Common English Mistakes in Personal Statements by Slovak Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Slovak speakers from Slovakia when writing a Personal Statement in English.

Mistake Example #1

Omitting 'it' as a subject in dummy subject sentences ('Is raining' instead of 'It is raining')

Studying abroad has always been my dream. It is important to experience different cultures and learn from them. Also, it isa great opportunity to improve my English skills and meet new people from around the world.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This just needed some missing words ("it") added. Otherwise, it looks good!"

Studying abroad has always been my dream. It is important to experience different cultures and learn from them. Also, it is a great opportunity to improve my English skills and meet new people from around the world.

Studying abroad has always been my dream. Is important to experience different cultures and learn from them. Also, is great opportunity to improve my English skills and meet new people from around the world.

Mistake Example #2

Incorrect placement of adjectives ('The car red' instead of 'The red car')

I am excited to apply ftor the university program in biology. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the worldnatural worldand the diverse creaturesdiverse that inhabit it. My goal is to contribute to the researchscientific researchand help winth the preservation of the beautifulenvironmentbeautiful that surrounds us.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Very nice! I just moved some words around and changed a couple of prepositions."

I am excited to apply to the university program in biology. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the natural world and the diverse creatures that inhabit it. My goal is to contribute to the scientific research and help with the preservation of the beautiful environment that surrounds us.

I am excited to apply for the university program in biology. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the world natural and the creatures diverse that inhabit it. My goal is to contribute to the research scientific and help in the preservation of the environment beautiful that surrounds us.

Mistake Example #3

Struggles with perfect tenses ('I am here since three years')

I am applying to your university because I hamve alwaysbeen interested in studying computer science. I hamve been here sincefor two years and I have learned a lot about programming languages. My goal is to become a software engineer, and I believe your program will help me achieve this dream.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some corrections for verb tense issues."

I am applying to your university because I have always been interested in studying computer science. I have been here for two years and I have learned a lot about programming languages. My goal is to become a software engineer, and I believe your program will help me achieve this dream.

I am applying to your university because I am always interested in studying computer science. I am here since two years and I have learned a lot about programming languages. My goal is to become a software engineer, and I believe your program will help me achieve this dream.