personal statement international relations example

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• International Relations Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Ben Taylor

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in International Relations. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

In today’s unstable political climate, a nuanced, multifaceted understanding of international relations seems more important than ever, with the emergence of right-wing populism around the world and the imminent reckoning of the climate crisis (not to mention the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic). Being able to grasp the power dynamics at play between (and within) nations seems crucial to maintaining some semblance of continuity in the international community.

Having studied History and Politics at undergraduate level, one of the aspects of your Masters in International Relations programme that appeals to me the most is its interdisciplinary nature. Sociology, international law and history are all incredibly important when it comes to understanding our current moment and I look forward to studying the myriad ways in which they inform each other.

My undergraduate dissertation focused on the breakup of Yugoslavia and the subsequent Dayton Accords peace agreement, and was informed by my time at an NGO in Sarajevo in 2017. This organisation promoted human rights in the Balkan region and I helped with the development of several campaigns to support judicial and civic reform. I’m eager to expand on this research for my Masters and have already secured another internship working for a Zagreb-based refugee organisation next summer.

While at university I was active in several student societies, including being on the committee for the Amnesty International Society, where I helped organise several keynote speeches and letter-writing campaigns. I was also the social secretary for the History Society and the treasurer for the Alternative Music Society, putting on several financially lucrative gigs around the city.

After graduating in 2018, I started working as an account manager for a marketing agency, drumming up sales and also acting as a liaison between our clients and the in-house team of creatives. I like to think that this experience has boosted my interpersonal communication skills and given me a knack for negotiation and managing expectations.

Despite working full-time, I’ve continued to travel widely wherever possible, returning to the Balkans on several occasions and also making self-guided study trips to the International Criminal Court in the Hague, the UN Headquarters in New York City and the United Nations Office at Geneva.

I hope that your Masters programme will provide the scope to expand on my existing experience and give me opportunities to develop expertise in new and exciting areas. Once my studies have finished, I hope to find work in a more senior role at an NGO in the Balkans and I’m sure that your programme will act as the perfect springboard for this goal.

What are my options for studying International Relations

Politics and international relations (international relations) ma, mres, keele university school of social, political and global studies, international relations: international relations and international organization ma, university of groningen arts, security & international relations - msc, canterbury christ church university faculty of science, engineering and social sciences, modern history and international relations (research) ma, ma international relations and security, university of liverpool department of politics, find a masters in international relations.

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Ben worked in the FindAMasters content team from 2017 to 2022, starting as an Assistant Content Writer and leaving as Student Content Manager. He focused on producing well-researched advice across a range of topics related to postgraduate study. Ben has a Bachelors degree in English Literature from the University of Sheffield and a Masters from the University of Amsterdam. Having also spent a semester at the University of Helsinki through the Erasmus programme, he’s no stranger to study abroad (or cold weather!).

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Sample International Relations Personal Statement (Columbia, Cornell, Kings)

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following essay is written by an applicant who got accepted to top graduate programs in international relations and affairs (Masters in IR). Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Columbia’s SIPA school, Cornell’s ILR school and Kings College London. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in international relations and affairs should look like.

Sample Personal Statement in International Relations and Affairs

After GCE A-levels, I was so smitten with Economics that I wanted it to stay with me for life. As it happens to be, that did turn out to be true. I received a scholarship to the London School of Economics (LSE) and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Economics. While at the LSE, I developed an interest in economic research. I interned at the Center for Economic Research in Washington, DC, every summer for four years. My work in DC was based on Evidence-Based Procurement Reforms. The project aimed to evaluate public sector institutes’ procurement process to increase efficiency in their procurement workflow. The fieldwork required me to work with government officials and help them digitize the procurement process. I realized that even though the officials wanted public sector organizations to work efficiently, such changes were not easy to bring unless better policies were designed.

During my junior year at LSE, I worked as a research assistant at the Center for Research in Economics and Business (CREB). At CREB, I worked with Professor Antony Bert on a preliminary report to evaluate the impact of microcredit on women in developing countries. The study was conducted in collaboration with a nonprofit, and it helped me see the difference my work could make in the lives of women entrepreneurs.

During my senior year at LSE, I was selected for the Global UGRAD program. My time at Utica College helped me decide where I wanted to proceed with economics. The rich discussions in my “international political economy” and “international relations” classes gave me a lot to think about. I especially remember when I led a seminar on how the West could help the East solve its economic problems. The classroom was an amalgamation of different nationalities, so the varying viewpoints were very interesting.

