Personal Statement - Journalism 5

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My interest in journalism stems not only from my interest in writing but also my inquisitive nature: I like knowing what is happening around me. This knowledge is particularly vital with our ever-changing political, social, economic, technological, environmental and cultural climates. From the first newspaper published in 1605 to the wealth of free and paid papers scattered throughout tube carriages in London, journalism as a craft is inescapable - a constant means of streaming information to the public. Aside from the writing itself, this is what excites me most about journalism: the ability to have not only my own ideas, but the information I have accumulated, instantly available to a wide audience. Keeping a piece of writing engaging is of the utmost importance to me. I feel that journalists as a group hold a lot of responsibility in that they help to manipulate public opinion.

My favourite newspaper is The Guardian as I feel its articles manage to retain interest whilst being factual. I have quite Liberal political views, so it appeals to me. I also read the Glasgow Herald whenever I am at home. Both newspapers cover a wide range of topics and host a wealth of contributors, whilst retaining one strong voice. I particularly like the sectioned layout of The Guardian as it feels much more concise.

Online journalism is something which interests me greatly as I feel it is very relevant now that everything is so inherently accessible. Multi-media articles, for instance, can only really exist online. However, I do not think this will affect newspapers in any way, as printed text is unparalleled to most readers: instead, I think the online aspect of journalism should be embraced and used to enhance the hard copy.

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

I feel my previous experience in fashion has really pushed me to the limits of my already strong ability to work under a severe amount of pressure and to a strict deadline: the workload was heavy and the atmosphere very competitive. I feel that all these factors translate directly over to a journalism course. Fashion journalism is an interest of mine, and I enjoy its succinct yet descriptive style. However, it is by no means the sole journalistic aspect I am interested in.

I was the student representative for my year, a position which I also held at my previous college. I feel I performed well in the role as I have strong organisational skills and feel comfortable discussing issues not only with my peers, but also senior members of staff. I also had some experience in speaking in front of a large group of people, a skill which I know is vital as a journalist.

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

Outside of my studies I work for Lula magazine, managing the 'Scrapbook' section of their website. My job involves basic web formatting, and my responsibility is to make sure posts are updated regularly on their required days. It is a valuable insight into the world of magazine publishing and layout. I also work with the Fashion Society of University of the Arts London, updating their blog as required to inform members of events. A direct relation to media and journalism, I really enjoy this position.

As well as writing, I am an avid reader. Film and digital photography have been a hobby of mine for a number of years, and I particularly like watercolour illustration. I have always been interested in fashion. I also play the guitar and keyboards, sew and knit. I am a very creative person, which I feel is reflected in my writing - particularly on the blog I have kept for over a year. This has developed into a forum in which I can write about my views on whatever is interesting and/or affecting me. I am often complimented on my writing skills, and plan on continuing my regular posts. I really take pleasure in writing it.

I feel that I would thrive as an ideal journalism student due to my insatiable love of writing, paired with my wide range of interests, my enthusiasm for current events, and ultimately my desire to keep others informed.

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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