Personal Statement:Postgraduate asian pacific studies 1 - The Student Room

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My educational background is quite diverse. I spent my last three years at the ******* College Australia, and have successfully finished year 12 there. My choices of subjects reflected the diversity of my interests - English, Mathematics, International Studies, Legal Studies, and Economics. I excelled in International Studies and was awarded Academic Merit.

Upon my return to Surabaya at the start of year 1999, I attended IBMT (Institute of Business Management and Technology), an International University which follows the United States curriculum, at which I majored in International Management. The subjects I took were: Accounting I and II, Sociology, Psychology, World Civilization, English Composition, Public Speaking, and Organizational Management. I finished the semester with a GPA of 3.6.

After finishing senior school, I would like to fulfill a lifelong wish, which is to study Asian Studies and International Studies. Indonesian reformation will open immense International relations opportunities in near future. I aspire to work closely with the United Nations and to be involved in Indonesia's international affairs. This is why I believe that an Asia Pacific Studies degree at Ritsumaikan Asia Pacific University would be the perfect course for me. There are three specific reasons why I want to study at APU, Japan. First, I wish to receive a high-quality Asia Pacific Studies degree. Second, I hope to take full advantage of one of the leading Japanese universities in order to excel at my studies. Third, I desire to once again experience multicultural exposure and a dynamic learning environment.

I'm aware that generally, Asia Pacific Studies is a degree which develops many skills and covers facts that are valued and relevant in many walks of life. Whichever route I decide to take, I can be sure that the study will equip me with the necessary skills to continue to acquire new knowledge and understanding throughout my entire working life. Learning is what I do best, and in Japan I will have the perfect opportunity to excel at it.

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

My subjects have helped me prepare academically and personally for this course. At ******* College Australia, my diverse subject choices including International Studies and Legal Studies have broadened my perspective and academic skills. I excelled especially in International Studies, earning an Academic Merit award.

At IBMT, majoring in International Management, I undertook courses such as Accounting, Sociology, Psychology, World Civilization, English Composition, Public Speaking, and Organizational Management. These subjects provided me with a strong foundation in management principles and cultural understanding, reflected in my GPA of 3.6.

The excellent quality of the university, as well as supportive teachers and friends, contributed immensely to my success. I was not just a passive learner in the classroom; I actively contributed to class discussions, which enriched my learning experience and prepared me for the demands of higher education.

I believe these qualifications and studies have equipped me with valuable knowledge and skills directly relevant to Asian Pacific Studies and international affairs.

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

In addition to my academic background, I have been involved in a wide range of clubs and social activities such as the United Nations Youth Conferences, Geelong Radio Station, Peer Education Street Theatre, 40 Hours Famine Committee, Amnesty International, a badminton club, and basketball club. These experiences developed my interpersonal skills and broadened my understanding of community and international issues.

One of my proudest achievements was being selected as one of two students to receive a scholarship of AUD 1000 to attend the National Youth Reconciliation Conference in Darwin, Australia. After returning to Indonesia, I became an active member of the Rotary Club and The British Council.

My work experiences at Weighton and MacDonald's Law Firm in Geelong also enhanced my practical understanding of professional environments.

Living in Geelong, a small yet cosmopolitan city in Australia, alongside my life in Surabaya, Indonesia, has given me a broader view of the world and the ability to adapt to different cultures—a skill crucial for any international student. These experiences have improved my English skills significantly and shaped me into a blend of two contrasting lifestyles. My thoughts, ideas, and actions reflect this unique blend, which I consider an asset for my future studies and career.

Overall, these extracurricular and practical experiences have provided balance to my rigorous academic work and will prove invaluable as I pursue a degree in Asia Pacific Studies and my aspiration to work within international relations.

Universities applied to:

• Ritsumaikan Asia Pacific University

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.

Need help with your personal statement? You can ask a question or get feedback from The Student Room community (and our trained personal statement experts) on the personal statement advice forum.