Statements

[NamD]

Hello community,

I realize that I have been posting alot of questions on this forum lately so please bare with me!

I was getting some help from people looking over my personal statements so that I can make mine all pretty and ready to go when I submit them. However, I spoke to a candidate and she stated that the personal statements were merely to determine that the candidate was not a goofball or someone who did not know what he was getting into. Although this may be true, I have a feeling that the personal statements are NOT just for this reason. In my opinion, the personal statements are also to see who has the right mindset and who has potential to become a great officer. In a way, I feel as if the statements are for the candidate to explain him/herself (ex: this is an "average" candidate but his/her reasons are excellent).
Does anyone have anything to say about this? I also heard that these personal statements are "make or break" for the overall application.

Thanks!
Dave

 

[Pellets007]

They won't make or break you. Should they have two equal candidates competing for the last slot, essays might matter. If you know how to write you'll be fine.

 

[BillSL]

"Your statements will be graded, so prepare accordingly."

From the online application handbook.

 

[AKH]

Don't overthink it. They need a good grasp of who you are and the statements help to show that.