Classics with archaeology degree personal statement example (1a) French Baccalaureate, UCL offer

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I have decided to read the Classics for my undergraduate studies for three main reasons: First, my fascination with this period of history started as a young boy and has never waned. I am therefore convinced that spending the next three years deepening my knowledge of the Classics will be a rewarding experience. Second, I hope that by studying the foundations of Western civilization I will better understand the world that I live in. Third, I believe this will prepare me well for my graduate studies in Law.

My first exposure to classical literature was with "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey". Reading about Ulysses' ingenuity to listen to the Sirens' song was a resonating experience and it stimulated my interest for the classical world. I went on to read Aesop's "Fables", which inspired Jean de la Fontaine, whose fables I memorized in part.

Ancient history has always been one of my preferred subjects. This has prompted an interest in classical art. Whilst in Rome I visited the Villa Borghese and the Vatican museum with many perfectly preserved mosaics and sculptures; in Berlin, I saw the beautifully ornate Great Altar at the Pergamum; and the Elgin Marbles in the British Museum remain one of the most impressive works of art I've seen. I am equally fascinated by architecture; in this respect, visiting Rome proved to be one of the richest experiences of my life. My favorite monument was the Coliseum. The sheer size and ingenuity required to build it is nothing less than a Herculean feat. I'm a regular viewer of the Google Art Project, which takes high definition pictures of the world's greatest pieces of art. I plan to take a trip to Greece next summer and visit the Parthenon, amongst many other monuments.

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

The French baccalaureate system has given me a well-rounded education. I have studied literature, history, geography, modern languages, and science, for the last seven years. This curriculum has prepared me well for studying the multi-faceted world of Classics. As part of my final year, I read Philosophy, which I hope will provide an excellent grounding for future study of the Classics. I have been particularly fascinated by Aristotle and Plato, the fathers of philosophy; it has been profoundly stimulating and I am convinced that the knowledge I will acquire from reading their works further will remain with me for the rest of my life.

Much of the work I will be expected to do will consist of writing papers. I hope that by developing my writing skills, learning to analyze text, and structuring strong arguments, I will be well prepared for my planned postgraduate studies in law. I am an active member of my school's debating club, which has taught me to express myself, voice my opinions, and speak in public, whilst also researching and keeping up-to-date with current affairs. I hope that these skills will be developed further, as I will be required to participate actively in class.

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

I have spent my entire schooling in the French system and am now eager to continue my education in the British system. I grew up in the United States and spent the past seven years in Western and Central Africa. I have enjoyed the exposure to different cultures, African music in particular. This experience has taught me the importance of remaining open to different ways of life. I look forward putting into perspective the values of the ancient world with the cultures I have interacted with. I cannot wait to read Aristophanes' comedies, Thucydides' "History of the Peloponnesian War", and Virgil's "Aeneid". I enjoy playing tennis, golf, and horseback riding. I love classical, jazz, and rock music.

Universities applied to:

• University College, London (UCL)
• University of Bristol
• University of Saint Andrews
• King's College London
• University of Durham

Grades achieved:

• 15/20 on French Bac
• 14/20
• 14/20
• 13/20
• 15/20

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.

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