geography ba personal statement

Personal statement advice: geography

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Blending your academic and extracurricular interests

Of course, those extracurricular interests should be relevant to geography, rather than random other things you do. But given that geography is such a far-reaching subject, this can cover a multitude of activities, interests or experiences. It could also be something you do locally, or somewhere you’ve travelled in the UK, or overseas.

But whatever it is, don’t just say you’ve done it. What’s essential is that you write about it in an interesting and reflective way showing what you’ve gained from it. That way, you’re sure to stand out from the crowd.

Show the real you

The University of Southampton is looking for a similar blend in your geography personal statement: ' A high quality piece of writing that outlines your interests in geography, your extracurricular pursuits, and something of what makes you distinctive as a person.'

A good way to do this is to write about something that excites you about the subject, whether it’s a particular aspect of the syllabus, your wider reading, a project (the EPQ would be relevant if you’re doing one), fieldwork, your extracurricular interests – or ideally, a combination of some of those things. The more interesting it is, the more distinctive you will come across as a person.

See our in-depth guide to studying geography at university, from entry requirements to careers.

More things for geographers to think about

Wider reading: The London School of Economics is looking for what's motivated you to apply for their course – including wider reading or activities and your interest in 'contemporary geographical problems and their alleviation'. The University of Bristol's website asks for evidence that you have extended your interest in the subject 'beyond formal classroom provision'.
Uni open days: these can be a great opportunity to get some specific advice. Subject talks will usually mention what they look for in personal statements or, if not, don’t be afraid to ask them face-to-face.
Talk about particular interests in topics featured in the courses you’re applying for: if regeneration, GIS, tropical savannas, glaciology, coastal zones, tourism or geopolitics fascinate you, write about it in a specific way – avoid bland, obvious phrases like 'I’ve always enjoyed geography'.
Specialist geography courses: if your UCAS choices include specialist areas including development, population, marine or environmental aspects of geography, include evidence of relevant interests. Maybe you’ve travelled somewhere and taken note of social conditions, read something interesting about migration or marine ecology, or contributed to an environmental debate which has sparked an interest to learn about environmental policy...
Show why you're passionate: as Dr Reimer at Southampton says: 'We are keen to teach students who are fascinated by the subject, so we want you to demonstrate your enthusiasm for it in your statement'.

Successful Personal Statement For Geography At Oxford

Last Updated: 7th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

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 Geography applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Geography Course at Oxford provides a holistic view of the workings of physical and human environments, the ways in which humans are transforming the world and the implications for human societies.

Read on to see how this candidate managed to navigate the many disciplines and topics of Geography.

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement:

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Geography comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts.

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.

Geography Personal Statement

Geography is outward-looking, dynamic and topical. It allows me to gain insight into daily news stories on immigration and Middle Eastern conflicts for example, by highlighting their complexity and the challenge to find and evaluate solutions to these problems for the future. The diversity and vital relevance of Geography makes it an immensely valuable subject to study in-depth and I would relish the opportunity to pursue further study in the field.

The area that is of particular interest to me is development geography and specifically global aid. I was introduced to the use of aid in closing the wealth divide in my A2 case studies, where bottom-up aid on a local scale was consistently depicted as a sustainable solution. I was forced to question these views, however, after reading ‘Dead Aid’ by Dambisa Moyo. Her critical comments on charity-based aid particularly caught my attention as they offered a stark contrast in perspective on my case studies. I found it interesting that the factors which contributed to the success of many of the case studies, including small-scale, intermediate technology and low cost solutions were the very aspects of aid that Moyo calls ‘band-aid’ solutions implying unsustainability. The book also touched on the controversial issue of whether aid remains a successful or even acceptable solution when the $50 billion of aid given to Africa annually is arguably not producing significant economic development or improvement. To investigate this further I read ‘The End Of Poverty’ by Jeffrey Sachs which explained how well managed aid can indeed offer an answer to closing the wealth divide. This led to my research into the Millenium Villages of Ghana. Here aid, coupled with local leadership, appears to have delivered a long-term solution to serious economic and social problems. This divergence in opinion over a controversial issue has excited me about exploring these issues in more detail.

To investigate these issues further, I have been prompted to take a gap year to experience the workings of an international NGO. I will be joining the work of education promoting ‘Empower A Child’ in Uganda for 3 months. I hope to gain a rewarding insight into the practical relevance of Geography in the field of non-profit aid and specifically to test Sach’s belief that investment into education is a viable solution to ending poverty.

My other subjects complement my understanding of economic, physical and scientific elements of development and Geography in general. Reading ‘Driven to Extinction’ by Richard Pearson highlighted how Biology and Geography are inextricably linked in our study of the physical world, particularly with regards to the role regulatory systems have in levels of biodiversity. Chemistry and Physics have been relevant in equipping me with the skills to devise data collection programmes and to analyse the results; skills which were necessary to my fieldwork visit to Dartmoor.

