Management Personal Statement 1
Over the last few years, my interest in Business has grown exponentially. Ever since picking up the subject at GCSE level, I have been intrigued by different analyses and perspectives of management situations, and fascinated by the inter-relationship of even the most insignificant sole trader with the wider environment. It shows how business can forge links between people the world over, and gives a real purpose to the phenomenon of a global village.
I have thoroughly enjoyed the academic study of Business through to A-level. I am trying to push the boundaries of my knowledge by attempting AEAs in Business and Economics in the summer. Wider reading within the subject is also important in developing a more informed argument. I particularly enjoyed “The Corporation”, which followed the history of business during centuries of trading, and “Freakonomics” which showed that economic and statistical analysis can uncover problems in everyday situations.
The treatment of the subject as a social science is definitely appealing, as I like to read into people’s varying opinions (whether they be scholars, journalists or analysts). My study of Sociology has emphasised the importance of different perspectives and their individual merits. The field of Marketing is particularly relevant, as there are rarely any set facts about a strategy; it is all based on opinion. Deciding which view to follow is important, and this has led me to consider consultancy as a possible career.
The acceleration in my curiosity about the subject has led me to many opportunities outside the curriculum that have helped to develop the skills, as well as the knowledge, that are required to succeed in the commercial world. I have profited in a Fantasy Share League, which made me more confident in taking risks, but making sure that they are calculated (most of the time). This brought about a specific interest of mine - the working of large companies and what makes them valuable in the short term and long term - which has also led me to consider a career in corporate finance.
My role as Finance Director in a Young Enterprise company definitely posed a challenge, as I was placed under pressure to make decisions within a team, and had to cope with unexpected problems. Because of this I now take more time to plan and think through a strategy, and work better as part of a group. Working for Nationwide Building Society since April 2007 has also put me in situations where coming together as a team is vital. Similarly, I have been part of an ongoing initiative to promote enterprise in local primary schools, which has improved my presentation skills - especially in front of an unfamiliar audience. This year, I am looking forward to presenting to members of the Monetary Policy Committee through the Target 2.0 Interest Rate Challenge.
I believe I am a well prepared candidate to take on a Management degree. My mathematical acumen has grown stronger year on year, and has led me to study AS-level Further Maths, after achieving a grade A at A2 last year. Being part of the winning team in the UN Association Quiz has also developed my general knowledge and my interest in international relations of the present day. My wider interests include languages (French, Modern Greek) and political philosophy, and I hope to study these further as electives at university. I very much look forward to contributing to student politics, promotion and societies when I begin my undergraduate study, and making the most of my degree as the foundation of a successful career.
