Personal Statement:Religious studies 4

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Religion is crucial to understanding humanity and cultural diversity. A deeper appreciation of religion could potentially lead to a greater insight into some of the current, complex issues found in the world today. Religion can have a great deal of influence on policy making, shaping economy and the stimulation of self-discovery. As someone who has grown up in a religious environment, in my case, the Anglican Church, all of this is both fascinating and significant.

I enjoy attending religious festivals, such as Greenbelt, for the various lectures and seminars debating topical secular and religious issues. I take an avid interest in religious studies because it fuels my curiosity and concern for the world around us.

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

Alongside my A level in Religious Studies, I have read the works of Zaehner and Basham. I also enjoyed Hopkins' "The Hindu Religious Tradition (The Religious Life of Man)". In light of this, I have been able to compare the Hindu faith to Christianity and have found similarities such as the practice of Bhakti and charitable giving. I have observed the overt variances between the two religions, such as the belief in polytheism in Hinduism and monotheism in Christianity. A series I found particularly interesting was Peter Owen-Jones' "Around the World in 80 Faiths", which depicted the different ways people engage with their faith. Having been so inspired by his documentaries, I attended a seminar to hear an elaboration of his experiences.

Studying biology has taught me to assimilate complex information in various situations. Studying mathematics has enabled me to develop my logical and critical thinking, which, consequently, has been useful in analysing concepts such as the a posteriori and a priori arguments for the existence of God, and for examining Freud and Dawkins as critiques of religion. Also, as part of my AS level in Fine Art, I explored the theme of society's relationship with God.

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

In years 8, 11 and 13, I was selected by members of staff and peers to represent the school as a prefect at numerous school events. I have completed the junior, intermediate and senior Maths Challenges, winning one bronze and two silver awards. I am currently involved in the organisation of the senior Gospel Choir and I have taken part in Amnesty International meetings throughout the academic year. I have volunteered to produce articles for the school newsletter and local church newsletter. During my GCSEs, I completed my Peer Listening Award, for which I attended training for six weeks, learning basic counselling and safeguarding skills for younger children.

My work experience at PricewaterhouseCoopers allowed me to experience the importance of communication and networking in the workplace. During the school holidays, I have worked as a waitress in a local gastro-pub, gaining the experience of time management, and working under pressure. I also provide regular babysitting to members of my local community.

I have had the opportunity to get involved with fundraising for the local community and for various charities. This has brought me alongside people of other faiths, enriching my understanding of other religions, whilst sparking a curiosity I wish to pursue. Recently, I completed Hertfordshire's annual 'Bike 'n' Hike', cycling twenty-four kilometres to visit churches of various denominations. I managed to raise over £300 for a charity restoring church buildings. Other events I have taken part in include: setting up a village talent show, helping to run the information stall at my Church Fete, and organising a 'pop-up' cake stall for the Hospice of St. Francis. For the past four years, I have volunteered twice a month as an acolyte, assisting at the Eucharist by working as part of a team with priests and other servers. I am also a member of the church choir performing at a variety of events.

Universities applied to:

• University Cardiff (Religious and Theological Studies)
• University Kent (Religious Studies)
• University Bangor (Religion and Philosophy)
• University Chester (Religious Studies)
• University Bath Spa (The Study of Religion)

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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