durham economics personal statement

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Successful Personal Statement For Economics At Cambridge

Last Updated: 12th April 2022

Author: Chloe Hewitt

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Economics applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Cambridge University. The Economics Course at Cambridge provides a rounded, rigorous education in Economics which is valuable for a wide range of career paths.

Read on to see how this candidate wrote a Personal Statement that helped secure their place on a reputable degree. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement:

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Cambridge Economics comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our  Oxbridge Economics Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

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Economics Personal Statement

The right answer – does such a thing even exist? When considering the field of mathematics, my response would be an unequivocal yes – indeed, I find its simplicity and elegance some of its most attractive qualities. For economics, however, the question of a right answer is not so straightforward. My interest in economics was sparked when I read “Freakonomics” and “SuperFreakonomics”. I found the search for a logical explanation behind seemingly illogical behaviour intriguing, and the idea that small changes to incentives could effect such large changes to those behaviours fascinating.

To further my understanding, I attended lectures at the LSE, including one given by Ha-Joon Chang. His arguments challenged much of what I had learned – deregulation and trade liberalisation would not, apparently, stimulate competitive growth, while education, it turned out, could not be counted on to increase entrepreneurship or productivity. These contradictions made me eager to read his “23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism” and “Bad Samaritans”. Although relishing his controversial stance on almost everything, I found his central thesis – that by using protectionism to support fledgling domestic industries, other poor nations can emulate South Korea’s success – overly optimistic and one-size-fits-all. As Paul Collier argues in “The Bottom Billion”, many are trapped by conflict or bad governance, with even bleaker prospects after “missing the boat” on which many Asian economies sailed away to prosperity.     

While economics is rooted in the world around us, with all its fascinating, messy complexities, mathematics derives its beauty from its abstract nature. It is unique in that it can lead us to an answer that is not merely the right one, but is true in an absolute sense. This was emphasised by G. H. Hardy in “A Mathematician’s Apology”, where he spoke of a mathematical reality distinct from the ordinary one, of which we can only ever hope to produce a “partial and imperfect copy”. Another of the appeals of mathematics is its breadth of application. I was able to explore this over the past three years in a series of Royal Institution master classes covering topics from graph theory to the mathematics of juggling. My decision to continue with mathematics was confirmed when I undertook the AEA; I found it challenging but immensely satisfying to be able to use simple concepts from the A-level core modules to solve even the most daunting problems.

Over the past year, I have mentored two students in mathematics. Explaining concepts to them helped deepen my own understanding and led me to explore proofs behind theorems I had previously accepted. In addition, acting as a primary school classroom assistant inspired me to set up my own volunteering scheme, in which I and other students help children learn to read. I have enjoyed competing in the UKMT Mathematics Challenge, in which I won a medal at Olympiad level, and the UK Linguistics Olympiad, in which I twice progressed to the selection round for the national team. I have also represented my school in the Hans Woyda competition, and am excited to be doing the same in the Target 2.0 challenge later this year.

Despite their differences, the authors I mentioned above hold something in common: their use of empirical methods to reach conclusions. It is here that the attraction of combining the study of mathematics and economics becomes especially apparent. Without mathematics, economics risks beginning to earn its title “the dismal science”, reducing to speculation and rhetoric without even the emotional investment enjoyed by politics. This is not to dismiss the importance of normative economics, but to say that it draws meaning from a basis in fact. I am not arguing for sound bite solutions to complex questions, but rather that, even in a field as hotly debated as economics, the right answer is still a worthwhile goal, reachable through the use of data and copious amounts of trial and error.

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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This statement is thoughtful and interesting, and conveys clear motivations for studying Economics, as well as demonstrating a good level of preparation for university study. The student elaborates on their response to each preparatory activity they engaged in, rather than falling into the trap of simply listing books read and lectures attended. They are clearly passionate about the subject, and show promise as an economist, which they demonstrate in, again, not only listing their achievements, but explaining what they took from the experience, and subtly indicating what this says about them as a student.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

I have very little to say in criticism of this essay except that, perhaps, it could come across as a little cliché. Questioning whether there is such a thing as ‘the right answer’ in the introduction, and concluding that pursuit of the field to which they’re applying for further study is worthy are both very common.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is an exceptional personal statement. Not only is the student accomplished, they convey this without bragging, and in enough detail that we gain insight into their abilities, motivations, and personal interests, rather than simply receiving a list in prose form. Though the ideas with which the student begins and concludes the statement are somewhat unoriginal, the explanation found in between is exceptionally strong, and justifies the unoriginal sentiments – they’re clearly not being added just as throwaway lines.

