Personal Statement - Journalism 8

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Some call me nosey, others inquisitive. Whatever the word, that is me; I am eager to discover, to broaden my knowledge and ultimately to play a part in making the news accessible. Journalism makes those passions possible. Be it Lady Gaga's latest scandal, the recent so called 'tragedy' of the miners stuck underground in Chile or the achievements of local fundraisers, everyone has a right to know what is going on, either locally or globally. Journalism appeals to me because there is always something new to discover and explore.

During the election campaign this year, I became very aware of the ever changing situation, and followed it intently. BBC Political Editor Nick Robinson impressed me particularly as his style of reporting captured my attention and gave a fresh outlook on the events. This new interest encouraged me to play a key part in our school election scheme. The aim of the scheme was to engage young people in politics. I chose to stand for the Green Party and had to make speeches outlining the party ethos and policies. The Green Party does not necessarily reflect my personal beliefs, but I saw it as a bigger challenge to myself if I were to promote a lesser known party. This challenge required me to be confident and highly self motivated, which are qualities I believe I have always possessed. Aged ten, I took the lead role as the Pied Piper in our school musical and have continued to perform since then in the school swing band, school shows, music concerts and as part of a local indie band. Confidence will be an asset to me in the world of journalism as I can easily approach people and take lead roles when necessary.

Studying history has helped me understand how events in the past have affected the present. It confirmed that my real interest is what is happening now and how it will affect our futures. A degree in journalism would enable me to develop this passion.

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

Recently I spent a week at a local radio station in Skipton, 'Fresh Radio'. Working in the news room, I developed technical skills by researching, writing, recording and editing local news stories and produced the entertainment news reports that aired at midday. I was given significant responsibility and had to work efficiently to meet the deadlines I had been given. I found the whole experience very rewarding, especially when I heard my bulletins played throughout the afternoon. Although I enjoyed practicing the practical journalism skills, the most important thing I learnt was the importance of communicating to a specific audience. As the 'Fresh Radio' broadcast area is across the Dales, I had to report a mixture of local, national and global stories. This new understanding influenced my EPQ title 'Why are there differences in the way a broadsheet and tabloid newspaper reports on political issues?'

Commitment and time management are key aspects of journalism and during my GCSE year I spent my Sundays at Young Yorkshire Musicians based at Leeds College of Music. For this I had to pass an audition and prove that I had the potential to improve my singing. Once accepted, I took part in timetabled day, not dissimilar to my everyday school life. There, I worked on my own skills but most enjoyably, in groups of like minded teenagers, who shared my love of music.

As part of my experience in the Sixth Form, I write articles for two local papers 'The Keighley News' and 'The Craven Herald', reporting on events such as the Year 12 induction day and fund raising challenge for the Pakistan Flood Appeal. This has enabled me to develop my reporting skills, while writing about issues that are important in the school, giving me another level of responsibility.

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

I would be a great candidate for a journalism degree as I am ready to enhance my previous experiences with an academic challenge. I have always been interested in the media and the way it works, however my combination of experiences has made me aware that journalism is the career and lifestyle for me.

Universities applied to:

• University of Sheffield
• Nottingham Trent University
• University of Leeds
• Bournemouth University
• De Montfort University

Grades achieved:

• Performance Studies (A2) - B
• English Language (A2) - C
• History (A2) - C
• General Studies (A2) - D
• Philosophy (AS) - D

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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