Mentioning the same information in your SOP & PS

[ToomuchLes]

I talked to one of my POI over the phone recently. We discussed pertinent information about the program, her research and my own, but also, I mention my background and how I lived in a refugee camp, prior to my immigration to the states. She told me I should include this background info into my SOP; however I've already done so in my PS. And honestly, I always thought of the SOP to be sort of like a report that highlights the stats of a car, while the PS is like the background check. Maybe thats not a good comparison. SOP -> more academic; PS -> who you are outside of academia. 

 

My questions are: Would it be alright to mention this experience in both essays? Typically, in what order (or when) do adcoms read the essays, and would your PS be considered an important part in their decision making? 

 

I know many universities advertise their diversity. Likewise, I know that they mention in their applications to emphasize the type of diversity you're bring to the program. I just interested in the logistical evaluations, by adcoms, when they read these documents. 

 

 

EDIT:

Yeah. On the application they even say, "The "Statement of Purpose" is expected to focus on your academic/research experiences and interests while the "Personal History Statement" should focus on your personal background."

Edited October 21, 2014 by LeventeL

[maelia8]

I think that mentioning it only in the PS would be sufficient if it's a university that requests both a PS and an SOP. However, if it's a university that wants only an SOP, then I'd include that personal aspect in a brief section so that they know a bit more about you (unless there's another section on the application more suited to the topic).

[ToomuchLes]

Excellent. Thank you, maelia8.