The Personal Statement

In three to five pages, articulate your extent of knowledge and preparation in the field; capacity for introspection, reflection and critical thinking; and how your personal history has brought you to this point.

Guiding Themes

Yourself in relation to your proposed doctoral studies.

• What events in your life have led you to want to earn a Ph.D. in Sustainability Education?
• What have been your life and learning experiences in this field?
• How large a part does this field play in your life and learning?

Your Learning Goals

• What do you want to know that you do not presently know?
• What do you want to do that you haven't already done?
• How do you want to be different than you are right now?

Merging Interests and Course of Study

• How does this new learning relate to your Program Proposal?
• What are some of your personal, social, or work-related interests that might become areas of research?

Your Readiness for Doctoral Study

• What experiences do you have initiating and directing independent projects?
• How do you handle the isolation that often comes with completing projects independently?
• What expertise and kind of relationship are you looking for with adjunct faculty?