The thought that developing countries may be a burden for the developed world to bear saddened me. I had previously given little thought to my country’s role in the global economy. It became apparent to me that the resources, even in the wealthiest countries, are scarce, and development is a pressing issue. At the same time, interacting with people from different ethnicities opened my mind to what I needed to do for developing countries. Talking about the problems of developing countries with others motivated me to play my part in making them better, and working for their development, seemed the right place to start.

My fascination with economics grew further when I heard Professor Kaushik Basu, the Chief Economist at World Bank, talk about the challenges facing the South Asian region at the 11th South Asian Economics Students’ Meet (SAESM) in Bhutan. He stated that the South Asian region could greatly benefit from regional integration if its countries overcame problems, such as mutual mistrust, by formulating policies to help eradicate such barriers. This increased my proclivity toward development economics and sparked an interest in studying policymaking.

Recently, I got the opportunity to intern at the Planning and Development Department of India. It was a window for me to peek into the world of policymaking, which did not turn out to be as I had hoped. Millions of dollars were allocated to different projects, yet with no significant improvement in the common man’s life. I became certain that much more is needed to be done to make public policies more effective. For example, there was no proper cost-benefit analysis of projects, and there were instances where funds were tied up in projects due to bureaucratic delays.

I was thrilled to start working as a Research Assistant for a Tax project. As I had become enamored with public policy by now, I was excited to work for evidence-based policy reform. The project intends to strengthen the social relationship between the government and the taxpayers by highlighting the link between property tax revenues and public services. I have been coordinating and working closely with the Excise and Taxation Department and have also been involved in collecting and cleaning taxpayer data. While I am learning a lot here at The Indian Econometric Society (TIES), it has helped me identify the gaps in my knowledge. For example, I lack the econometric skills to analyze public programs and policies.

I hope that graduate studies will help me obtain these skills and tools. I want to pursue a Master’s in International Relations specializing in international development policy, as I want to evaluate third-world countries’ policies in an international setting. My experiences provide a great opportunity to get a graduate degree and experience the cultural exchange experience again, where I can share more experiences from my work with the new people I meet. I hope to return to India better prepared to work on policy analysis by working for developmental organizations and agencies.

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International Relations Personal Statement Example

The personal statement for international relations should emphasize your passion for the field as well as your unique experiences and qualities. The following is an example of an international relations personal statement .

As an avid reader of international news and a participant in Model United Nations conferences, I have long been fascinated by the complexities and challenges of global politics . I am drawn to the field of international relations because it offers a unique perspective on how countries interact with each other and how their decisions impact the world at large.

I believe that the study of international relations is crucial for understanding and addressing the most pressing issues of our time, such as climate change, terrorism, and economic inequality. In particular, I am interested in the role of international organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, in promoting cooperation and resolving conflicts among nations. I am also fascinated by the concept of international law and how it can be used to protect human rights and uphold global standards.

In college, I pursued a major in political science and a minor in economics, taking courses in international relations, comparative politics, and global governance. I have also had the opportunity to intern with the U.S. Department of State, where I assisted in the preparation of briefing materials and provided support to senior officials working on international affairs. This experience has deepened my understanding of the inner workings of the foreign policy process and has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in international relations.

I am now eager to take the next step in my academic and professional journey by pursuing a graduate degree in international relations. I am confident that the knowledge and skills I gain through this program will prepare me to make meaningful contributions to the field and to be a leader in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous world.

International Relations Personal Statement Writing Tips

Read our tips for writing a personal statement for international relations :

• Start by thinking about why you are interested in international relations. What sparked your curiosity about the field? What specific issues or topics are you passionate about? By explaining your motivations and interests, you can give the admissions committee a sense of your personality and why you are a good fit for the program.
• Next, highlight your relevant academic and professional experiences. Have you taken classes in international relations or related subjects? Have you interned or worked in a related field? Be sure to mention any research projects, study abroad experiences, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to international relations.
• Explain how a graduate degree in international relations will help you achieve your career goals. What do you hope to do after you graduate? How will this program prepare you to succeed in your chosen field?
• Keep your writing clear and concise. A personal statement is a short piece of writing, so you will need to be selective about what you include. Avoid overly complex sentences and jargon, and focus on communicating your ideas straightforwardly and engagingly.
• Proofread and edit your statement carefully. A personal statement is a reflection of your writing skills and attention to detail, so it’s important to make sure your statement is free of errors and written. Ask a friend or family member to read over your statement and provide feedback, and be sure to review it yourself multiple times to catch any mistakes.

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• Personal Statements
• International Relations personal statement

International Relations Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

International Relations, the study of how different territories, regions, or countries manage their relationship when they recognise no superior authority over matters they all consider vital, can lead to many exciting career options.

