For the past ten months I travelled independently through Europe and particularly the Middle
East and Asia in order to broaden my experience of differing cultures and peoples. This
life-changing experience expanded upon many skills and required me to develop my social skills
and socio-cultural awareness when communicating with people from other cultures. The journey
also required that I use my independence, as I was living and travelling predominantly on my
own, and my organisational skills - planning where and when I would go in order to get the
most out of my travels. I feel that I've matured a lot during my trip, made friends from all
over the world, and learnt a lot about the countries I travelled through. One of the many
highlights of my gap year was the month I spent in Iran, where I learnt a lot about Iranian
culture and society from the many Iranian students I met; I found it especially interesting
how these first-hand accounts differed from the Western media portrayal of the country. I was
also particularly fascinated by China, especially the situations in Hong Kong and Tibet. I
spent a considerable amount of time in these regions, including being in Tibet for the Spring
Festival. It seems that China is another country which the media likes to demonise, often
focussing on the negative aspects of the political regime while not taking into account many
of its beneficial and positive aspects, and the lives of the people. However, once there I
experienced a different perspective on the issues so frequently reported, which encouraged me
to do some more research into many of the issues raised by the western media and rethink my
initial opinions. It is this international side of politics that fascinates me - how events on
the other side of the world can affect us in Britain, and how the subject is not just an
exploration of politics, but also a study of people, their differences, and the development of
society and humanity in general.
I took two years off after school as I didn't feel that I was ready for university, and having
only previously been to a couple of European countries I wanted to see some more of the world
before attending university and getting a job. I spent a year before my trip saving for my
travels, and gaining experience of the working world, primarily in a school library and before
that in a retail environment. I enjoyed both jobs and learnt a lot from them, including
financial management and budgeting, as well as time management and organisational skills. This
experience increased my confidence and gave me a real incentive to travel, see some more of
the world and go to university. I look forward to the exciting new opportunities that studying
at university will offer me, and to expand my knowledge of a subject that I am passionate
about.
Re: Use this thread to post personal statements to be uploaded onto the Wiki!
Thank you
Are you already at university? Or do you go this autumn? If you're not there yet, we'll remove your post until you are and then add it to the library once you've actually started university.
Re: Use this thread to post personal statements to be uploaded onto the Wiki!
Medicine (With Foundation Year)
Keele - Interview (Withdrew)
Kings College London - Offer AAB
University of Manchester - Offer ABB
University of Sheffield - Rejected (w/out Interview)
A-levels: AAB
GCSE: 9A 2B
It was Laura who inspired me to pursue a career in the medical profession. She has severe learning difficulties, giving her next to no social skills. For over a year now I have been working with Laura through a scheme run by the charity Interact, to provide her with a social life, and enhance her confidence. The changes I have seen in her over this period were the catalyst for me choosing medicine – I want to change, enhance, or save peoples lives. Following this, through my Philosophy A-level course, I developed an interest in some aspects of medical ethics. When should treatment be withdrawn from a patient? If one Siamese twin will die in a separation, should the operation go ahead? Further research into both medical school, and the career of a doctor through publications such as the Student BMJ made me convinced that Medicine was for me; yet I knew that I could only be sure by experiencing the profession first hand.
Shadowing Dr Parry-Jones (GP) for a week was a real eye opener. What I had previously underestimated was both the diversity, and the psychological aspect of General Practice. Dr PJ (as he liked to be called) formed almost ‘friendships’ with his patients, who reported to him with problems ranging from ear infections; to ibuprofen addiction; to a particularly severe (and devastating) case of Behcet’s Syndrome (complete with multiple amputations). The doctor also had to deal with several psychiatric conditions, some quite absurd, such as a woman who had had an acoustic neuroma removed, and then started to ‘generate’ unexplained side effects including pseudo-seizures and disturbance of speech. Hospital medicine turned out to be quite a different experience, yet allowed me an insight into a range of different specialities. In the busy A&E department I was able to see the impact of government guidelines such as the ‘4 hour rule’ on the medical staff, whilst also observing the exemplary teamwork which was required by a major trauma case. Observing Endoscopy allowed me to see that the caring attitude of a doctor is particularly important during uncomfortable procedures; I noticed during clinics and ward rounds that doctors obviously had less of a connection to patients than GPs, yet good communication skills were required to extract details of any possible side effects resulting from operations and medication.
Primarily, I have realised that teamwork is incredibly important in medicine. Something which was immediately evident in the hospital setting was how various medical professionals came together as a team to provide the best care possible for their patients. I am a qualified instructor in archery and motor sports for ‘Barracudas’, a children’s holiday camp, which has developed my teamwork and communication skills, whilst also placing me in a position of great responsibility. I have found that working with children is rather demanding, yet it has the scope for a lot of fun - as long as control is retained!. At school I am a house official, which sees me working closely with other members of a team to run my ‘house’. This teamwork was demonstrated in the organisation of the school’s annual ‘House Music’ competition, a task which turned out to be stressful but very rewarding. My main sporting interest is sailing, having discovered the incredible feeling of flying over the waves in a small dinghy (only to be chilled to the bone when you capsize!). Over the years, I have self taught myself the drums, at the expense of our relationship with the neighbours!
Medicine is a profession which I have developed a true passion for, and I feel my personal attributes provide me with the potential to become an excellent doctor. I am certain that this is the career for me, despite the demands that it entails, and I know that I have a lot to offer my future patients.
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Application for starting university in October 2008 (please delete if it is too soon to post)
Universities applied to
Imperial College London (I50) - Physics (F303)
University of Leeds (L23) - Physics with Nanotechnology (4 year) (F3FX)
Oxford University (O33) - Physics and Philosophy (4 years) (VF53)
University of Southampton (S27) - Physics with NanoScience (F390)
University College London (University of London) (U80) - Physics with Medical Physics (F351)
I got unconditional offers from all universities. However, Oxford accepted me for Physics (not Physics and Philosophy).
