Should I Start My Personal Statement with a Quote? Forum

[thederangedwang]

I don't mean a famous quotation like one by a president or shakespear, I mean a personal quote that somebody once said to me which has affected me profoundly.

I know a "famous" quote is a big no-no

[Ginj]

Ha.

[j12]

As I always say, "Never let you quote do for you what you can do for yourself."

[booboo]

I wouldn't recommend it. If I were so inclined to use a quote, however, I would give it a great lead-in.

It is of my opinion that though the first line can set the stage for your application, if you can write a powerful, attention-consuming first paragraph, you're on the way to a great PS.

[Helmholtz]

Crap. This thread would have been a lot better if the OP would have just been "no."

[albusdumbledore]

"A witty saying proves nothing" - Voltaire

[kublaikahn]

Depends on the quote. If it is "Take the last parachute and go!" it probably works. On the other hand, if you are suggesting that a compliment or some wise statement was a life changing event, then I would not use that. Essentially you would be using someone else's words to describe your worldview. Use your own words.

[kaiser]

Definitely not. You can easily describe the influence of another without copping out on the introduction by using a quote. It just shows an inability on your part to set the stage and convey the message of the 3rd party. You don't need the actual words at all if you are doing it right.

[Helmholtz]

Depends on the quote.

Frankly, it's so overdone, corny, and cliched, I don't think it can really ever be done effectively.

[glitter178]

I quoted Homer Simpson in mine and I stand by that decision.

[puppylaw]

People are right to tell you to be careful, but if you can do it well you should. If you think it gives a great start to your essay without succumbing to the pitfalls that often go with using an opening quote, go for it.

[sold123]

As long as:

A.) The writer knows the quote ain't the main show.
B.) The writer breaks down the quote sufficiently.
C.) The quote leads into the story organically.

[Cupidity]

As I always say, "Never let you quote do for you what you can do for yourself."

I hope you haven't used that philosophy in your legal writing.

[billyez]

As long as:

A.) The writer knows the quote ain't the main show.
B.) The writer breaks down the quote sufficiently.
C.) The quote leads into the story organically.

TITCR

[NZA]

I used a quote to start my PS, and I did fine.

Honestly, just don't pick a shitty quote and you'll be fine.

[vanwinkle]

As long as:

A.) The writer knows the quote ain't the main show.
B.) The writer breaks down the quote sufficiently.
C.) The quote leads into the story organically.

TITCR

[drmguy]

You should have your answer based on how contentious it is.

[sold123]

EDIT: Wrong Topic.