My academic background is complemented by my extra-curricular activities. I was the Organ Scholar and Choir Prefect at my school. My responsibilities included conducting and directing the Chapel Choir on a weekly basis. I was also a fully committed and dedicated member of other choirs and ensembles. I relished the challenge of arranging and conducting in the House Singing competition which required me to inspire and motivate team work within the house. I have gained 3 Grade 8’s in Organ, Piano and Flute and am currently working towards my Piano Diploma. I was involved in leading the school’s Christian Union through which I have catalysed fundraising for organisations such as Mary’s Meals. In my gap year I am working as Organist and Choir director at St Luke’s Church Grayshott before going to Uganda. These activities demonstrate leadership skills, commitment and an enthusiastic approach to challenges, all of which will equip me well for the study of Geography at university.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This is a very good personal statement and is well-written. The student is clearly interested in many aspects of geography, which is very important as geography is a multi-disciplinary subject. The student describes several areas of geography which capture their interest, demonstrating their interest and commitment to the reader. The student justifies their decision to take a gap year well, and the relevance their activities will have to the subject of geography and their interests in global aid.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

The student misspells the word ‘millennium’ in the second paragraph. The second paragraph is also very long. It is hard for the reader to stay focused when reading through long paragraphs, and it would have been better if the student had separated the second paragraph into two. The final paragraph is also very long, and it is not clear where the conclusion begins. As a result, the end of the statement does not deliver the impact which the student has intended to produce. If the student separates the sentence ‘These activities demonstrate leadership skills, commitment and an enthusiastic approach to challenges, all of which will equip me well for the study of Geography at university’ into a new final paragraph, this would have made the final statement much more effective.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is a very good statement. The student has a wealth of experiences and clearly highly motivated to study geography. Some paragraphs are very long, and this reduces the impact that the statement has on the reader. With some restructuring, this could be an excellent statement.

This Personal Statement for Geography is a solid example of demonstrating a wealth of knowledge, motivation and interest, vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, 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.

You can find more successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Geography application.

With our Oxbridge Geography Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal Statement , score highly on the TSA and teach you how to Interview effectively .

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By Ryan Lunn (Content executive, The Uni Guide) | 21 September 2023 | 3 min read

Writing a geography personal statement: expert advice from universities

Make your geography personal statement stand out, with these tips from university admissions teams

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When you’re going for a place on a geography degree course, your personal statement provides a strong way to make your application stand out. We’ve spoken to experts at the University of Hull and Queen Mary University of London to find out exactly what they’re looking for in your geography personal statement.

Explain why you’d be a good geography student

Universities want you to talk about yourself: tell them what sets you apart. Dr Jonathan Dean, director of admissions for geography at the University of Hull, says: “We want to know why you enjoy studying this subject and want to do a degree in it. What part of the subject interests you the most? Have you read a relevant book on it or travelled somewhere that brought the subject to life for you? “Tell us why you think you’d excel at this course. Have you done a project where you have gained some statistical skills? Have you got some relevant work experience? We want to know!”

Read more: how to write an excellent personal statement in ten steps

Show that your motivation goes beyond your predicted grades

Tell admissions tutors why you want to study geography: you can impress them more by demonstrating a genuine interest in the subject. Dr Andrew Russell, undergraduate admissions tutor for the school of geography at Queen Mary University of London, says: “I like to see students’ motivations and ambitions in personal statements. So, why are you interested in geography? What aspects of geography interest you most? Where do you want the degree to take you? “We can look at your qualifications and predicted grades to get a feel for what students are good at but that doesn’t tell me why students care about a particular subject. This can be particularly powerful if students are doing an EPQ in a relevant topic so make sure you give details on that if possible – this can be a great talking point if students attend an open day or offer-holder day as well.”

Read more: how to write your university application

Highlight extracurricular activities with relevant skills

Even if your skills aren’t directly related to geography, you can still describe how you could apply them to your degree. “Any activity can be relevant if you’ve gone to the trouble of thinking about why it is relevant and articulating that”, says Andrew. “That shows a certain level of analytical skills that we’re interested in. “Anything that has given you skills that would be useful in your degree is worth mentioning,” agrees Jonathan. “Don’t just say you’ve had a job or have a certain hobby – go into detail and tell us what skills these have given you.” Skills from your part-time job are relevant, but make sure you explain them and give specific examples. “Some things might be directly relevant to your course - you might have worked or volunteered as a conservation officer - which would give you knowledge and skills that would be useful on a geography or environmental science degree,'' says Jonathan. “But even in things like working as a barista or volunteering as a scout leader, you can still talk about the skills like time management and leadership that you have gained.”

Read more: teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

Read around the subject

Researching geography in your spare time shows your desire to learn as well as a genuine interest in the subject. “It’s good to hear about reading you’ve done around the topic - popular science books, National Geographic or New Scientist articles, peer reviewed papers,” says Andrew. “Contextualise why what you’ve read is relevant and why it inspired you. “There are also many relevant massive open online courses out there now and students can show that they’ve engaged with university level material by taking one of those.”