August 9th 2006 was the day I left Europe and my old life for the first time. I participated in a student exchange to the United States in order to gain new experiences and enhance intercultural understanding – but it was going to be much more than that.
Prior to participating in the student exchange I attended a German Gymnasium in Aalen, a small town where my family moved to when I was two years old. School was not very demanding so I looked for opportunities to challenge myself beyond school. In 2004 and 2005 two team members and I participated in ‘Jugend forscht,’ the German branch of the ‘European Union Contest for Young Scientists,’ and received several prices on the regional and state level. Besides getting experience in research all of us realized how much fun it is to work as a team. We also tried our luck in the National Computer Science Competition and won a first price. These two years shaped much of who I am and going to be – a passionate scientist.
Spending all my time on science and academics made me become unidirectional. My father always pursued some kind of balance and got me started with cycling. My workouts gradually shifted from recreational pedaling to competitive training modules until I participated in my first professional race. Being part of a racing team showed me that academics isn’t all that matters. However, I participated in cycling as I participated in scientific competitions – without compromise. In 2005 I crashed with a friend of mine which made me realize the fundamental way I pursued any of my activities before.
It was my primary goal to learn how to face new challenges without getting out of touch with the rest of my life.
In 2006 I participated in a student exchange from Germany to Reno, Nevada. In contrast to German schools I was allowed to choose my classes according to what I was capable of. School in the US has a much more central position in a student’s life and makes it possible to participate in dozens of extra-curricular activities. I participated in Cross Country and peer tutoring getting to know many new people. Social life became much more important providing a good balance to the demanding college level classes taught at McQueen. I was able to complete two school years within one yet still cultivate many friendships.
Physics and Calculus were two of my primary Advanced Placement courses. The deeper I got into the subject the more I loved it. The vague idea of wanting to study physics was progressively reinforced and finally became my aim. Physics is extremely fascinating to me because there is always a new step to be taken. I like to describe it on basis of Frederick J Turner’s ‘Frontier Thesis’ – “The existence of an area of free land, its continuous recession, and the advance of American settlement westward explain American development.”
The existence of an area free of understanding, its continuous recession, and the continuous accumulation of new knowledge explain scientific development.
Everyone has his/her individual frontier making up the universal frontier like pieces of a puzzle.
The experiences I had in the US, socially, academically as well as culturally, make me want to study in another Anglophone country – like the UK. I went to the US to make new cultural and lingual experiences. However, Europe itself is extremely diverse and I would like to get to know the unknown right on my doorstep. Being admitted to your university would be a first step towards crossing my own frontier.
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I've been meaning to post this for a while as Edinburgh's selection is severely lacking... Archaeology and Anthropology Undergraduate for 2007 entry.
*Birmingham - Archaeology with Anthropolgy - Offer BBB
*Durham - Archaeology and Anthropology - Offer BBB
*Edinburgh - Archaeology and Social Anthropology - Offer BBB
*Glasgow - Archaeology and Social Anthropology - Offer ABB
*Oxford - Archaeology and Anthropology - rejected
*St Andrews - Scottish History and Social Anthropology - Offer AAB
"One experience I will never forget is that of my three weeks in Australia as a selected member of GirlguidingUK at the 'Friendship Train' jamboree. In general, I was surprised by how removed from the UK the cities felt without having any palpable differences. The most interesting discovery I made was that of the aboriginal people, their spirituality and culture and their hatred of white people. Reading their myths, I was struck by how many cultures create folk law to explain the unknown. I think that looking by looking at common elements of human society is significant as a study in anthropology into understanding ourselves. I have been given the chance in my history course to write an essay on a topic that interests me and chose to research the Americas and their discovery. Especially, I have been enthralled by evidence for the spread of peoples spreading south through America and the similarities of the culture and their tools as mentioned in Felipe Fernandez-Amnestro's 'America'. Looking further into this I read Michael Carter's 'Archaeology' describing finds in Mesoamerica.
Having spent many holidays looking at Pictish stones and Neolithic carvings in Scotland, I am intrigued by the mystery of cup and ring markings. The trail of Bronze Age people is drawn across the country showing a glimpse of forgotten ritual or perhaps a god or domestic chore written in the stone. My passion for the past results from both books and physical evidence; I believe that we can gain a greater understanding of our present civilisations by looking at those of the past and of humans in the natural world by looking to our evolution. I enjoyed excavating a medieval skeleton when I joined a dig at Poulton, Cheshire this summer and thoroughly benefited from the experience of doing what I had previously read about in introductory books such as Kevin Greene's 'Archaeology: an introduction', taking part in surveying, context recording, photography. The site itself has a long history from evidence of a Mesolithic wood henge through to a medieval chapel. I had the chance to see a collection of relevant artefacts and discuss the unusual lack of evidence for domestic activity as all the findings were of a religious/spiritual nature.
I have been a member of GirlguidingUK for 12 years and have gained many important skills. I have spent the last three years in a leadership role with Brownies (7 to 10 yrs old) and am currently working towards my warrant, which will qualify me as a leader. In doing this, I focus on encouraging girls to fulfil their potential and grow in self-assurance and individuality. This work is similar to the peer counselling that I take part in at school, assisting the younger students and encouraging use of the service through a number of assemblies which I have lead. Within the school, I was also involved in a small 'Theatre in Education' group: using theatre as a means of educating younger students on important issues such as and peer pressure. School has also helped me to further an interest in music, playing the violin in the chamber orchestra and singing in the senior choir. I have recently achieved Royal Life Saving Society NPLQ lifeguard qualification, furthering my recreational interest in swimming. The professional standard lifeguard training is a challenge that involved pushing myself to perform in physical swimming trials as well as knowledge based tests and practical first aid.
Human nature has not changed though the ages and, despite their unique quirks and idiosyncrasies, societies past and present have evolved with remarkable similarities. The discovery and celebration of human inventiveness, resilience and passion in all its different forms throughout time and across the world is what really inspires me to explore Archaeology and Anthropology at the highest level."
