Law degree personal statement example (3c) Birmingham, Brunel offers

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Over the past seven years our society has endured many stresses and strains and with the threat of terrorist attacks looming over our heads Law is now more important than ever. Recent events have had a major impact on the country's legal and security systems bringing both their effectiveness and efficiency under public and government scrutiny. My interest in Law stems from watching these events unfold via the media and considering the difficult but achievable balance between freedom and security. While this was the initial trigger for my increasing interest in both Law and Journalism I have since found other facets of the subject equally interesting; one example is the development of Law across the centuries and the contrast between then and the present day.

I am enthusiastic in putting forward any personal held views on recent issues affecting current society and debating the validity of my point. I am also able to debate for a view not held by myself, with little difficulty, when required. The passion with which I am able to address any subject presented to me has often led past teachers to comment on my suitability for the law profession. My increasing interest in the law has led to a visit and tour of the houses of parliament. I have also taken the opportunity to observe sessions of court cases; one of which was at the Old Bailey.

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

Because I have developed an interest in Law over the years; I would like the opportunity to pursue this subject at degree level in university. I am certain that I would achieve great success in this field because of my interest and academic ability. To this end I have pursued Law at A Level and also English Literature, Sociology and Religious Studies which have all helped me to place Law in a wider context.

Regarding my record as a student I can say with confidence that I had an excellent relationship with my teachers in secondary school and was in the top 10% of achievers. I regularly acquired awards and commendations from the school and teachers. I was also a peer-mentor for year eight and other children experiencing difficulties. I also participated in the publishing of a student newspaper for which we interviewed Thames Valley policemen and firemen.

My year ten work experience was with 'The University of Bedfordshire' and I was one of the few students who found a place without assistance from the school. On completion of the work experience; I received an excellent reference and feedback from my supervisors. The council also awarded me a Gold certificate; one of a handful awarded to those in my year group. At college I have continued to work hard and have continued to have the excellent relationship with tutors; my work and assignments are submitted to deadline without fail and my attendance record for classes is exemplary; as is my participation during classes.

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

Personally I consider myself a mature, conscientious and friendly person. I have an easy going personality; but I consider myself to be goal orientated. I am an individual and not necessarily a conformist. I enjoy intellectual discourse; be it on serious matters such as current affairs or more leisurely pursuits such as music.

I also enjoy creative writing; and have contributed online at: www.fanfiction.net and www.livejournal.com and have had two poems published in 'Teen Ink Magazine'. I enjoy reading classical literature; particularly Jane Austen and I also have a keen interest in some fantasy literature, such as Neverwhere. I am an avid listener to music particularly of the past decades and am especially keen on the band Queen. One of my more indulgent leisure pursuits is all things Walt Disney.

I look forward to this new phase in my life and the challenges it will surely present me with. I anticipate the hard work and dedication which will ultimately provide me with the qualifications needed to prepare me for my for my future career and the invaluable life experiences I am certain to obtain.

Universities applied to:

• University of Birmingham
• Surrey
• Reading
• Brunel
• Kings College London

Grades achieved:

• English Literature (A2) - B
• Religion & Philosophy (A2) - A
• Law (A2) - C
• Sociology (A2) - C

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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