If you’ve been considering apply to study International Relations at university, but are struggling with your personal statement, take a look at our example personal statement:

As well as having a strong interest in travel I have always been interested in the way that different countries work together, or in some cases against each other, both in times of peace and crisis.

Most people will remember where they were at the time of pivotal events in our society, for example 9/11. I myself was at school and remember wondering what action America would be able to take to punish those responsible for the tragedy. As the events following 9/11 unfolded and I learn more about war in school History lessons I became more interested in how countries communicate and how their relationships change over time.

In my final years at school, and later at college, I studied Critical Thinking which allowed me to develop my analytical skills and construct logical debates. At A Level I also studied Politics and Modern History which allowed me to gain an in-depth insight into how countries function and build relationships with others.

I was a member of my Student Council and worked part time throughout my time at college. I feel that both of these roles have given me the chance to build on my communication and teamwork skills.

Outside of school I spend as much time as I can travelling and learning new languages including French, Spanish, German, and more recently, Mandarin Chinese.

I look forward to developing all of my skills, both academic and social, during my time at university. I also look forward to the increased work experience opportunities that studying at university will give to me. I hope that by completing a degree course in International Relations will allow me to work towards a future career in politics.

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International Relations Masters personal statement

• Reading time: 2 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 13th September 2019
• Word count: 505 words
• File format: Text

I am applying to the Masters in International Relations/Masters in International Relations and Regional studies program for the Fall of 2018. After earning my undergraduate degree in Foreign Languages and Global Studies from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, I decided that I wanted to put my skills to work in helping others. Throughout my entire life, I have been raised with a love and deep appreciation for the understanding and tolerance of other cultures and nations.

The decision to pursue my Masters in this field grew from several notable experiences in my life. Though I was born in the United States, I was raised bilingually in an English and Spanish speaking household and spent my early childhood years in a small mountain village in Costa Rica. This early introduction to travel and living abroad inspired me to participate in student exchanges later in life. During my junior year of high school (2011-2012), I moved to Poland with the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Living with a host family, learning Polish, attending a Polish high school and being an youth ambassador for the United States taught me what it means to influence and change the perception of your country.

After returning to the United States, the reverse culture shock was a struggle for me, and I longed for the cross-cultural connections that I had made abroad. I participated in my second cultural exchange with the API Study abroad program in Granada, Spain for a summer during my sophomore year of college. Because the concentration of my Bachelor’s degree is Spanish, this exchange was a way for me to reconnect with my childhood and further develop my language skills. In addition to my experiences as an exchange student, I also strengthened international ties on the UAF campus as a Global Campus Ambassador for the Office for International Programs and Initiatives, and as an intern for the Peace Corps campus recruiter. I was involved in helping international students integrate into UAF life and campus activities, and gave lectures to many classes and clubs.

During my education at UAF, I was also a member of Alpha Phi Omega, the United States’ largest co-educational service fraternity. As a “Brother”, I learned many important aspects of servant leadership and service, something that reconnected me with my past as a Rotary Exchange Student, all of whom live by the mantra of “Service Above Self”. I have watched world leaders struggle with this concept, and during the last few years I have struggled to find confidence in my own government.

I have chosen to apply to the Leeds Beckett University//University of Tartu because I am passionate in my principles and my willingness to serve on behalf of the American people as a Foreign Service Officer or other diplomatic position. I believe that my ability to do so will be strengthened and purposeful through obtaining this degree.

Thank you for considering my application. It would be an honor to continue my studies and pursue my passion at the Leeds Beckett University/University of Tartu.

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Personal Statement – MSc International Relations Management

• Sample personal statement

29 July, 2022

Personal statement – msc international relations management share.

• 12 May, 2013

I writing this application with great joy to study International Relations Management MSc at the University of Bedfordshire to enhance my current academic attainments, increase my skills in a subject synonymous, and pave a path to better career opportunities in the field. As my career goal is to peers a critical awareness of the social communities and global industries, which I found in the study of International Relations Management and I always want to contribute a part of myself into the globalization system reform, and in developed and developing nations. Moreover, I found that this course is a platform to work within a wide range of economic, technological, demographic and social justice concerns. I believe this course will be the right choice for my career plans and objectives.

I have reviewed the programme of International Relations Management MSc at the University of Bedfordshire. The modules are organized to critical understanding and implement in developed and developing countries and the number of different assessment methods will contribute to the development and will enhance my employability. The modules include Brand Communication and Reputation Management, Business Dissertation, Intercultural Business Competencies, International Relations, Peacekeeping and Security, and Performance Achievement Planning. After progress to the Master’s capstone stage where I will need to complete a final capstone unit to choose one of the three options - Business Dissertation, Business Live Project, and Professional Practice. All capstone options will be evaluated as equivalent based on the learning outcomes. Also, the modules will develop my knowledge in understanding public relations, intercultural communication and international marketing on a professional level. After completion of my course, I want to be a Social Research Officer or Public Affairs Consultant in government organizations in my home country. Importantly, this course will provide me with a unique learning experience and I am confident that this course is the right choice for my future career path.