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Hi there! I know that this PS is for 2008 Entry, but as I am a European Baccalaureate applicant, I already have my results and know my university. Also I will probably forget to post this when the time is right!
(I have translated my EB offers into the equivalent A-Levels to help you out, feel free to remove if you think its confusing.)
Cambridge - English - OFFER (after interview) AAA --> Firm Bristol - Drama and English - OFFER (after audition/interview) ABB with A in English --> Insurance Warwick - English and Theatre Studies - OFFER (after telephone interview) AAA Durham - English - REJECTION Edinburgh - English - OFFER BBB
I will be starting at Cambridge in October.
Personal Statement
‘An bhfuil aon sceal agat?’ (Have you got any news?) It is no coincidence that in the Irish language the word for ‘news’ and the word for ‘story’ (sceal) are one and the same. To me, literature is about novelty, and I have chosen to study English because I have always loved stories. Although my taste in literature - and perhaps more importantly my sense of its purpose - has changed and expanded since my childhood, my passion for reading has remained constant. I feel that literature of any genre, be it novel, poem or play, can offer a unique form of insight into the thoughts and emotions of human beings in social situations. The ability of the best authors to create engaging and multi-layered characters, within cohesive, gripping plot-structures, has always impressed me, and I have become increasingly interested in fiction as an alternative way of approaching the same questions as are asked by philosophers and sociologists. I enjoy investigating the skills and techniques used to write a good piece of literature, because for me, the analytical process only enriches the experience of reading. Compiling a list of favourite authors is always an arbitrary exercise (and subject to the mood of the moment), but it would be true to say that English-language authors currently engaging my interest include George Eliot, Margaret Atwood, John Wyndham and Oscar Wilde, as well as the poets Yeats and Heaney. At the same time, my fluency in French and Spanish has allowed me to explore the works of such writers as Anouilh, Sartre, Julio Cortázar and Manuel Rivas in the original. I feel this has expanded my understanding of the art and craft of writing in other cultures.
I joined the Yvonne Arnaud Youth theatre at the age of five and have been passionate about Drama ever since. I have been involved in fifteen stage productions, playing parts as diverse as Charlotte in “Oliver!”, the lead in “Macbeth”, and Bottom in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. In 2006, I performed at FEATS in Luxemburg, in ‘Roy’, a rewrite of Alfred Jarry’s ‘Pa Ubu’. I stage-managed a charity fashion show in March 2007 and have attended summer school at the Gaiety School of Acting in Dublin. Last spring I gained a Distinction in my Grade 8-Gold Medal LAMDA exam for Acting, and a Merit for Devised Performance. I also achieved a Commendation in Jazz & Modern Jazz dance exams at Grade 3. For the last three summers I have attended sailing school in Dublin, obtaining my Level 2 RYA youth certificate. I am keen to build on my acting experience by writing and performing while at university, as it is one area in which I am interested in building a career.
I have been class representative for two years running, and I was recently elected as vice-president of the Conseil des Elèves, our school’s student committee, which acts as a conduit between the student body and the school administration, and works to improve conditions and school policies on behalf of the student body. I am also a member of the Mentor System and a monitor on the school bus where I supervise the younger pupils.
In July 2007, I undertook two weeks of work experience in the Irish Attorney General’s Office in Dublin, during which I worked with a parliamentary draftsman and shadowed a solicitor from the Chief State Solicitor’s Office. I sat in on several cases and judicial reviews at the Four Courts, and also shadowed a Junior Counsel for two days. The lawyers, whom I observed, clearly required an analytical mind, the ability to argue well and to sustain their arguments with the use of evidence (textual or material), as well as a precise and coherent writing style. One of the many things this made me realise was how useful the skills developed through the study of English can be in professional life.
It crystallised my determination to study English at university, and thus pursue a subject which inspires and challenges me, and in which I have always excelled.
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This was for 2005 entry, kind of makes me cringe now but it might be of some use to someone.
Applied for BSc Biochemistry with French at:
Reading - conditional BBB
Birmingham - conditional BBB
York - conditional AAB
East Anglia - conditional BBC (insurance)
Sussex - conditional ABB
Manchester - conditional AAB (firm - and accepted me despite only getting ABC in the end, though I had to drop the French)
Personal Statement:
During the last 4 years, since being selected to attend a master class in science in my third year of secondary school, my interest into the world of science has developed into a fascination. This drove me to study biology and chemistry in greater depth at A level, where studying about the chemistry of living cells grabbed my attention. After extensive research, I came to realise that a biochemistry course combines the aspects of biology and chemistry which I find the most intriguing, as well as being ideal for my career aspirations.
Discussions that I have had with my uncle, who has achieved a degree in biochemistry, in addition to the fascinating lecture I attended on the link between antiperspirants and cancer, have confirmed that my interests lie firmly in biochemistry. Reading New Scientist weekly allows me to keep up with developments in areas of biochemistry and often compliments my studies.
The exciting area of science is making swift progress in providing insight into our understanding of life which I am eager to be a part of. I am keen to learn more about the practical applications of biochemistry in the causes and solutions of medical problems and also in biotechnology.
The course will allow the development of my laboratory and research skills which will be enormously valuable in a future career based in this field.
Having been fortunate enough to have had many opportunities to travel abroad to numerous countries, all of which I deeply value, I've found that the relaxed atmosphere and charming culture of France captivates me. This attraction encouraged me to study French at A level, after having studied the language at GCSE. During the GCSE course, I participated in a week
long trip to Laval in north west France, allowing me to make use of my French for the first time out of a school environment, which particularly enhanced my confidence in spoken French.
The best way to grasp culture is to experience it therefore an opportunity to spend a period of time in France as part of the course would give me the chance to continue to develop French as a second language after A level and would give me the exciting prospect to experience French culture in depth.
