Law with International Relations Personal Statement

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Recent court cases, including Charlie Gard's battle for experimental medical treatment involving UK courts, the US President and the Pope, and the McLibel case that involved a breach of Article 6 of the ECHR, have inspired me to delve deeper into the worlds of Law and International Relations. Initially, I first began to consider Law two years ago when I was examining the case of O.J. Simpson at school. The case appeared to be a foregone conclusion, but it was the unexpected use of racial issues that changed both the outcome and American culture on a larger scale. In addition to this, the 1991 Factortame case was one of my biggest reasons to take on International Relations because it confirmed the priority of the EU over the UK's Acts of Parliament. Through this course, I would like to understand how the UK's withdrawal from the EU would impact the UK's position in legislation. At University, I would like to expand my knowledge on foreign affairs and my main interest: European Law. In return, I wish to provide sheer determination and be inspired by challenges.

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

Through Government and Politics, I particularly enjoy researching the judiciary system in both the UK and the USA. This allows me to examine their past development and analyse the impact of the two different systems on the functioning of the state, such as the USA having a constitution and the UK having statute law. By studying Business, I am able to look into government legislation and how it affects both businesses and consumers around the UK. By studying legislation as a module, I am able to analyse the effects on businesses of consumer protection and employee protection. I helped to lead a debate club, which allowed me to express myself confidently in front of a larger audience. This developed my ability to construct logical arguments, which were helpful in my studies because I was able to criticise texts by analysing language in English Literature. I enjoy reading a variety of texts such as 'The Book Thief'; however, to gain a further understanding, I read 'Media Law', which presented plagiarism of popular songs, which I may never have thought about before. I also began reading 'The Power', which gave a subversive vision of what the world will look like if millennialism or feminism went the other way, showing how legislation and political stability are important to create a balance in the world.

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

To gain a better understanding, I organised work experience independently in local law firms, spending a week with a Senior Litigator and a week in a solicitor's firm. I observed the practice of law, such as giving legal advice to clients, collecting witness statements firsthand, and drafting legal documents for clients. Through my visit to the local Magistrate's court and the Supreme Court, I witnessed court proceedings such as a personal injury claim and gained an understanding of the challenges of being a Justice. By looking into the exhibition at the Supreme Court, I was able to gain insight into the history of the UK's highest court. During my placement at Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, I improved my understanding of commercial law, where I observed the advisory service they provide on legislation such as employment law and the international links provided to the members through their close relationship with their European branch. My visits to a care home for the elderly allowed me to realise that small gestures like making conversations can ease people's stress. Also, my voluntary work as a peer mentor and prefect at school helped me to develop a sympathetic and understanding nature towards others. I am proud to consider myself an adaptable and well-rounded individual who is able to work with people of all ages.