Table of contents

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

The immense size and complexity of the world has always fascinated me. As such, I have developed a deep appreciation of the rich interactions between the human and physical realms when studying Geography. Arriving at a shared understanding of the world is vital if we are to develop effective environmental sustainability to cater for the increasing population. New disciplines and applications of GIS and remote sensing have recently proliferated; both of which capture my attention. To be a part of this fast-paced, ever-evolving subject is the driving force behind my enthusiasm for it. A degree in Geography will allow me to explore beyond the confines of textbooks and gain a practical experience in understanding physical processes and developing deeper appreciations of contemporary issues.

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

Sociology has provided the opportunity for me to carefully cross-reference my learning through other subjects. Assessing different perspectives on the causes of societal issues and the political solutions required allows previously accepted models to be evaluated and improved over time. I relate this to my studies in Geography, where I am able to understand the reasons behind government actions and how these may impact society and the environment, both spatially and temporally. Chemistry has allowed me to understand the interactions between particles on a micro-scale and how they behave in dissimilar environments. Being able to appreciate how the latter arises with due regard as to why these changes occur has furthered my analytical skills. I now have a detailed comprehension of how seemingly small changes can lead to greater consequences. Topics such as ‘Chemistry of the Air’ provided deep insight to climate change and how the government are attempting to find alternative resources to minimise an ever-increasing problem.

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

In summer 2013, I was selected for the Sutton Trust Summer School at Durham University, with a Geography focus. I developed a range of skills in peer collaboration and discussion whilst being challenged by exciting new material. The river exploration completed during the course provided a contrasting experience to my research completed previously along the river Grwyne Fawr, Wales. The latter experience developed my use of specialist equipment and data collection using technology in a higher risk physical environment. My exploration of the River Tee’s, Durham allowed for a first-hand view of the social benefits of a river. Combined, these fieldwork opportunities enriched my prior understanding of both human and physical geography in two physically similar, yet humanly different environments. I have completed a two-week placement with Skanska: a multinational construction and development company. Working on the Cross-Rail Paddington Station Project allowed me to understand the associated environmental concerns and the precautions required to preserve the local area. Completing a variety of tasks within strict time frames enhanced my time management and self-discipline. It made clear to my manager that I have the potential to develop new abilities, as well as building on my communication skills and maturity. To supplement my curiosity, I read National Geographic and enjoy publications of widely acclaimed scientists such as Dr Iain Stewart and Richard Dawkins. The knowledge and understanding I gain from wider reading has allowed me to develop a synoptic understanding of Geography. Recently I explored the causes, effects and management of Hurricane Katrina. I was amazed at how the sheer force of physical geography and the intricacies of human geography combined to result in such long-lasting and devastating impacts on a multitude of scales. I was inspired to complete my EPQ on the disaster. I intend to explore the causes and the effects of this tragedy enabling me to expand on my research literacy and time management skills, to prepare me for university.

Disclaimer: We've adapted this personal statement to reflect the 2025 personal statement changes. All information and examples are the student's own and we've kept the language as close to the original as possible.

Recommended statements

Geography personal statement

‘Geography students hold the key to the world’s problems’ – Michael Palin. I ...

Geography and sociology personal statement By: Amy

The appeal of broadening my understanding of Geography and specialising in th...

Geography ba personal statement By: Jobina · Accepted by Durham University

I moved from India to the United Kingdom aged three and I discovered my passi...

Ba geography personal statement By: Amelia · Accepted by Newcastle University

As an eleven-year-old, I travelled to the Cape Verde Islands. As soon as our ...

Find the latest from Uni Compare

Popular courses for geography

Image of Choose a Geography degree at Winchester!

Choose a Geography degree at Winchester!

Winchester's accredited Geography course empowers you to build a sustainable future! Develop your skills and gain hands-on experience in this accredited course.

Image of Considering a degree in Geography? Choose Chester!

Considering a degree in Geography? Choose Chester!

Study Geography at Chester - ranked in the top 20 in the UK for Geography (Guardian League Table 2025), learn more here!

What's new at Uni Compare

SUBJECT RANKINGS

Discover top unis for geography

Discover the top universities for geography with our subject rankings.

undergraduate Uni's

Photo of r

384 courses

Visit website

FIND THE IDEAL COURSE FOR YOU

Degree course quiz

Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today.

Looking for advice on your application?

Read our guide to Geography

Find out all there is to know about Geography - from course content to entry requirements and personal statement advice.

What you need to include in your personal statement

We share our advice on what to include in your personal statement, how to tailor it to your course and make the most of the 4000 characters.

Winchester's accredited Geography course empowers you to build a sustainable future! Develop your skills and gain hands-on experience in this accredited course.