At secondary school, I received the annual award for Excellence in Science as well as receiving recognition for having 100% attendance and was Highly Commended for my GCSE results.
Additionally, I was one of six selected to be a member of the HSBC Schoolbranch bank staff. My role as cashier included dealing with students' enquiries and needs as well as completing the end of day balancing of the tills and the supporting bookkeeping records. Working as part of the Schoolbranch team allowed me to develop my communication skills and strengthen my mathematics, as well as learning to stay calm under pressure!
Outside college, my main interests are music; I particularly enjoy playing guitar which I began teaching myself four years ago, and also adventure sports. I was a member of my secondary school's Outdoor Adventure Association, which included independent activities such as kayaking and rock climbing, in addition to team building activities like orienteering and problem solving games. Furthermore, I have been an avid skier since my early childhood and have recently started snowboarding.
On finishing my degree, I would like to go on to study at MSc or PhD level which I hope will assist me in achieving my ambition to become a researcher in the field of biomedicine or biotechnology.
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Removed from the wiki. For uploading when cycle has finished
Spoiler:
Financial decision influences both individuals and organisations and an understanding of finance seems to me to be one of the most important ways in which resources can be generated and managed. Individual decisions of saving or spending, business incentives, even government policy is based on finance. I believe a degree related to finance will help me excel in many different fields of work including accountancy, business, economics and management. Coming from Bangladesh, the same financially deprived Less Economically Developed Country as Dr. Yunus, I have been inspired by his ideas about microfinance. His unconventional approach to lending money to entrepreneurs who were too poor to qualify for a traditional bank loan have motivated me to seek a financial degree so that I can have a career which can make a positive difference in people's lives.
I was fortunate enough to get a summer work experience placement at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Geneva, Switzerland. I worked with the finance and budgeting department dealing with the voluntary repatriation of refugees and asylum-seekers to South Sudan which is one of their major operations. I was required to organize and administer staff and budget data and create a large spreadsheet by extracting data from staffing components of different countries. The aim was to analyze current budgeting for 2008 and 2009 and be able to easily identify areas of under or over staffing. I also gained work experience in accounting and finance by working with the finance department at Faith Regen Foundation, a charity organization. Here I learnt about book keeping, organizing petty cash receipts, creating expenditure spread sheets and SAGE software. I have also applied to the American Express bank for a work experience placement during the summer of 2008 to further my understanding of the world of finance.
I currently have a part time job at Barratts working as a Sales Advisor and this has helped me to become more confident and to get experience of working in a team. I have learnt about budgeting to ensure efficiency whilst maintaining profits and about the applications of financial tools in every day life. My job requires me to socialize with all sorts of people from different backgrounds and ages and to handle situations in a professional and mature manner. I believe that this will help me adjust to a university environment.
I feel that my A Levels in Mathematics, Economics and Sociology have given me a sound background for my chosen course. They require the ability to interpret data, both quantitative and qualitative and to be able to solve problems; qualities which I believe will be helpful for university level study. Economics in particular has helped widen my understanding of firms, economies and government policy making and has made me realize the importance of finance in society and how capital may function as an incentive. I really enjoyed studying market systems and the monetary policy.
My free time is taken up by horse riding, reading, writing and web design. I volunteer at a disabled riding centre and the satisfaction I feel every time I see a disabled child really enjoying themselves and laughing is enormous. I am currently working towards the '100 Hours Volunteer Reward Scheme'. I enjoy reading and analysing literature and am very keen on creative writing. I write short stories, two of which have been published in a respected teen newspaper. I also took part in the ProShare competition.
I am keen to extend my knowledge, skills and understanding while learning from others and working with them. I feel that university is definitely the experience which will help me to do this. I am aware that the world of finance, business and economics is ever changing and my chosen degree subject will prove to be challenging but I look forward to over coming those challenges.
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I applied for Law (2008 entry).
Offers:
-Oxford -15/20 in OIB
-LSE -14/20 with 15 in maths and English
-Warwick -14/20 with 12 in English
-Nottingham -14/20
-Exeter -14/20
I think they all ask for AAA if you're doing A levels.
I also got 19/30 in the LNAT, just in case anyone is interested.
And here is the personal statement, I think it's very cliché-y but considering that I'm going to Oxford in October I don't really care.
I am a strong advocate of the need for equality and justice, and this is why the study of law fascinates me. It is not only the application of the law that interests me but also the arguments behind the creation of laws. Indeed, I first became aware of what a controversial subject law can be in 2006, when the French government tried to pass the CPE (the first employment contract). Many opposed this law as being discriminatory to young people, while the government itself upheld it as being able to combat the high unemployment rate among young people. Was this law unjust or was it simply trying to fight the discrimination which was already present in the work place? This sort of debate interests me greatly as it shows the kind of arguments and reasoning that making laws involves. It is also an example of how the law touches on many aspects of the world around us; another reason why I believe that law is such an important and relevant subject in the modern world.
My interest in the study of law has led to my reading "The Law Machine" by Marcel Berlins and Clare Dyer as well as "Letters to a Law Student" by Nicholas McBride. I found these books very helpful as the former allowed me to learn more about the legal system, as well as challenging the problems which the current system has, while the latter gave me insight into the qualities needed in order to study law. These books have heightened my interest in law and as a result, I am hoping to do work experience in the House of Lords. I think that this experience would be very interesting, as I would gain more knowledge about how laws are created in the UK. I believe that this subject is especially interesting in the UK as the legal system is based on common law, unlike in France. I think that this is one of the most remarkable aspects of the legal system as one judgement could change an entire area of law.
