Personal Statement:Psychology 4 - The Student Room

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I have always been interested in human behaviour and the analysis of the factors that shape our personality. We are currently studying sleep in the lesson, and I feel that this has been the most interesting topic to date. I am hoping to follow a career as a psychologist, as being part of a psychological study would really interest me. To expand my understanding beyond the classroom, I started reading The Psychology Review magazine, which I find extremely interesting and helpful for my study.

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

During my A level in psychology, I have become increasingly confident in analysis and evaluation through studying various psychological studies. The grade I received at the end of the year reflects my effort, determination, and enthusiasm for the subject. I am currently working on Key Skills level 3 in communication, where I completed a portfolio in psychology investigating stress and its relationship to physical illness. Additionally, my teacher put my name forward for a psychology master class at the University of Durham, which I will be attending later this month to gain insight into psychology at a higher education level. I am also arranging a work experience placement along the psychology foundation as I feel it will be a valuable lesson about a career in such a demanding subject.

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

Outside of my academic work, I have gained valuable experience through part-time work in a large supermarket, which has helped me develop independence and experience working with others outside of college. For my Year 11 work experience placement, I worked as a receptionist at Gym World, where my responsibilities included running errands, doing computer work, and using my initiative to answer telephone enquiries. I found this to be a good experience in dealing with people, despite it not being directly related to psychology. I have also participated in many sporting events such as athletics, hockey, and cross-country, which keep me physically active. Being a member and sometimes captain of the school hockey team helped me develop leadership qualities and confidence in speaking aloud. Furthermore, I study photography at A level, which nurtures my creativity and eye for art and the decisive moment. Outside of college, I have an active social life and enjoy meeting new people. I also like to swim and am a member of the local gym.

Universities applied to:

• University of Durham

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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