PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Law Personal Statement

Law is the foundation of our society and is found in every aspect of our lives. The diversity of working in law is especially appealing to me as the law deals with personal disputes but also political and international issues such as the high courts involved in Brexit. This diversity continues to expand in new emerging areas of law such as new risks of cybercrime and fraud as well as the increasing threat of terrorism. Studying law is, therefore, an exciting opportunity to study a degree that feels relevant and current in the changing world.

I have gained valuable insight into the realities of a career in law through work experience programs at Ramsdens Solicitors and Pinsent Masons. Within these programs I worked closely alongside practicing lawyers, attending court and client meetings with them. While at Pinsent Masons, I took part in a mock employment tribunal, learning how a real court works and boosting my interest in advocacy. I enjoyed the busy office environment and observing the level of hard work and commitment the solicitors had in their jobs. These experiences have enabled me to recognise the difference between high street and corporate law firms and make informed decisions about which optional modules I may choose as part of my degree.

As a Biology student, I have developed an analytical and factual thought process and the ability to deal with a large amount of information. While in English Literature and Modern History, I have developed the ability to cohesively express myself and gained crucial essay writing skills. In my study of the suffrage movement, I have explored how political and legal processes can implement change in society. Intrigued by law’s ability to change, I read the work of Helena Kennedy who has explored changes in the law towards women in her book ‘Eve was framed'. Utilising this reading in my EPQ, I am engaging in the question as to if dress codes are an out-dated form of sexism and am exploring how further legislation can protect people from sexism in the workplace. Taking part in the extended project is developing my organisation and independent study skills and preparing me for study at degree level. Orientating my project around the law is also exposing me to legal terminology and the methods I would have to use to find relevant information in a law degree.

Within college, I have been developing my confidence and communication through joining the college choir, performing in a number of concerts. I have also boosted my confidence through my college debating society in which I discuss topical issues. Debating, and being an elected tutor rep, has improved my awareness of how legal processes are involved in everyday life and has allowed me to recognise the difficulties involved in making a just decision. This is echoed in the real world of law through the fundamental right to fair trial. This is integral to our legal system and upholds the trust society places on this system to protect us from injustice. The tragic lack of fair trial is demonstrated in the case of Louise Woodward. Labelled guilty by the media and refused the chance to move the trial to a different state, she was given an unfair disadvantage in court. Yet through appeal, her sentence was reduced. This demonstrates the fascinating ability to rectify and resolve issues in the law. But also highlights the vigour, even in our modern system, needed to ensure everyone achieves a fair trial. Outside of college, I have been a member of Girl Guiding for 7 years, having completed my Baden Powell award I now take on a more senior role of helping to plan and run activities for the younger girls; developing my leadership. Working as a volunteer at a local charity shop I have also gained crucial interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with many different kinds of people. I believe these skills I have developed and my personal qualities equip me for university and the next step in my education.