Writing a killer opening paragraph!

What should be in my opening paragraph?

The opening paragraph should be to the point and short, it is not for writing a long paragraph that rambles about why you want to study a certain course. 

Do’s:

• Be short and sweet, why do you want to study the course?
• Be personal, try and think about a personal reason that is original?
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm, did you have an experience that guided you to the course?
• Be specific, do not ramble.
• Focus on what excites you about the course and the career it will lead to.
• Be original, try to think of an opening sentence that is not a cliche

Don’t:

• Write a long list of reasons you want to study the subject.
• Use cliched phrases (see the list below). 
• Start by listing your academic subjects and how you will use them to study the course at university. 
• Make stuff up.
• Be flashy, remember you are trying to show enthusiasm not to impress them immediately with bragging.
• Use quotes, this is very cliche and happens a lot

Some starters to avoid!

In 2015 UCAS released the most overused opening sentences in personal statements. Think about it, if you are reading hundreds of statements, if you read the same first line your brain will shut off to all the information that follows. This is why you want an opening line that is punchy, short and hooks in your reader.

Some sentence starters to AVOID:

• I have always been passionate about…
• I have always wanted to pursue a career in…
• For as long as I can remember I have…
• I have always been interested in…
• I am applying for this course because…
• Throughout my life, I have always enjoyed…
• From a young age, I have been interested in…
• ______ is a very demanding course I will be successful as...