English personal statement

Below is an English personal statement written by one of our writers. You can use this example to

gain an idea of how to structure and put together your own one. You are strongly advised not to

copy or plagiarise it, instead use it as a resource to inspire your own creative writing.

Example

"This is a subject like no other in that it offers students the chance to study those aspects of the

course that they are most interested in. This point is important to someone like me, who wants to be

able to immerse themselves in specific novels, modern drama, and literature.

When I was at college thinking about what I wanted to do with my life, I decided that I wanted to go

to university to continue studying English. The main reason for this was because firstly I have always

enjoyed reading literature, secondly I wanted to know more about how reading can help to broaden

your mind, and thirdly I would like to improve the way I can creatively express myself through

writing.

In my opinion the skills you learn in an English degree such as language-based critical analysis, strong

writing skills, and quick reading skills etc., are all highly valued by employers everywhere. These skills

are marketable in most career areas. Journalism is a career that I am quiet interested in, and I do

feel that a degree in English would be a very good starting point for getting into this field.

I am able to think critically and address things from a wider perspective; this helps me to establish

my own ideas, and opinions. I have a proven ability to lead and participate in discussions and do so

with confidence in my own opinions. In a sense I learnt to trust my own voice, and came to realise

that my words do matter. Over the past year I have noticed a marked improvement in my own

writing abilities, and right now believe that I am able to present my ideas clearly and logically, think

critically and have the ability to analyse complex information effectively.

At college I studied prose fiction, poetry and drama, along with other diverse topics such as

postmodernism, visual culture, globalisation and Romanticism. My favourite topic was poetry, and

was fascinated by the impact that society had on my favourite poets, and also to now see the impact

their writing is having today on our society. There was a lot of reading to do, which some people may

find boring, but I found very rewarding, particularly as I was given a choice over what I wanted to

read. My time at college helped to expand my love for literature; it helped me to see myself and the

world in a new way. It was instrumental in improving those linguistic skills required to read, discuss

and write about literary and non-literary texts effectively and with confidence.

The reputation your English department was what initially drew me towards your university. I was

also attracted by your thriving research environment, which embraces traditional and new

approaches to English studies. On my visits to your campus, I really liked the fact that there was a

great variety of undergraduates from different backgrounds and countries; to me it had a real

international feel, where everyone seemed to fit in and get along together. A also noticed that there

were a lot of opportunities for sporting activities, and other societies and clubs, basically allowing

you to do whatever you like. Everyone I met was very friendly and there seemed to be so much

going on. I have a strong and friendly personality, excellent classroom manners, and am able to

plan, prepare and deliver coursework to a very high standard. I can assure you that I will make an

outstanding undergraduate at your university, one who is committed to making a real positive

difference to your institution."