This excerpt based on personal statement examples using the “overcoming adversity” theme was prepared in accordance to our free essay assistance program.  If you’d like free help, please fill out the form on this site.

Admission essay excerpt:

Tired, alone, and waiting for the next paycheck: this is how I spent my first two years out of high school.  When I moved to the United States, I was fresh out of high school and I wanted to get the best education I could.  My parents didn’t have the funds to send me to college, but I was fortunate that they had supported me all my life and they gave me all of the funds they could to help me start a new life in America.  It was one of the most challenging times in my life, because I wasn’t just leaving Samoa, but I was also leaving the security of my family, the support of my parents, and the place I had called home since birth.  In America, I had no relatives or friends and I didn’t have much funds to get by, much less continue my education.

Outline:

I.  Introduction
A.  Tired, alone, and waiting for the next paycheck
B.  Fresh out of high school, making the move to the US
C.  Parents couldn’t afford to send me to college.
D.  It was the most challenging time in my life, moving away from Samoa, my family, my parents.
E.  It was as though I had nothing.

II.  A brand new start
A.  One of the most difficult things for me was to view my difficult circumstances as a new and exciting chapter in my life.
B.  Although I was certain that it was a new chapter, it seemed more challenging than exciting.
C.  I worked 7 days a week, had little rest, and most of my money was just enough to support myself and my family back in Samoa.
D.  It was difficult saving money for my schooling and even if I had the money, I didn’t have the time.
E.  Recently, I was given a promotion, and I have spent some time working out a plan and saving up money to go to school.
F.  Now, I feel that I am ready to go back to school and with my new position I have a workable schedule to pursue my studies.

III.  Finding direction
A.  While I did have a difficult time, it was also my experiences during this period that helped me decide what career I want to pursue.
B.  I have realized that the only “limitations” that we face are those that we impose upon ourselves.
C.  It has made me realize that no matter what our life experiences have dealt us, we have the choice to decide how life will unfold.
D.  This is why I want to be in a position where I can truly help others, to help them achieve their goals and aspirations in life.
E.  Currently working as a children’s counselor
F.  Helping people deal with issues of self-esteem, personal relationships
G.  I feel that _________ University can give me the education, training, and experience necessary to help me achieve my goals of giving back to the community, helping those in need, and helping them achieve their highest aspirations.