#9. From Reading to Writing to Real-World Impact

Learning by Design

Episode 9: From Reading to Writing — The Power of Personal Statements

In this episode of the Learning by Design podcast, host Krishna Cart offers practical tips and guidance for families on how to write a personal statement for college and technical programs like MATA (Monroe Advanced Technical Academy). Whether your teen is applying for college, scholarships, or internships, a personal statement is their chance to stand out—and your role as a parent matters.

Krishna shares how to support your child’s writing process without taking over, why authenticity beats polish, and how everyday literacy habits at home—like reading, journaling, and meaningful conversations—build a strong foundation for impactful writing.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why personal statements matter in college, MATA, scholarships, and internship applications
• What makes a personal statement genuine and effective
• The difference between technical program and college essays
• Tips and guidance for families to support without overstepping
• How literacy habits at home build writing confidence and voice

Keywords: personal statements, writing, education, parenting, literacy, college applications, scholarships, internships, MATA, student guidance, storytelling, character development, communication skills

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Episode Chapters:

00:00The Importance of Personal Statements

04:17Crafting a Compelling Personal Statement

06:32Parental Guidance in the Writing Process

09:22Building Literacy for Effective Writing

11:53The Role of Parents in Literacy Development

Takeaway: The best personal statements don’t try to impress—they connect. With the right support, your teen can tell a story that’s honest, thoughtful, and uniquely theirs.

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