American studies degree personal statement example (1b)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I have been interested in America ever since my trip to New York in 1998. We stayed for two weeks and I became fascinated with the people, the culture and the history. My A/S and A level choices have reflected this continued absorption with the comparisons and contrasts between the British and American way of life. In Film Studies we have studied old and new Hollywood and its films in depth. This has given me a greater insight into American culture, values and society. Reading "Easy Riders, Raging Bulls" by Peter Biskind, which is about Hollywood in the 1960's and the changes that happened then helped develop my knowledge. We also study Film Noir, known as "The American Nightmare".

This gave me an insight into the American way of life and also the human psyche. The intriguing comparisons and differences between British and American cultures were illustrated in many of my Sociology lessons. In particular we studied the events of September 11th and the reasons and effects of that day.

To further my knowledge of America I have read "Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal" by Eric Schlosser which talks about the rapid rise of fast food chains and the changes they have made to the American landscape, economy, diet and workforce. I am currently reading "Why Do People Hate America", which talks about how Americans appear to have lost touch with reality in their politics and culture.

I decided on these degree courses because of my fascination with America and the differences between the American way of life and my own.

If I were to describe myself I would say that I am hard working and inquisitive. I am not afraid to tackle a challenge. I believe I am disciplined and energetic as well as being sociable. I look forward to an enjoyable and interesting new course at university and the new challenges it will bring.

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

My subjects at college have taught me to be enquiring and resourceful.

I enjoy working on my own on coursework projects but I am also good as part of a team. I enjoy debate and am articulate and gregarious.

This year, as well as my A levels I have chosen to take a course in Spanish for Beginners. I have been to Spain several times and love the language. I also thought this would be important as, eventually, I wish to go and live in America and as 13% of the country's population is Hispanic I thought it would be useful to learn.

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

I am also taking a welding course because I enjoy doing practical work and I don't get much of an opportunity to do this during college hours.

Outside of college I have had several part time jobs. These have given me the opportunity to take responsibility not only for myself but also for the others that I have trained.

I enjoy working and playing on computers and am competent with most aspects of IT and the Internet.

I am taking a gap year so I can travel to Spain and Australia. I will also be joining an organisation such as Camp America or BUNAC so I can work in and see more of America and have more interactions with Americans.

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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