Guidelines for Personal Statement

Pierce College District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability or age in its programs, activities or employment.

The following essay question will be scored on the basis of your ability to address the essential elements. We are looking for honesty, openness, self-awareness and the ability to problem solve. Please submit a personal essay that covers one of the essential elements listed below. The essay should be no more than 2 pages in length, double-spaced with a 12-point Times New Roman font, and one inch margins. Each page should have your name typed at the bottom and signed and dated in blue ink. Do not print on both sides of the page and do not use card stock paper.

This essay is intended to be an example of your ability to communicate effectively in writing while telling us more about your personal background and experiences. Please address the elements as they pertain to you and your personal life experiences. Please choose only one of the following questions (1A, 1B or 2). Identify which question you are answering, as often the answers can overlap.

Essay Questions

Question 1A

Since Nursing continues to be the #1 high-demand health occupation, it is critical that applicants to nursing programs make an informed decision and know this is what they really want to do. This question is the opportunity to describe not only the intrinsic motivators but also extrinsic motivators that you have pursued to help you develop realistic expectations of this profession.

Describe the factors that influenced your decision to choose nursing as a career. Be sure to include intrinsic motivators as well as extrinsic motivators. (2 page maximum.)  

Question 1B

Explain why you are a fit for Pierce College and why Pierce College is a fit for you. Please describe the factors that influenced your decision to choose Pierce College Nursing and be sure to relate this to the Nursing program mission statement. (2 page maximum.)

Question 2

With the changing demographics in our region, the nursing profession is faced with an increasingly diverse patient clientele. Nursing requires an understanding of underrepresented cultural, racial and social groups along with awareness of economic issues related to healthcare. As a result, there is a growing need for nursing professionals who are culturally and linguistically sensitive to human conditions. (2 page maximum.)

  1. Describe the insight you’ve gained from working and interacting with diverse groups.
  2. How will that experience affect your continued growth and development personally and professionally?