Personal Statement:History 13

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Politics Personal Statement

I have always had a fascination with past civilisations and events, and at first undertook an A-level in medieval history simply because it was the earliest period I was able to study. However, through the course I have discovered a world rich in political intrigue and artistic exploration that has gripped my imagination. My passion to delve deeper into the past still remains, but to abandon study of the medieval period at this juncture would leave me unsatisfied with what I already know

My study of politics has given me a basic knowledge of judicial and governmental systems, and helps in understanding the intricacies of government, the motivating factors of leading political figures and how fragile the balance of power can be. To learn how these systems developed, however, is more of an interest to me, than contemporary psephology. My A-level in English Literature will aid my historical studies by giving me a greater understanding of how an author can portray political opinions in their writing, a practice evident in many contemporary medieval sources

A recent college trip to Normandy has left me with an eager enthusiasm for medieval architecture, one that I have attempted to explore further since returning. Also, through the completion of my coursework, I have developed a particular interest in the reign of King John, and his conflict with at first the church, and later the ruling classes of England. Richard's legacy and the problems that it brought for John have been a focusing factor I have tried to take an active part in college activities. I have attended Equal Opportunity Committee meetings, written for college magazines, am the representative of my English class to the head of department, and have attended various excursions and day trips for all my lessons, that I have believed would be beneficial to my general ability to perform well at those subjects. I also participated in the interviews for a new law teacher, an experience that I believe has helped to improve my analytical skills, and given me an insight into the pressures that can be placed on people in the world of work

At school I was deputy head boy, and enjoyed helping to organise the annual 'house competitions', especially the variety show performed by year eleven pupils. I also took a leading role in the school production of 'My Fair Lady'. Although at college I have not taken an active part in amateur dramatics, the desire to continue again later in life remains. A certain amount of artistic freedom is allowed in my Media Studies work

Outside of college I take a keen interest in politics and have recently joined the Fabian Society, believing the pragmatic approach to problems the most reasonable. I am also a strong tennis enthusiast and am a member of the LTA

All in all, I believe my willingness to accept the views of others whilst being able to argue my own corner, combined with a natural curiousness on most subjects, would be an invaluable asset to your institution

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