Read more: personal statement FAQs

Mention you enjoy being outdoors

Your degree could include some fieldwork: include any experience that indicates you’re comfortable being in nature. “Any experience of the great outdoors is useful to mention too,” explains Andrew. “You’re quite likely to end up doing some fieldwork in a geography degree so it’s reassuring to know that students have some relevant experience. This could be a sport, a hobby, volunteering or Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, for example.”

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Geography Personal Statement Examples

1 Personal Statement Example Links
2 Career Opportunities
3 UK Admission Requirements
4 UK Earnings Potential For Geographers
5 Similar Courses in UK
6 UK Curriculum
7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

Personal Statement Example 1
Personal Statement Example 2
Personal Statement Example 3 (Collections)
Personal Statement Example 4
Personal Statement Example 5
Personal Statement Example 6 (Collections)

Are you looking for a way to stand out from the crowd when applying for a geography course? Writing a personal statement is a great way to make your application stand out from the rest. Here, we provide some examples of personal statements for geography courses, as well as an overview of what you can expect from a geography course.

Geography is an interesting and relevant choice for students because it is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field of study. Geography is the study of the physical and human features of the Earth’s surface, and it encompasses a wide range of topics such as climate, landforms, population, resources, and economic activities. Geography is an important field of study for understanding the complex relationships between people, places, and the environment.

It is also a great way to gain an understanding of global issues, such as climate change, poverty, and migration. By studying geography, students can gain a better understanding of the world around them, as well as the skills necessary to make informed decisions about their own lives and the lives of others.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in geography can open up a wide range of career opportunities. Geographers can work in a variety of industries, including government, education, environmental consulting, urban planning, and the private sector.

In the government sector, geographers may work as policy analysts, cartographers, or research scientists. They may also work in urban planning, helping to develop plans for the growth and development of cities and towns.

In the education sector, geographers may work as teachers, lecturers, or research assistants. They may also work with educational organizations to develop curriculum and programs related to geography.

In the environmental consulting sector, geographers may work as environmental consultants, helping to assess the impact of development projects on the environment. They may also work as researchers, helping to identify and analyze environmental issues.

In the private sector, geographers may work as consultants, helping to identify and analyze geographic data for businesses. They may also work as analysts, helping to develop marketing strategies based on geographic data.

Finally, geographers may also work in a variety of other industries, such as tourism, transportation, and agriculture. They may also work in the media, helping to produce maps and other visualizations for television and film.

UK Admission Requirements

The UK Admission Requirements for a Geography course vary depending on the university. Generally, applicants must have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C, including Maths and English, and at least two A-Levels in relevant subjects such as Geography, Mathematics, and Science. Some universities may also require applicants to have achieved a specific grade in their A-Levels.

In comparison to other courses, the entry criteria for a Geography course is relatively high. This is because the course is highly analytical and requires a good understanding of Maths and Science. Additionally, having a good knowledge of the subject is essential for success.

UK Earnings Potential For Geographers

The average earnings for someone with a degree in geography will vary depending on the job they pursue and the country in which they work. According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics, the median salary for geographers in the UK in 2019 was £32,000. This is slightly higher than the median salary for all occupations in the UK, which was £30,378 in 2019.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for geographers is expected to increase in the coming years due to the increasing importance of geographic information in a range of industries. The UK’s National Careers Service estimates that the number of jobs in the field of geography will grow by 8% between 2018 and 2028. This growth is expected to be driven by the need for geographers to provide data and analysis for a range of industries, such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to geography include:

Environmental Science: This course focuses on the study of the environment and how it is affected by human activities. It covers topics such as climate change, pollution, and conservation. The key difference between this course and geography is that environmental science focuses more on the scientific aspects of the environment, while geography focuses more on the physical and cultural aspects.
Geology: This course focuses on the study of the Earth’s rocks and minerals, as well as the processes that shape them. It covers topics such as plate tectonics, volcanism, and sedimentation. The key difference between this course and geography is that geology focuses more on the physical aspects of the Earth, while geography focuses more on the human aspects.
Urban Studies: This course focuses on the study of cities and their development. It covers topics such as urban planning, transportation, and housing. The key difference between this course and geography is that urban studies focuses more on the social and economic aspects of cities, while geography focuses more on the physical and cultural aspects.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a university course in geography will depend on the specific university and course chosen. Generally, courses will cover topics such as physical geography, human geography, environmental geography, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems).

Physical geography topics may include geomorphology, climatology, biogeography, hydrology, and oceanography. Human geography topics may include economic geography, urban geography, political geography, cultural geography, and population geography. Environmental geography topics may include conservation, land use, and sustainability.

In addition to lectures, seminars, and tutorials, many university geography courses will also involve hands-on experience and practical work. This may include field trips, laboratory work, and data collection. Students may also be required to undertake individual or group research projects, which may involve data analysis, report writing, and presentations.

Alumni Network

One notable alumnus from the geography course is Professor Tim O’Riordan, who is a professor emeritus at the University of East Anglia. Professor O’Riordan is a leading figure in the field of environmental science and sustainability, and has written numerous books and articles on the subject. He is currently a visiting professor at the University of Cambridge, and is a member of the UK’s Climate Change Committee. He is also a trustee of the Natural Environment Research Council.

