Personal Statement:Politics and International Relations 2

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I firmly believe that Politics and International Relations are two of the most relevant disciplines there are. The exercise of power affects us all, governing the relations we have both in our private lives and also on an international scale and it is both the abuse and effects of power that I find fascinating. Politics and International Relations are not confined to government and bureaucracy but affect each and every individual within society - elements of both subjects are applicable and relevant to almost every aspect of daily life, which is why I wish to study the subjects at degree level.

I originally became interested in politics after reading Orwell's 'Animal Farm' for English Literature A level, which introduced me to the fact that just one man was able to have the power to command an entire nation. Undertaking wider reading around the novel, I learnt more about Stalinist Russia, and consequently furthered my interest in the abuse of power and political tools and how the ideas and decisions made by a small group of individuals can affect the entire world.

Studying Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) at AS level sparked an interest in me in questioning what is right or wrong; good or bad - and indeed whether we can even use these terms objectively. Consequently I have developed an interest in Political Philosophy. I decided to read Machiavelli's 'The Prince', and found his ideas about what makes a good leader ruthless but interesting nevertheless. My interest in ethics led to my founding a debating club at my school which meets every week. I find participating in the club has helped me learn the value of alternative opinions and arguments, and has taught me how to express my own points diplomatically which I feel is a valuable skill.

I also have a keen interest in the history of war, which I find an engaging topic of study and would like to pursue further through relevant modules. This led to me visiting The Holocaust Centre in Nottinghamshire, which opened my eyes to the full extent that the abuse of power can lead to. The effect of politics and international relations can and does have dreadful consequences, which is why I believe both disciplines are so relevant and important to study.

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

I originally became interested in politics after reading Orwell's 'Animal Farm' for English Literature A level, which introduced me to the fact that just one man was able to have the power to command an entire nation. Undertaking wider reading around the novel, I learnt more about Stalinist Russia, and consequently furthered my interest in the abuse of power and political tools and how the ideas and decisions made by a small group of individuals can affect the entire world.

Studying Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) at AS level sparked an interest in me in questioning what is right or wrong; good or bad - and indeed whether we can even use these terms objectively. Consequently I have developed an interest in Political Philosophy. I decided to read Machiavelli's 'The Prince', and found his ideas about what makes a good leader ruthless but interesting nevertheless.

I also enjoy learning about different cultures and the history of humanity, which led to my undertaking in an Open University course in 'Archaeology: The Science of Investigation'. Whilst difficult, the course introduced me to study at University level and I found the experience mentally stimulating and rewarding.

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

My interest in ethics led to my founding a debating club at my school which meets every week. I find participating in the club has helped me learn the value of alternative opinions and arguments, and has taught me how to express my own points diplomatically which I feel is a valuable skill.

I also have a keen interest in the history of war, which I find an engaging topic of study and would like to pursue further through relevant modules. This led to me visiting The Holocaust Centre in Nottinghamshire, which opened my eyes to the full extent that the abuse of power can lead to. The effect of politics and international relations can and does have dreadful consequences, which is why I believe both disciplines are so relevant and important to study.

Outside of school, I pursue a variety of interests. I enjoy music and I regularly play the piano, a hobby I have had for the past six years. I also enjoy keeping fit and go running five times a week. Also, I love travelling because it presents the opportunity to experience different cultures. Holidays around the world have further fuelled my desire to study international politics because they have made me aware of the importance of the relations between different countries.

I believe I am a determined, highly motivated individual, and by studying Politics and International Relations I hope to gain not only knowledge of the wider world but to improve my analytical and writing skills. I am excited about the prospect of starting university and the challenges it will present. I am confident that, with my skills and interests, I can make a real contribution to the course.

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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