Personal Statement - French and International Relations

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I believe that communication is paramount to the future development of this world, and this underpins my wish to study Modern Languages, its cultures and relationships. Holding dual nationality I have never been able to categorise myself as coming from just one country. I have lived in four different countries on two continents which has given me the experience of global living. I have been schooled in international education systems from Australia, the UK, Continental Europe and I am completing my IB diploma in Scotland this year. This has opened me up to experiencing the importance and beauty of different languages and cultures.

In Singapore I enjoyed learning Mandarin, Latin and French and attended the Alliance Francaise at weekends. In the Netherlands at the European School, I studied French, Dutch and Latin as well as being taught History and Geography in French where I discovered the depth and influence a language holds and how a classical language still plays an important role in the modern world. In 2009 I took a two week French language course in Antibes which further opened my eyes to French culture and language. It was here that I made it my ambition to achieve fluency in the language.

Last year I chose to take HL (Higher Level) French which has introduced me to French literature, particularly Gary's 'La Vie Devant Soi', which powerfully evoked the mind of a child living in Paris. This inspired me to read more such as Zola's 'Therese Raquin' and Camus' 'l'Etranger'. I have pioneered the 'French Film Club' at school, allowing me to share my interest in French cinema. As well as wanting to pursue my passion for French and having an aptitude for languages, I am also very interested in learning more Romance languages, particularly Italian in which I have taught myself the basics.

I am extremely interested in studying International Relations and the EU. Current affairs and how different countries interact and communicate with each other fascinates me. Being exposed to different cultures primarily through travel, as well as music and film, has made me very culturally aware. I have been fortunate enough to experience a range of cultures from the monasteries of Burma to the Inuits in Alaska. The aspect of culture which most intrigues me is ethics, and studying HL (Higher Level) Philosophy is very beneficial. Exploring philosophers from different countries and cultures has given me insight into cultural relativism, which interests me so much that I chose it as my extended essay subject.

I have read Huntington's 'The Clash of Civilisations and the Remaking of World Order', and Huntington & Harrison's 'Culture Matters: How Values Shape Human Progress' which prompted me to think about whether culture really does influence a country's development, as well as Aung San Suu Kyi's 'Letters From Burma' in which she defends democracy so passionately which is truly an inspiration to all. These particular books have introduced me to International Relations and have made me more aware of what it entails.

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

Holding the IB diploma in Scotland, I have been schooled in various international education systems including those of Australia, the UK, and Continental Europe, which have all prepared me for the challenging and interdisciplinary demands of Modern Languages and International Relations.

I have taken Higher Level (HL) French which introduced me to French literature, notably Gary's 'La Vie Devant Soi', Zola's 'Therese Raquin' and Camus' 'l'Etranger'. Literary studies have deepened my appreciation of the language and culture. Studying History and Geography in French at the European School in the Netherlands further developed my academic language skills and cultural understanding.

My studies of HL Philosophy have been instrumental in exploring ethical questions and cultural relativism, which I chose as my extended essay topic. This academic background supports my understanding of cultural diversity and international ethics, which are central to International Relations.

Furthermore, I have also pursued independent learning in Italian, teaching myself basic proficiency, demonstrating my aptitude for languages and self-motivation in language acquisition.

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

Beyond formal education, I have actively sought experiences that deepen my understanding of culture, language, and international relations. I took a two-week French language course in Antibes in 2009, igniting my ambition to achieve fluency in French.

I pioneered the 'French Film Club' at school to share my interest in French cinema, fostering a communal appreciation of language and culture. Additionally, I attended Alliance Française in Singapore during weekends to enhance my French skills.

My cultural awareness has been broadened through travel, having experienced diverse cultures such as the monasteries of Burma and the Inuit communities in Alaska. These experiences, paired with my interest in current affairs, led me to attend Model United Nations debates, developing my understanding of global diplomacy.

I volunteer at a home for the elderly and participated in a Calligraphy Club, which have refined my interpersonal skills and cultural appreciation. I am also organising a Charity Quiz Night in October to raise money for HOW (Helping Orphans Worldwide) in Vietnam, demonstrating leadership and commitment to global causes.

I believe it is essential to understand a culture through its language. My culturally aware background and the international perspectives I have gained equip me to look at globalisation and international development with open eyes. I am aware these courses are demanding, yet I am excited by the challenge and confident in my skills and interests to succeed.

Universities applied to:

• University of Bath
• University of Warwick
• University of Cambridge
• University of St. Andrews
• University of Edinburgh

Grades achieved:

• Grades applied with (predicted IB points): 41 with HL 776
• Grades achieved (IB points) 39 HL 665

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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