English

My question: What can be done to boost your application for English Literature, particularly with regards to work experience, where it is difficult to gain directly relevant work experience, unlike in subjects like Law, Engineering etc.

What can you do to show your enthusiasm for English, apart from reading voraciously?

Reply 1

SomeGirl91

I knew someone who took a gap year and taught in a school, and also went to Afria and taught there. He got in to study English Literature at Cambridge so I think this could be a good idea. However English is moslty about reading and creativity - maybe you could say you write short stories and poetry?

Also, maybe try to set up a school paper or magazine?

I hope this helps! xx

Reply 2

anonymous5555

OP

SomeGirl91

I knew someone who took a gap year and taught in a school, and also went to Afria and taught there. He got in to study English Literature at Cambridge so I think this could be a good idea. However English is moslty about reading and creativity - maybe you could say you write short stories and poetry?

Also, maybe try to set up a school paper or magazine?

I hope this helps! xx

Wow thanks for the quick reply!

Unfortunately I don't think the traveling and teaching idea would particularly interest me, for several reasons, though I admire their work!

Yeah, I have done that. As well as looking good on a personal statement etc, it's great fun!

Reply 3

*pitseleh*

20

Really, no-one is going to give a flying monkey about work experience if you're applying for English Literature. If you've got something really relevant - like amateur journalism experience or editorial work or something - then put it down, but don't devote much space to it; a passing mention will suffice. I didn't put down any relevant work experience, and am now studying English at Oxford. It's really about your literary abilities, not your employment history.

Reply 4

anonymous5555

OP

*pitseleh*

Really, no-one is going to give a flying monkey about work experience if you're applying for English Literature. If you've got something really relevant - like amateur journalism experience or editorial work or something - then put it down, but don't devote much space to it; a passing mention will suffice. I didn't put down any relevant work experience, and am now studying English at Oxford. It's really about your literary abilities, not your employment history.

OK, thanks for clearing that up. The only reason I ask, however, is because I have been told that as well as showing your ability (which would be evident from your grades) , it is necessary to show passion for English, and convince the tutors that you're genuinely excited at the prospect of studying it for 3 years. How can you do that?

Reply 5

*pitseleh*

20

anonymous5555

OK, thanks for clearing that up. The only reason I ask, however, is because I have been told that as well as showing your ability (which would be evident from your grades) , it is necessary to show passion for English, and convince the tutors that you're genuinely excited at the prospect of studying it for 3 years. How can you do that?

Talk about a few texts with enthusiasm and insight - that's really all you need to do. Show that you've read beyond your A-level syllabus. That sort of thing. :smile:

Reply 6

malibu22

Get reading! Find out who the 'clever' ones are to read and get cracking.

You could try to write for a local newspaper or something...

Or try and find some underpriveleged kids to teach...

But mostly read.

Indulge your imagination.

Reply 7

malibu22

anonymous5555

OK, thanks for clearing that up. The only reason I ask, however, is because I have been told that as well as showing your ability (which would be evident from your grades) , it is necessary to show passion for English, and convince the tutors that you're genuinely excited at the prospect of studying it for 3 years. How can you do that?

Oh... because it is english you have to write an interesting personal statement.

I judge it on a joke per line ratio- then hope that your statement falls into the hands of someone with a sense of humour.