Alumni events and networking opportunities for geography course alumni are offered through the university’s Alumni Network. These include virtual events, such as webinars and online seminars, as well as in-person events, such as alumni reunions and networking receptions.

Alumni are also invited to join the university’s LinkedIn group, which provides a platform for alumni to connect with each other and stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments in the field.

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Geography Personal Statement Examples

Use these Geography personal statement examples as an inspiration to write your own for the UCAS application . Below you can find real 4 personal statements for the geography course.

My deep belief in the significance of geography in today’s world drives my desire to pursue a degree in the field. Many global issues, including population growth, sustainability, environmental degradation, resource depletion, and natural disasters can be understood through a geographical lens. Furthermore, many natural disasters occur as a result of disregarding the advice of geographers, for example, constructing homes on floodplains, altering water courses, or building nuclear power plants in earthquake-prone areas. The importance of geographical knowledge and understanding for our future well-being cannot be overstated, and the subject appeals to me both for its intrinsic interest and its relevance to our daily lives.

My specific interests include geographical economics, globalisation, and the impact of technology on shrinking the world and creating multicultural societies. Additionally, geographical knowledge allows us to recognise the disparities in the human world, which may become more pronounced as resources become scarcer. With the planet being a finite resource and technology not able to solve all our problems, it is crucial for us to consider the sustainability of western consumption and the effects of climate change, as well as the aftermath of natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. However, there is no subject more exhilarating than the dynamism of the Earth.

Academically, I am strong and have held various positions of responsibility at school. As a high achiever in the Geography Department, I led a field trip for younger pupils last year. I have coached the year 8 hockey competition at my school and served as captain of the hockey team. I had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of construction during my work experience at a company in London. I conducted building surveys, visited job sites, and learned about the company’s computer system, giving me a glimpse of what it’s like to work in the industry. Additionally, I attended meetings with professionals and visited other companies, further expanding my understanding of the field. Prior to this, I had a placement at a retail store where I worked in a team and received customer service training. These experiences provided me with valuable insights into the job market and taught me the skills necessary to be employable. The transferable nature of many of the skills involved in geography is what drew me to the field, as it opens doors to various possible careers.

In my free time, I am an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular interest in football and hockey, and I am always committed to staying physically fit. Fishing is another hobby that I enjoy as a means of relaxation. I also love to travel and experience different cultures, having had the opportunity to visit Japan on a school trip and various parts of America, including school skiing trips. I am a beginner piano player and I am currently in grade 2. Additionally, I always strive to stay current in my field of study by following the latest developments and trends.

Personal Statement Example for Geography

I have always been fascinated by the subject of Geography and it has been the school subject that has inspired me the most and in which I have achieved the highest grades. The subject holds great intellectual interest for me, but it also seems to be of great importance and relevance in today’s world. Sustainability is an issue that I believe is of the utmost importance and I would like to pursue a degree course that will deepen my understanding of current problems and potentially enable me to contribute to their solutions. I am interested in all aspects of Geography and am considering a career as a teacher of the subject after completing my degree. I believe that geographical and environmental knowledge is essential for any 21st-century individual, as our survival depends on it. I hope to use my training to guide others towards a responsible attitude towards the world we inhabit.

I am aware of the ways in which the environment is changing and the significance of natural disasters, as well as the human implications of poverty and the gap between MDCs and LDCs. I hope that a degree course would delve into the questions of sustainable development, environmental protection, the geopolitics of water usage, carbon management, the development of alternative fuels, recycling, climate change, and the relationship between trade, business and sustainability. The subject also delves into the field of ethics and politics. I also hope to explore how ecosystems function and how technology can be used for conservation rather than being viewed as an enemy. All of these issues are of great importance to me and have inspired me to apply for a degree in Geography.

I am passionate about geography and have had the privilege to travel extensively in Europe and America, which has given me a glimpse of the world’s geographical diversity and how it affects human habitation. I have participated in conferences on tectonic plates and urban geography, as well as in many Geography professional events at the Royal Geographical Society in London. Through my work experience, I have come to believe that teaching is a career path that I would enjoy. I have held leadership roles in my school, which have helped me develop both academically and personally. I am determined, and dedicated, and have a strong academic record. As the first in my family to consider a university course, I am hardworking, organised, and socially responsible.

In 2008, I had the opportunity to go on a trip to Iceland where I saw firsthand the effects of pollution on glaciers, and was able to visit many sites that were fascinating to a true geographer. It was an extraordinary experience to visit a terrain that was so different from what I was used to. I have also been fortunate to follow geographical topics whenever I can. I read newspaper articles on all geographical subjects eagerly, and I attended a conference on the workings of tectonic plates, and another on “Understanding Cities.”

My working experience has led me to believe that I would enjoy a teaching career. I worked briefly at a primary school in Wandsworth, carrying out a number of supervisory tasks such as guiding and organizing children’s play and work, taking part in sports day and helping with school assemblies. The job calls for patience, good time management, and the confidence to make decisions. At my own school, I hold a number of positions of responsibility, all of which have helped me to mature both as a student and as a human being. I enjoy reading and I am a runner and have raised money for charity in several races.

