Sociology is a subject that can be applied to many aspects of life, ranging from social inequality and crime to culture and media. If you want to secure a place in a university to study this exciting subject, you must demonstrate specific qualities and interests. Dr. Mark Monaghan, the admissions tutor for sociology and social policy at Leeds University, suggests that you include a mixture of three things in your personal statement: your passion for the subject, what you want to get out of university, and what you can offer to the university.
Dr. Wendy Bottero, senior lecturer in sociology at Manchester University, emphasizes the importance of tailoring your statement to the university you’re applying to. Look at the department’s webpages to see the modules on offer and gear your application towards your preferred department, but don’t alienate other universities. Mention broad areas of sociology that are taught by a number of your choices.
If you’re new to the subject, you should say how you became interested in it. According to Dr. Patrick White, admissions tutor for sociology at Leicester University, everyone has had experiences that can be linked to sociologically relevant issues. Your part-time job is as relevant as having done work experience with an MP – what’s important is how you link what you’ve done to thinking about social issues and how society works.
Show that you’ve read relevant books. Monaghan recommends Zygmunt Bauman’s What Use is Sociology? and C Wright Mills’ The Sociological Imagination. Monaghan also recommends the Guardian’s Society section to give you an awareness of current debate.
Universities are looking at more than just your academic interests; they want someone who shows enthusiasm and passion more generally, for example, through clubs and societies. "We want someone who takes a critical view of common assumptions people lazily accept," says Bottero.
However, there are important things to avoid when writing your statement. Be consistent about the degree you’re applying for and avoid confusion. There is no set recipe for personal statements, so don’t be too rigid in structure. Avoid sloppy writing because this is your chance to show that you can write well. Finally, keep it simple and honest – there’s no need to overdo it with superlatives.
