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Personal Statement:American Studies
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American Studies Personal Statement
I love English. There are a variety of clichés I could use to describe my fascination for the English language; however, emotion is best illustrated by simplicity. The specific aspect of the English Literature and American Studies degree that interests me the most is that it focuses on a group of countries that are geographically close but culturally diverse. I was first attracted by the English Literature and American Studies degree because it challenged my previous experiences as a tourist and subsequent assumptions concerning America. I began to consider the plurality of cultures and countries; “the Americas” rather than America. An obvious starting point for me in exploring American Literature has been the work of Arthur Miller. I particularly admire the way he combines classical conventions of drama with modern themes; the old with the new. In a way, my response to Miller’s work reflects my vision of American literature: the sheer range and scope excite me. This links with my earlier reference to “the Americas”. As a Spanish speaker, of native fluency, I would also wish to explore the literature of Latin America (both the original text and translation) so that I can catch the nuances of the author’s language whilst exploring the standpoint of his/her translator.
I attended Spanish schools until the age of ten, when I later transferred to an international school. Because of my long standing Spanish education, I was able to complete the IGCSE two years early, as well as the AS a year early, and the A2 likewise, achieving top grades in all three examinations. Being educated in the Spanish system for a decade, however, did not hinder my fluency in the English language; I took to the subject with great celerity. In my later years at the international school, my ability in English was recognised. In October, 2006, when I was in Year 10, I was identified as being a particularly able English student and, as a result, given the opportunity (along with eight other students who also excelled in English) to study Latin and to take IGCSE English Language a year early. The task of studying GCSE Latin, without previous knowledge, on a reduced timetable, was an invigorating experience. It helped me to appreciate the nuances of Literature and encouraged me to become more adventurous, more esoteric, in my choice of reading.
I have recently set up a book-club and a creative writing club with a fellow student, in order to both expand my knowledge and inspire younger pupils to read critically so that they do not just enjoy but also respect the works of valued authors. I am particularly interested in post-modernistic works, philosophy, and psychology (principally Jung’s psychoanalytic theories). My hope in reading books on these themes is to comprehend more deeply the world around me, drawing inspiration not just from nature but also other people’s perceptions of the world. These factors spur me on to experiment in creative writing, whether poetry or prose. I am also an active member of the Sixth Form social committee (organising social events, charity fundraisers and public speaking) and the debating club (where I demonstrated my skills in research analysis, public speaking and diplomacy). In my earlier years, I also formed part of a student presidency in Years 7 and 11.
Coming from an international school I find it quite easy to integrate within different communities, forming strong and lasting friendships. Thus, I believe I shall not have great difficulty in meeting the challenges of University life. After all, I would be sharing the same objectives with those around me: to explore my chosen subject in depth within a community of like-minded friends.
Universities Applied to:
- University of Warwick - Offer (ABB) Firm.
- University of Nottingham - Offer (AB) Insurance.
- University of Sussex - Offer (ABB) Declined.
- University of East Anglia - Offer (BBB) Declined.
- University of Leicester - Offer (ABB) Declined.
Currently studying at The University of Warwick.
Grades Achieved:
- English Literature (A2) - A*
- Spanish (A2) - A*
- Drama and Theatre Studies (A2) - A*
- English Language (A2) - A
