Exemplar Psychology Personal Statement with annotations from Successful Student
How to write the PERFECT Russell Group Psychology Personal Statement
An example personal statement with annotations from a successful applicant
The study of Psychology appeals to me because it involves both the logic and rigour of science as well as the humanity of art. I first discovered this duality in Sacks’ “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat”, a beautiful recording of patients with fascinating neurological abnormalities. This interested me such that I delved into his earlier work “Awakenings”, in which Sacks gives a much better impression of what it was to be in both his position and that of the patient. Moreover, though the patients had the same aetiologies, and indeed similar comatose states resulting from encephalitis lethargica, they were distinctly unique. I found this to be scientifically intriguing, if frustrating were I to be in Sacks’ position! Indeed, whilst ‘Martha N.’ experienced a hallucinatory response to L-DOPA, ‘Frances D.’ would experience oculogyric or respiratory crises. Depending on dosage, and interestingly, circumstance: a day outing would decrease all symptoms. I found this non-pharmaceutical impact enlightening.
[1] The personal statement begins by highlighting the applicant's fascination with the study of Psychology, emphasizing its unique blend of scientific rigor and humanistic understanding. Their mention of Oliver Sacks' works, "The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat" and "Awakenings," demonstrates their early exposure to the complexities of neurological abnormalities and the diverse experiences of patients.
[2] The applicant's scientific curiosity is evident in their intrigue about the distinct manifestations of encephalitis lethargica among patients, despite similar underlying causes. This scientific puzzle captured their interest and sparked a desire to understand the intricacies of the human brain and behavior.
After reading these works, I wanted to learn more about psychiatry. I work shadowed and interviewed psychiatric staff at University College London Hospital (UCLH). As well as learning more about the implications of psychological principles (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy etc.) I saw more clearly the relevance of philosophy and ethics to the subject. Indeed a schizophrenic patient came to my attention whose anti-social actions had to be considered alongside the severity of his illness. This case of schizophrenia particularly interested me, so I studied Robert Sapolsky’s lecture at Stanford University, using it as a platform to better understand the perspectives and stories of schizophrenic speakers such as Eleanor Longden and Elyn Saks.
[3] The mention of shadowing and interviewing psychiatric staff at University College London Hospital (UCLH) showcases the applicant's proactive engagement with the field of psychiatry. Their recognition of the relevance of philosophy and ethics in understanding psychological principles highlights their appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of Psychology.
[4] The applicant's exploration of Robert Sapolsky's lecture at Stanford University and their study of the experiences of schizophrenic speakers deepens their understanding of mental illnesses and the perspectives of those affected by them. This demonstrates their commitment to seeking knowledge beyond traditional academic resources.
As I grew more enthusiastic about psychology, I wanted to share what I’d learnt and learn more myself. Thus I co-founded The Psychology Society at City of London School (CLS, where I have been full scholarship holder since 2014). At our weekly meetings, my co-head and I alternately present on topics related to psychology (which we research and prepare PowerPoint presentations for over the 2 intervening weeks). This autumn term we welcome our first speaker, Dr Laurence McKenna of the Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear Hospital, and will continue to discuss, present and learn with our members! Further, I have completed my John Carpenter Essay (the CLS equivalent of the EPQ) on The Psychology of Evil. Chiefly amongst my research for this paper was reading Zero Degrees of Empathy by Simon Baron-Cohen and The Lucifer Effect by Phillip Zimbardo. The first of these taught me about the various pathologies that result in “empathy erosion”: a more explicable phrase than ‘evil’ that increases the potential for social action. In the second I learnt about the Stanford Prison Experiment and its parallels with the horrors of Abu Ghraib. It was particularly emphasised that cruelty isn’t a solely dispositional issue, it is situational and systemic. In my essay, I discuss both books in much more detail.
[5] The co-founding of The Psychology Society at City of London School (CLS) demonstrates the applicant's leadership skills and their dedication to sharing their passion for Psychology with others. The inclusion of a planned speaker and ongoing discussions with society members further highlights their commitment to fostering a learning community.
[6] The completion of a research essay on "The Psychology of Evil" showcases the applicant's ability to critically engage with psychological concepts and draw insights from influential works by Simon Baron-Cohen and Phillip Zimbardo. Their recognition of the situational and systemic factors influencing cruelty demonstrates their nuanced understanding of complex social phenomena.
Outside school, I am a Young Leader at my local Cub Scout section. I have been involved in Scouting in some capacity for almost 10 years. And so I was awarded the Jack Petchey Award recognising my dedication. I have used my Scouting Skills to complete the expedition criteria for the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, which I am on track to earn next year. Moreover I have been awarded ‘half colours’ for my contribution to the CLS Charity Committee. Also, every school week this past academic year, I taught Chemistry to a GCSE student as part of the CLS Mentoring Scheme, and I volunteer at ‘The Soup Kitchen’ once a month. Beyond volunteering, I am a keen runner, having participated in the London Mini Marathon.
[7] The mention of involvement in scouting, earning the Jack Petchey Award, and working towards the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award highlights the applicant's commitment to personal development, leadership, and community engagement outside of academic pursuits. Their volunteering at "The Soup Kitchen" and participation in charity activities further exemplify their dedication to making a positive impact on society.
[8] The applicant's mention of mentoring a GCSE student in Chemistry and their passion for running further showcase their commitment to supporting others and maintaining a well-rounded lifestyle.
Received offers from:
UCL (accepted)
Edinburgh
King’s College London
Durham
Why is this a good Oxbridge Psychology personal statement?
Overall, this personal statement effectively portrays the applicant's intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary thinking, leadership abilities, community engagement, and commitment to personal and academic growth.
Their genuine passion for Psychology, demonstrated through their extensive reading, extracurricular involvement, and active pursuit of knowledge, makes them a strong candidate for pursuing a Psychology degree at Oxford or Cambridge.
