Common English Mistakes in Personal Statements by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from United Arab Emirates when writing a Personal Statement in English.

Mistake Example #1

Misuse of articles ('I have car' instead of 'I have a car')

I am excited to apply for aposition inat your esteemed university. I have always been passionate about studying computer science, and I believe your program wisll be a perfect fit for my academic goals. During my high school years, I participated inthe science club and won several awards in competitions. I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your campus and contribute to thevibrant student community.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some tweaking to add missing articles ("the," "an," etc.)."

I am excited to apply for a position at your esteemed university. I have always been passionate about studying computer science, and I believe your program will be a perfect fit for my academic goals. During my high school years, I participated in the science club and won several awards in competitions. I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your campus and contribute to the vibrant student community.

I am excited to apply for position in your esteemed university. I have always been passionate about studying computer science, and I believe your program is perfect fit for my academic goals. During my high school years, I participated in science club and won several awards in competitions. I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your campus and contribute to vibrant student community.

Mistake Example #2

Overuse of passive voice

As a student who is passionate about engineering, it isI believed that my skills in problem-solving and critical thinking will be beneficial to your program. My interest in renewable energy was inspired by the innovative projects that are beingdeveloped in the United Arab Emirates. It is hoped that by joining your esteemed university,I can greatly enhance my knowledge and experiencewill be greatly enhanced.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Great job! Very few changes were needed to make your personal statement more active. "

As a student who is passionate about engineering, I believe that my skills in problem-solving and critical thinking will be beneficial to your program. My interest in renewable energy was inspired by the innovative projects developed in the United Arab Emirates. I hope that by joining your esteemed university I can greatly enhance my knowledge and experience.

As a student who is passionate about engineering, it is believed that my skills in problem-solving and critical thinking will be beneficial to your program. My interest in renewable energy was inspired by the innovative projects that are being developed in the United Arab Emirates. It is hoped that by joining your esteemed university, my knowledge and experience will be greatly enhanced.