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Writing a Personal Statement

Understanding the Three Questions 

UCAS personal statements are structured around three key questions. Here's our guide to each question and what we're looking for at Northumbria: 

1. Why do you want to study this course or subject? 

This is your opportunity to share your passion and knowledge of your chosen subject area and what draws you to it. 

What excites you about the course? Maybe it’s particular topics, theories, or aspects that really capture your interest. You might want to connect your interests to your future aspirations, whether academic or career-related, and explore what makes the course or subject feel right for you. 

2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you prepare for this course or subject? 

This is about showing how your learning journey so far has prepared you for university-level study. 

Maybe there are concrete examples from specific subjects and projects that have equipped you with skills relevant to this course.  

You could explore how these skills might benefit you at university, demonstrating the connection between what you’re studying and the course you’re applying for. 

3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful? 

This question allows you to showcase learning and skills gained outside the classroom. 

Consider what you might have developed through extra-curricular activities such as sport, being a member of a school choir, or volunteering and part-time work. 

Explore how you’ve pursued opportunities to enhance your understanding and develop relevant skills.  

You might want to reflect on how each experience has prepared you for university study and your future career.  

Subject Specific Support 

Some courses require a more focused approach to your personal statement. For the following subjects, we are often looking for specific evidence of your understanding of the profession, relevant experience, and particular skills essential to that field.  

Child Nursing goes beyond general nursing, focusing on caring for young people and their families. 

When writing your personal statement, consider why that matters to you and what attracts you to the profession. You might draw upon relevant experience - in healthcare settings, voluntary work, or other contexts - highlighting skills you've developed through concrete examples that connect to your Child Nursing course. 

Midwifery is about supporting families through a significant life journey. 

Consider how you can demonstrate your understanding of the profession and what draws you to this role – whether through experience, observation, or other ways you've learned about midwifery. You might discuss what attracts you to this career, highlighting skills you've developed through concrete examples that connect to your Midwifery course. 

Physiotherapy encompasses recovery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. As a physiotherapist, your work can have a profound impact on someone's life. 

Consider how this resonates with you and what relevant experience you have – whether through work experience, observation, or other ways you've engaged with the profession. You might discuss the different areas you've explored and what attracts you to this career, highlighting skills you've developed through concrete examples that connect to your Physiotherapy course. 

For more information, visit the Physiotherapy Course page.  

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