Political Example Forum

(Personal Statement Examples, Advice, Critique, . . . )
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punkyg0608

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Political Example

Post by punkyg0608 » Sat Nov 12, 2011 1:38 am

Hey everyone,

I know there are a lot of people who say that writing a personal statement about politics is a terrible idea, which makes sense. But if politics is simply one example to make a larger point, do you think it would be acceptable? Basically, I'm writing about how I'm an independent thinker and I want to include one paragraph (out of six) about my political journey from Republican to Democrat and finally to libertarianism, which I believe strongly supports my thesis that I can think outside the box. I have many other examples as well, but I feel like this is a very strong one and could strengthen my personal statement without mentioning any specific issues which might offend the admissions committees. Can anyone give me some advice? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

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FryBreadPower

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Re: Political Example

Post by FryBreadPower » Sat Nov 12, 2011 1:44 am

punkyg0608 wrote:Hey everyone,

I know there are a lot of people who say that writing a personal statement about politics is a terrible idea, which makes sense. But if politics is simply one example to make a larger point, do you think it would be acceptable? Basically, I'm writing about how I'm an independent thinker and I want to include one paragraph (out of six) about my political journey from Republican to Democrat and finally to libertarianism, which I believe strongly supports my thesis that I can think outside the box. I have many other examples as well, but I feel like this is a very strong one and could strengthen my personal statement without mentioning any specific issues which might offend the admissions committees. Can anyone give me some advice? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
That probably sums up 80% of political PS; this doesn't make it a good idea.

And I can't guarantee switching your political beliefs is necessarily going to lead AdComms into thinking you "think outside of the box"

Honestly find a different topic. This is super risky territory.

kublaikahn

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Re: Political Example

Post by kublaikahn » Sat Nov 12, 2011 2:52 am

punkyg0608 wrote:Hey everyone,

I know there are a lot of people who say that writing a personal statement about politics is a terrible idea, which makes sense. But if politics is simply one example to make a larger point, do you think it would be acceptable? Basically, I'm writing about how I'm an independent thinker and I want to include one paragraph (out of six) about my political journey from Republican to Democrat and finally to libertarianism, which I believe strongly supports my thesis that I can think outside the box. I have many other examples as well, but I feel like this is a very strong one and could strengthen my personal statement without mentioning any specific issues which might offend the admissions committees. Can anyone give me some advice? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

No one is going to be offended that you are a libertarian. What will offend them is how you describe your political views at the age of 22 as a "journey." Alright, that was too sarcastic. I don't think shifting political ideologies is a good example of free thinking, and certainly not a huge differentiator. Most people adopt their parents beliefs and party, then go to college and shape their own.

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