I’m studying History, Business and Economics at A Level. If extra-curricular activities are included make sure they are not school ones. Make sure to link why someone would want to do both History and American Studies. Make sure to include quotations from books that would give reasons why I would want to study History and American Studies. There is a character limit of 4000 characters. I have added a guideline on paragraphs from a website that can be followed.
Paragraph 1: Motivations for studying History at university – VITAL
– Pick the reasons which are most convincing and authentic to you, but be wary of clichés or generic answers. How will you best grab their attention early on?
Paragraph 2: Your Studies – VITAL
– Be selective, choosing the course/period/authors/books you would be most comfortable discussing at interview and making sure to state why and how they have impacted/inspired/developed/challenged you as a historian.
Paragraph 3 – 6 (in any order you find logical/ that would flow best) – INTERCHANGEABLE
– Pursuit of History outside of the classroom/syllabus: i.e. your own personal reading, essay competitions, History societies/clubs. Anywhere you have taken it upon yourself to undertake historical investigation/ taken your learning into your own hands.
– RELEVANT work or life experience: travelling/holidays which inspired your love of History, work experience/jobs, volunteering, any gap year plans.
– RELEVANT extra curriculars at school or outside of school e.g. debating society, feminist society, film society. Anything that has developed your skills as a historian.
– Other subjects you study which have developed you as a historian and examples of how and why e.g. ancient Greek and exposure to primary sources/the origins of historical writing, English literature and critical appreciation of texts and their contexts.
NB: You do not need to include all of the above four points in paragraphs 3-6, but do consider all of these areas before choosing which material would be best to include. Be selective.
E.g. if you have more to say on relevant work/life experience, you may choose not to speak about extra curriculars at all or vice versa. Top priority in the word count should be given to motivations for study + books you have read/periods you have studied + opinions on them, and then time for extra pursuits towards the end if space allows.
Closing lines – VITAL
Ideally 2, maximum 3, closing sentences to give a punchy and memorable end to the statement – usually a statement of intent, reiteration of your passion, or nod to your future as a historian. Space for originality and personality to make them remember you.
