Personal Statement:Psychology and criminology 2

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

At A2 level, I am currently studying Psychology, I consider myself quite philosophical which is why I enjoy the subject so much this has changed my mind regarding the course I initially wanted to undertake. During my two years of sixth form psychology has captivated my attention and has left me wanting to know and discover more about social implications that can affect people, what goes through their minds, and the criminal justice system. This is only the skeletal frame as to why I have chosen to study the course at a higher level and it is not an opportunity that I am prepared to miss. Studying this course would enable me to facilitate my future career and guide me in the right direction as I am hoping to work within the probation service or something that is similar.

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

Freud believed that the unconscious mind contains repressed memories of childhood experiences and, in particular, of early childhood conflict and emotions, he was convinced that the first five years of life have a permanent effect on the development of a human being. I would have to say that I do not entirely agree with this theory my personal experience during my childhood has not created an issue for me, I feel it has only made me more determined in life. The results from my AS levels I do not feel are a true reflection on my academic ability, due to personal issues I did not do as well as I know I could have done. However I am not disheartened. I am willing to push myself and remain focused to ensure that I can turn it around and make my A levels a success and not be another government statistic of failure.

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

I am currently working for Curry's the electrical superstore; I have worked within the company since the age of 16 and have thoroughly enjoyed my time with them. My position is based on customer services where at times situations can get heated but I am able to remain calm and deal with them professionally, I feel that everybody deserves to be treated with an equal amount of respect and do my best to enforce that view. I undertake many tasks and challenges while working my evening shifts alone and face them head on enabling me to be successful in completing them. I have also gained work experience through Ringrose Lawgroup for a week which was most fascinating as I spent a day in Crown court where I was able to witness many cases, this is an experience that many people have not had the chance to encounter and I count myself lucky to have been able to take part in such an activity I also gained distinction in the certificate I gained from it. Another activity that I have participated in was a Psychology day at Salford University this was to further my knowledge around the subject and help me to be successful when enduring examinations. This day was truly an experience and not only gave me an insight into what Universities are like but also the teaching styles.

From the age of 8 to 14 I was a part of The Theatre Royal School Of Performing Arts this included dancing, singing and acting I have gained many experiences through this and each year performed in the Theatre Royal Lincoln. I have also been a part of The Sandy Gray School Of Dance, and The Danielle Rawlinson School Of Dance which I have only just finished as I wanted to concentrate on my A levels, in these I also performed a show each year and gained Honours in the dance exams that I participated in. It has helped me build my confidence to a level where I am content with meeting new people and I am able to be socially active within the community. It is important to be able to make social bonds as I feel it helps me adapt to the many situations in life I come across. It has also enhanced my ability of commitment. This will be useful for me at university as I know and fully understand the term commitment, so I can carry out that specific action. I think I am suitable for the course and would be delighted to be accepted.

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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