I’m writing a personal statement for the university. It’s basically a short essay in which you’re supposed to tell about yourself, why you chose the subject and your interests and hobbys. I’m going to mention unicycling. Now, what would be the best way to do it?
Should I say something like ‘I unicycle’ or ‘I ride a unicycle’. Or would it be better to say ‘I’m a street unicyclist’. I’m not gonna write anything like ‘I’m a hardcore muniac’ or ‘Extreme uni is the way to go!’. I want to leave a sensible impression and maybe get them somewhat interested at the same time. So, any advice? I hear many of you mention unicycling in your CVs and stuff. How do you do it? I just need some ideas. Thank you.
Found this. Seems very relevant.
Concentrate mainly on the less interesting things. They are not choosing you for your hobbies. It is too tempting to write about the fun stuff and give the wrong impression. In an interview 25 years ago I was asked, “With all these clubs and hobbies you’ve listed, when will you have time to study?” (True.)
I’d keep the unicycling stuff to something like, "I am an enthusiastic unicyclist. Over recent years, this has become a serious sport with many participants worldwide. My involvement in the sport has… " [then go on to put some stuff about meeting and interacting with a wide range of people worldwide, any positions of responsibility you have held in clubs, any teaching you have done, any charity events, etc.]
They have some boxes to tick about you displaying enthusiasm, responsibility, self discipline, social skills etc. Design your answer to tick those boxes.
As for whether to refer to “street unicycling” etc. - well, if you don’t know what to call it, they certainly won’t know what the terms mean anyway. Keep it simple and don’t make yourself sound like an anorak or a nerd.
I’ll say unicycling helps me develop concentration and self-discipline.
… and makes you a more balanced individual…
Think about what kind of person they want and find out how to prove to them you’re that kind of person. If you can use unicycling as an example of your outstanding personal qualities, that’s great.
For example:
Like many academic subjects, unicycling takes persistence and effort at first, but is rewarding if you stick with it.