Personal Statement - English Literature and Creative Writing 2

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My obsession with writing stems from literature's ability to change the world for the better. In this world of inequality I find myself often researching the many current social issues, focusing on sexism, homophobia and transphobia (most recently I've been researching the protests in Ferguson). Consequently, I want my future career path to involve fighting to raise awareness for these issues and combat them where possible. I know I could make the biggest difference by developing my skills in writing, critically reviewing and editing my work. Tony Harrison fought the class system with his poetry, I want to fight for equality with mine.

Though a lot of my work has had a Romantic tone, my recent writings have been more Realist; dealing with issues the reader is likely to have faced themselves and written in a true to life manner. I do still use some of the Romantic hyperbole however, to incite a stronger emotional response. Looking back on this shift in style I realize that my writing is constantly evolving as I learn more about the world, literature and myself. I believe the best place to most strategically, swiftly and sensationally further this development would be under University guidance and amongst like minded students who share my thirst to hone their skills and broaden their knowledge of great, world changing literature.

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

Recently I've taken on large scale writing projects to improve my work and gain a better understanding of what they would entail. When I completed NaNoWriMo, a challenge where participants write 50,000 words of fiction in a month, I learnt that achieving such a goal was challenging, but not impossible. I was successful because I was passionate about the project, and thus I know I'll be able to handle University level study because I'm driven by my desire to become a better reader and writer of literature.

Then when I set myself the personal challenge of writing a 140 page screenplay, I improved my ability to plan and create a narrative containing individual complex characters, running themes and subtle uses of foreshadowing, while teaching myself screenwriting form. I spent months working on the plot, characters and message of 'Because We Can,' and it's my proudest achievement to date.

Last year I took an optional course, writing two essays from the University of Bedfordshire's 'English Literature in History' BA. During the course I discovered how to research at a higher level than was required for my A level coursework and strongly developed that skill by improving my ability to compile sources and critically analyze texts. By the end of the course I received a 2.2 on my 'Everyman' essay and a 2.1 on the second about Larkin. Considering I was able to work at that level during AS, I'm sure I will flourish at University.

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

I also look forward to joining some of the Universities clubs and societies. I've been a member of (Town Name) Players for five years and have recently joined the new photography and film club, yet the club I've most enjoyed was the Girl Guides. Over seven years I gained leadership, teamwork and problem solving skills, and I discovered many new interests. One I've had since childhood however, is reading.

Starting with Jacqueline Wilson, now up to enjoying the ethical dilemmas in 'Less than Zero' and 'The Universe Versus Alex Woods,' I've always adored books. 'Wonder' portrays the terrible treatment of those with birth defects and the social stigma against them. 'John Dies at the End' I love for it's on point social commentary and the authors talent for legitimately scaring the reader. Books are possibly the best way to develop character, through the invoking of empathy and forcing the readers to think and criticize. This is why I want to write them.

Universities applied to:

• UEA (English Literature with Creative Writing)
• Brunel (English with Creative Writing)
• Royal Holloway (English and Creative Writing)
• Bath Spa (Creative Writing/English Literature)
• Keele (English with Creative Writing)

Grades achieved:

• Philosophy and Ethics (AS) - A
• English Literature (AS) - B
• Drama (AS) - B
• Film Studies (AS) - 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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