Studying law also appeals to me because it requires a clear, logical mind, which I believe I have acquired through studying maths and the sciences (physics, chemistry and biology). I am also able to express views and opinions and to create strong persuasive arguments, skills which I have learnt through my study of English literature and history for the OIB. Moreover, I have done numerous projects (many 'exposes' or long talks for English literature classes and TPE; a research project presented in front of examiners) which have helped to augment my research and public speaking skills. I have had some problems academically because moving to France at the age of 13 upset my education as I had to learn to speak a new language and to adapt to a new culture. However, I am now settled and speak French, and I believe that the experience of moving to a new country has enabled me to become more confident, especially when facing new challenges.
In my spare time, I like to read both classics and modern literature and I particularly enjoy American classics, my favourite book being "To kill a mockingbird" by Harper Lee. I like going to the theatre, especially to see plays by Shakespeare, and last year I acted in the school play. As well as this, I am interested in other cultures, which is why I've chosen to continue taken Spanish classes.
I am a responsible and hardworking student and am looking forward to the challenge of studying at university. I believe that the skills and knowledge I gain from studying a law degree will create a solid foundation for a successful career in the field of law.
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English and French 08:
Warwick- English and French- AAB (firm)
Edinburgh- English Literature and French- BBB (insurance)
Cardiff- English Literature and French- AAB
Exeter- English and French- ABB
Durham- Combined Arts- rejected
AS Results:
English Lit: A
French: A
History: A
Chemistry: C
General Studies: A
A Level Results:
English Lit: A
French: A
History: A
General Studies: B
Now heading off to Warwick at the end of September!
My desire to study both English Literature and French stems from a deep interest in the relationship between language and literature. Roland Barthes referred to literature as 'the question minus the answer' and it is this that captivates me because the 'answer' varies so greatly from reader to reader. It is not just the answer that intrigues me but also how the 'question' is constructed and I find that the foreign language introduces a new perspective to literature.
Studying English Literature to a more advanced level has been the basis of broadening my reading. I enjoy exploring the diversity of poetry through reading various eras of poets, being especially drawn to the metaphysical poets because of how they employ wit and intellect. Additionally, I have liked the works of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes and was interested in how
Hughes traces their complex relationship in 'Birthday Letters'. I also found the confessional nature of Plath's poems striking and explored this further through reading 'The Bell Jar'. While I enjoy poetry and the novel, drama also appeals to me because of the added dimension it gives to a text. 'Death of a Salesman' is an example of this and I was particularly interested in how Miller uses time and place in demonstrating the downfall of his protagonist. My study of literature has been complemented by studying History which has allowed me to deepen my understanding of various areas of literature in context. Examining the early Cold War provided me with a clearer understanding of the political climate that influenced George Orwell's
vision of the future world in '1984'.
I was first introduced to French fiction by reading 'Le Petit Prince' and by acquiring a firm grasp of the language I was then able to explore French literature. More recently I have read Camus's 'L'Etranger' which built on existentialist ideas that I first discovered in Sartre's 'Les Mains Sales'. I am interested in the development of this philosophy among French writers,
especially in the context of World War II in France and the French Resistance. Pursuing French at degree level especially appeals to me because of the opportunity to spend a year abroad. I feel it is essential to live and study in France for an extended period of time in order to
develop significant fluency in the language as well as to experience the culture first hand. I have visited France on several occasions but I look forward to taking a French language course in Nice this Easter to improve my ability to use the language effectively.
In my spare time I particularly enjoy music. I play bass guitar in the school jazz band and as the current leader of the band I have been able to further my leadership and organisational skills, particularly during our tour to Italy in 2007. I have also enjoyed working with younger members of the school through teaching and as organising music groups and I hope to continue participating in musical activities at university. My participation in a World
Challenge Expedition to Bolivia in 2006 was an invaluable experience. This presented me with many challenges of organisation, time-management and team work which I was able to overcome through determination. Perhaps the most rewarding experience during the expedition was a week spent in a remote village involved in teaching and repairs to the local school. During the
expedition I was also able to develop the basic Spanish I had learnt in Year 9 and I am very keen to take this up again at university, as part of my course or outside my studies.
I am now looking forward to the challenges and opportunities of university. I relish the thought of deepening my understanding of language and literature and I hope to contribute fully to university life.
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Applied for Classics (Q800) in 2007/8 to: Oxford- AAA- Accepted
Edinburgh- BBB
St Andrews- ABB
UCL- ABB
SOAS (for study of religions and sanskrit)- BBB (though I sent them an additional letter)
A level results: As in Maths, Chemistry, Latin, Greek and Gen Studs.
Personal Statement:
Ralph Waldo Emerson said “language is the archives of history”, an idea intrinsically linked to Classics. Through systematic linguistic examination, detailed literary analysis, and study of the histories, I hope to understand the Greeks and Romans.
Studying the classical languages made me think more about the similarities amongst other languages I have met. Being brought up in a bilingual environment made me aware of the differences in various languages from an early age. This curiosity, which my parents noticed, grew as I was exposed to more languages. I now learn Sanskrit in the holidays and find the similarities between it and Latin and Greek absorbing. I have been learning Mandarin for two years. It is challenging, yet satisfying giving me a new perspective on language through its idiosyncratic pictographic nature. I enjoyed Deutscher’s ‘The Unfolding of Language’ as it described the natural development of language. The evolution of words and languages parallel to society intrigues me and the opportunities for philological and etymological exploration in Classics are limitless. Ostler’s discussion of the spread of the linguistic empires and their respective societies was also exciting. His ideas on the factors governing the spread of languages gave me an insight into the growth and decline of Greek and Latin. Classics appeals to me as I will be able to study linguistic structure, whilst understanding the societies by analysing their extant texts.
To my mind, literature contains huge opportunities to understand people, as it creates a perfectly preserved microcosm, whilst dealing with eternal human predicaments. I have enjoyed examining the heroic ideal, especially in the context of epic poetry. I found Griffin’s ‘Homer; on Life and Death’ enlightening, as it led me to examine many characters from a new perspective. Griffin’s favourable presentation of Achilles helped me see past his physicality and arrogance to his principles and tragic fate with much more sympathy.
