Personal Statement -- What should you include?

In your Personal Statement include everything that proves that you are hardworking, conscientious and interested in the subject of your choice. Mention your life experiences from school to college which made you choose this area of study. For example if you want to take Law, explain when and why you thought of applying for Law. Also, mention all the career options open to you and what pathways you intend to take after you complete your studies. For example, do you wish to start out on your own or research or teach and study further?
A personal statement should also include any special skills you have—do you know many foreign languages? Can you play a musical instrument? Do you excel in any sport?
Also put down all your extra-curricular activities and participation in any events. If you are part of any social or national cause put that down too.
If you are working or have worked before, write down your work experience and your achievements at work. Explain how your work experience has contributed to your interest in your area of study.
Your personal statement in short, should present you in as an eager student holding a lot of promise. You should also be able to demonstrate that you are willing to adjust in a new environment especially if you are an international student.
Your personal statement is also a statement about your excellent communication skills, so proofread and structure your essay well.
Lastly, do mention why you chose this particular University to study in and how you will contribute to this University through extra-curricular activities or through research. A good thing to add is how, as an alumnus you will continue to be part of the University. For example, if you are part of say an Environmental Group, you could start a club or society at the University, hold regular meetings, conduct activities, publicize your activities through the media, publish newsletters and papers. Even non-academic activities count for a good resume later in your career. You could then mention that you will continue to mentor and monitor the activities of the club or society you will be part of, even after you pass out of school and begin your career.
You could talk about starting a Science Group, Think Tank, a debating society… very academic in nature or even an informal one like Latino Dancing and the activities you would like to promote.
If you are part of a Forum or Blogging Community (of the serious type, of course), mention this also. If you have a website or a Blog in your name and it is related to your academic interest, you could talk about it in your personal statement. Do not expect the admission committee to visit your Blog but this is a way to impress upon them that you are indeed passionate about your subject and are already involved in thinking activities. A student with a large set of world views always has the potential to shine in his or her field and contribute to society and even help change government policies.
The “extras” you bring in will help you stand out among other applicants to the University.