Common English Mistakes in Personal Statements by Ukrainian Speakers

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

Mistake Example #1

Skipping articles ('I bought car' instead of 'I bought a car')

I am applying tothis university to study computer science. I have always been fascinated by technology and how it can solve problems. In school, I participated in acoding club where I developed skills in programming. I believe that studying at your institution will provide me with anopportunity to further my knowledge and achieve my career goals.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Just a few small changes were needed to correct the text. Otherwise it sounds great!"

I am applying to this university to study computer science. I have always been fascinated by technology and how it can solve problems. In school, I participated in a coding club where I developed skills in programming. I believe that studying at your institution will provide me with an opportunity to further my knowledge and achieve my career goals.

I am applying to university to study computer science. I have always been fascinated by technology and how it can solve problems. In school, I participated in coding club where I developed skills in programming. I believe that studying at your institution will provide me with opportunity to further my knowledge and achieve my career goals.

Mistake Example #2

Using 'will' incorrectly in conditionals ('If it will rain, I will stay' instead of 'If it rains, I will stay')

As a student from Ukraine, I am excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science. If it will bes possible, I will start my studies in the fall semester. I believe that if Iwill have the opportunity to join your university, I will gain the skills necessary to achieve my career goals.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking for correct wording in conditionals."

As a student from Ukraine, I am excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science. If it is possible, I will start my studies in the fall semester. I believe that if I have the opportunity to join your university, I will gain the skills necessary to achieve my career goals.

As a student from Ukraine, I am excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science. If it will be possible, I will start my studies in the fall semester. I believe that if I will have the opportunity to join your university, I will gain the skills necessary to achieve my career goals.

Mistake Example #3

Confusion with word order ('Always I go to the store' instead of 'I always go to the store')

Since childhood, I havealwaysI have dreamed of studyingabroad at a prestigious universityabroad. My passion for computer science began when I was in high school, and since then, I have dedicated myself to learning everything I can about this field. In my free time, IoftenI participate in coding competitions and enjoy solving complex problems with my peers.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some fixing to correct word order problems."

Since childhood, I have always dreamed of studying abroad at a prestigious university. My passion for computer science began when I was in high school, and since then, I have dedicated myself to learning everything I can about this field. In my free time, I often participate in coding competitions and enjoy solving complex problems with my peers.

Since childhood, always I have dreamed of studying at a prestigious university abroad. My passion for computer science began when I was in high school, and since then, I have dedicated myself to learning everything I can about this field. In my free time, often I participate in coding competitions and enjoy solving complex problems with my peers.