Personal Statement - French 1

French Personal Statement 1

I have a zeal for French and the nation that is France. In fact France is rapidly becoming my second home. I spent five weeks there last summer, and I am aiming to spend at least fifteen weeks of next year at ** ******* **** furthering my knowledge about the aspects of French life that interest me. As French is one of the most widely spoken modern languages in the world, I feel it is an essential tool for bridging divides between countries. It is the centrality to the vast number of cultures that has inspired me to study this modern language. Subsequently, I would hope to continue with further education in this field and use the acquired expertise to find a financially orientated career in the City. The literature, art and cinema of France are among the richest and most influential in the world and I count myself fortunate to be able to experience them and wish to go on doing so - I therefore feel this course is the most apt method for carrying this out.

As well as my French-orientated aspirations, I have enjoyed my Advanced Subsidiary courses and additional Oxbridge sessions in the multidisciplinary combination of Biology, Chemistry and Physics besides French. They have broadened my knowledge allowing me to interact with those most learned in these specialised fields. This in turn permitted me to conduct work experience at The London Clinic where I assisted patients in every approach I could in terms of reassurance. Furthermore, I have been proud to be awarded with three academic effort and achievement prizes during my time at *******. The presentations, which I gave on the topics of Electrocardiograms in Biology and ** ******** **** in French, demonstrated my ability to communicate a point and to interrelate well with others. As a library assistant my duties include organising the book loan system and controlling discipline. I also conduct tours of my school for prospective parents and I have gained valuable skills carrying out house duties. These experiences have shown that I had to be responsible and capable in dealing with an array of people.

Additionally, I participate in a wide sphere of extra-curricular activities. These include such sports as tennis and badminton. As well as helping me to relax, these sports have helped me to maintain physical fitness and have aided my studies, which to my belief, is essential for modern life and mental concentration. I hope to make good use of the sporting facilities at university and maintain this balance. I have also attended sessions of a school run Ciné Club, showing French films, which has both developed my knowledge of the language and contributed to my understanding of the French culture. In order to broaden my horizons and extend my knowledge, I have a passion for reading books relating to the French Culture. One example of such a book is 'La Gloire De Mon Père' by Marcel Pagnol. I am also the treasurer of our school's science magazine, 'CATSCI'. Listening to jazz music is a highly enjoyable pastime. I enjoyed seeing live jazz at the Marciac Jazz Festival in France last summer and I intend to seize the opportunity to take an active part in a wide range of cultural and social events during my university life. I have found my employment at the Alldays Corporation stimulating. What's more, my position has strengthened my ability to interact well with other individuals and shows my willingness to work hard and persevere with tasks.

The work experience for ******* Ltd, a property development company in London, required both teamwork and independence. Working in a small team meant that I was able to listen carefully to others and work co-operatively with many different people. In addition, at certain times I worked independently using my own initiative. Such ability will prove extremely useful on my French degree. Moreover, extensive travelling has helped me to develop my perspective on life and I enjoy meeting a wide range of people and learning about different cultures and traditions. In conclusion, my experiences during my post sixteen studies have enabled me to be independent, self-disciplined, efficient and organised which should prove invaluable preparation for university life and I look forward to furthering my knowledge in French.