Leeds University Personal Statements
These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to University of Leeds. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.
You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities.
Psychology Personal Statement Example (Mature Student) 1 
Earlier this year I was involved in a car accident, and as I sat among the wreckage I was shocked to see not one person stopped to help me. Didn’t anyone care enough to help?
If it weren’t for the science of psychology, this and so many other questions about human behaviour would go unanswered...
Politics and International Relations Personal Statement Example 2
I believe that we are living in a time of social and political revolution. From the election of a black President to the Arab spring and more locally the London riots of 2011, people's interest into politics is becoming ever more apparent...
Economics & Management Personal Statement Example
Being born and brought up in a country where an uneven distribution of income is a norm, the poor live on a minimum wage of Rupees 115 a day, whilst the billionaires form the sixth largest group in the world...
Biomedical Science/Neuroscience Personal Statement Example
The limitless potential of the life sciences and the opportunity for world-changing breakthroughs are both exciting and compelling to me. Upon hearing about a disease for the first time, I am eager to find out more about the precise ways in which it affects the body, which has led me to spend much time researching the details of various diseases...
Geology Personal Statement Example 1
My interest in the natural world started early in my life. At the age of 4 and at my first school years, my favorite trip was at the Greek Natural History museum where I admired the shinny purple stones, the giraffe, the lions, and most of all, the huge Triceratops skeleton...
International Relations Personal Statement Example
Being of Pakistani heritage means I am at the heart of multiculturalism that many would say defines Britain today. Growing up as a British Asian in the last decade has allowed me to experience life embedded in a world of politics, not only from a Western perspective but also that of other cultures...
History Personal Statement Example 5
As the descendant of an Auschwitz survivor, my family history allows me to understand the influences that the Second World War has had on people's families and the victims of the Nazi regime in occupied Poland...
Physics Personal Statement Example 4
The elegance of the scientific subjects, in particular physics is what has established my eagerness for a deeper insight into the subject. What sets physics apart from the other sciences, in my opinion, is that it can be practically applied to all instances of life...
Biomedical Sciences Personal Statement Example 30
The human body is a miraculous creation; it is a complex organism made of many diverse systems each working to maintain the life that we too often take for granted. Furthermore everyday life relies solely upon the biomedical sciences; it is an area of expertise that is constantly advancing out of necessity and as a result has shaped the lives of countless individuals...
Languages Personal Statement Example 10
At the age of eight, a friend introduced me to Guy Hamilton's 1969 film 'Battle of Britain'. This instilled in me two things: my doomed childhood ambition to be a Spitfire pilot, long since grudgingly abandoned, but also, perhaps ironically, a love for the sound and feel of the German language that has stayed with me all through the intervening decade...
English Literature Personal Statement Example 1
When I saw Gatz, John Collin's eight hour interpretation of The Great Gatsby, I noticed that Fitzgerald changes the colour of Daisy's hair every time he describes it. It is "like a dash of blue paint", "yellowy" like her daughters and then "dark, shining"...
French and Italian Personal Statement Example 1
I see speaking a foreign language as a key to a door opening up a new world of possibilities and opportunities. As a child my mother insisted I learned another language, she told me to grab any possible open window for a life beyond my own imagination...
Natural Sciences Personal Statement Example 2
My perception of the sciences has changed over time as my understanding of them has developed. Subjects that once appeared isolated and independent now merge into one coherent field, each interacting with another...
Physics & Astrophysics Personal Statement Example
I have always considered Physics to be a captivating area of study, whether it is a question of how aspects of it work, or indeed why they work. As such, I have found deep fascination in studying Physics, as it is able to provide answers (as well as evidence) to such queries...
Politics Personal Statement Example 4
I have always been passionate about the study of history and more recently international relations. I feel that to understand what is happening in the present requires an understanding of what has happened in the past...
Physics Personal Statement Example (International Student) 1
Some people believe there is no universal key to the mysteries of the world, but I am convinced otherwise. Since early childhood when my parents, both physicists by training, patiently answered all my why-questions and encouraged me in my fascination with astronomy, I have been thinking of Physics as the perfect science that can unveil all the secrets that fascinate humanity...
Maths and Economics Personal Statement Example 1
By skimming through a daily broadsheet or examining journals such as ‘The Economist’ it is clear to see that economic issues affect everyone both locally as well as on a global scale. However, I have been interested by Mathematics for many years and have found my enjoyment for it has increased as the depth of my understanding has grown...
English, Education & Sociology Personal Statement Example
I have always been enthusiastic about English. I spent a lot of time reading when I was younger and feel that this benefited me by encouraging me to develop and learn quickly. I had a vivid imagination as a child, possibly influenced by my interest in the captivating work of such authors as Enid Blyton, Roald Dahl and Charles Kingsley...