Following my SSC and Intermediate from Humanities group, I have completed my Bachelor of Law from Leading University, Sylhet, Bangladesh in 2016. Later on, I joined Sylhet Judge’s Court as Apprentice Lawyer to implement my career beginning in 2016. Now I am working at Law Offices of Haque Law & Associates as Junior Lawyer since January 2019. My core responsibility is to advise clients, claim liability, defending lawsuits, and obligations, and to analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents. Recently, I feel that I need to gain complete knowledge of the social communities and key concepts of international relations theory. And this programme will enable me to acquire knowledge and understanding in appropriate areas of theory and application of political ideologies in the open or silent remonstrance era. In addition, from this course, I will capable to think critically and independently in evaluating different interpretations of globalization and its impact on global trends. I am confident that my professional goal makes me a suitable candidate for the course.

From the university website, I have come to know that, this MSc course will increase my understanding especially in cultural and linguistic factors that affect international relations, as well as raise issues of ethical and political positions on questions of intervention peacekeeping. According to interest and career aspirations, this course will allow me to think critically and evaluate current research in independent research in the management of international relations. Moreover studying the course, I will understand the growth of NGOs, globalization of industry and multi-cultural communities made up of economic migrants and refugees. Most importantly, during the course I will have the opportunity to work with professionals in the field of international relations. As my previous work experience is mostly related to this course, I think this course is ideal for me to improve my independence and self-development. My learned skills and professional attain with a detailed appreciation will help me to complete my prospective study. I hope my chosen course will make it better and further open doors for my profession.

The brand of having a degree from the UK is highly respected by employers in Bangladesh as they believe that UK education builds proper professionals and there is a high expectation from applicants with such degrees. Though, the study environment in my country follows theoretical systems of education which are quite different and no soft skills gained. In recent years, all companies in Bangladesh are emphasizing hiring of Bangladeshi graduates with degrees from abroad, as they see the transferrable skills carried forward from the international education will play a key role in transforming their approach to the business and believe these graduates are capable of doing so. This has played a key part in my decision-making when choosing a study destination. Also, a recent Survey of International Graduate Outcomes 2019 by Universities UK International produce graduates shows that 82% of international graduates say that their UK degree is worth the financial investment and the same percentage say they are satisfied with their careers. 83% feel that a UK degree has helped them to get jobs that they would not get otherwise. So this is the reason to choose the UK over other education destinations. I can see myself thriving more in a world of knowledge and teaching methods I’m accustomed to.

The University of Bedfordshire is a public research university that is incredibly welcoming to international students. While researching the university website, I found that in 2014, the university achieved the fourth-largest improvement of 22 places in the REF Power Ranking in the sector with nearly half of its research considered to be internationally excellent and also come eighth in the UK in the People and Planet University Green League in 2019 and received the Eco Campus Platinum award in 2020. Most importantly, this university is known to support the students, and they have invested heavily in their facilities to shape the physical and intellectual environment of learning. With around 20,000 students from 100 countries, the university provides outstanding higher education to deliver a range of courses from foundation degrees to doctorates. Tutors are high- qualified academics and most of them have received National Teaching Fellowship Awards. Conversely, I will have the opportunity to gain real-world knowledge and transferable skills that employers look for in graduate recruits. And I think it will be a great achievement for me if I get the opportunity to study at the University of Bedfordshire.

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• Politics personal statements

Personal Statement:Politics and International Relations 1

Politics and international relations personal statement.

Through studying international relations and politics at university, I hope to be able to understand the globally interdependent world in which we live. What are the causes of the current situation in international politics? How will the picture change in decades to come? What influences the main actors to operate in the way that they do? The scope of these debates fascinates me and I anticipate studying them at a higher level.

Part of why I want to study this subject is because it encompasses several different fields. EH Carr’s ‘Twenty Years Crisis’ linked ‘The Wealth of Nations’ to the harmony of interests doctrine and I found it interesting how models of inter-state relations have evolved in reaction to new ideas and world events. I have also read Robert Kagan’s essay ‘Paradise and Power’, on American-European relations in which he invoked philosophers Hobbes and Kant in order to compare the European rule and process approach to the more unilateral and power-based American style. The way theories from these centuries-old texts could be applied to governments in this decade interested me, so I later read Rousseau’s ‘Origin of Inequality’ and Machiavelli’s ‘The Prince’. These have evoked an interest in conflicting theories on the best way for society and states to function and how theories such as liberalism and realism can be related to the way we are governed today.

