Criminology degree personal statement example (1b)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I wish to study Criminology because I intend to make my career in the Prison Service. When I leave university, I will apply for the fast track to Governor Programme. The psychology of crime is something that has always fascinated me. Obviously, Criminology is a subject that will draw on this and teach me new things which are vital both to my own personal development and understanding and capabilities as a Governor.

Being descended from Elizabeth Fry and both my Great Aunt and Father having been probation officers, the interest has always been in the family. My personal interest in crime began to develop from about the age of twelve. My father’s career choice was, perhaps, the initial instigator but since then, my development has been solely down to my own research and attention to the subject. Deciding on the Prison Service rather than the police or other crime related careers I think began with hearing my aunt talk about her work with Restorative Justice in Wandsworth gaol. I then advanced my plans to Governor after reading Phil Wheatley’s Perrie Lecture.

Jeffrey Archer’s prison diaries enthused me to continue with my career choice and that it was the right one. It also taught me a great deal about prison life and the general mentality behind the majority of inmates. I realise of course that it cannot be taken as fact but nevertheless, it taught me a lot. Colin Wilson’s book, “The Serial Killers; a study into the psychology of crime” captivated me to the end and explained a great many questions I had in relation to the topic. Roger Hopkins Burke, in his book “An introduction to criminological theory” educated me on a broader range of topics but was of equal interest and undoubtedly usefulness. Due to my particular attention to Serial Killers, I gained a lot from reading “Hunting Evil” by David Wilson, “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote and “Killing for Company” by Brian Masters. These all gave special insight into the mind of a serial killer accompanied by other information relating to the subject of Criminology. As a member of the Howard League for Penal Reform, I feel reasonably knowledgeable about current affairs in the prison service and I supplement this by reading any news articles or speeches of related interest. I read, with particular interest, Ann Widdecombe’s thoughts on the prison service and her time as Minister in Charge of Prisons.

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

Having studied both Psychology and Law to A2 Level, I feel I have a basic introduction to Criminology, but obviously this is not enough. I have been on a prison visit to a C Category gaol (Cornhill/Shepton Mallet) and would very much like to go again. However, given the age restrictions, I was very lucky to be permitted last time and may not be so lucky again until I am 18. It was, however, a very useful trip. I had a long opportunity to talk to many of the inmates (all of whom are lifers) which was very interesting and also a small insight on what to expect in later years.

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

I desperately wanted to become a volunteer for a local organisation working with young offenders recently released from young offenders institutes or simply young people who were fast headed in that direction. Unfortunately, one must be 18 to help. As soon as I turn 18, I will definitely embrace all the opportunities that will then be open to me in this field.

For eight years, I was a chorister at Wells Cathedral. This consisted of extreme time pressure under an exacting conductor who demanded the highest quality of professionalism every day. These years taught me focus and concentration and how to balance my school work (particularly through my GCSE’s) alongside extra curricular activities as we had an hours practice before school every day, two hours after school twice a week and 3 hours every Sunday morning including Christmas and Easter. Of course we often also had extra concerts, services and recordings (CDs, television and radio) on top of everything else. Having been both Deputy and Head Chorister, I feel I have an ability to show leadership skills and am able to demand and achieve respect from my peers and seniors.

At school I very much enjoyed being a regular member of both hockey and netball teams, musical ensembles and orchestras, all of which I intend to continue at University. Reading has always been something I have found great solace in, along with cooking and creative writing.

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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