Reading Greek drama has given me a sharp insight into the values and lifestyles of the Greek people. I found the tragedies compelling and thought-provoking, especially as they examined complex moral dilemmas. Euripides’ exploration of the themes of silence and oaths, and the irony of Phaedra’s plight in ‘Hippolytus’ moved me deeply. In contrast, Aristophanes’ Wasp was highly amusing, whilst making me more aware of the contemporary Athenian political infrastructure.
Studying Chemistry and Mathematics developed my logic and assimilation of new concepts . They also made me appreciate the work done by Archimedes, Pythagoras and other ancient thinkers. In LVI, I began tutoring Classics and Maths; a deeply rewarding and symbiotic experience. Teaching has taught me more about their linguistic structures and about the challenges of teaching.
As chairman of our Classics society, I helped organise a classics evening, where Dr Angus Bowie gave an exciting lecture about Greek sacrifice. I relish debating, and am improving as I gain experience. It has made me more analytical and increased my clarity of thought and expression. I also represent my school quiz team. This, combined with my role as school Librarian, school Judo captain and Junior House prefect has improved my time management and efficiency. Being Junior House prefect honed my communication and leadership skills. Such diverse responsibilities have given me confidence to push myself further in all that I do. I participated in Young Enterprise, developing my team-work skills considerably. I hope this demonstrates my ability to juggle numerous commitments with dedication.
Tolkien said “no language is justly studied merely as an aid to other purposes. It will in fact better serve other purposes, philological or historical, when it is studied for love, for itself”. This encapsulates my motivation to study classics; that I may experience the beauty of the languages simultaneously understanding their speakers.
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Ok Here is mine. I will be starting Uni in a few weeks - so it will be fine to go up.
Applied to :
UCL - Classical Archaeology and Classical Civilisation (offer ABB + As) Firm - Offer Met
Leicester - Ancient History and Archaeology (offer 300 points)
Warwick - Ancient History and Classical Archaeology ( offer ABB + As)
Newcastle - Ancient History and Archaeology ( offer ABB)
Edinburgh - Ancient History and Classical Archaeology (rejected)
Anyway - my PS.
My zeal for classical History is built upon a rigorous and at times relentless pursuit of the truth in all aspects of life. I unite this with an intrinsic scepticism of anything I cannot personally prove or endorse with physical evidence or reliable literature. I feel that this unquenchable desire for the truth is essential in the study of ancient history, and thus I feel that the subject area is perfectly suited to the foundations of my character. This is because of the challenge and debate surrounding the subject; the facts are not just given to you. As a scholar of classical history you have learn how to excavate and interpret them yourself and I think this way of working fits my learning style. I enjoy researching and evaluating the facts independently, rather than having the answer handed to me. In addition, I am always ready to challenge the 'accepted' view of situations or facts, as my class teachers will know all too well.
History is more than dates; it is a living, exciting subject. This is the reason why I aspire to study the archaeological aspects of ancient history; it is the ever-changing nature of the discipline coupled with the hands on approach, which make it a target for my studies. In addition, I think it is extremely important to learn within the context of the times. I wish to study the art, religion and political systems of the classical world, in order to enhance my understanding of the history and archaeology of the time.
The Classics department at my school is very active and enthusiastic. I have visited classical sites in Rome, Athens and Carlisle. It is not until you actually see the places in the textbook pictures that I feel you can fully understand the immense power of Rome and Athens or the amazing feat of organisation that is Hadrian's Wall. Hence it is an aspiration of mine to be able to study at a site of significant archaeological interest.
What most frustrates me about my current studies in the history of the classical world, mainly through my Class Civ A level, is that within the course there is not enough scope to concentrate on details or the physical facts behind the theories. At present, I feel I am just name checking the history for marks in exams, rather than actually properly studying the subject. My main academic aims at university are centred on gaining an intricate detailed knowledge of Ancient History. Presently I am just dipping my feet in a giant lake of knowledge. I desperately want to dive in!
I would describe myself as a confident, outgoing person. I grew up playing a multitude of team sports, and still continue to enjoy playing rugby. This climate of team sports has helped me develop important team skills, and I think that I am capable of successfully joining and succeeding within any group of people. I proved my ability to work within a team when I started my part time job. I joined as a temporary worker at Boots, with many of the staff being older women, who were hardly my peers. However, I managed to successfully slot into the team and was offered a permanent position. My part-time job enables me to interact with hundreds of people daily, all from different backgrounds and with different needs; this has greatly enhanced my people skills. Along-side learning to be a cog in the machine I also have had much leadership experience, completing both the JLSA and CLSA leadership awards. These have helped me develop myself into a confident leader of people. I think the university experience will utilise and expand my key people skills, and enable me to develop into a confident employable person.
My three main objectives for University are thus; firstly I would like to acquire a detailed knowledge of the, history, archaeology and general context of the ancient world. Secondly, enhance my people skills in order to make me as employable as possible after my time at university. Thirdly, to have the most fun years of my life.
I don't know which section it would go in. Ancient History ? Classical Archaeology ? Archaeology ? Classical Civilisation ? But wherever is fine.
Success in Mathematics and Physics has always been my greatest source of academic confidence
and propelled both my higher education and career aspirations. For this reason, during my
Lower Sixth year, I chose to participate in the Engineering Education Scheme (EES). Through
participation in this scheme not only did I learn many basic engineering principles, but had
the opportunity to work alongside several engineers from a local aeronautical engineering
business, Ipeco. From working with these professionals I came to understand the values of
research, design refinements and manufacturing, as well as the applications of principles
learnt in AS level Physics and Mathematics. In these pursuits I gained a great insight into
both the academic and applied sides of the field of engineering and confirmed my longer-term
aspirations, to study for an engineering based degree in higher education and to pursue a
successful career in this field.