I have an interest not only in government and relations between states but also in the impact of IGOs and NGOs. As part of my AS Biology coursework, I studied global polio eradication efforts. I found the instrumental role of NGOs in co-ordinating a huge reduction in the infection rate of particular interest, and followed this up by reading about the work of MSF, including the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative.

Opinions of world events and politicians in particular have permeated much of the WWI literature I have studied in AS English which shows how politics affects so many areas. I feel that the essay writing and critical thinking skills necessary in English Literature have improved my ability to construct my own arguments and assess others, skills I think will be important when reading this subject. I found AS Politics an interesting introduction to British politics and enjoyed learning about how our governing structures work. Class discussions have informed my own opinions.

I enjoy reading a wide range of news and opinion. Regularly reading The Economist introduces me to many global issues but I feel it is important to balance this with other perspectives. Recently, I have read articles in Russia in Global Affairs relating to energy, relations with the US and the 2008 war with Georgia.

In addition to sixth form, I have been employed for over a year. I have moved from working as a cashier to working on the customer services desks, dealing with challenging customers and more recently doing floor sales. Balancing 16-20 hours per week of work with study has been challenging at times but I feel that I have really matured because of the responsibility and the necessity to manage time effectively.

I look forward to the fresh challenge of undertaking a degree and feel that I will be able to flourish studying this immensely exciting and important subject in greater depth.

Universities Applied to:

All Politics and/with International Relations courses

• York - Offer - AAB
• Sheffield - Offer - AAB (Firm)
• Manchester - Rejection
• Sussex - Offer - ABB/AAC (Insurance)
• Aberystwyth - Offer - 280pts

Grades Achieved:

• Biology (A2) - B
• English Literature (A2) - A
• Politics (A2) - A
• Chemistry (AS) - C

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International Relations

Applied in: winter 2013, university offers: bath, southampton, royal holloway.

"Cooperation is the thorough conviction that nobody can get there unless everybody gets there". This Virginia Burden quote resonates in every way the essence of international relations. Cooperation is the very centre of our society and is something I thoroughly value. During my education in the French schools of Brussels and London, I had the privilege to study with dozens of fellow students of different cultures, which has allowed me to make friends from all over the world. This has made me realise that it is important to live and enjoy life together. My passion for international cooperation began with History lessons and most importantly the World Wars. Such a proof of human horror and killings between different nations, ethnicities and cultures made me think about the importance of global relations and ensuring that various cultures work together to achieve a greater good. I have the privilege of having travelled all over the globe and discovered many places. From the central European charms of Vienna to the cosmopolite life of London, the fascinating culture of China and the alien landscape of Iceland, my exposure to different cultures has been quite extensive.

Coming from Belgium, a small country torn by cultural and linguistic problems between the French speaking Walloons and the Dutch speaking Flemish, my interest for diplomacy and international relations was a logical step forward. In addition, I am fluent in French, Dutch and English, as well as having a very good working knowledge of German. My next aspiration is to learn Russian, as I find Russia a fascinating country that reflects many aspects of Mankind in its History. As seen recently in the news, it also still plays a big role in today’s world. I like to keep myself regularly informed on World news through various sources and networks such as the BBC or Russia Today to keep an impartial opinion on global stories. I also read "The Economist" every week and frequently participate in political debates on either web forums, with my friends or family. I also have a desire to work abroad. During the summer of 2013, I worked at a small French restaurant called "El Pinche Frances" in Ensenada, Mexico whilst on a visit. It was a fantastic experience in a place far from home and its comfort, with my main responsibility being to serve the customers at lunchtime.

As someone who is victim to a physical handicap to my right-hand side of the body, I have never accepted either being excluded as a result of this or benefiting from this. I try to be as fit as possible and otherwise accept life as it is. To improve my condition, I attend the physiotherapy twice a week and have had surgery to improve my hand's mobility. Overall, my condition has made me a stronger person mentally.

I am ready to work hard. The French educational system is one of the most demanding ones, with long school days going from 8:30AM until 6:30 PM throughout the entire week and a lot of evening homework. In addition we do a lot of group projects. For example in one of them we covered the IRA and its impact on Irish history. This proved to be an interesting project. It illustrated the pros and cons of working together in a group but also the importance of cooperation for modern society. I was also voted class representative during the French equivalent of year 10 and year 11. In this capacity I strived to speak up for, and, where necessary, defend my fellow students during Student Staff meetings.

