English degree personal statement example (1v)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

If Virginia Woolf were correct in stating that 'every secret of a writer's life is written large in his works', then I should like to consider myself a sleuth, finding out as much as I can from and about literature. Studying 'Hamlet' at A Level and my wider reading 'Crime and Punishment' motivated me to create an independent comparison of the main characters as I became aware of the similarities between both texts. Using 'Literature and Psychoanalysis' as inspiration, I grew highly interested in the subject, reading related articles from literary journals which has furthered my knowledge and presented me with examples of a more academic writing style. Just as the parallel of Sonya and Ophelia appeals to me, I take a particular interest in Woman's role in literature, believing that Society at any given time is reflected in attitudes to women. 'Jane Eyre', 'The Handmaid's Tale' and 'The Wife of Bath's Tale' strike me as prime examples of this. Books such as 'The 19th Century Novel: A Critical Reader' have informed my opinions on this subject in an academic light, whereas 'The Second Sex' changed my attitude to reading itself, as a woman.

Nevertheless, all of these books often pose questions I would not have considered otherwise about the author's intentions in using a strong female character. Woolf's strong character was introduced to me through my love of Rupert Brooke's poetry. The way in which subplots and contemporary issues are interwoven into one story in 'Jacob's Room' demonstrates Woolf's talent in a way that biographies can rarely do justice. A developing admiration for the modernist style guided me to Joyce and the way in which he, like Woolf, created a rich tapestry of life at a set time. Historical sentiments expressed in the works of Joyce and Woolf can be understood when set against the backdrop of their contemporary struggles, as A Level History studies showed. Similarly, insight into the provenance of 'Crime and Punishment' and other Russian works was seen by furthering my interest into Russian culture through my study into Rasputin's murder. Thus, I have learned that literature has the power, not just to mirror and mould historical opinions, but to make them. The intrinsic link between human struggle and literature plays a key role in forming opinion; works from the labour camps of WWII give an emotional insight into atrocities committed there. My outlook to reading these works was altered as I saw the harrowing reality behind them on a recent trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau.

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

Studying 'Hamlet' at A Level and engaging with wider reading such as 'Crime and Punishment' motivated me to do independent comparative work, highlighting similarities between texts. Drawing inspiration from academic works like 'Literature and Psychoanalysis' helped me develop my understanding and adapt to a more scholarly writing style. Additionally, my A Level History studies provided valuable context, enabling me to comprehend the historical sentiments expressed in literary works by authors such as Joyce and Woolf. This interdisciplinary approach has prepared me well, equipping me with analytical skills and a critical mindset necessary for higher-level literary study.

My academic background is further strengthened by my A Level qualifications: English Literature A2 with a Grade A* (UMS: 100, 100, 100, 97), History A2 Grade A (UMS: 100, 85, 90, 83), Geography A2 Grade A (UMS: 100, 85, 87, 90), and French AS Grade B (UMS: 74, 85). These grades reflect my dedication and aptitude which I am confident will support my success at university.

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

My role as Head Girl has given me opportunities to take on responsibility and contribute practically, skills I plan to continue developing at university through societies such as theatre and debating groups. I have a weekly commitment to ------ Ladies' Hockey team, which I find hugely enjoyable and intend to maintain alongside my studies.

During my gap year, I plan to broaden my horizons, deepen my knowledge, and develop valuable time management skills. For instance, I am enrolled in an Open University course exploring topics such as Plato and 'Dr Faustus', which enhances my literary understanding and complements my part-time role as a volunteer collections' conservationist and researcher at the local museum.

Music and theatre are also significant to me: while singing in the school choir and playing clarinet in the orchestra have been relaxing, I have taken the initiative to teach myself ukulele, mandolin, guitar, and saxophone, continually stretching my abilities. Yet literature remains central to my mind; for example, I often wonder what music Shakespeare might have envisioned for a production of 'Macbeth'. Ultimately, studying literature at university will not only augment my enthusiasm but also act as a springboard to a career of lifelong learning which I am eager to embrace.

Universities applied to:

• University of Cambridge
• Durham University
• University of Bristol
• The University of Warwick
• Royal Holloway, University of London

Grades achieved:

• English Literature A2 - Grade A* UMS: 100, 100, 100, 97
• History A2 - Grade A UMS: 100, 85, 90, 83
• Geography A2 - Grade A UMS: 100, 85, 87, 90
• French AS - Grade B UMS: 74, 85

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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