Common English Mistakes in Personal Statements by Korean Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Korean speakers from South Korea when writing a Personal Statement in English.

Mistake Example #1

Incorrect word order in complex sentences

SinceFrom a young age, I have been fascinated by the world of science, and it is my dream to study biology at your university. TI believe the opportunity to learn from esteemed professors and haveaccess to advanced research facilities, I believe, will greatly enhance my understanding of the subject. In Korea, where I grew up, eEducation is highly valuedin Korea, where I grew up, and I am eager to contribute to your academic community with my unique perspective.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"I changed the order of some of the words/phrases to improve the flow of the text. Good work!"

From a young age, I have been fascinated by the world of science, and it is my dream to study biology at your university. I believe the opportunity to learn from esteemed professors and have access to advanced research facilities will greatly enhance my understanding of the subject. Education is highly valued in Korea, where I grew up, and I am eager to contribute to your academic community with my unique perspective.

Since young age, I have been fascinated by the world of science, and it is my dream to study biology at your university. The opportunity to learn from esteemed professors and access to advanced research facilities, I believe, will greatly enhance my understanding of the subject. In Korea, where I grew up, education is highly valued, and I am eager to contribute to your academic community with my unique perspective.

Mistake Example #2

Omitting articles ('a', 'an', 'the')

I am excited to apply for aposition winth your university's computer science program. My passion for technology began when I was child, and I have always been fascinated by how computers work. Studying at your institution will provide me opportunity to learn from thebest professors and engage in cutting-edge research.

Text corrected by:
Michele A., Boston, Massachusetts; United States

"I added two articles and replaced a preposition. Overall, the ideas in this text are clearly expressed."

I am excited to apply for a position with your university's computer science program. My passion for technology began when I was child, and I have always been fascinated by how computers work. Studying at your institution will provide me opportunity to learn from the best professors and engage in cutting-edge research.

I am excited to apply for position in your university's computer science program. My passion for technology began when I was child, and I have always been fascinated by how computers work. Studying at your institution will provide me opportunity to learn from best professors and engage in cutting-edge research.

Mistake Example #3

Confusion with prepositions ('in', 'on', 'at')

I am excited to apply for the Master's program inat your university. I have always been passionate about studying biology, and I believe that your program will help me achieve my goals. During my undergraduate studies, I participated oin several research projects and gained valuable experience in laboratory work. I am eager to continue my education at your esteemed institution and contribute to the academic community.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Great job! I just changed a couple of prepositions."

I am excited to apply for the Master's program at your university. I have always been passionate about studying biology, and I believe that your program will help me achieve my goals. During my undergraduate studies, I participated in several research projects and gained valuable experience in laboratory work. I am eager to continue my education at your esteemed institution and contribute to the academic community.

I am excited to apply for the Master's program in your university. I have always been passionate about studying biology, and I believe that your program will help me achieve my goals. During my undergraduate studies, I participated on several research projects and gained valuable experience in laboratory work. I am eager to continue my education at your esteemed institution and contribute to the academic community.