The UCAS System: Personal Statements The University of Edinburgh

Personal Statement: Why is it important? Large numbers of students applying through UCAS – impossible to interview for all courses May be competing with other students from across UK for small number of places – personal statement could make the difference between a successful or unsuccessful application! Admissions staff want to see evidence that students are enthusiastic, well-prepared and have the right skills to do well at university. The University of Edinburgh

Getting Started: Subject Choice Explain why you want to study the courses you have applied for. Show commitment and motivation! Demonstrate a clear understanding of what the subject entails. (Especially when you have not studied the subject before). How do your current studies relate to your choices? The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Mechanical Engineering The University of Edinburgh I have chosen a degree in Engineering because I enjoy working out problems and finding out how mechanical and electrical things work. Throughout school I have particularly enjoyed physics and maths and I feel these are important subjects I would like to explore more through Engineering. I am currently studying Maths to AH level which I am finding very enjoyable and which I hope will provide me with experience for University study. ” The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Law The University of Edinburgh From a very early age I have been interested in the legal system of our country, as it is a vital part of our society. I have visited local and national law courts and have been intrigued by watching barristers and solicitors in action. Consequently I reached the decision that the degree I wish to study is Law based on research and visits to universities. I am in the process of organising placements at local law firms and at the Procurator Fiscal Service where I hope to gain further insight into the responsibilities of lawyers at various levels. ” Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails The University of Edinburgh

“ ” History & Politics The University of Edinburgh I want to combine History with Politics, because I find the political aspects of history especially interesting. Indeed as a career after University I would like to undertake work in the media involving the analysis of political events, and the analytical and research skills gained through studying for such a degree would be of great benefit in a career of this kind. ” Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Chinese Studies The University of Edinburgh My first exposure to recent Chinese history and culture was through books such as “Wild Swans” and “The Good Women of China”. I was truly fascinated by the progression of communism in China and how this affected the general population. I started reading more factual historical books and have recently become engrossed in “The Search for Modern China” by J. Spence. I have also been reading newspaper reports regarding China’s economic development. Beijing will be hosting the Olympics while I am a student and I am keen to observe the changes it brings about and also to compare the approaches taken by the Chinese and the British as both prepare to host this prestigious event. Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails ” The University of Edinburgh

“ ” English Literature The University of Edinburgh I have always enjoyed reading and creative writing and am proud of the collection of poetry I have written. I have a dream to be a published poet but in the meantime I am looking to a career to do with my interest in people. Each year I have taken part in the School’s Drama Festival and last year I was one of the main organisers for our House. In previous years I have won two different awards. In school productions I have been involved in a backstage capacity. On Saturday’s I have a part time job at W.H. Smith’s working in the books department. It is a good experience of dealing with people. ” The University of Edinburgh

