QMU UG Prospectus 2023sp | Page 122

Is QMU right for you ? All you need to know before applying

Writing a personal statement

As part of the application process , all applicants must write a personal statement . This statement provides a chance to tell us why you would like to study a particular course , and what skills and experience you possess that show your passion for your chosen subject .
Every effort has been made to ensure that the accuracy of the information provided here is correct , you should note that it is advisable to check with the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service ( UCAS ) and individual universities regarding their application requirements .
The application process and personal statement
Applications to undergraduate degree courses are made online through the UCAS website . In the application you will be asked to complete a number of sections including personal information , course details , education and qualification details and a personal statement .
The personal statement is a very significant part of your UCAS application . It is your opportunity to tell universities about your suitability for the course ( s ) that you hope to study . You need to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment and , above all , ensure that you stand out from the crowd .
The personal statement can be up to 4,000 characters in length ( including spaces ) or 47 lines of text ( including blank lines ), whichever comes first .
In your personal statement you should include :
• Why you want to study the course ( s ) you are applying for – this makes it important to ensure that your course choices do not vary wildly .
• Evidence that you clearly understand what the subject entails and any career exploration you have undertaken , including work or voluntary experience .
• Any extracurricular interests or achievements ( sport , music , part-time work ), especially those that show positions of leadership or responsibility you have held . Remember to relate how these achievements , and the skills acquired , may help you in your studies .
Where the demand for a particular course is very high , your personal statement takes on extra significance . For many vocational / professional courses ( eg teacher training , allied health professions ), evidence of specific career exploration is something we look for as part of the selection process . For example , for applications to allied health profession courses , universities will want to see evidence that you have experience that demonstrates :
• Specific experience in your chosen subject / course area ( eg visiting hospital departments or work shadowing ).
• General experience of working with others ( eg nursing homes , day-care centres , voluntary work ).
You will be expected to highlight what you have learnt from this experience . You should be able to demonstrate that you have an empathetic nature and an ability to work well with other people .
• Confirmation that you have the skillset to succeed in your studies ( eg organisational , communication , team working , time management skills ) using examples where possible .
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