Personal Statement:Politics and Sociology 1

Politics and Sociology Personal Statement

World events are phenomena that I feel must be viewed from more than one perspective. For example, the “Arab Spring” regime shifts are politically significant occurrences in the Arab world that will change the governmental structure and policies of the nations affected, but sociological concepts are a valuable tool that must be used if we are to truly understand why the revolts are transpiring, how they have become so widespread, how it will affect not only the Middle East and North Africa, but also the Western world. My comparison of these two disciplines highlights one of the many reasons why I feel suited to study both the social and political sciences. Through studying these subjects combined, I hope to pursue the answers to my many questions on topics such as democracy and conflict, in a stimulating, academic environment.

Through my study of English I have gained an appreciation of how social and political context, as well as the personal biases of the authors, can have an influence on texts. I have also enjoyed my study of sociology, particularly learning what political and cultural implications globalisation and foreign aid have had on developing nations, and also how sociological theories and research influence government policies. I am not afraid to express an opinion in the classroom, and have often found myself discussing sociological approaches or related political matters with my classmates. This year I will be completing the extended project, my focus being on democratic peace, mainly the role it has played in both internal and external conflict. Through this project I hope to be able to amplify my skills in independent study, and be able to do so through researching a topic I have a deep interest in.

In my spare time I enjoy reading, particularly works with political themes. Out of all of his works, George Orwell's "Homage to Catalonia" is a work that I enjoyed reading especially. Orwell's account of his experiences in the Spanish Civil War fascinated me, and the distinction he makes between Stalinism and Trotskyism revealed to me significant differences between socialist schools of thought. Recently, I have taken an interest in the work of Ayn Rand, having read "Atlas Shrugged" and 'The Fountainhead. Though Rand proves herself to be a remarkable writer, I am left unconvinced by her Objectivist philosophy; doing further research, I was intrigued to find that the economist, Alan Greenspan, in response to the 2008 financial crisis, had renounced his belief in Objectivism, admitting to its flaws. I regularly read the Guardian and the Economist to keep myself informed on current affairs.

Outside of school, I am involved in a range of extracurricular activities. I have completed most of my gold Duke of Edinburgh award, through which I have learned the rewards of commitment, and have also enhanced my skills in teamwork. Music is an important part of my life, and I have been playing the guitar since I was fourteen. Whilst always open to the views of others, I am a member of a political party, and I take a very active interest in their activities. Inside of school, I strive to be involved in the school community, often volunteering to represent my school at open evenings. I am also currently acting as a year thirteen ambassador, as part of my school's entirely student-run council.

If offered a chance to study on this course, you can expect from me no less than 100% commitment. You can expect a student with a genuine love for this subject, and someone equipped with the skills necessary to succeed. I look forward to conquering the challenges of undergraduate life, and I am confident that university will prove to be a rich and fulfilling experience.

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