Personal Statement:Politics 3

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Politics Personal Statement

Since I began studying Politics one thing has become certain to me: politics is paramount. Despite this, however, people have become apathetic towards the politicians and institutions that govern them. Personally, politics and political science enthuse and excite me. I want to delve deeper into the science, to analyse and evaluate its elements, and to add innovative and fresh thinking to the subject. I often find that structured study and research sparks a tangential avenue of interest for me to pursue. I have my own thoughts and opinions which I share with my peers through class debates and seminars. Discussion and debate ensures my views are able to withstand intellectual rigour, enabling me to challenge the status quo and develop my own political ideas. I yearn to understand how this current political consensus came to pass, and aim to use my knowledge to add some much needed contemporary thought to the political agenda in order to advance our society. I strive to learn how to make politics connect with the public, to have people engage with government, and ultimately to "sex up" politics.

My A levels provide me with a well-rounded perspective of government. Politics has given me insight into the workings of the state, both its successes and failings. It provides me with an intriguing glimpse into the motivation of people how politicians are driven by their beliefs, not just the lure of power and self-interest.* Studying Economics has given me knowledge of the effects of government policy on the national and international stage. I am an increasingly confident and informed commentator on the use of fiscal and monetary policy, as evidenced by my sitting an Advanced Extension Award in Economics. Law has given me knowledge of the Parliamentary process, the role of the Judiciary, and also the importance of the UK's relationship with the European Union and its institutions. As a Europhile I am eager to learn more about the EU and the role of government and politics at supranational level.

Outside the sixth form I am a very politically active person. After studying elections at AS level I decided to join the Electoral Reform Society. From reading some of their publications, including their report "Britain's Experience of Electoral Systems", I have become a firm advocate of proportional representation. After getting involved in local politics by attending conferences, debates and shadowing councillors, I decided to join the Liberal Democrats. Joining the party has increased my understanding of the role of political parties in democracy. From campaigning in local and Parliamentary elections I have learnt about the practical workings of parties and met some experienced politicians. The communication skills and confidence I have gained from this have led me to my involvement with my local community. In May I became Chairperson of my local Residents Association, where I am called upon to be politically aware, compassionate and diplomatic. My role also requires me to lead consensus, and to work with local councillors to achieve the aims of the community. My objective is to inform and empower local people, which is how I believe democracy should work. I am also active in my sixth form's Student Council and I look forward to getting involved with student politics and the associated organisations at university.

I am sure that once I attain my degree there will be many pathways open to me. I intend to take my study of politics to postgraduate level so that I can further my expertise in the field. I would like to put that knowledge to use by working for my party or in local or national government. Beyond that I see a lifetime interest in politics; its ability to shape peoples lives and be a force for good. In the future I see myself as a modern Parliamentarian.

Universities Applied to:

• LSE (Government) - AAB
• School of Oriental and African Studies (Politics) - AAA
• Hull (British Politics and Legislative Studies) - AAB
• Warwick (Politics) -AABb

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