i got a few responses (thank you), but i just want to be clear im not too sure what makes a personal statement good and bad, and would have no idea to properly critque. with this being said, i would like to exchange PS with people, but my advice should be taken with a grain of salt.
that being said, i guess i'll post my PS here. i didn't really want to because its a bit personal, but time is running out and i really hope someone will have something to suggest! as i said above, it is too long, so i do need to cut a bunch out (i think i focused too much time on developing the story). i can write a great research paper, but i cannot write about myself worth a damn. i think im coming off too much like a martyr, i dont know, im rambling. just read...
EDIT: to avoid the snide remarks and requests to "prove" myself, i've taken it off. just take it for what it is. if you care to read it, pm me.