In pursuing this scheme I have attained a BA Crest Gold award and vastly increased the range
of skills I possess, including deadline management, leadership, report writing and most
notably those for public speaking. As no members of the team felt confident in the role of
speaker I had to exercise my flexibility on many occasions to present the team's ideas and
project progress to professionals at our sponsoring company, judges from the scheme and
finally our entire school in morning assembly.
Through my work in the EES I feel certain I wish to pursue a career in engineering, and after
having completed a Headstart programme at the University of Sheffield I confirmed that
Mechanical Engineering was the degree I wished pursue. I had the opportunity to enjoy
university teaching in many of the main disciplines of engineering. I particularly enjoyed
experiencing laboratory work in mechanical engineering, where, as part a small team, our task
was to calculate the efficiency of a single cylinder diesel engine. It was a challenging
exercise as we were required to calculate the mechanical power of the engine, rate of fuel
consumption and enthalpy of combustion of diesel. The task was completed successfully. With my
experiences at Headstart and the EES, I am in a position to make an informed decision about my
future pursuits in education.
Away from my academic undertakings, I enjoy sailing at a local yacht club, regularly competing
in friendly inter- and intra-club racing, as well as hockey, playing Saturday league men's
hockey for a local club. In addition to the physical aspects of these sports, I participate
enthusiastically in the social activities which go with them. When I am neither studying nor
pursuing my sporting commitments, I work, part-time, at a local snooker club, where I have
worked since August 2006. As part of my job I regularly interact with customers on a friendly
level. Through my job, I have developed both teamwork and people skills, in addition to saving
money for the vast financial commitment of studying at university.
After very pleasing AS examination results, I continue my studies in Mathematics, Physics and
Geology but, discontinue those in Chemistry. Whilst having thoroughly enjoyed the study of
this subject (the same can be said for all of my academic pursuits) and having enjoyed an
appreciative level of success here, I feel Chemistry will not be directly relevant to my
higher education and degree plans. This has allowed me to begin the pursuit of Further
Mathematics at AS level.
My experiences outside of the timetabled week; my anticipated high levels of success at A2
level and my deliberated focusing of my studies closer towards the field of engineering all
amount to giving me the tools necessary for the transition to an Engineering degree. So with
my undivided commitment to an engineering degree, I feel more than ready for what awaits me.
I hope someone finds that useful, and sorry about the formatting, but you have to keep it in the line limit!
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Heres mine for Classical Studies i applied to:
Exeter (firm)
Royal Holloway (ins)
Bristol
Manchester
Liverpool
and it worked for me! hope it helps someone
The Ancient World has fascinated me from a young age when I become interested in ancient mythology, since then my natural curiosity about the subject has intensified. Its broad nature and opportunity for interpretation and debate is part of the reason I feel so passionately about the subject but ultimately it is the importance of the past and its relevance to the present day has led me to want to peruse Classical Studies at degree level.
Studying philosophy at a-level has further confirmed my passion for the subject. As my knowledge of the subject developed I became increasingly aware of the influence the Ancient Greeks, especially, have on our day-to-day life. To illustrate Socrates not only had huge influence in his day, inspiring his student Plato another founding father of western philosophy and influencing all five major schools of ancient Greece, but his use of the dialectic has influenced modern philosophers such as Hegel and Marx who have huge influence on the present world. I also feel the skills acquired in my other A-level subjects, Law and English Language and Literature, lead themselves well into exploring the classical world.
As well as exploring the philosophical side of the Greeks and Romans I am also interested in the culture and day to day lives of their people: how they lived, interacted, worked, played and expressed themselves, and how they dealt with disease, war and death. I am particularly keen to explore the lives of ancient women and the roles they served within society. The opportunity to learn an ancient language truly excites me, I feel not only will it open so many fascinating doors for me but it will also help me further my understanding of the English language. It is also a skill that will help in my desire to become involved in research.
An important aspect of my life outside college is my love for drama and the arts. Recently I have had the opportunity to be involved in a performance of Aristophanes’ The Frogs, which we performed at Milton Keynes Theatre. Not only did this allow me to work with a wide variety of people but it also gave me the opportunity to use my communication and organisational skills.
I have also been involved with Millennium Volunteers, an organization that encourages young people to become involved with their local community. Through them I began volunteering at a local riding school, where I helped children and people with learning difficulties how to ride. I found it extremely rewarding and great fun watching them progress and become more confident around the horses. I also found that at times it could be quite challenging encouraging me to use my people skills to my full ability and to remain calm and determined.
My love for learning and academia is something I hope will never end, I feel confident that the skills and knowledge I will acquire though my university degree will prepare me for a future career in academic research. It is difficult to imagine myself anywhere else but higher education.
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Medicine 2008 entry
Manchester - offer AAB (inc Maths and Chem) very firmly accepted
Glasgow - offer AAb (inc Maths and Chem) insurance
Newcastle - interview but then rejected
Leeds - rejected straight away
Having a career in medicine and becoming a doctor is something I have aspired to for many years. Essentially, the unique combination of academic, ethical and emotional challenges presented by medicine fascinates me and I firmly believe that my love of problem-solving both on a scientific and social level makes me capable of taking them on. I want to have a positive and constructive career where the work I do directly benefits others and makes a real difference to their lives. Last year, I attended a Medlink course at Nottingham University which gave me a better understanding of medicine and the variety of careers it offers. Hearing from current medical students and doctors about their experiences was really inspiring and made me even more determined to pursue a career in medicine.
Since October 2006, I have volunteered at my local hospital for three hours each week. This has taught me a great deal about the reality of working in a hospital environment. I spend my time chatting to patients, serving tea and cleaning and tidying around the ward. Although at times it is difficult being with bereaved families or distressed patients, I really like getting to know people I would not usually meet and observing how hospital wards operate on a daily basis. Recently, I was privileged to spend time shadowing consultants in ---- Hospital. I really enjoyed talking to doctors and observing how they work as part of a large team to provide care for patients. In Yr 10, I spent several weeks volunteering at a day-centre for adults with cerebral palsy and three months helping a lady who was in remission from cancer by preparing her food and doing general housework. These experiences have increased my awareness of the diverse needs of people in the wider community. For two weeks I assisted in a resourced primary school with children aged 5-7. I enjoyed being given responsibility for leading groups of children in different activities and received positive feedback from their teachers.
