What sort of thing should i mention in my personal statement when applying for socio-anthropology?

Question

i'm applying to ucl for thier socio-anthropology course 2008 and i'm at a loss as to what to put in my personal statement. i'm having trouble with coming up with any ideas for work experience that might boost my chances. my reason for applying for the course is a natural interest in the working of different cultures and social groups that has been nurtured since childhood by my life's travels to west + north africa, latin america & the caribean but thats as far as i've got! thats motivation and reasons but what else do i fit in there??? can you help me expand on what i've mentioned above??? thanks for any help, ken loria

p.s an insight into socio-anthropology would also be helpful, thanks in advance

Answer 1

I think just show how interested and fascinated you are by the subject.

When I applied for my bachelors (some 10 years ago) I remember getting hold of the reading list for the first term of the first year. I read 2 of the books which led me to see what they taught at the institution and the types of areas they are interested in.

Now I teach there and if a student was applying I would just want to know how much they desired to learn, whether this was a permanent desire or just a fashionable whim (you do get them). And how much they desired to have their perceptions changed and challenged. I would want a broad minded student who was capable of looking at all aspects of the arguments and could offer me insights and ways of approaching the subject that are innovative.

Answer 2

Ummm....

Go over the top with enthusiasm.  You regret that you don't have any work experience in the field.  ----- Is the best course.----is said to be a wonderful professor and you want to take his/her class.  You want a career is socio anthropology and this is the place to start, the time is now.

I've read ------books and articles in preparation for the course.

I would appreciate setting an appointment with professor ____ even if I don't get into the course this year. He/She might be able to help me with preparation for next time the course is offered.

All this would have to be put in proper English -- Is just off the top of my head...

Research what the professor has written & quote the works.

Answer 3

It's not usually a good strategy to start an application essay with why you want to get into the program.  It's also a very bad idea to put your resume into a paragraph form.  You can include a separate CV page.  You need to stand out.  If you are a good writer, tell a story about a specific encounter you had in your travels that shows you have some idea of what your chosen field is about.  There are probably a bunch of tips and strategies online if you search for them and your local library will more likely than not have some books on writing good college admission essays.  Just don't forget to make your point about how interesting you find social anth and how great you think you could do at the school you're applying to.