Human Geography Personal Statement Example

Choosing to pursue a degree in Geography was an easy decision for me, as it combines my interests in current affairs and the social sciences. I am captivated by the dynamic and ever-changing nature of geography and its ability to bring together social, environmental, and economic disciplines. My particular interest lies in social and political geographies, but I understand the importance of understanding both physical and human worlds in order to fully grasp the subject.

I have always enjoyed engaging in debates, and my involvement in debating societies since high school has helped me develop an understanding of different perspectives. One notable experience was creating a video with my peers in support of nuclear power as a sustainable energy source in relation to climate change. The video was entered into a national competition and I was fortunate enough to attend the Nuclear New Build 2016 conference in London, where my group was awarded the third prize. This experience gave me valuable insight into the cutting-edge research being done in the field of nuclear power and its importance in gaining energy security in the UK.

Fieldwork is another aspect of geography that I find particularly intriguing. I have conducted studies on the River Chew, specifically looking at how it changes downstream and the human influences on its pH levels. My study revealed that more agricultural and industrial areas resulted in a more acidic river, reinforcing my hypothesis. Additionally, my studies in economics, specifically poverty, human development, and globalization, have sparked my interest in social issues.

I have also had the opportunity to learn about other cultures through various experiences. In 2013, I spent a week on an exchange in Germany, where I worked in a local primary school, which helped me become more independent, observant, and responsible. I am also planning to trek around Greece and Albania to achieve my Explorer Belt, a prestigious award in scouting which requires careful planning, teamwork, and perseverance.

I am actively involved in the scouting movement and have taken on various leadership roles. I am a fully qualified Young scout and have gained my first Chief Scouts Award. Through this, I have participated in many activities such as classes in Astronomy, international trips, and planning and completing a two-day expedition. I strongly believe that these experiences and responsibilities have shaped me as a person and have given me the leadership qualities and determination to achieve my goals in my chosen field of study.

Personal Statement for Geography Course

Geography is a subject that has always deeply interested me, as it relates to almost everything in everyday life. Growing up in Southampton, close to the coast, I have had many opportunities to study and explore landmarks such as Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Old Harry Rocks. I have also been on field trips to Studland, and South Wales to study various geographical concepts such as succession in a psammosere, urban land uses, rivers, soils, deindustrialization, and urban land uses.

I have been passionate about music since a young age and have been playing the drums for over eight years. In 2001, I achieved a grade 8 standard and grade 5 music theory. In 1998, I joined the Youth Wind Orchestra (DYWO) and had the opportunity to play in the millennium concert at the Royal Albert Hall in 2000. Through DYWO, I have met many other young musicians and teachers from all over Southampton and have learned new percussion instruments such as timpani, vibraphone, and congas. I am also involved in various bands and ensembles in my school and have played at parties and functions with my own rock band.

I went on a two-week work experience with “The Band of the Royal Corps of Signals” in Blandford, where I played the percussion and had the opportunity to participate in Prince Philip’s 70th birthday celebrations at Cardiff castle. Although I have chosen not to pursue music as a career, I have gained valuable experiences and financial gain through playing in shows and teaching regularly.

I have also worked in a small village shop for a year and in the cafeteria at Monkey World, a local zoo for primates. During the summer, I was also chosen to supervise a newly built play area at Monkey World, which was a challenging but rewarding experience.

I have had the opportunity to travel to various countries such as Spain, Argentina, Poland, and Italy on family holidays. During my gap year, I plan to work to save up for more travel experiences prior to starting university.

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Geography personal statements

Personal Statement - Geography 10

Geography personal statement 10.

Choosing a Higher Education route for me was an intuitive decision. Having a particular interest in current affairs and the social sciences, I am naturally attracted to a Geography degree, as there is no other subject that bridges social, environmental and economic disciplines so well. Geography is important to me and the world around us as it is so dynamic, ever contemporary and omnipresent. I am particularly interested in social and political geographies, however I appreciate that the interconnections between the physical and the human worlds are vital to fully understanding either.

I find that many of the topics within geography provide a stimulus for debate. I have involved myself in debating societies since high school, which has allowed me to develop an understanding of both sides of an argument. I am particularly proud of the video I made with some peers supporting the use of nuclear power in the argument of sustainable energy and climate change. The video was entered into a national competition and I received the chance to visit the "Nuclear New Build 2010" conference in London. My group was presented with second prize, and I had a fantastic insight into cutting edge research that is currently being undertaken in the field of Nuclear power, and was made aware of its importance to gaining energy security in the UK. I have a keen interest in energy issues and the influence this has on modern politics. E. F. Schumacher highlighted his concerns relating to sustainability in "Small is Beautiful" where he evaluates how man treats fossil fuels and natural resources as income and not as capital. This concept intrigued me, and leads me to ask, how has no fully sustainable alternative been developed, when this economist had acknowledged this problem in a book first printed in 1973?

