Law degree personal statement example (1n) work experience

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

While the law may be too ungainly and inefficient a vehicle to directly change the world, it offers a unique opportunity to help influence people's interpretation of the world. I have always longed to be in a more intellectual environment where I might be allowed to see things from a different perspective. Having thoroughly enjoyed the academic study of A' Level Government and Politics and Economics where understanding political rhetoric and economic influences on government policies had to be analysed through abstract theories I am looking forward to studying law within a broad political, economical, historical and social context. Through obtaining a law degree, I will also be able to join many others in the struggle of our rights and dignity and strive within an imperfect political system toward the goal of greater equality within the law.

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

Throughout my studies I have successfully undertaken individual research. I have prepared and presented seminars to my peer group and prioritised my workload to meet deadlines with work of a high standard.

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

My work experience placements have left me wanting to do a lot more in the legal sphere. Whilst working at the BBC, the dominance of international and domestic issues in news items which were broadcast, highlighted the relevance of a thorough knowledge and understanding of social issues and hence the legal system. In addition my work experience in a non-governmental organisation (HCA) helped me to distinguish the different types of problems faced by those who were seeking help from the organisation, such as injustice and civil conflict. My work experience with a freelance solicitor has also been invaluable in gaining practical skills in the implementation of the existing law system. My work experiences have undoubtedly built upon the skills I have gained through my academic experiences.

Within my school community I have undertaken volunteer work. As a library assistant my duties included organising the book loan system and making sure younger students used their time efficiently. As a school prefect I held many responsibilities such as organising school events and monitoring younger students. I also participated in In-class support assistance where I assisted with year 11 German lessons.

Out of school I enjoy travelling to a variety of locations as this broadens my perspective of life. Meeting a wide range of people and learning about different cultures and traditions is I believe of paramount importance in comprehending the entire world. Being particularly interested in learning new languages, I have recently begun a Spanish course and I hope to continue using facilities at university, which can help me continue this. I also enjoy playing tennis and go to the gym regularly. I intend to make good use of sporting facilities at university.

I am confident I have the qualities necessary to be a successful undergraduate. This is not only because I am independent and I know how to manage my time but also because I enjoy making new friend and I always seek to achieve my maximum potential in life.

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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