For all the reasons above, I hope you see me as a very suitable candidate for the "International Relations" course.

Please note UCAS will detect any form of plagiarism. PSE and its contributors do not take any responsibility for the way in which personal statements are used.

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International Relations Personal Statement Sample

EssayEdge > Blog > International Relations Personal Statement Sample

My longtime fascination with politics and international affairs is reflected in my participation, starting in high school, in activities such as student council, school board meetings, Vietnam war protests, the McCarthy campaign, and the grape boycott. As each new cause came along, I was always ready to go to Washington or the state capital to wave a sign or chant slogans. Although I look back on these activities today with some chagrin, I realize they did help me to develop, at an early age, a sense of concern for social and political issues and a genuine desire to play a role.

As an undergraduate, I was more interested in social than academic development. During my last two years, I became involved with drugs and alcohol and devoted little time to my studies, doing only as much as was necessary to maintain a B average. After graduation my drug use became progressively worse; without the motivation or ability to look for a career job, I worked for a time in a factory and then, for three years, as a cab driver in New York City.

In 1980 I finally ”hit bottom” and became willing to accept help. I joined both Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, and for the next several years the primary business of my life was recovery. Although I had several ”slips” in the beginning, I have now enjoyed nearly seven years of complete freedom from drug and alcohol use. I mention my bout with addiction because I think it is important in answering two issues that presumably will be of concern to the admissions committee: my lackluster undergraduate record and the fact that I have waited until the age of 34 to begin preparing academically for a career in public policy. It would be an oversimplification to call addiction the cause for either of these things; rather I would say it was the most obvious manifestation of an underlying immaturity that characterized my post adolescent years. More importantly, the discipline of recovery has had a significant impact on my overall emotional growth.

During the last years of my addiction I was completely oblivious to the world around me. Until 1983 I didn’t even realize that there had been a revolution in Nicaragua or that one was going on in El Salvador. Then I rejoined the Quaker Meeting, in which I had been raised as a child, and quickly gravitated to its Peace and Social Order Committee. They were just then initiating a project to help refugees from Central America, and I joined enthusiastically in the work. I began reading about Central America and, later, teaching myself Spanish. I got to know refugees who were victims of poverty and oppression, became more grateful for my own economic and educational advantages, and developed a strong desire to give something back by working to provide opportunities to those who have not been so lucky.

In 1986 I went to Nicaragua to pick coffee for two weeks. This trip changed my whole outlook on both the United States and the underdeveloped world. The combination of living for two weeks amid poverty and engaging in long political discussions with my fellow coffee pickers, including several well-educated professionals who held views significantly to the left of mine, profoundly shook my world view. I came back humbled, aware of how little I knew about the world and eager to learn more. I began raiding the public library for everything I could find on the Third World and started subscribing to a wide variety of periodicals, from scholarly journals such as Foreign Affairs and Asian Survey to obscure newsletters such as Through Our Eyes (published by U.S. citizens living in Nicaragua).

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Over the intervening two years, my interest has gradually focused on economics. I have come to realize that economic development (including equitable distribution of wealth) is the key to peace and social justice, both at home and in the Third World. I didn’t study economics in college and have found it difficult to understand the economic issues that are at the heart of many policy decisions. At the same time, though, I am fascinated by the subject. Given my belief that basic economic needs are among the most fundamental of human rights, how can society best go about providing for them? Although I call myself an idealist, I’m convinced that true idealism must be pragmatic. I am not impressed, for example, by simplistic formulations that require people to be better than they are. As a Quaker I believe that the means are inseparable from the end; as an American I believe that democracy and freedom of expression are essential elements of a just society, though I’m not wedded to the idea that our version of democracy is the only legitimate one.

Although I have carved out a comfortable niche in my present job, with a responsible position and a good salary, I have become increasingly dissatisfied with the prospect of a career in business applications programming. More and more of my time and energy is now being absorbed by community activities. After getting my master’s in public administration, I would like to work in the area of economic development in the Third World, particularly Latin America. The setting might be a private (possibly church-based) development agency, the UN, the OAS, one of the multilateral development banks, or a government agency. What I need from graduate school is the academic foundation for such a career. What I offer in return is a perspective that comes from significant involvement in policy issues at the grass roots level, where they originate and ultimately must be resolved.

Discussing international relations experience in a personal statement is an excellent approach to crafting a winning paper. However, this experience should be valuable and beneficial to your self-development. We know it can be hard to reflect it all in writing, so hiring a personal statement editor on EssayEdge can help you.