At my own school I have also been eager to take on positions of responsibility. Between Yr 8 and Yr 11 I represented my form on the student council which involved listening carefully to other people's concerns, discussing them at meetings and deciding how best to address them. I further developed my communication skills by becoming a member of the Debating Society and taking part in the German Exchange. Since applying successfully for the role of senior prefect, I have formed an environmental action team consisting of staff and students. I now chair weekly meetings as we work towards achieving the Eco-Schools Awards. As a trained Peer Drug Educator, I have prepared and taught lessons to inform younger pupils about drugs and their effects. I am an avid reader and particularly enjoyed helping Yr 7 pupils with literacy problems by taking part in a Paired Reading Scheme.
I also have many interests outside school. I love listening to music and regularly attend live concerts with friends as well as playing the piano at home. I play tennis to a high standard and have been on the ---- County Development Squad and played for David Lloyd's Under 18's team. I am a keen runner and enjoy the personal challenges this presents. Recently, I completed two 10k races raising money for Cancer Research UK. Since May, I have held a part-time job as a waitress in a National Trust restaurant. I enjoy working with members of the public and being part of a busy team. I am also a dedicated member of Millennium Volunteers, having achieved 175 hours on various projects including an art mural, conservation work and continuing help at a local primary school.
Overall, I know I am and will continue to be an enthusiastic and able student, eager to commit to the challenge and responsibility of life-long learning. I have the potential to become a competent and sympathetic doctor dedicated to a career in medicine spent trying to alleviate the suffering of others and improve their quality of life.
Its painful to think how long this took to write. Seemed to work though, hope it helps
Location: London (but i'm still a Lancashire girl at heart!!)
Posts: 473
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I applied for 2008 entry:
LSE ~ Business Mathematics & Statistics ~ offer (AAA incl Maths & F.Maths) {firm} Kings ~ Mathematics with Management & Finance ~ offer (A in Maths, BB in F.Maths and Biology or Chemistry) {insurance} UCL ~ Mathematics with Economics ~ offer (AAA incl Maths & F.Maths) Manchester ~ Mathematics with Financial Mathematics ~ offer (A in Maths, BB in F.Maths and Biology or Chemistry) Imperial ~ Mathematics with Stats for Finance ~ application withdrawn
As levels:
Biology A
Chemistry A
Maths A
Psychology A
Further Maths taken up at beginning of year 13 alongside my A2s.
Predicted grades @ application:
Biology A
Chemistry A
Maths A
F.Maths A
Actual grades at end of year 13:
Biology A
Chemistry B
Maths A
F. Maths A
Am off to LSE in 2 weeks
I cannot remember a time in my life when the principles of Mathematics have not been lurking in the shadows, encouraging me to think methodically, analyse systematically and evaluate logically all sorts of situations, from whether or not to take an umbrella out shopping with me, to resolving arguments and disagreements between friends. This is what fuels my interest in mathematics, the reassurance provided by its methods and principles. I love how in Mathematics you can actually prove that you are right. I love that eureka moment when you’ve spent hours, days or weeks contemplating a mathematical problem and suddenly the realisation of the answer dawns upon you, it is a rush of satisfaction. I love most of all the vast range of doors which mathematics opens; I’m fascinated with how a discipline so old can be so relevant in a modern, ever changing society like today’s. In A level mathematics I have particularly enjoyed algebraic manipulation, an introduction to calculus and complex numbers. I am currently reading ‘Mathematics for Economics and Finance’ by Martin Anthony and Norman Biggs, in which many of the methods I am keen to explore and develop at university are discussed.
During the Summer I spent time exploring my interest of the financial world, completing work experience at an Investors Relations firm and a Portfolio/Investment management company. My two weeks at Shared Value, an Investors Relations firm based in London, gave me a brilliant hands-on introduction to the financial sector, with annual reports at my fingertips. Being surrounded by conversations relating to clients and their ups and downs, I was quick to learn what affects the desirability of a company. It was also great preparation for my two weeks at JM Hartwell, a portfolio and investment management firm based in New York. Here, I was lucky enough to experience the rippling effect of the economy, as my time at the firm coincided with the recent credit/mortgage crisis in the USA. I also did projects analysing the financial and investment desirability of companies, these projects helped to improve my analytical skills.
During both of these work placements I also gained invaluable advice and help from a range of well experienced professionals.
At my school I am an active member of the 6th form council and enjoy being able to help make decisions which affect the students. Last year I took part in Young Enterprise, helping with a range of different activities, from the design and project managing of Christmas Cards to modelling in the fashion show. I am currently taking part in a community sports leader’s scheme which has enabled me to build leadership and organisational skills, as well as giving me a chance to help coach the year 7 netball team, a sport which I enjoy greatly.
Last summer I helped coach a year 11 student in preparation for their GCSE mathematics exam. I thoroughly enjoyed this and was delighted that I could use my maths skills to benefit someone else and help them understand the work. I am hoping to do the same this summer.
I enjoy drama and, last year, took part in the school’s production of Les Miserables. This year I am performing in the 6th form production of the play, Shakers.
I also enjoy sport and find it a useful form of relaxation.
Outside of school I like to go dancing and horse riding, which I have done for many years.
In my spare time I enjoy reading publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The Economist as they keep me up to date with financial and economic events. I also enjoy reading and have recently read ‘Letters to a Young Mathematician’ and ‘How To Cut a Cake’, both by Ian Stewart.
I am anxious to pursue a career which incorporates my love for mathematics with my interest in the financial sector and the economy, so I am moving towards a future in investment banking or corporate finance.
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