Personal Statement:Marketing 1

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Advertising is one of the oldest forms of industry, with examples being found as far back as Ancient Rome. I want to study Advertising as I believe that it has a much greater impact on society than people realise. It is an industry that is constantly growing and changing and it provides chances for personal development, such as an international career. Also, it presents an opportunity to reach people, and to help make a difference in society by publicising charity appeals. A degree in Advertising would give me the chance to study all sides of the industry, from account handling to the creative, whilst giving me a good understanding of the business aspect. The option of taking a placement year in the industry would allow me to continue with my studies, whilst gaining valuable experience. Additionally, modules incorporating live briefs, allowing for the simulation of agency, work appeals to me, as it offers the opportunity to demonstrate both leadership and creativity, individually, as well as as a member of a team.

Reading Advertising at university will provide me with many opportunities to develop the skills required for a career in the industry, and I believe that my creativity, organisation and enthusiasm will allow me to make full use of all the opportunities that university will offer.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

My Extended Project is focused on how 'Advertising has changed since the advent of new media.' This has allowed me to develop my research and creative skills, whilst gaining greater insight into how an advert is produced. I am currently reading 'Hegarty on Advertising: Turning Intelligence into Magic', which has provided knowledge of how the industry works, and how agencies run, whilst giving a view of the process of creating some of the most famous adverts, such as the Barclaycard 'Waterslide'. My English and Music studies have stretched my creativity, through tasks such as writing short stories, and music compositions, allowing me to improve the way in which I express myself. English is particularly useful in that is has taught me how to write concisely and clearly, which will be advantageous when it comes to writing and working with creative briefs. Spanish is beneficial as it has given me the chance to immerse myself in another culture, during homestays in Seville and Granada. Additionally, being able to converse fluently in a foreign language opens up many options for further advancement in such a global industry.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

In my gap year, I intend to secure a placement at an advertising agency in Australia, allowing me to gain a greater knowledge of the way the industry works. Additionally, this placement will help me to make contacts for the future, whilst learning skills that I will be able to utilise during the course of my degree. During my year out I will also have the chance to volunteer in conservation in Australia, allowing me to assist in environmental protection and rejuvenation, whilst learning more about Aboriginal culture.

As a member of the Music department, I have developed both my leadership skills, through the running of Year 7 choir, and my teamwork skills, through being a member of orchestras and bands. These skills have further been enhanced through my position as Assemblies Coordinator of the Languages Committee. This role has allowed me to develop a creative idea and follow it through to completion, through both project management and motivation of my team. My job as Sales Assistant has further improved my interpersonal skills through interaction with both customers, and wholesalers. These skills would prove beneficial when dealing with challenges presented by the advertising industry. My dedication and drive to succeed are evidenced by my Grade 7 distinction in singing, and a Grade 6 pass in Clarinet.

Universities applied to:

• Greenwich (Advertising and Marketing Communication)
• Southampton Solent (Advertising)
• De Montfort (Advertising and Marketing Communication)
• Sheffield Hallam (Marketing Communications and Advertising)
• Bournemouth (Advertising)

Grades achieved:

• Music (A2) - Predicted B
• Spanish (A2) - Predicted A
• English Language and Literature (A2) - Predicted B
• Psychology (AS) - Grade D

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

Need help with your personal statement? You can ask a question or get feedback from The Student Room community (and our trained personal statement experts) on the personal statement advice forum.