Archaeology Personal Statement Example 2
I have held an interest in archaeology for some years which has stemmed from reading about topics such as ancient Greece and Troy as well as ancient Rome and Egypt at primary school. I have always found it intriguing how the discoveries of information and artefacts from sites such as this have raised awareness about the importance and value of archaeology and I am fascinated by how archaic cultures, findings and inventions have influenced our modern lives...
Law Personal Statement Example 9
The spectre of global terrorism is prevalent. Fundamental civil liberties are under threat, not only by those who seek to destroy our society, but also by those who have been charged with the task of safeguarding it...
Pharmacology and Neuroscience Personal Statement Example
I enjoy studying science because it is a subject that encompasses so much of life's issues and practicalities, and a subject that can be applied and made useful to everyday life. Biological science is fascinating but it is even more exciting when studying abnormal function in medical science, from the facts in pathology to the application in pharmacology...
Biology Personal Statement Example 9
Ever since I was very young, I have been fascinated by and have had a keen interest in many aspects of Biology. The areas of Biology in which I am particularly interested are living organisms, the environment and human Biology...
English Personal Statement Example 22
What I enjoy above all else in a piece of literature is the feeling that it has brought about change, either in me or in some wider context. Literature which offers the opportunity for an adapted way of living or thinking, however slight, is I think a thing to be kept and treasured in our intellects...
French and Italian Personal Statement Example 2
Before I participated in a French Exchange to Montelimar in 2005, I had found French interesting but didn't particularly think that it would be important in my longer term career aims. However, whilst in Montelimar, I found myself fully immersed in French culture and began to realise the breadth and beauty of the language and the importance of being able to express myself effectively in another language...
Nanotechnology Personal Statement Example
Nowadays, science and technology play a vital role in people's lives. They have become a dominant factor in the development of society. Therefore, many countries are striving to diversify their economies through the development and application of new and advanced technologies like the ones that operate on nanoscale...
Computer Science Personal Statement Example 43
My interest in computers and technology started when I was given a computer as a present, at the age of ten. Since there was nobody to teach me how to use it, I had to teach myself, experimenting with different options...
Physiology and Medical Sciences Personal Statement Example
The human body is arguably the most complex life form that has ever existed. Studying how the body works helps us to comprehend the many processes that maintain health and find better treatment for diseases...
International Physics Personal Statement Example
Since infancy, I have been intrigued as to how anything I came into contact with worked; however, the explanations I received were always either too vague or beyond my knowledge at the time, I have came to realize that the keyword for all my questions was physics, where the most complex phenomena of the universe can be explained by fitting small pieces of the puzzle into a structured theory...
English Personal Statement Example 23
My love of literature is rooted in the connection it gives us to centuries of ideas, giving us the ability to converse with ghosts, linking us with the greatest and most eloquent minds in history; as Bovee puts it, “books are embalmed minds”...
Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Example 2
Thanks to my mother's profession, I have had a front row seat in observing the radical changes made in the medical field with the introduction of new devices.
I have also seen the beneficial effects these developments have had on the lives of people living in the less affluent countries in the Middle East; these observations coupled with my interest in mechanics have inspired me to pursue a career in biomedical engineering...
Computer Science Personal Statement Example 45
Advances in computer and information technology over the past few decades have brought about revolution in science, medicine, education, business, and entertainment. I wish to be part of the future revolution and that is why I want to study computer science...
Medicine Personal Statement Example 43
The ever-evolving nature of medical science and the certainty that we will know more about the many different healthcare practices has inspired me to pursue a career in medicine.
My dedication to studying medicine has been confirmed by the experience I have gained in different hospitals and practices and I look forward to the academic discipline and challenges that will arise...
English Personal Statement Example 26
Growing up reading Roald Dahl, I saw elements of myself in Matilda, as ever since I can remember, I have loved reading. My passion for English could be seen by those around me, as a child, having taught myself to read and write by the time I was 4 years old, and there was never any doubt that I would go on to pursue a career in English...
Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 8
From the very first day of college I’ve been gradually developing a great interest in all aspects of Chemistry and Maths.
Having recently read, “Beyond the Molecular Frontier: Challenges for Chemistry and Chemical Engineering” I have discovered what an imperative role chemists and chemical engineers play in industry and how, by working together, they contribute to an improved future...
Geography Personal Statement Example 14
If I said ‘I’ve loved geography since an early age’, I’d be lying. Although I loved our family holidays, which have always been seen as expeditions, I didn’t think it was ‘geography’ until I started using places I’d been to as examples in geography lessons...
