Personal Statement:Politics and Criminology 1

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Politics and Criminology Personal Statement

I have a general interest in society and the way in which it functions. In particular I am interested in why some members of society conform to the rules, laws and norms of a given society, while others deviate from these; for example why is it that certain social groups, such as ethnic minorities are over-represented in some crime statistics. The logical answer to this question would be because they offend more or because they are more likely to be arrested and presented as deviant. However this simplistic response does not seek to look at the wider issues surrounding the causes of crime and their impact on society. In pursuing a criminology degree, I would like to explore the theory behind crime and deviance as well as the myths, preconceptions and prejudices associated with crime and disorder

My interest in society also extends to politics. I am interested in democracy, government and governance and how social policy is formulated for the wider benefit of all. The vexed question of how rights can be conveyed to one section of society without diminishing the rights of others has always fascinated me- the current issue of banning smoking in public places being a particularly relevant question

I have a strong interest in current affairs. My study of Sociology and Government and Politics at AS and A2 has further enhanced my awareness of the functioning of society and how governments operate

I regularly watch and listen to news and current affairs programmes in order to keep up to date on issues at a local, national and international level - the recent elections in the USA were of particular interest

By studying Politics I hope to gain a wider insight into the democratic process and the role of governments in seeking to regulate and bring order to society. Therefore I feel this is relevant to my chosen discipline of Criminology and/or Politics

I have good interpersonal skills and am able to interact with people regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender or disability. Working as a Customer Assistant in a major retail store as well as various other jobs such as helping out at a Fun Day on an estate in Rotherhithe have further improved these skills. I believe that I manage my time effectively and as a result I am able to pursue my personal leisure interests which include football and music. I have been a keen participant in a number of school activities ranging from athletics to drama to general knowledge quizzes. I also represent my school at both football and basketball. I feel this diverse range of activities shows that I am able to adapt accordingly and successfully to different challenges

I work well as a member of a team but equally can use my own initiative. I am a good communicator and used to presenting my ideas with confidence to a wide audience. I feel that I am sufficiently disciplined, committed and enthusiastic to study the subject area successfully. I am looking forward to the academic and social aspects of university life.

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