Personal Statement - History 17

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

History for me is more than an academic subject to be studied; it inspires and challenges me beyond the limitations of the classroom. Historical study affords discovery and awareness, both of which I find deeply gratifying. Our understanding of the past is continually developing and I feel that even as a study of the previous times, History is a relevant, exciting and contemporary field.

The study of History evokes vast curiosity in me. I have been privileged to have visited many sites of great historical significance. Family holidays have allowed access to locations such as the Taj Mahal, Bayeux and the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy. I enjoy studying primary source material, so having the opportunity to view the Bayeux Tapestry was, for me, a fantastic experience. This sparked an interest in how certain events can completely alter the nature of societies and nations. After attending a recent lecture at Royal Holloway University entitled 'The Conversion of Constantine the Great: The First Christian Roman Emperor', I was amazed how the influence of Constantine completely changed the fundamental nature of the Roman Empire. At University I hope to expand on my knowledge and understanding of Ancient and Medieval History as I am intrigued by these periods.

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

My 'A' Level studies have provided access to a broad scope of topics to accompany and compliment History. My zeal for historical fiction allows me to connect with more social aspects of History, accessing a range of material which provides insight into personal experience. In particular, I enjoy works from Bernard Cornwell, Sebastian Faulks and Jung Chang. I find the variation among different interpretations of events fascinating and this motivates me to form my own judgments and critical analysis. The juxtaposition of Chang's views and experiences to those of Dr. Li Zhisui in his biography 'The Private Life of Chairman Mao' first cultivated this interest. I feel that the comparative image of Mao, his personal strength, influence and power is very revealing and helps me to reach a more rounded judgement on the impact of his regime. It is this contrast which I find fascinating - how various sources can provide completely opposing material.

Additionally, my studies in Sociology have allowed me to look at the subject more analytically; examining how theory and ideology has shaped not only past events but also the way we regard History. I find Hegel's dialectic stance very interesting; particularly the belief that History is an organic process, prone to both development and destruction. In my university studies, I would like expand on this interest and explore the philosophy of History and Histography. In particular I find Carr's rejection of the empirical view intriguing and feel his argument on the unreliability of 'fact' is especially relevant, given recent developments in Historical interpretation such as the libel trial of historian David Irving. I feel that Evans' depiction of this in 'Telling Lies about Hitler' is very illuminating, specifically how it outlines the pitfalls of historical study.

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

I am an enquiring person, constantly seeking to discover and learn more. In order to place specific areas of study into context, I feel it is important to gain a cultural and historical perspective on the locations which constitute my A level syllabus. I found Orlando Figes' image of Russia in 'Natasha's Dance' a vivid portrayal which sparked a huge curiosity into Russian culture, history and peoples. While at University I hope to learn Russian or Mandarin Chinese as I would like to view historical documents in the languages which they are intended to be read. I am currently having tuition for and intend to take a GCSE in French this year. This emphasises my thirst for knowledge, hence why in the future I wish to pursue a career in research or academia.

Universities applied to:

• Oxford
• Kings College London
• Bristol
• Edinburgh
• Queen Mary

Grades achieved:

• GCSE: 4 A*s, 4 A's and a GNVQ
• AS: History A, Sociology A, English Lit B, Gen Studies A and Law B (1 mark off an 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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