I enjoy in depth study, and take advantage of the first hand experiences of fieldwork. I have carried out a number of studies on the River Wyre and how it changes downstream, and conducted my own personal study on the how the pH changes, as I was interested in the human influences on the natural process. As stated in my hypothesis, my study showed that in more agricultural and industrial areas the river was more acidic.

In economics my studies in poverty, human development and globalization sparked my interest in social issues. I have read the German novel "Goodbye Lenin" which has helped me to gain a real insight into the development and urbanization in Europe and particularly Berlin due to the fall of the wall in 1989. Reading this novel has encouraged me to learn more about world cities, citizenship and geopolitics. Wanting to further my knowledge of German culture, in 2011 I spent a week on an exchange where I conducted work experience in a local Primary school, which has helped me to be more independent, observant and responsible. Learning about other cultures has captivated me and during the summer I will be trekking around Bulgaria and Romania to achieve my Explorer Belt, a prestigious award in scouting which requires careful planning, teamwork and perseverance.

I am actively involved in the scouting movement and have taken advantage of the opportunities available to me. I am a fully qualified Young Leader and have gained my Platinum Chief Scouts Award. To meet the criteria for this award I took part in many activities including; classes in Astronomy, taking part in an International trip, attending an environment weekend and planning and completing a two-day expedition. I am also involved as a Young Spokesperson, where I play a substantial role in setting the direction of scouting. I feel that these responsibilities, experiences and core values presented to me in scouting have shaped me as a person and supplied me with leadership qualities and the willingness to work hard to achieve my goals in my career and also as an undergraduate studying geography.

Universities Applied to:

London School of Economics (Geography (BA))- Rejection
Durham (Combined Honours in Social Sciences) - Rejection
University Of Sheffield (Geography (BA)) - Offer (AAB) Firm
University Of Lancaster (Geography BA) - Offer (AAB) Insurance
University Of Nottingham (Geography BA) - Offer (AAA)

Grades Achieved:

Geography (A2) - A
Economics(A2) - A
German (A2) - B
Critical Thinking (A2) - A
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UCAS Personal Statement Example - Geography

Subject: Geography

Age range: 16+

Resource type: Other

Last updated

14 April 2024

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This an example of a personal statement, submitted to UCAS for a place studying Geography BA. This personal statement secured a place at a Russel Group University for studying the Geography BA programme. Can be given to students as a guideline of what to include in a personal statement, it can showcase format, structure, and good ideas of educational achievements, books to read, and interests for the subject.

Can be used as an example as a generic example or more specific for those wishing to study geography. Should be used only as an example and should not be copied directly to UCAS.

Includes full statement, ( 8 paragraphs, 659 words ).

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Personal statement example environmental geography personal statement.

Submitted by Max

Delve into the processes that shaped Earth

Examine new natural resources and understand how to avoid natural hazards. Study Geology at Southampton, a course with a high degree of fieldwork.

Do you want to inspire young people and help change lives?

Choose to study Education at Roehampton, one of the UK's leading providers of teacher education.

Environmental Geography Personal Statement

Whilst onboard the RFA Mounts Bay in Jamaica, David Jelly, a member of the British High Commission said, ‘in the event of a disaster, this boat [ported in Kingston] would go to the Bahamas before helping the people in Jamaica’. I believe that it is ethically wrong to leave people who need help. The ship is designed to assist countries when they have a natural disaster so why should it be used to help people who may be less in need? For me this prioritisation is one of the most prevalent issues in the world as the battle against natural and human-caused tragedies increases in frequency.

One of my main interests in geography is climate change. To help further my understanding I read several books about the subject. In a controversial book, written by Alex Epstein named ‘The Moral Case of Fossil Fuel’, the author shares his opinion that, to this point, the use of fossil fuels can be justified by improvements in standards of living including child mortality rates, availability of water and net income within nations. However, one factor that he did not consider is that the negative effects of climate change are rarely in the same place as the source of the pollutants. This is discussed in Vandana Shiva’s ‘Soil Not Oil’ which is a very saddening book documenting the negative effects of climate change. Early on she says that ‘The people of Rajasthan and Bihar [both very under developed cities in India] do not contribute to climate change, yet they are its victims’. Droughts in Rajasthan and extreme flooding in Bihar have affected vast amounts of people in these cities and caused 30 million to be displaced. Unfortunately, evidence suggests that the people who will suffer most from the adverse effects of climate change in the future will be the less wealthy. A section from the IPCC (International Panel for Climate Change) Synthesis Report 2014 can be summarised by: Climate change impacts will reduce rates of economic growth, make poverty reduction more difficult, and further erode food security. A greater depth of knowledge would help me understand the science behind and the severity of this issue and is hence a reason I have chosen to study Geography in further education.

This interest in climate change has led to me doing an EPQ titled; ‘How will climate change affect hurricanes?’ where I have undertaken a lot of independent research. During this process I have had to develop many skills including judging the credibility of a source and finding sources of information in different formats. University study style tends to be very similar to that needed for the EPQ, so this work will make me better prepared for a degree course.

