Presenter: Anna Sir Uber, Master’s student at University College London (UCL).
Background: From Nigeria, currently living in London. Studying for a Master’s in Law at UCL.
Purpose of Video: Reading her personal statement for UCL out loud and sharing tips for writing a good personal statement.
Universities Applied to: UCL, Queen Mary University of London, University of Birmingham, University of Leicester.
Outcome: Got accepted into all four universities.
Personal Statement Content and Structure
First Paragraph: Introduction
Start with a story rather than traditional formal openings.
Key Points: Observations from Nigeria, aspiration to become an international commercial lawyer, and the role of regulatory frameworks in economic development.
Goal: Study law at graduate level at UCL as a stepping stone to achieve career goals.
Second Paragraph: Academic Background
Key Points: Fascination with law during undergraduate studies in international law and diplomacy, leading to curiosity beyond a BSc degree.
Decision: Pursue an LLB degree in the UK to further academic pursuits and preference for English law in international agreements.
Short-term Goal: Qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales.
Third Paragraph: Skills and Challenges
Key Points: Challenges of adjusting to a new academic system in the UK, resilience, and development of critical thinking and argumentative skills.
Strategies: Engaging with course materials, tutorials, further reading, and asking questions.
Fourth Paragraph: Extracurricular Activities
Roles: Course representative and a volunteer with the Pro Bono Insight Project.
Skills Developed: Leadership, communication, and presentations to secondary school children.
Outcome: Preparedness to hone these skills further at UCL.
Fifth Paragraph: Why UCL?
Key Points: UCL's legal research reputation, interest in modules like international economic and trade law, and programs like Law Without Walls.
Research: Contact with current UCL students and feedback on the LLM program.
Outcome: Strengthened resolve to study at UCL.
Sixth and Seventh Paragraphs: Specific Interests
Influence: Academic and professional journey shaping interest in international commercial law.
Experiences: Entry course in arbitration and vacation scheme at an international law firm.
Modules of Interest: International arbitration and corporations, global business, and environment.
Goal: Understanding the relationship between law, economic development, and sustainable development goals.
Conclusion
Key Points: Situated in London, UCL provides networking opportunities and engagement with international law firms and organizations.
Final Thoughts: Looking forward to studying at UCL to further career ambitions.
Tips for Writing Personal Statement
Structure: Short, simple, and easy-to-read sentences and paragraphs.
Content: Demonstrate skills with examples, explain why specific university and course, and tie in career goals.
Research: Mention specific modules, lecturers, and programs that interest you.
Customization: Tailor the statement to each university by focusing on relevant strengths and interests.
Additional Resources
Further Videos: How to apply for master’s studies in the UK and steps for preparing your application.
Engagement: Encourage viewers to leave questions in the comments, like, share, and subscribe.