Personal Statement:English Literature 2

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English Literature Personal Statement

I wish to study English Literature at degree level as it has strong relevance to a career I hope to pursue: teaching English. My passion for English has often extended out of the classroom and into my personal leisure time as well as extra-curricular activities. I was selected from one of my previous English classes to take part in the collective production of a poetry anthology between various schools across the county. This was a greatly enjoyable experience as it allowed me to bring my love of creative writing into application.

The reading and analysis of literature has always been my number one hobby. I have a wide selection in my own personal library and I believe this has helped me to develop an analytical talent that has permeated my school work. For example, I achieved full marks in my AS English Literature coursework for the analysis of a key character in 'The Tempest'. I am familiar with various other works of Shakespeare and feel that this, along with my personal reading, allowed me to produce the essay of which I am proudest over all my school work gone before. The way in which religion, politics and the media has shaped and altered literature over time fascinates me, and it is my belief that the insight, messages and plain escapism of literature is something that all people can benefit from as well as enjoy and I hope that as an English teacher I would be able to pass this freedom on to others.

I also take a keen interest in other art forms such as music, having played the flute for over 5 years and, from the skills I have learned, self-taught myself to play the piano.

I have undertaken work experience in both primary and secondary schools; I also spend an afternoon a week assisting the teacher of a Reception class at a local infant school. This experience has enabled me to gain an in-depth view of the position of teaching and also developed vital skills such as patience, planning and decision-making.

Voluntary activities I have participated in include accompanying the lower school on a school trip to the Natural History Museum, assisting teachers whilst they teach younger year groups, applying to do voluntary work in a charity shop and holding a position on the student council of my 6th form consortium, and being the secretary of my school council. In addition to this, I am planning to apply for the recently created position of Head Girl.

My personal skills have also benefited from my 3 years work as a sales assistant in a local toy shop. Duties which have been performed on a regular basis include serving customers, taking care of orders and designing and arranging displays. Regularly talking to customers of all ages has allowed me to significantly develop my communication skills, which will be invaluable to my future career as a teacher. In addition to this, skills such as punctuality, reliability, the capability to work as part of a team and good time management have been improved which will benefit me in both university life and throughout my future career.

A long-time personal goal of mine was fulfilled last year by doing a sky-dive which raised well over £1,100 for a children's charity. In doing so I built up my confidence and determination and the adrenaline rush has left me seeking that same buzz again! I am planning to do another skydive later on in the year.

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