Work Experience & Core Skills Provide evidence that you understand the career implications of your choice. Detail any employment placements or work experience. What knowledge, skills or understanding did you gain from the experience? Emphasise the core skills you gained or developed. Avoid using lists! University now offers over 300 different degree programmes – from Artificial Intelligence to Islamic Studies, or Music Technology to Zoology! Most degrees are broad-based and flexible – in fact offer over 200 joint degree programmes. The University was established in 1583 – the youngest of the four ‘ancient’ universities – and over time have developed excellent links with many professions and industries (as many of our graduates have gone on to work in these areas). Edinburgh has a strong international reputation for the quality of its research and last year took in over £100 million from outside bodies for research. Emphasis on the real-world applications of this research is also indicated by the 50 spin-off companies that University research projects have recently produced. For example - Ice Robotics = Spin off company set up jointly with Heriot-Watt University that has developed a robot which can milk cows! [although the one in the picture one looks a bit small for that!!] University takes teaching quality very seriously – scored highly in last teaching assessments conducted by the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council. And regular internal teaching reviews, ensure courses are kept up-to-date, improve teaching and help our students get the most from their studies. The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Work Experience (Vet Med) The University of Edinburgh I have had a weekend job at a local kennels for three and a half years. In this time, the kennels have expanded and are now double the size and cater for other animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs. I am mainly involved in the feeding, cleaning and general care of the animals, but I also spend time dealing with the customers, something which I feel demonstrates my good communication skills and responsibility. Over the last three years I have spent nine weeks seeing practice at five different veterinary surgeries. I have seen a multitude of cases, from routine cat spays and canine parvovirus vaccinations, to more complex problems including a cat with an intussusception, a dog with Lupus and megaoesophagus and a bull suffering from light sensitisation. One of my weeks seeing practice was spent in Ireland. This was an especially interesting experience as it showed me how differently people view their animals over there. I am presently attending my local vets one afternoon a week. Whilst at one of the surgeries, I was allowed to watch an acupuncture clinic for cats and dogs with arthritis or other problems. Along with my visit to an equine hydrotherapy centre, I feel I gained an insight into some of the benefits of alternative veterinary care. This summer I spent a week on a dairy farm in Ayrshire. The hands-on experience with the cattle and sheep was fantastic and further increased my confidence with large animals, previously developed through my earlier horse riding experience. Besides helping with the milking, I was involved in, amongst other things, feeding calves, dosing sheep, dehorning calves and moving cattle. In addition to this, I have spent three weekends assisting with lambing at a smallholding in Cumbria with about 120 sheep. I recently participated in an afternoon's lesson in Falconry where I was taught the basics in handling and caring for birds of prey, an experience which I thoroughly enjoyed.  Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails ” The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Work Experience (Medicine) The University of Edinburgh Working with St John’s Ambulance for 2 years has provided me with challenging situations involving real casualties, requiring me to remain calm in a frenzied atmosphere. Friday night experiences such as treating assault victims or persuading an intoxicated pregnant teenager to attend hospital for medical attention have developed my interpersonal and first aid skills. Further teamwork in a residential home for the elderly over the past 15 months has increased my caring skills. Aiding residents and families with personal grief and acceptance of death, giving reassurance and ensuring personal dignity and confidentiality are fundamental skills which I have learned. Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails ” The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Work Experience (General) The University of Edinburgh My part time job as a waiter has provided me with the opportunity to meet and work with new people. As I have worked in the same job for two years, I have to help train new members of staff, which has helped my leadership skills. I really enjoy the contact with the public which is part of this job. Although this can be challenging, I feel it has given me more confidence and improved my communication skills. ” Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails The University of Edinburgh

Personal Qualities and Achievements Demonstrate that you are an all-round achiever with the ability to contribute to university life Describe any additional achievements or qualifications gained and identify positions of leadership or responsibility you have held. Relate your achievements to how they will contribute to your success on the course. The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Extracurricular Activities/ Responsibilities During this past year at school I have taken on various responsibilities, all of which I feel have added to my skills. I am a buddy to the first years and every week I have to do their registration which has improved my public speaking skills as well as my inter-personal skills with those younger than me. I do paired reading with a younger pupil twice a week which I find very rewarding as I am able to watch him gain confidence in his reading. Finally, I am a co-editor of the school magazine. I am finding this to be quite challenging, especially to fit in with all my schoolwork, but it is proving to be very enjoyable and a test to my organisation abilities. Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails ” The University of Edinburgh

“ ” Outside Interest (Sport) The University of Edinburgh Playing rugby from a very early age has given me great self-motivation. I continue to play at a high standard and recently won an international tournament with my current club. I have also played for the district team. I also swim, play football and badminton. My sporting experiences have given me self-confidence and a desire to succeed at whatever I do. I really hope to continue to play sports while attending university and ideally would like to become involved in the University rugby club. ” Demonstrates the research that has been undertaken to gain an understanding of what the career entails The University of Edinburgh