This Personal Statement for Chemistry is a great example of demonstrating motivation and development which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Cambridge, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Check out our other successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

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Durham - Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)

Philosophy, politics and economics (ppe) – 2013 ( oxford, warwick, durham, nottingham, sheffield ).

What excites me about PPE is not only that it encompasses three fundamental issues in understanding the world - how we should allocate resources, be governed, and make moral judgements ...

Please note UCAS will detect any form of plagiarism. PSE and its contributors do not take any responsibility for the way in which personal statements are used.

Durham Public Schools working to make sure all graduating seniors have caps and gowns

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Durham Public Schools knows not all families in its district can afford a cap and gown, so they're making sure the Class of 2024's needs are met before graduation.

"Whether it's having a cap and gown stored at the school every year, or reaching out to the company that we purchase from to see if they're willing to donate cap and gowns ... they just all work collaboratively," DPS K-12 school counseling coordinator Dr. Cherice Artis said.

Artis said that most schools have a closet where they keep cap and gowns, ties and other things that students might need for graduation. For some students that could add up to $200 for the proper attire, according to Ophelia French, who's graduating from Riverside High School in June.

"It's not only the cap and gown, it's other stuff, too," French said. "It was kind of hard because I was like, I need this to graduate, and it's this much money."

The school district said this is an issue it addresses yearly, with PTA organizations such as Riverside High School PTA also joining in on the effort for this year's graduating class and also the next one.

"We see what families have ordered (by October)," Artis said. "Then they're having a deadline when we get back from Christmas break, and then they have one closer to this time of year."

Artis said the district has established measures to provide caps and gowns to those in need, including having students enrolled in the McKinney-Vento program, which supports children and youth experiencing homelessness, have their caps and gowns covered by money allocated for this purpose.

"We work closely with our company that we order them from to see which students haven't ordered them," Artis said. "And then school counselors and school social workers check in with those families to see if they need support in ordering those cap and gowns."

DPS also reaches out to graduates to see whether they are interested in donating their gently used caps and gowns.

Riverside High School Principal Dr. Gloria Woods-Weeks has even had the dates on the collars removed so that the cap and gown can be reused.

"We work with our cap and gown company, our counselors and social workers collaborate, and we engage our community to ensure that all of our graduates are able to participate fully in commencement exercises," Woods-Weeks said in a statement.

Fewer than a dozen students at Riverside High School need a cap and gown as of May, according to DPS, which said it is working to make sure it is covered ahead of the school's graduation at Cameron Indoor Stadium on June 10 .

"We do recognize that these can be tough economic times for our families," Artis said. "I would encourage families who want to know if their school has a need, they should reach out to the lead school counselor at their given school to see what efforts they have in place for their particular school."

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Assessing Facial Nerve Function After Salvage Microsurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma

• 1 GF Ingrassia Department, Otolaryngology Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
• 2 IRCSS Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
• 3 Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of California, San Diego
• 4 Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
• Original Investigation Salvage Microsurgery Following Failed Primary Radiosurgery in Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma John P. Marinelli, MD; Hans A. Herberg, MD; Lindsay S. Moore, MD; Kristen L. Yancey, MD; Emily Kay-Rivest, MD; Garrett G. Casale, MD; Allison Durham, MD; Karl R. Khandalavala, MD; Morten Lund-Johansen, MD, PhD; Nikitha Kosaraju, BA; Christine M. Lohse, MS; Neil S. Patel, MD; Richard K. Gurgel, MD; Seilesh C. Babu, MD; John G. Golfinos, MD; J. Thomas Roland Jr, MD; Jacob B. Hunter, MD; J. Walter Kutz Jr, MD; Peter L. Santa Maria, MD, PhD; Michael J. Link, MD; Øystein V. Tveiten, MD, PhD; Matthew L. Carlson, MD JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery
• Comment & Response Assessing Facial Nerve Function After Salvage Microsurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma—Reply Matthew L. Carlson, MD; John P. Marinelli, MD; Jacob K Dey, MD JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery

To the Editor We read with interest the article by Marinelli et al, 1 which identified persistent facial palsy in more than half of patients undergoing salvage microsurgery for residual or recurrent schwannoma after failed primary radiosurgery. The inflammatory changes, scarring, and vascular alterations from radiation can impede complete tumor removal and increase risk of complications, including impaired facial nerve injury. Facial palsy is debilitating for patients who experience oral incompetence, speech and articulation difficulties, communication difficulties, vision loss, or social stigma. Assessing and managing facial nerve function requires a nuanced approach, and clinicians should consider patients’ goals, preferences, and values to ensure comprehensive support. 2

Di Stadio A , Greene J , Brenner MJ. Assessing Facial Nerve Function After Salvage Microsurgery for Vestibular Schwannoma. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. Published online May 23, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2024.1174

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Economics and politics/geography personal statement example.

