Economics Personal Statement Sample
My experiences of living in the Netherlands and travelling to Suriname led me to question why the lives of the people in each country were so different despite apparently common goals of achieving wealth. By studying an Economics degree and learning how to translate human behaviour into theory and formulae, I hope to gain a better understanding of the world we live in.
Having studied Economics at school for the past two and a half years, I have developed a keen interest in this academic discipline. I find the ways models are made and implemented in order to analyse past and present events and predict future trends intriguing. I am a skilled mathematician and chess player, so the logical problem solving required in Economics appeals to me. I am also fascinated by the way various, often opposing theories, such as those of Keynes and Smith, are used in macro-economics by different countries. For example the contrast between China, a communist state’s privatisation of most companies, and the USA, where governmental take-over of bankrupt companies ran contrary to the free market theory they employ. I am currently writing a report about how the use of different economic theories by the Holland government over the past 10 years has influenced economic growth. My desire to appreciate the distinctions between these theories inspired me to read the Robert Heilbroner’s ‘The Worldly Philosophers’. I enjoyed the way he contextualised each theory according to the time and place they were made and the varying needs of people throughout history. I keep up to date with current economic developments by reading daily newspapers, ‘The Economist’ and internet articles.
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An Economics degree from a UK university will broaden my horizons by opening up truly international careers opportunities. My language skills (I speak native Dutch and Sranang tongo, fluent English, intermediate German and basic French) will enable me to take advantage of these. Following completion of an undergraduate degree, I plan to pursue Economics at Masters level. Ultimately I hope to apply the skills and knowledge I will acquire to start my own investment company.
Outside of my studies my excellent time-management skills have enabled me to take part in a wide range of extra-curricular activities. I was a member of the school chess club for two years, which taught me the ability to analyse and think ahead, both essential qualities for the study of Economics. Earlier this year I volunteered as a Maths tutor in a Cultural Centre. I explained complex concepts in clear and imaginative ways to classes of 15 children aged 12 to 16 years old. This experience taught me to have more patience, and reinforced my love of Maths. It was also very rewarding to see improvements in the children’s grades as a result of my help. Another hobby of mine is dance; I used to attend the highly competitive Lucia Marthas Dance Academy. Part-time work in a supermarket has also developed my interpersonal skills.
I am a highly self-motivated and hard-working student. My independence and dedication mean that I will cope well with the challenges of university study in a foreign country, while my natural inquisitiveness will ensure I fully appreciate the course.