Making the most of yourself! Remember, be honest, but not too modest! Be positive about your experiences, the skills you have gained, and how they can make you a better candidate. The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh Example (Marketing) “I am applying for a degree in Marketing because I would like to pursue a career in marketing. Among the subjects I am studying at present are Business Studies and Sociology, which I enjoy and I feel will help me in this work. I spent a week's work placement working in the marketing department of Joe Bloggs, biscuit manufacturer. During this time I was working with a group which was promoting a new product. I learned a lot about the development of a marketing strategy and I gained practical experience in using my core skills. I enjoyed my time there. At school I am a member of the senior social committee, which organises dances and such like. I also play hockey for the school first team. Outside of school, I am a member of a choir and I do a lot of photography. I have just completed a First Aid course with St Andrews Ambulance.” The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh Example (Marketing) Para 1- no reason given for choosing marketing career. Sentence 2 adds little to what already will have appeared in the qualifications section. Para 2 - avoid repetition of words - eg 'working'. Some information about the new product, and of the specifics of practical experience in core (transferable) skills would help - which core skills? - what practical experience? Why did you enjoy your time there? Could afford to use a few more words here. Para 3 - does not tie social committee work, choir or photography interests to course applied for. Avoid using vague expressions - 'such like'. Hockey and first aid not particularly relevant - better to use space to focus on relevant items. “I am applying for a degree in Marketing because I would like to pursue a career in marketing. Among the subjects I am studying at present are Business Studies and Sociology, which I enjoy and I feel will help me in this work. I spent a week's work placement working in the marketing department of Joe Bloggs, biscuit manufacturer. During this time I was working with a group which was promoting a new product. I learned a lot about the development of a marketing strategy and I gained practical experience in using my core skills. I enjoyed my time there. At school I am a member of the senior social committee, which organises dances and such like. I also play hockey for the school first team. Outside of school, I am a member of a choir and I do a lot of photography. I have just completed a First Aid course with St Andrews Ambulance.” The University of Edinburgh

Example (Marketing – Draft 2) “I would like to make my career in marketing, which I believe to be an important, expanding area of work. I think it would let me to use and develop my creative skills and apply what I have learned about society through studying Sociology. I spent a one week work placement in the marketing department of Joe Bloggs, biscuit manufacturer. During this time I was involved in the promotion of a new, healthy, muesli biscuit. I learned a great deal about the development of a marketing strategy. I also gained practical experience in using my core skills: communication (spoken, both in person and on the phone, and written); information technology (using a computer for record keeping); numeracy (recording financial costs); problem solving (helping plan a small part of the promotion); and working with other people as part of a team. I benefited a great deal from this experience. At school I am a member of the senior social committee, which organises and advertises social events. Outside school, I am a member of a choir. For the last two years, as well as singing, I have helped to advertise performances. I am a keen photographer, particularly interested in the development of images for advertising and marketing.” The University of Edinburgh

Example (Marketing – Draft 2)) Overall, text flows and reads well. Para 1 - brief comment, but tries to say why marketing is chosen career. Also links with subject studied already. Para 2 - appreciates value of relevant work experience, specifies new product, details core (transferable) skills used (and possibly learned) in work placement and mentions benefit. Para 3 - ties all information used into coherent narrative focussing on marketing and related activity (advertising). In order to do this omits activities which are not directly relevant. “I would like to make my career in marketing, which I believe to be an important, expanding area of work. I think it would let me to use and develop my creative skills and apply what I have learned about society through studying Sociology. I spent a one week work placement in the marketing department of Joe Bloggs, biscuit manufacturer. During this time I was involved in the promotion of a new, healthy, muesli biscuit. I learned a great deal about the development of a marketing strategy. I also gained practical experience in using my core skills: communication (spoken, both in person and on the phone, and written); information technology (using a computer for record keeping); numeracy (recording financial costs); problem solving (helping plan a small part of the promotion); and working with other people as part of a team. I benefited a great deal from this experience. At school I am a member of the senior social committee, which organises and advertises social events. Outside school, I am a member of a choir. For the last two years, as well as singing, I have helped to advertise performances. I am a keen photographer, particularly interested in the development of images for advertising and marketing.” The University of Edinburgh

Personal Statement: Research Do your research – what does the course involve? What skills / experience are they looking for? Check: Prosectuses University websites UCAS entry profiles (if available) Attend Open Days Ask questions! The University of Edinburgh

Personal Statement: Remember… You can only write one personal statement for all 5 choices Don’t just list achievements / skills Make sure it reads well (do a spell check!) Demonstrate that you are an all-round achiever with the ability to contribute to university life If possible relate your achievements / experiences/ courses studied back to your application – a focused and relevant statement is very effective. The University of Edinburgh

Useful Contacts: The University of Edinburgh UCAS: www.ucas.com (Student Recruitment & Admissions) Web: www.sra.ed.ac.uk Email: sra.enquiries@ed.ac.uk Phone: 0131 650 4360 The University of Edinburgh