My desire to study Economics in combination with the Social Sciences stems primarily from my interest in these fields but also from the fact that these two disciplines compliment each other exceptionally well. I have always been drawn to the social and political sciences, having a natural interest in current affairs. In addition to keeping abreast of international news and analysis through reading journals such as the Economist, I enjoy reading more technical periodicals such as the Geography Review. Academically, my interest in Human Geography and Economics led me to carry out an independent research project (a challenging aspect of the I.B. Diploma program) on ‘The Effectiveness and Socio-political Rationale Behind Pro-natal Policies in Singapore;’ an economically successful island state struggling with a rapidly changing demographic landscape. This work has led me to explore areas outside the confines of my taught syllabus, such as political geography and economics.

In addition, studying with students from all over the world has exposed me to a diverse array of cultures. I have a profound interest in South East Asia, having traveled extensively in this region, and have followed with interest the political and economic development of these “Tiger Economies”. My decision to study the Malay language at IB level was partly influenced by this attraction to the region. I recently organised an independent trip to Myanmar with four other students in order to experience the culture of this country, which has effectively been cut off from the influences of globalisation due to its unique political situation. I had the opportunity to stay in tribal villages whilst trekking through rural Myanmar which proved a challenging and eye opening experience.

The multi-disciplinary nature of the IB has helped me become more adept at juggling both my education and an active extra curricular schedule. I have been involved in a range of activities including political forums, social service and dance performances. My involvement in the Initiative For Peace conference, which brought young people affected by conflict in Sri Lanka together to discuss youth action for peace, allowed me to develop my leadership skills, public speaking and crisis management skills. As one of the lead facilitators, I was responsible for organising and facilitating workshops as well as vetting applications from young people from all over Sri Lanka. Working in an AIDS patient care centre over the last year has developed my character through dealing with situations that are emotionally challenging. As a fundraiser for a Bombay Street Kids organisation, as well as working as a member of the school yearbook’s page layout team, I have worked in a team, met tight deadlines and also learnt how to work more effectively under pressure. In vacations I regularly volunteer at the local Bird Park where I deal with the public in one of Singapore’s main tourist attractions. In my spare time I enjoy playing the piano and the violin and am classically trained in Indian vocals, a significant aspect of my culture. My interest in cultures other than my own has allowed me to take part in Zimbabwean and Sierra Leonean dances as well as cooking and selling Italian food as part of our annual cultural event, United Nations Night.

I feel I have much to contribute to University through bringing a keen and committed academic mind to my chosen disciplines. I hope to enter an institution that can nurture and develop my genuine enthusiasm and interest in these subjects, as well as giving me ample opportunity to explore new interests and shape existing talents.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by veena_s for application in 2005.

veena_s's university choices University of Bath University of Bristol The University of Durham The University of Edinburgh University of St Andrews The University of Warwick

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

Seems a bit long and wordy.

Thu, 21/07/2005 - 00:00

Seems a bit long and wordy but good content

A very well written personal

Tue, 06/09/2005 - 00:00

A very well written personal statement which reads easily and fluently, but perhaps a bit too much detail on extra-curricular activities and not enough on the course selection and interst in it.

Thu, 28/09/2006 - 20:35

you are cool!

this was a trully inspiring

Sun, 04/02/2007 - 21:30

this was a trully inspiring essay. with similar viewpoints, your articulation has helped me form mine. good work!

this was a truly inspiring

Sun, 04/02/2007 - 21:31

this was a truly inspiring essay. with similar viewpoints, your articulation and enthusiasm has helped realize just what i want to convey.good work!

the essay's nice, however,

Mon, 30/04/2007 - 15:41

the essay's nice, however, there's too little said about the author's career goals and desire to pursue a degree

cooleh boy well done

Thu, 13/09/2007 - 10:40

some of the people here have

Fri, 16/11/2007 - 01:36

some of the people here have done so much in life-this applicant can't be 18.

i dont know why you didnt

Fri, 16/11/2007 - 01:41

i dont know why you didnt apply to SOAS

Sun, 14/12/2008 - 17:44

Complement not compliment!

alryt ghandi give it a rest

Wed, 01/07/2009 - 09:35

alryt ghandi give it a rest you clearly are lying

are you applying for a

Sun, 03/07/2011 - 20:11

are you applying for a combined honour-type degree? if so, how are you applying for this at bristol (they dont do combined) etc?

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