History and Sociology Personal Statement Example
History enables me to see how actions and events have shaped our current society and to understand the present, one must understand the past. The broad topic areas that are involved in History and Sociology allow me to understand different perspectives on a diverse range of subjects...
Geography Personal Statement Example (Human/Environmental)
The possibility of the human race’s days being numbered by our destructive lifestyles, as planted in my mind by Al Gore’s sensationalised and controversial ‘The Inconvenient Truth’, has fuelled my interest in the global warming phenomenon, forcing me to question society’s reluctance to tackle it and realise the worldwide impact of each of our daily lives...
European Studies/Modern Language Personal Statement Example
"The limits of my language mean the limits of my world." Although Wittgenstein was in this case expounding his deterministic philosophy, one can change the context and his statement is a reminder that reaching out to a different language also opens up a different culture, a different history, a different way of thinking about things...
Government/Politics Personal Statement Example
The power and influence of Governments around the world has always intrigued me. That the decisions of a handful of people should have such enormous effects across the globe is a concept by which I am both excited and terrified...
History Personal Statement Example 34
“I have conquered an empire but I have not been able to conquer myself.”
This quote by Peter I came to mind when I had to write this statement because is sums up my interest in History; here a great leader of men expresses his human weakness...
Aeronautical Engineering Personal Statement Example 1
The rapid progress and achievements in aircraft technologies has motivated me to follow a career in aeronautical engineering as it plays a very significant role in today's modern world.
It is fascinating to see how engineers apply scientific and mathematical principles to everyday situations like the design, manufacture and operation of efficient structures, machines, processes and systems...
Natural Science/Geology Personal Statement Example
The sheer intricacy of our planet is something that has always left me in utter amazement. From the creation of mountains to the way we as humans evolved. Science is a deep rooted love that has grown since I was a young child...
Sports Science Personal Statement Example 7
Studying sports science would give me a broad knowledge base covering three aspects in sport, physiology, biomechanics and psychology. During my years of studying I have gained a particular interest in physiology; the study of function and understanding the mechanical, physical, and biomechanic functions of humans in good health...
English Literature and Sociology Personal Statement Example
Since I have begun to study A Level English Literature, it is the way in which writers use expression within their writing to influence and manipulate the reader's emotions which has most intrigued me...
Biochemistry Personal Statement Example 6
I wish to read biochemistry at university because I want to discover the answers to the most profound and fascinating questions about the very essence of life. Some questions are so important but, paradoxically, can be overlooked by many people, for example, why are men naturally more predisposed to genetic conditions than women?
My deepening intrest in my A level subjects (and my frustration at the narrowness of the specifications) confirmed my belief that biochemistry is the subject I have to carry forward...
Physics Personal Statement Example 13
Attending university has been a lifelong dream of mine; ever since my childhood, I have been told that I should, and I have always agreed with the sentiment. If I were asked to pin down an exact reason, however, I would be forced to confess that I do not know - I just enjoy learning new things and exercising my mind...
Mathematics Personal Statement Example 13
Mathematics is the fundamental basis of science. I want to understand just how the world hangs together, and maths seems to provide me with a solid foundation for my understanding of many other fields of knowledge...
Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 16
Being born as a son to two former engineers, I was raised in an environment where curiosity is treasured and nurtured.
It wasn't surprising that as I became older, my fascination towards science and technology also grew along with me...
History & Politics Personal Statement Example
For years I have listened to my family discussing the latest political and historical issues on the news and I have been fascinated and awed by the fact that there was never a wrong or right answer, decision or explanation to a given problem...
Philosophy Personal Statement Example 13
The ancient Greek philosopher Plato said “philosophy begins in wonder”, and I believe this to be true. I think the wondering which Plato is speaking of, which leads to essential questions such as ‘why are we here?’ and ‘what is right and wrong?’, is one of the defining qualities of what it means to be human...
Politics Personal Statement Example 26
In the Oxford English Dictionary, politics is merely described as the science and art of government. I disagree; it is much more than that.
Politics applies to everything we do, it is innate and has been since long before any government existed...
Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 16
Civil engineering is a profession that is growing and evolving at a fast pace. Civil engineers play a major role in the world meeting the high demand for new buildings and improved infrastructure. I am keen to become a Civil Engineer and I believe I have the talents to be successful in this profession...
Dentistry Personal Statement Example 10
My interest in Dentistry initially arose from my own experiences with Dentists. When I was younger, I suffered from cyclic neutropenia which led to many dental problems, and was always grateful to my dentist and dental hygienist for all their help...
English Literature & History Personal Statement Example 1
Throughout my education, I have constantly been captivated and inspired by my History and English studies. I have recognised how the two disciplines entwine and coexist to create an invaluable tool with which to explore the past and future...
