Psychology with Forensic Psychology Personal Statement

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Psychology has been part of my life indirectly for many years, from the therapy sessions between family members to exercising what I have been taught in research methods for myself within the workplace. Questioning why or how people behave is a passion of mine. I recall questioning human behaviour when watching BBC: Reggie Yates US Jail Guard. I found myself trying to comprehend why prisoners appeared to be so aggressive towards the guards but not seemingly acting the same way towards each other. I began to find the answers in Zimbardo’s experiment as prisoners behaved similarly alongside through explanations such as obedience. I have had a real desire to work with people for a long time and have always been fascinated with human behaviour. It is this fascination that has compelled me to want to further my studies within psychology. I have always been a caring individual, and this is primarily the reason why forensic psychology and counselling interest me. I enjoy assisting people with their troubles and am one whom my friends tend to confide the most in.

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

My A–Levels in Sociology, Psychology and Religious Studies has catalysed my interest in psychology as well as counselling. They help to understand the dynamics of emotions, relationships and behaviours in which I wish to explore career-wise in the future regarding people I want to work with. I am confident they have given me the foundations necessary as well as a passion to enjoy the demands this course will present. Furthermore, maths has always been a strong point of mine as evident by my A in GCSE maths, combined with the continuation in A-Level psychology. This is why I believe the statistical modules will likewise be my strength and one I will enjoy. In other aspects of education, I was a part of the Brilliant Club where I completed an essay resulting in a 2:1 grade. It has improved my essay writing skills and the ability to critique sources effectively.

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

Working as a telephone interviewer has enabled me to improve my research method skills; I have followed ethical guidelines, been trained in the way I ask questions so that they are not leading/misleading and the ability to record information accurately. Also, the capabilities to establish rapport, listen intensively and work independently. I completed volunteering at the Whitechapel Mission which accommodates to the homeless by providing them with food and access to hot water. The experience taught me the importance of diligence as I had to be there for 05:45am each morning. Moreover, I volunteered as a student ambassador guiding students and parents around the school and dealing with queries. Also, I completed a level 1 sports leadership qualification. This allowed me to develop my leadership skills having to work with a range of ages, accommodating to the needs of others, and safeguarding. Outside academia, I have participated in many sports such as netball and athletics. I was in the netball team and went on to the Hackney Youth games in 2013 competing at long jump. I look forward to student life so that I am able to encounter new affairs alongside my academics. As I have become older my interest has only grown and I am consistently analysing my own life as well as applying psychological theories to explain behaviours and interactions I witness and experience for myself. I have been accustomed with a set of unique personal skills which will be useful for the modules I look forward to studying.