Law Personal Statement

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Despite the growing opportunity of choice for the modern undergraduate, studying law is a more far-reaching goal than a mere academic exercise. It is a significant part of our society and how we operate as a country. The challenge of being a lawyer has always attracted me. I like examining government decisions, especially when looking at current affairs such as Brexit. The rule of law ideally sets out the unique changes we have to endorse. It provides us with a dependable method of deciding what is right and how to implement the rule. My passion for current affairs has also led me to be a member of the student leadership team, where I was voted to be an executive leader for the cultures and values team.

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

My current A level choices form a solid foundation for the study of law at university. In year 12, I volunteered and co-led a community apprentice leadership programme where I significantly contributed and developed a project helping the homeless in my local area, which was profoundly affected by this crisis. My analytical approach meant I was often the one who stood back and thought about whether the activity the group was rushing into was the best way to achieve the outcome. I was a winner of an online programme run by Sky News TV for young people interested in Law. I had the opportunity to visit the Sky broadcasting studios in West London and meet the presenters of Sky News. My best achievement was winning the Worshipful Company of International Bankers' competition. This required me to write a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer critiquing the challenges the government was facing at the time and further justifying my view on the most important issues facing the new government. At present, I am a member of the college justice league team, where we debate matters on current affairs. This has enhanced my critical thinking and research skills and my ability to listen to views on issues that may be contrary to my own yet academically challenged using research by respected academics in the related field.

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

My exposure to law began with reading daily newspapers and listening to world affairs such as the tensions between North Korea and America and how Catalonia wants independence from Spain. It became clear how immense law is as an academic field and how powerful a tool it is. Spending time in a solicitor's firm for work experience strengthened my interest in the profession. I assisted in the preparation of a court bundle as well as lodging the bundle at court, shadowed a barrister, attended a judicial review, and carried out file and compliance checks. I supported the solicitors with photocopying and filing. Additionally, in year 12, I joined the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, where I furthered my skills in teamwork and self-motivation. It required me to push boundaries and face challenges as I participated in three sectors - voluntary, physical, and an expedition. The most challenging part was spending a week sleeping outdoors, partaking in cleaning open spaces, cutting shrubs from the bushes, and partaking in a charity walk. My good listening skills and my clear and measured approach in debating became a strength as I am able to captivate my audience and get my points across very well. I enjoyed being an executive team leader as it has enabled me to develop my communication skills. I have the dedication required to succeed on this course and I would be honoured to get the opportunity to study at university.