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Politics: less can be more

Demonstrating your understanding of and interest in studying politics is a key way of impressing tutors:

‘The most persuasive statements are those that are clearly written and which get straight to the point. Less is often more. I simply want it made clear to me that an applicant is academically interested in studying the subject at university, that they’ve done their homework, and have a sense of what the academic study of politics is actually about… that it’s not just current affairs.

The University of Bristol helpfully outlines what tutors are looking for in politics applicants on its website – you need to show evidence of:

• your engagement with the subject beyond the A level (or equivalent) syllabus
• what it is that specifically and explicitly enthuses you about the debates you engage with, the books you read, and the ideas you discuss

They would also be very interested in your reflections on any relevant volunteering or campaigning you might have done, but it’s you as an individual and your intellectual engagement with ideas that they most want to get a feel for. There's no model answer – it just needs to be unique to you. Or one other way you might stand out, in Dr Allen's view, is by speaking to an admissions tutor at an open day and following it up with an email exchange.

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International relations and politics personal statement example 1.

Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the constantly changing world that we live in, wanting to understand and explore the causes and effects of current and future human interactions. During my teenage years I started listening to the BBC World Service and reading internationally recognized journals and magazines.

I have become convinced that a third level education relevant to world affairs would help me gain knowledge that would allow me to pursue a wide range of possibilities. My current career ambition is to find a suitable role within an international organisation, such as the UN, ideally with specific focus on assisting people who have been displaced due to civil unrest, war, famine or other natural disaster.

I was born in Australia to a family of political refugees who had escaped communist Czechoslovakia. After my country’s Velvet Revolution, my family returned to Prague, the capital of a then newly formed democracy. This radical change helped to widen my perspective and see the world from a different point of view. Today I am a bi-national avid traveler, having visited more than 40 countries. I have attended six exchange programmes with partner schools: one in Sweden, one in Germany and four in France.

I have also been on two volunteer programmes with Earthwatch, firstly being in Spain, where we helped gather information to design marine protected areas and then in Tanzania, helping to determine the impact of forest fragmentation through monitoring rainforest bird populations.

The Tanzanian expedition in particular was an eye opener, not only because of the local cultural differences and the poverty, but also because of the amount of teamwork and hardship we had to face living in a remote area like the Usambara Mountains. The experience also made me aware of how foreign countries and NGOs are helping to alleviate the poverty in Tanzania.

At school, my position as the only girl in my class has ensured that I have maintained a somewhat independent approach to my studies. I have chosen a broad range of subjects for my Final Exams, not only because I like challenges, but also because I believe I will obtain a lot of all-around knowledge and skills from them: Mathematics and Physics have helped me understand the physical and abstract world around me, while Czech and English have shown the beauty of literature, which has become a great passion for me, Herman Hesse being my favourite author. I currently represent my school in the Prague Model of the United Nations, where I am I delegate for Germany in the Third Committee.

Aside from academia, I have a passion for a number of hobbies. Ever since I first visited Egypt, as a 12 years old, I have enjoyed egyptology, with all the facts and mysteries surrounding it. I enjoy the arts in many aspects opera has a special place for me, as my mother was, in her youth one of Czechoslovakia’s most promising opera singers. I also enjoy Photography, particularly black and white. I held a small exhibition of my work in Prague last year. As a child I enjoyed ballet, and even competed in local events.

Now, sports have become more important to me: while being in the Czech Quiksilver Snowboarding team, I have achieved commendable results in freestyling contests on a national level. I am looking forward to improve my technique and hope to participate in international competitions.

Every summer I spend at least one month in France perfecting my French. Apart from speaking fluent French, English, Czech and Slovak, I have been studying German at school and have also been trying to self-study Hebrew. I am a active member of Mensa, Net-Aid.org, Greenpeace and the Czech–Japanese association.

I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that studying in the UK will present. I value very greatly the chance to be a part of such a reknowned institution as your college is, and I believe that in some small way I may add to its whole, through my personality, work effort and experiences to date.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by Rikku.

Rikku's university choices King's College London School of Oriental and African Studies School of Oriental and African Studies School of Oriental and African Studies London School of Economics

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

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Thu, 18/11/2004 - 00:00

Seriously!! I know you are meant to big yourself up but come on surely this persons lying - what about personal statements for us normal people!!

Sounds good

Sun, 18/12/2005 - 00:00

I definately think this person wasn't lying. My personal statement will probably look a lot like this one. It is possible! I like the simple structure, it makes it easy to follow. Just a little too much focus on activities instead of what really defines you.

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Tue, 10/01/2006 - 00:00

She managed to do 6 exchange schemes?

Fri, 31/03/2006 - 00:00

Excellent!!! she’s proablly telling the truth but the admissions tutors reading it will prbally say “cobblers” NEXT!! ..

