Personal Statement:Sociology and international development with economics

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Individuality and independence are greatly valued in our society. However, many of us are unaware that everything we do, including our decisions and behaviour, is shaped through our interactions with others. There is no debate that we are born into different groups and acquire, at least in part, our language, beliefs and sense of identity from them. Whether through race, religion, socioeconomic class, community, or nationality, much of human life is guided by social norms and consumed by conflict between groups, each of which tries to defend its own interests. Sociology's breadth of enquiry and relevance to pressing societal issues, such as inequality, gender, ethnicity, and social change helps us to understand those who differ from ourselves. This has inspired me to look further into these topics and to study this discipline at university.

I am interested in the influence of power in society. Studying the works of Solomon Asch on conformity as part of my A level Psychology course allowed me to see why different social groups may or may not side with the majority, therefore instigating social change. This led me to look at Marxist theory of social class. When applying his theory to our society, I realized the ways in which social classes affect our identity within society. The idea that our roles in society are defined by our social class has led me to read 'Coming Apart' by Charles Murray, who adopts a controversial approach to the two emerging classes in America which have shifted the nature of its society. It is interesting that despite changes in sociological class division, Murray focuses on Marx's idea of a division between an elite and inferior class. Reading 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell, showed me that its lessons are still highly relevant to our society showing us that no matter how hard we try; true equality will never be reached by mankind for the reason that, "power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely!"

I am also interested in feminism. In Afghanistan strict gender segregation has led to the development of the 'Bacha posh'. Girls who are disguised as boys up until the age of marriage and then forced to return to their original gender. This transition can often be confusing leading the individual to question her (or his) own gender. This questions whether our biological sex determines our gender and self identity or if this is can be influenced by environmental experiences. This has made me curious about other sociological theories and to explore these further.

My ambition is to work in international aid and development; studying sociology will build my awareness and ability to analyse the relationships between social, political and economic dynamics that result in a community's beliefs and behaviors. It addresses our own preconceptions and helps us to understand the impacts of our actions in other societies.

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

Studying the works of Solomon Asch on conformity as part of my A level Psychology course allowed me to understand group dynamics and social change. This study motivated me to explore Marxist theory of social class, which I applied to contemporary society to understand how social classes influence identity and social roles.

I supplemented my academic learning by reading 'Coming Apart' by Charles Murray and 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell. These readings deepened my comprehension of social class divisions and power dynamics within society.

The combination of my A level subjects and independent reading has developed my analytical skills and broadened my sociological perspective, preparing me well for this course of study.

I successfully gained offers from multiple universities including University of Bath (International Development with Economics) with an AAB offer, Durham University (Sociology) with ABB, Surrey University (Sociology) with AAB, and Loughborough University (Sociology) with BBB. I accepted the offer from the University of Bath after results day on 13/08/2015.

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

University will not only provide the opportunity to extend my knowledge of sociology but also to pursue my personal interests. I have represented my school's athletics team, played in my local women's football team and have trained in martial arts including Tae Kwon Do and Karate. These experiences have enhanced my communication and interpersonal skills, as well as strengthening my determination and self-confidence.

I volunteer with Age UK, Nelson's Journey (a child bereavement charity), and Scope, a charity for people with physical disabilities. This has enabled me to relate to those from different backgrounds and appreciate the difficulties that they may face. I understand that these minorities may feel detached from society, and by promoting their independence and communication skills, I enable them to integrate into society and improve their lives.

These are the things I would like to continue at university, whilst exploring different clubs and societies that university may present.

Universities applied to:

• University of Bath
• Durham University
• Surrey University
• Loughborough University
• Warwick University

Grades achieved:

• AAB
• ABB
• AAB
• BBB

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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