Personal Statement:Psychology personal statement success

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My curiosity about behaviour evolved after reading F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'Tender is the Night' and this fuelled my desire to study undergraduate Psychology. The narrative explores the mental fragility of a schizophrenic's struggle to cope with her psychosis, as she attempts to establish a sense of reality. The complexity of psychological abnormality exposed in this novel held my attention and I am still intrigued by research into factors that could induce acute mental health. I am fascinated by the prominence of psychological concepts that dominate literature. For me the appeal of Psychology is its analytical nature and yet there is so much to be uncovered. My hope is to be part of the exciting research developments in the future.

The dynamic nature of Psychology has compelled me to study it further at university. I have a strong work ethic and a natural fascination for this subject and I believe that I am well suited to the degree course. The prospect of studying Psychology in more depth excites me, as I am keen to learn and discover more about a subject that is so captivating. After graduating I aspire to gain relevant experience before applying for a PhD in Clinical Psychology. My genuine enthusiasm for Psychology is what motivates me to turn my passionate curiosity into a rewarding career.

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

In September, I was fortunate enough to observe a session with a Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Calderdale Royal Hospital, allowing me to understand the role of a psychologist when practising within mental health. I have learned about the different neuropsychological tests patients with cognitive impairments undergo. The psychologist's focus in making a thorough analysis of each patient enhanced my interest in studying Psychology as an undergraduate. The analytical and diagnostic skills I developed during my work experience will augment my progression through university. Since attending the Psychology Conference at the University of Nottingham I have learned more about the different perspectives and issues that concern Psychology. I found the lecture introducing Freudian theory particularly captivating and after reading 'The Unconscious' I became gripped by Freud's exploration of mental functioning, particularly the divided psyche.

To develop my skills of scientific research and independent analysis, I recently set up a Psychology blog [http

.wordpress.com] which acts as a tool for me to research and comment on psychological topics. My post on Dissociative Amnesia & PTSD was the most interesting yet challenging due to the conflicting debates between psychological and biological explanations. My EPQ is a devised theatre piece centred on the experience of a schizophrenic, which involved research into whether schizophrenia is one diagnosis or a psychosis consisting of a multitude of disorders. This issue is still currently under debate by researchers, and I look forward to furthering my studies in this area.

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

My position as House Captain allows me to work with pupils of all ages, thus strengthening my communication and leadership skills. My communication and research skills have been developed as an active member of the school's Model United Nations group, winning top individual awards at conferences throughout the UK. I am hoping to continue to be a part of MUN at university, but also keen to carry on with my sporting activities. Last year I learnt Springboard & Highboard Diving and I am now part of the diving team for Manchester. Aside from my studies I take an active role in my community. In August I led a three-week summer camp for the youth organisation I belong to, and developed vital leadership and organisational roles, as well as learning how to use my initiative in difficult situations.

Universities applied to:

• University of Nottingham
• University of Birmingham
• University of Bristol
• Newcastle University

Grades achieved:

• Psychology - A at AS (90/100) and predicted A* for A2
• English Literature - A at AS (85/100) and predicted A* for A2
• Government & Politics A at AS (98/100) and predicted A* for A2
• Philosophy A at AS (92/100) and dropped for A2

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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