Medicine Personal Statement Example 67
Studying the history of medicine made me realise what a huge impact doctors have on people’s lives. I’ve always wanted a career involving people as I’m fascinated by our unique nature and the human body itself...
Japanese & Politics/Religious Studies Personal Statement Example
England and Japan are two immensely contrasting worlds: this distinctiveness is why the undeniable magic of Japanese culture has always attracted me to study its oriental societies and traditions. I have been enthralled by the Japanese language since I was a young teenager; reading 'Japanese for Busy People' at school and trying to note down homework reminders in Kanji, anything to incorporate Japanese into my daily life...
Natural Sciences Personal Statement Example 4
Why and How? I believe these are the two most important question words as they express mankind’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and they have lain the foundation of sciences and have helped us find answers and solutions to problems throughout history from the domestication of fire to Darwin’s theory of evolution, to landing on the moon and so on...
Maths & Management Personal Statement Example
There is no doubt that Mathematics is the most important element supporting science and business. Without the equation 'E=mc2', Einstein's 'Mass-energy equivalence' can only be a concept, but not a theory...
Mathematics Personal Statement Example 16
I have always had a passion and a thorough understanding of the subject of Mathematics. This helped me to progress academically because, unlike a lot of people, I have not had to worry about passing my GCSE Maths exams...
Spanish and Chinese Personal Statement Example
My passion for Modern Foreign Languages is what drives me to pursue a degree in Chinese and Spanish; my fascination and curiosity to explore the cultures of not only China and East Asia, but also of the Hispanic world, motivate me to learn and discover the languages of these regions...
Natural Sciences Personal Statement Example 5
"Eureka!" This joyful exclamation sums up my satisfaction when I have finally solved an intractable problem. I frequently experience such "eureka" moments in my passionate exploration of science. My curiosity drives me to immerse myself in studying many scientific fields; which is why I believe the Natural Sciences course will best suit my abilities and interests...
Law Personal Statement Example 84
The reason I want to study law, is that it has always intrigued me; there’s never been any other option for me it has always been law.
I am captivated in the development of the law as it interests me the way the law is changing around the needs of civilisation...
Sociology Personal Statement Example 13
Being able to engage and immerse myself in a thought-provoking subject such as Sociology has allowed me to develop a desire to delve even deeper into it at an advanced level.
As unpredictable liberated beings, having a means of examining the connections between humans and social organization through Sociology has enabled me to comprehend human behaviour and social stratification; to question rather than accept; allowing me to appreciate the inquisitiveness nature, which I believe is the essence of this subject...
Geography Personal Statement Example 19
I could say that my love of Geography started in school, but in fact holidays to foreign lands have had a more significant impact on me. From the volcanic badlands of Lanzarote's Timanfaya, to the unique beauty of Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania, Geography and its impact on nature and human development have awed me...
Politics and International Relations Personal Statement Example 12
t was on a family holiday to Egypt, just two weeks after the Egyptian uprisings; that I learned first-hand, from those who had experienced it; the power of the people.
What I did not know then, was the explosive effect this would have on the middle-eastern community and that this call for democracy would ripple through Bahrain, Libya, Yemen and multiple other countries, including Syria; which is currently in the midst of a civil war...
Biological Sciences Personal Statement Example 3
When I was in primary school I would take pens apart to put them back together, so that I could see how every small piece fits together to create a whole working object, and as I furthered my education my focus shifted to the w orld around me...
Politics, Philosophy & Economics (PPE) Personal Statement Example 3
In this day and age virtually every aspect of our lives may be considered political. My passion to study Politics stems from this tenet and a belief that a comprehension of Politics is integral to understanding the current state of humanity...
Chemistry Personal Statement Example 18
Chemistry explores the properties of all matter and energy in our universe, which eventually leads to breakthroughs that benefit mankind, ranging from how to prevent food from decomposing to understanding what chemicals can help or harm you...
Philosophy & Politics Personal Statement Example 4
For the past 15 years I have lived in Dubai a cosmopolitan metropolis so perfect and yet so flawed that not even the residents truly understand its inner workings. A city built on the backs of poorly treated labourers and ruled by a monarchy that seems to disregard the values of ethics and morality...
Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 17
My decision to study engineering stems from a desire to contribute to the evolution of society through a process that does not just define our environment but our era.
My personal inspiration is the Segovia aqueduct, an 800m long, 30 metre high Roman marvel which still stands today...
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Personal Statement Example 3
Curiosity has always been my nature since I was young and I was never afraid to know more as I really like challenges.
This is why I have a keen interest in science ever since I started formal education, it explains the hows and whys in almost anything and everything...
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