个人陈述，(PERSONAL STATEMENT)是申请美国、加拿大、英国等西方国家的大学/研究生录取时由申请人写的关于自我的一篇漫谈体文章。
Psychology Personal Statement
I first realised I wanted to study Psychology when studying Drama, because in order to portray characters I had to understand their mind and develop their personality. I found the differences in characters were so vast that it made me want to understand these variations. Since beginning the course in College I have been truly captivated by all areas of psychological theory and research, and am eager to contribute to the understanding we have about the behaviour of human and non-human animals. In particular, I am fascinated by the fundamental debates in Psychology, for example the nature nurture debate. A Forensic and Investigative Psychology conference I attended, presented by Professor David Canter, caught my attention as I found it intriguing that people can behave in such a way that will offend others and often feel little or no remorse. After reading his book, "Mapping Murder", my interest in abnormality and psychopathology rapidly increased, as his book and conference allowed me to understand the psychology behind this type of behaviour, amplifying my interest in the subject. I enjoy reading about different studies that have been conducted in the past, which I can analyse and evaluate to obtain a more advanced understanding of behaviours exhibited.
As a peer mentor, my job was to attend to the needs of younger or more vulnerable students and to offer them full support. This job requires patience and compassion, along with willingness to help and motivate others. I have received certificates and awards for good behaviour, attendance, punctuality and performing arts, demonstrating my enthusiasm in everything I do. My work experience in the retail industry has given me the chance to develop critical skills which are essential such as; good communication with others, a strong determination to achieve my best and dedication to all work I undertake. As an A2 Psychology student, I received the Student of the Month award for my outstanding enthusiasm, effort and achievement. Drama & Theatre Studies has given me an alternative perception of human behaviour, the intensity of emotions and the variations inherent in that. Music Technology has helped me develop my analytical and concentration skills. I am also a member of the Student Council, where I represent my fellow students and have a great responsibility to ensure that their views are heard and acted upon.
I enjoy reading a range of books from novels to biographies as well as books to support my academic studies. Currently I am reading "The Selfish Gene" by Richard Dawkins to support my understanding of Evolutionary Psychology. I find it fascinating that natural and sexual selection can provide ultimate explanations for the behaviour of animals, including humans. I also enjoy sports, such as swimming, cricket, tennis and hockey, resulting in my competitive nature and desire to succeed. I have had a variety of part time jobs in which I have had to work with the public and satisfy their needs whilst working under pressure to complete assorted tasks. Although I am looking forward to going to university, I have decided to take a gap year and hopefully attend Camp America, where I would work with young people as a Counsellor, ensuring their health and safety, and keeping them entertained. My role will depend on my ability to have strong authority but also an approachable manner at all times and I am confident I can carry out the role with the utmost professionalism. I am eager to study Psychology in as much depth as possible, and I intend to practise a career in the fields I am particularly interested in - Clinical and Pathological Psychology. I believe that I will make an outstanding undergraduate who will appreciate having the opportunity to study and expand my knowledge in a reputable learning environment.