A country that I have been interested in for a long time is Iceland. Their commitment to maintaining their pristine landscapes by introducing renewable energies is a potential model for many countries. On a recent visit my wish to study Geography was confirmed as the natural environment overwhelmed my current knowledge and understanding. I saw processes that I had learnt about happening in the real world but also so many that I did not understand as yet. Beside academic studies I have a passion for sports, excelling in many different types but focusing on rugby and strength-based training. I have been training intensely for 4 years using both scheduled team training sessions as well as 4-5 personal training sessions a week during the off-season when playing for Farnham RUFC. I have extensively researched the best methods of training and nutrition to optimise results. This has led to me becoming healthier, stronger, and a more confident person. As sport is such a large part of my life I have chosen Universities that have state-of-the-art sport facilities as I hope to continue to train while studying for a degree.

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From the dry, arid Saharan desert, to the cold, unforgiving Arctic, the world is home to a diverse and breathtaking range of environments. The astonishing array of landscapes across the globe are home to a staggering 8.7 million species. It is the extraordinary variety of the physical world which I find captivating and makes me want to study geography.

The world is dynamic. Studying geography leaves me asking questions concerning our planet's future. Will climate change continue to impact ecosystems? Will the same species exist in ten years? And of course, the somewhat selfish but important question that is at the core of geography: how will these problems affect humans? ...And are we to blame for causing them?

I am particularly interested in the use of GIS in aiding my understanding of geography. It is a rapidly developing area that provides a framework for comprehending the characteristics and problems of an area. A major issue at the moment which interests me greatly concerns the deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. I attended a lecture in Reading which covered this problem. I was shocked to learn that since 2000, 184,651 square kilometres of vegetation has been destroyed. That’s a decrease of 5.24%, which is equivalent to 50 football pitches being destroyed every minute. As a geographer, this made me question the negative impact this must have on the wildlife and environment. I also was concerned as to how this problem can be managed to create a sustainable environment.

Alongside geography, I have taken A Levels in maths and chemistry. In particular, the statistics module I studied in maths has proved especially useful in aiding my understanding of geography. Last year, I completed my geography fieldwork which investigated how the River Chess’ characteristics change as the river flows downstream. I applied my knowledge of statistics to analyse the data I collected; for example, using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient to assess whether the width of the river increased as it flowed downstream.

I attended the school’s Engineering and Kinetics Society where I learned about the construction of dams. I found the link between engineering and hydrology very interesting, especially the environmental impacts associated with the building of dams. The Three Gorges Dam, one of the largest dams in the world, is an example I find particularly notable because of its devastating effects on the environment: 172 million tons of sediment is trapped by the dam every year, threatening the lives of 25 of the 177 unique fish species found in the Yangtze River and contributing to the decline of the critically endangered baiji dolphin. This concerns me greatly and, as a geographer, I am motivated to widen my knowledge of this in order to provide solutions to these troubling problems.

During the summer last year, I undertook two weeks of work experience at one of BP's offices in London. I processed plans for new oil rigs, although I questioned the effects these structures have on the ocean environment - especially contamination from oil spills and metal pipes corroding.

I volunteer once a week at Helen and Douglas House, a charity providing hospice care for terminally ill children. Here, I gained experience in teamwork and communication skills, which I hope to apply when I go to university - hopefully through joining a geographical society.

Furthermore, I write english articles for Fizzy, a fashion and lifestyle magazine sold in Germany. This has given me experience of working life, as well as boosting my organisational skills because I have to meet strict deadlines.

I know that a career in geography is best suited to me because I am an enthusiastic individual and I am very eager to learn more about my subject. As a geographer, I am motivated to ask the questions that concern our planet and, more importantly, help find the answers.

Profile info

There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

Predicted grades: AAC.

University responses:

University of Birmingham: conditional offer (AAB; no interview.) University of Manchester: conditional offer (AAB; interviewed. The university emailed me personally to say they would still accept me if I got lower grades than my UCAS offer because they liked my personal statement and interview.) University of East Anglia: conditional offer (ABB; no interview.) University of Liverpool: conditional offer (ABB; no interview.) Bangor University: conditional offer (300 UCAS points; no interview.)

