Personal Statement - History 27

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

When studying History, I have found myself drawn to the school of thought that sees the significance of the individual as an important factor in history. I find it troubling to see the events that shaped our world solely in terms of the broad sweep of economic factors or of demographic shift. The more advanced the level at which I study, the more I come to see the place of theoretical stances and the complexity of possible historiographical approaches to the discipline. I really want the chance to take my study of history further and to be able to weigh up differing approaches to the way we understand and interpret the past. My fascination with the role of the individual was sparked by our AS Level study of the Russian Revolution and the Communist takeover, a course which interested me immensely. What particularly impressed me was the way in which Stalin became leader of the Bolsheviks and managed to retain power for such a long period of time. Studying History at University would expand my knowledge and provide me the opportunity to study topics that I have not yet had the chance to do. A degree in History would be excellent for future career opportunities, as it provides me with a broad range of skills which are strongly desired in a wide variety of jobs. I would really like a course that offers me the chance to be able to study a broad range of historical topics from a variety of different time periods.

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

A Level History has helped improve my skill of analysing sources of information and of evaluation; taking History at University will further these skills. Studying Politics at A Level has broadened my knowledge of political history and has been an important asset for History. Studying United States politics gave me a detailed understanding of the political institutions and the history of the political parties, this helped me with my study of American Civil Rights in History. I have a fine understanding of the Greek language and its culture. Learning a language that has such historical roots has cultivated my interest in History.

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

I try to maintain and improve my health by visiting the gym, which I find very enjoyable and it often helps to clear my mind. My interest in music has also led me to start learning the bass guitar, which I find to be a great way to relax. In my spare time I also enjoy reading a wide variety of books, particularly historical ones, such as Stalin the Court of the Red Tsar by Simon Sebag Montefiore, which is a detailed biography on Stalin and gives an excellent insight on Stalin's leadership.

Earlier this year I took part in a school trip to France and stayed with a host family. This trip taught me a lot about the French culture and way of life. This trip also required me to work in a group and present findings regarding social and economic issues. This task boosted my motivation and teamwork skills, but more importantly it gave me the opportunity to meet new people with similar interests. I have also escorted younger children to view historical sites for a local field trip; this has helped develop my leadership skills by putting me in a position of great responsibility. At my school I participate in the Debating Society which I have also occasionally chaired; this has provided me a platform to express my opinions and has helped further my skill in crafting arguments in various topical issues.

Universities applied to:

• University of Sheffield
• University of Hull
• Royal Holloway
• University of Leicester
• University of Lincoln

Grades achieved:

• AAA
• ABB
• AAB
• ABB

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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