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History Personal Statement

I am captivated by the diversity and depth offered by a History degree; attracted by the way it encourages us to be analytical of the values and patterns of past societies. It was in my final year of secondary school that I was awarded the History Attainment Award, although my desire to study History dates back to an earlier age when I visited the site of the allied landings in Normandy at just eleven years old. I had always been interested in the past - fascinated by the mythology and history of Ancient Rome and Greece - however, it was when I saw the sites of the historical events I had studied that History became more than just a subject I had to study but something which intrigued me and I wanted to take on to degree level

I feel the A-Levels I study have a number of transferable skills aiding the study of History. My Archaeology coursework - on Anglo-Saxon burhs - requires in depth research within varied resources and my Biology course has taught me to improve my analytical and evaluative skills. The A-level English Literature course has proven to be equally dynamic, and thinking as a historian, I have found the portrayal of attitudes and values presented within texts to be as important as the narrative. Furthermore, through my archaeological studies I will be gaining invaluable hands-on experience by working with Channel Four's 'Time Team' and helping with the excavations of an archaeological site near Taunton

Within the A-Level syllabus, I thoroughly enjoyed the study of the Cold War, in particular the relationship between Great Britain, America and the Soviet Union. Moreover, I have found Ian Kershaw's work concerning Hitler and his leadership of the Third Reich to be the most influential on my ideas and am interested in the opportunity of extending my History studies by perhaps sitting the Advanced Extension Award next summer. I am eager to explore a wider view of History, as my interests are not limited to the twentieth century and in particular, am looking forward to the options of studying the Ancient, Medieval and Early Modern epochs too

In addition to my avid enjoyment of History, I feel that my hardworking and dedicated nature prepares me well for the challenges and discipline required for success at degree level. Outside of college I work on a part time basis for W H Smiths which has helped put into practice skills that I have learnt at college, such as numeracy, as well as learning new skills such as customer care and improving my communication skills. In my free time I am also keen to remain physically fit and as a swimmer, train on a weekly basis with Taunton Swimming Club

I am currently contemplating a number of career options. I have been involved with 'Vo!ce24-7' magazine since its conception three years ago. Initially beginning work as a journalist, I now enjoy my role as Editor of the publication. Written and produced by 11-18 year olds, it has grown to a print run of 10,000 and is distributed free to teenagers through schools and public buildings across the borough

My work experience at 'The Somerset County Gazette' allowed me to gain further experience all aspects of newspaper production and at the end of a demanding week it was rewarding to see my articles published in the newspaper and its sister newspapers. This taster, alongside my involvement with 'Vo!ce24-7' magazine, has sparked an especial interest in the media and marketing, although I believe a History degree will stand me in good stead in whatever professional career I choose to follow

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