I originally wrote my personal statement but it was too long, so I used ChatGPT to help make it more concise. I then combined elements from my original draft and the AI-enhanced version into a new draft. I’m concerned about whether this could get flagged as AI-generated, leading to potential rejection. Does anyone know if using a revised version that includes AI assistance could pose a risk in the application process?
AI detection often keys in on certain word choices, including more obscure or ‘British’ terms that aren’t commonly used. These systems can generate false positives. Ultimately, it’s your call to assess if the final draft reflects too much of the AI’s influence or if you’re comfortable defending your work as primarily your own.
It’s best to avoid using AI for something as personal and scrutinized as an admissions essay.
You should aim to refine your admissions essays personally, without AI assistance, to ensure authenticity and to avoid any potential issues during the application review process.
If you’ve merged elements from both versions and rephrased them in your own voice, you’re likely fine. However, AI tends to have a distinctive style that can sometimes be recognized without the need for specific tools.
@bernarddeacon
AI-generated text tends to be average and generic, mirroring common patterns in data. It might blend in for short responses, but might lack the unique voice expected in personal statements.
@thomashearns
From my experience, AI’s distinct style is usually noticeable, and I’ve been able to identify and report it quite effectively.
Try running your statement through an online AI detection tool to see how it scores.
ThomasMoore said:
Try running your statement through an online AI detection tool to see how it scores.
I’ve tried several AI checkers, and the results vary widely—from 70% to under 5%. It’s confusing, and I’m unsure how to interpret these scores.
@Hemsworth
It might help to compare the AI scores of your original draft with your final version to see how much influence the AI had.
Focus on ensuring your personal statement reflects your authentic voice and unique content. If it’s genuinely yours, minor AI assistance in editing shouldn’t be an issue.
Adding a small intentional error can sometimes make the text appear less like it was AI-generated.