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Geography Personal Statement Example 11. The immense size and complexity of the world, its societies and how they function never fails to amaze me. I am living in a crucial period of the history of resource management. This is a serendipitous time for generating more sustainable methods of harnessing, distributing and consuming the earth's ...
Geography Personal Statement Advice
Show the real you. The University of Southampton is looking for a similar blend in your geography personal statement: ' A high quality piece of writing that outlines your interests in geography, your extracurricular pursuits, and something of what makes you distinctive as a person.'.
Geography Personal Statement Examples
BA Geography Personal Statement . As an eleven-year-old, I travelled to the Cape Verde Islands. As soon... Submitted by Max. Environmental Geography Personal Statement . Whilst onboard the RFA Mounts Bay in Jamaica, David Jelly, a member o... Recommended Course.
Successful Personal Statement For Geography At Oxford
This Personal Statement for Geography is a solid example of demonstrating a wealth of knowledge, motivation and interest, vital to Admissions Tutors. Remember, at Oxford, 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.
Geography personal statements
Geography personal statements. Scroll down this page to find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study geography and related courses at university. Plus, over on The Uni Guide, we've also got advice from universities on what they want to see in a geography personal statement .
Geography Personal Statement Example 34
BA Geography with Business. This personal statement is unrated. In an increasingly connected world, global issues feel larger than ever. The way in which Geography encompasses and provides solutions to these issues is something I believe is key for the future of the Earth and as such a Geography degree is something that particularly appeals to me.
Writing a geography personal statement: expert advice from universities
Make your geography personal statement stand out, with these tips from university admissions teams. When you're going for a place on a geography degree course, your personal statement provides a strong way to make your application stand out. We've spoken to experts at the University of Hull and Queen Mary University of London to find out ...
Geography Personal Statement
Geography BA Personal Statement . I moved from India to the United Kingdom aged three and I discovered my passion for Geography upon realisi... Submitted by Amelia. BA Geography Personal Statement . As an eleven-year-old, I travelled to the Cape Verde Islands. As soon as our plane began to descend, I was...
How to write a geography personal statement (with example)
Here are some steps to consider: 1. Research the programme. There are two aspects to your personal statement. One is who you are, and the other is about the university and programme to which you're applying. It's therefore a good idea to start by researching the degree programme in question and the university itself.
Geography Personal Statement Examples
Here, we provide some examples of personal statements for geography courses, as well as an overview of what you can expect from a geography course. Geography is an interesting and relevant choice for students because it is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field of study. Geography is the study of the physical and human features of the Earth's ...
Geography Personal Statement Examples For UCAS Application
Human Geography Personal Statement Example. Choosing to pursue a degree in Geography was an easy decision for me, as it combines my interests in current affairs and the social sciences. I am captivated by the dynamic and ever-changing nature of geography and its ability to bring together social, environmental, and economic disciplines.
Personal Statement
Geography Personal Statement 11Choosing a Higher Education route for me was an intuitive decision. Having a particular interest in current affairs and the social sciences, I am naturally attracted to a Geography degree, as there is no other subject that bridges social, environmental and economic disciplines so well. Geography is important to me and the world around us as it is so dynamic, ever ...
Geography Personal Statement Example 18
Geography Personal Statement Example 18. Much of my initial enthusiasm for Geography stemmed from the fact that it encompasses so many of the factors that shape both my local area and my life within it. Concerns surrounding rural depopulation and the eventual closure of my former primary school, broadband availability or the siting of wind ...
Geography BA Personal Statement
Geography BA Personal Statement. Submitted by Jobina. I moved from India to the United Kingdom aged three and I discovered my passion for Geography upon realising that I had exposure to such contrasting parts of the world - the 'newly industrialising' country of India, where the once poverty ridden areas are quickly transforming into hubs ...
Personal Statement
Geography and Planning Personal Statement. From an early age I have always had enthusiasm for Geography. For as long as I can recall, my parents and I have visited the different environments around us, ranging from the superb Northumberland coastline to the bustling city of Edinburgh. This exposure to such places has allowed me to develop a ...
Geography Personal Statement Example 2
Geography Personal Statement Example 2. In a dynamic world, the study of geography is increasingly important. The diversity of the subject and the interaction between the physical environment and human population is becoming even more evident with climate change and globalisation influencing our everyday lives.
Personal Statement
Geography Personal Statement 10Choosing a Higher Education route for me was an intuitive decision. Having a particular interest in current affairs and the social sciences, I am naturally attracted to a Geography degree, as there is no other subject that bridges social, environmental and economic disciplines so well. Geography is important to me and the world around us as it is so dynamic, ever ...
UCAS Personal Statement Example
This an example of a personal statement, submitted to UCAS for a place studying Geography BA. This personal statement secured a place at a Russel Group University for studying the Geography BA programme. Can be given to students as a guideline of what to include in a personal statement, it can showcase format, structure, and good ideas of educational achievements, books to read, and interests ...
Geography Personal Statement Example (Russell Group) 1
I am sociable, ambitious and academically able, but most importantly dedicated. This personal statement was written by aidanlyp for application in 2014. aidanlyp's university choices. King's College London. University of Bristol. Queen Mary, University of London. University of Exeter. University College London. Green: offer made.
Environmental Geography Personal Statement
Environmental Geography Personal Statement. Whilst onboard the RFA Mounts Bay in Jamaica, David Jelly, a member of the British High Commission said, 'in the event of a disaster, this boat [ported in Kingston] would go to the Bahamas before helping the people in Jamaica'. I believe that it is ethically wrong to leave people who need help.
Geography Personal Statement Example 21
Geography Personal Statement Example 21. From the dry, arid Saharan desert, to the cold, unforgiving Arctic, the world is home to a diverse and breathtaking range of environments. The astonishing array of landscapes across the globe are home to a staggering 8.7 million species. It is the extraordinary variety of the physical world which I find ...

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