Economics degree personal statement example (1m)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Economics is at the forefront of public interest, and its implications for society are at the height of importance. At no other time in recent history has there been a better time to study this subject and to understand its far-reaching consequences. I became determined to pursue the subject after questioning Allister Heath (ex-editor of "The Business Magazine") about the benefits of globalisation whilst attending an Economics conference in December 2007.

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

Business Studies and Economics at A-level has been an inspiring course and has formed the foundation of my admiration for rational enquiry into human behaviour in the marketplace. I find that the commercial orientation of Business Studies integrates well within the broader theories of Economics. My favourite aspect of Economics is global trade and international economics, the way in which theories are applied to the relationships between different world economies. The mathematical element of the course has come easily to me and I am enjoying studying calculus in my own time and feel that it is a good preparation for a degree in Economics.

Studying Physics has been enlightening and I respect the manner of scientific enquiry present in A-level Physics and how it aids real-world problem solving. The mathematical nature of the course has helped to develop my logical thinking and ability to find solutions empirically.

Psychology forms a strong element of modern Economics. Throughout the progression of the A-level course I have learnt various theories of human behaviour but have found the most interesting to be those relating to conformity and social influence. I am keen to explore these theories in relation to my study of Economics.

General Studies, one of my favourite subjects at A-level, has also taught me about social influence as well as aspects of political science, critical thinking and philosophy. It has encouraged me to stay up to date with current affairs - a key part of becoming a good economist. Regularly reading The Financial Times and The Economist online provides me with the information and commentary I need to do so. Last year I was involved in the Young Enterprise team as Assistant Financial Director. It was a great opportunity to make enterprising decisions and overcome business problems whilst working as a team.

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

My part-time job at a local supermarket greatly focused on interaction with a wide range of customers and this experience enhanced my communication skills and ability to overcome difficulties in the working environment. I have thrived in this position of responsibility and improved my time-management abilities. Working for a small retail chain allowed me to observe how microeconomics applies to the workplace. In the bakery department I was responsible for supply and had to forecast demand, in order to maximise profits.

For me, reading "The Armchair Economist" by Steven Landsburg has been a catalytic experience; the book changed my perception of economic issues and the world as a whole. After reading "The Black Swan" by Nassim Taleb I became interested in the view of Economics as a complex systems science and I am still coming to terms with the implications of the book on the way I understand Economics as a discipline. Other titles I have read such as "Freakonomics", "The Economic Naturalist" and "The Undercover Economist" have been entertaining and intriguing.

As a scout I was Patrol Leader for several years, achieving my Chief Scout's Gold Award, before moving on to Explorer Scouts. During 2007 I worked as a Scouting Assistant and was awarded the Scouts' Scout of the Year for my group. Scouting enhanced my confidence, leadership and teaching abilities. In my spare time I have been studying towards my Microsoft Desktop Support Technician qualification. Following the course has improved my computing skills and problem solving techniques. I also enjoy White Water kayaking and intend to pursue this while at university.

Universities applied to:

• University of York
• Royal Holloway
• Loughborough
• UEA
• Liverpool

Grades achieved:

• AAB including general studies
• AAA
• ABB or AAC
• BBB
• BBB

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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