committee, a peek into your personality, your motivations, your inclinations, your personal background and information, etc.

  21. Think you know what the top scam of 2023 was? Take a guess

    Here are other takeaways for 2023: Imposter scams. Imposter scams remained the top fraud category, with reported losses of $2.7 billion. These scams include people pretending to be your bank's fraud department, the government, a relative in distress, a well-known business, or a technical support expert. Investment scams.

  22. Kansas City shooting believed to have stemmed from personal ...

    Wednesday's shooting in Kansas City is believed to have been the result of a personal dispute, rather than an attack on the celebration itself, according to several law enforcement officials.

  23. Why the Case Against Fani Willis Feels Familiar to Black Women

    But that pride would be tempered by dismay as news emerged of Ms. Willis's personal relationship with a fellow prosecutor, Nathan J. Wade, an outside lawyer she hired to help run the case. Ms ...

  24. Kansas Chiefs parade shooting live updates: Personal dispute blamed

    Kansas City Chiefs parade shooting stemmed from personal dispute, police say: Live updates. A personal dispute between several people erupted in gunfire at a packed celebration of the Kansas City ...

  25. Judge Engoron fines Trump more than $350M, bars him from running

    Judge fines Donald Trump more than $350 million, bars him from running businesses in N.Y. for three years. The state AG's office said that when factoring in pre-judgment interest, the amount ...