Economics and management degree personal statement example (1e) Oxford offer

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

As an exchange student in the US, I took an introductory course in economics. I was instantly intrigued by the complex world of decisions that form the world we live in. Often, however, economics cannot be summed up in final conclusions. The combination of logical reasoning on one side and inherent uncertainty on the other, makes economics incredibly interesting.

My further readings have confirmed my choice of study. When reading “Creating Modern Capitalism” by T. McCraw, I was enthralled by its historical descriptions and specific case studies that exhibited the developments of capitalism. I was surprised by how firms have shaped economies and how companies have adapted to the changing conditions and demands of markets. Supplementary writings by J. A. Schumpeter captivated me because of the emphasis he puts on the role of the entrepreneur, the creative response and creative destruction. This has changed my view on the development of capitalism. I have also read economics books such as “The Accidental Theorist” by P. Krugman and “Animal Spirits” by R. Shiller and G. Akerlof. Krugman made an impact on me because he showed the broad applicability of economics – complex economic concepts can be explained through everyday life scenarios. “Animal Spirits” opened the field of behavioural economics to me. I was first introduced to the concept of animal spirits when I studied the work of Keynes. I found it interesting that Shiller and Akerlof have succeeded in applying those principles in contemporary economics. It amazes me that there exists such a variety of economic schools of thought. Ranging from neoclassical, over neo-Keynesian to evolutionary economics there are so many interpretations of our economic reality. I have yet to familiarise myself completely with the interpretations but the arguments in this constant fight are interesting to follow and attempt to comprehend. I look forward to continue this exploration at a higher level in my further studies.

I currently study International Business at Anonymized Business School but feel an urge to be academically challenged and go more in depth with economics than my current course expects me to. My passion for the subject and eagerness to increase my level of understanding drives my work and I am very keen on studying in England where an exposure to a diverse culture and different history will serve as further inspiration to me – both academically and socially.

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

In gymnasium, I took A-level social studies and realized quickly that I was most attracted to economics-related topics. I focused part of my studies on Keynes and wrote my extended essay on his significance for macroeconomic theory. The study gave me a first look into complicated economic mechanisms and concepts and led me to continue my studies in further readings. Mathematics is one of my favourite subjects. I find it captivating and fun to solve problems using logical and critical approaches. I look forward to applying mathematics in new ways such as Game Theory and it fascinates me how real life phenomena can be quantified in econometrics.

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

Along with my studies, I have been an active member of the student council, serving as the chairman for one year and having a seat on the school board for two years. Through my work in the school board, I have gained a unique insight into the structure and economy of a large institution. I had a pivotal role in one of the school’s development programs launched to attract new students. My leadership and organisational skills were developed greatly in this process. Along with three friends, I have founded a debate club, which discusses current events and economic issues such as the financial crisis and the European debt crisis. This has greatly enhanced my communicative skills, my ability to weigh arguments and to give considered responses. Most likely, these abilities will be useful in my economics studies.

Universities applied to:

• Oxford (Economics and Management)
• LSE (Economics)
• UCL (Economics)
• UCL (Economics with year abroad)
• Warwick (Economics)

Grades achieved:

• 12,2 (out of 12) GPA in Danish Studentereksamen
• 29x 12's (A*)
• 2x 10's (A)

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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