Economics degree personal statement example (2j)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

The current economic turndown has dramatically increased the public's awareness and interest in the economy and how it functions; I learnt that people are more concerned with current economic activity than they are with political activity whilst undertaking a survey in my local town centre. I discovered Economics at A-Level and have developed a deep interest in the subject; especially the areas of the labour market and business economics because I enjoy seeing real life economics in action and being able to critique theories in relation to real world economic activity.

In order to correct the current financial crisis, it is my opinion that the government should be more interventionist through specific laws for the banking sector rather than through influence. This is because the 'Credit Crunch' was caused by excessive lending of money by banks to people who were betting on further economic growth, who then defaulted on their loans. It is also imperative that unemployment does not increase. The government could increase employment by introducing demand-side policies, thus increasing the demand for labour, backed up with supply side fiscal policy to reduce blockages. I stated my opinion when I was selected as a representative for my school to be interviewed by a local newspaper about how Britain could amend its economy.

I would welcome the challenge of pursing a degree in Economics with a possible view to teach this great subject in the future. I would look to contribute fully to university life with my diverse range of interests.

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

I have read a range of Economic related books including 'Freakonomics', and 'The Undercover Economist'. I enjoy how these books are fighting to change people’s perceptions of economics as a ‘boring’ subject only concerned with statistics by showing the economics used in everyday life, and what shapes the decisions we make. In order to expand my knowledge of Economic History, I am currently reading 'The Age Of Extremes' which gives a detailed and analytical view of 20th century economies; from Stalin, to 1920's America and Margaret Thatcher's economic ideals. I refuse to read The Economist as I find it too willing to support liberalist ideas - I prefer the blogs on www.tutor2u.net to gain in-depth and contemporary economic news.

Analysis has a prominent role in each of my A-Level subjects. I have enhanced my substantial analytical skills, able to evaluate economic policies with the "EEES" principle - is a policy effective, efficient, equitable or sustainable? By studying History, I have seen that people reacted badly to economic changes; for example the Community Charge was quickly followed by the infamous Poll Tax riots. Psychology has empowered me to study social mechanisms such as obedience to authority and conformity, and I enjoy reading thought provoking books about society such as '1984', 'Fahrenheit 451' and 'Catch 22', as these books allow me to view society from a critical angle. Travelling has given me experience of how economies can differ first hand; Bulgaria is characterised as a struggling transitional economy, whereas America shows the effects of laissez- faire and private enterprise.

Although I was originally disappointed when I learnt I had not secured a place at university last year, I have since realised it was a blessing in disguise. I have had the opportunity to en-roll at college to gain an A-level in Mathematics as well as teaching myself Spanish at home. I am doing this to further my goal of working in the City; mathematics is a core component in any financial environment and in a world where globalisation is becoming increasing prominent, an ability to speak a second language will be of paramount importance.

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

I have been snowboarding for six years and have travelled across the USA and numerous countries in Europe to extend and perfect my hobby, as well as learn about cultures different to my own. Pursuing percussion for seven years allowed me to develop my creativity and gain Grade 2 Distinction.

Universities applied to:

• UEA (L100)
• UEA (LC18)
• Sheffield (L100)
• Liverpool (L100)
• Nottingham Trent (L100)

Grades achieved:

• Economics - A
• History - A
• Psychology - B
• Maths (AS) - B

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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