Common English Mistakes in Personal Statements by Mandarin Chinese Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Mandarin Chinese speakers from Taiwan when writing a Personal Statement in English.

Mistake Example #1

Misuse of singular/plural nouns ('There are much people here' instead of 'There are many people here')

I am very excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. There are many reasons why I havechoosen your program, including the strong faculty and diverse research opportunities. In my previous studies, I have developed strong skills in programming and data analysis, and I believe there isare muchlot of potential for me to grow further inas part of your program.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"There were some issues with singular vs. plural. I also polished up the text a bit."

I am very excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. There are many reasons why I have chosen your program, including the strong faculty and diverse research opportunities. In my previous studies, I have developed strong skills in programming and data analysis, and I believe there is a lot of potential for me to grow further as part of your program.

I am very excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. There are many reason why I choose your program, including the strong faculty and diverse research opportunities. In my previous studies, I have developed strong skills in programming and data analysis, and I believe there are much potential for me to grow further in your program.

Mistake Example #2

Omitting the subject in sentences ('Is important to learn English' instead of 'It is important to learn English')

Studying abroad has always been adream of mine. It is important to experience different cultures and improve one'slanguage skills. HI hope to contribute tothe university community witha unique perspective from Taiwan.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"This looks very good overall. Remember to include subjects in your sentences."

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. It is important to experience different cultures and improve one's language skills. I hope to contribute to the university community with a unique perspective from Taiwan.

Studying abroad has always been dream of mine. Is important to experience different cultures and improve language skills. Hope to contribute to university community with unique perspective from Taiwan.

Mistake Example #3

Using overly formal or direct language

As a student with profouand interest in the field of computer science, I am writing to express my strongdesire to joiattend youresteemed university. I have always been fascinated by the intricate workings of technology, and I am confident that your institution will provide me with the superior education Inecessarequirey to achieve my academic goals.

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

"I just replaced a word or two to make the English sound more natural. Otherwise, the ideas in this text are clearly expressed."

As a student with an interest in the field of computer science, I am writing to express my desire to attend your university. I have always been fascinated by the intricate workings of technology, and I am confident that your institution will provide me with the superior education necessary to achieve my academic goals.

As a student with profound interest in the field of computer science, I am writing to express my strong desire to join your esteemed university. I have always been fascinated by the intricate workings of technology, and I am confident that your institution will provide me with the superior education I require to achieve my academic goals.