I can't believe she got

Mon, 11/09/2006 - 00:00

I can't believe she got rejected by LSE! The PS obviously prove that she is a very interesting & committed student.

Impressive indeed...

Tue, 12/09/2006 - 00:00

Impressive indeed... My main criticism would be of the last sentence; "such a reknowned institution as your college is" sounds insincere and sycophantic.

Omg! This is exactly like my

Tue, 10/10/2006 - 15:36

Omg! This is exactly like my personal statement i am currently writing atm. I am really interested in Third World Politics and have talked about how my visit to Tanzania last year has fully inspired me to study the subject.lol!

this personal statement is

Sun, 05/11/2006 - 18:46

this personal statement is really good - however, i think it probably exhibits how much money the student has more than anything - i think very few people have visited 40 countries or gone on 6 exchange programmes!

Something missing

Sat, 11/11/2006 - 16:58

While I think your statement is impressive in fact very impressive, I feel you lack a humility. I know that personal statements are about "bigging yourself up" but I think you need to acknowledge the fact that money and opporuntunities have come easily to you. Maybe use the word opporuntity or say that you were lucky or honoured to be picked for thses exchanges- i think its important that an addmissions tutor likes you i dont mean as a person per se but sees in you a willingness to learn not that jsut sees the univiesty as a step to your career in the UN

May I ask for which courses

Sat, 12/05/2007 - 14:16

May I ask for which courses you applied at SOAS? Thank you.

Very very impressive. 6

Mon, 09/07/2007 - 22:16

Very very impressive. 6 exchange schemes is incredible

Wed, 08/08/2007 - 03:10

I just finished my personal statement........and now i'm throwing it in the trash. Thanx.

I think this girl does not

Fri, 21/09/2007 - 17:26

I think this girl does not understand that lying will not help her to get a place... or maybe I am just jealous!

I would reccomend every one to apply somewhere in Wales, so I can increase my chances!

well she's in....

Mon, 22/10/2007 - 08:35

there is not enough time in

Thu, 25/10/2007 - 21:55

there is not enough time in the day for half of these things to go on. when does she chill out?

That's impressive but she

Mon, 19/11/2007 - 04:21

That's impressive but she really places too much emphasis on what she has done and where she has been, rather than what she will do or what she really finds interesting-there is little insight and although she is clearly incredibly committed and courageous I don't think that somebody should necessarily be given extra credit just because theyve been to 40 countries and listen to opera-she needed to relate these more closely to her interests in politics and international relations with a bit more insght, otherwise she just seems really rich, and priveliged-i know I haven't had access to the things that she has, so why should i be punished for it? Similarly, why should she be rewarded? They say a lot for her charachter, but academically a little more insight and focus would have really rounded off the statement.

this is an excellent

Tue, 01/07/2008 - 20:15

this is an excellent statement, well structured......... what do i do now

it is interesting that the

Sun, 20/07/2008 - 07:43

it is interesting that the writer comes from a former communism nation and escapes with her family because of the non-freedom.however,can this special experience serve as proof that the writer should be accepted?

kul! .......but

Thu, 21/08/2008 - 22:17

i think its kul but sure we need something real

Another Flavour

Sun, 21/09/2008 - 16:59

this simply goes to show that real life experience, whether got through hard work or the luck of your birth really goes towards what makes an impressive personal statement. i don't doubt for a second all of the claims Rikku, the japanese-czech, refugee, citizen of the modern world makes. she's had more opportunities to indulge her love of the international than anyone i know or have heard of. yet i think equality of opportunities, when it comes down to it, are irrelevant. of two candidates, she is the one with the proven, concrete international credentials and interest. to an admissions tutor this is immediately interesting. in a department that depends on diversity to remain in touch with international affairs, she will add another flavour to the students around her as well as the academics teaching her. her life seems to qualify her for the degree in international relations course; doubtless her grades simply confirm her suitability, rather than create the basis for it.

I'm applying to the same and

Sun, 16/11/2008 - 18:28

I'm applying to the same and very similar courses e.g. Politics and Arabic at SOAS.

What grades did you get?

is there any1 out there with

Sat, 06/12/2008 - 16:41

is there any1 out there with a normal statment?????????

International relations in King's College London?

Mon, 12/01/2009 - 12:23

Hi, I think this is a terrific personal statement but I was just wondering... It says on the side bar that you were offered a place in King's College London, do they even offer a course study for International Relations? I also want to take int. relations, but I didn't find any courses indicating the King's have any int. relations course...

IR? not happening

Sat, 26/09/2009 - 22:06

I feel about this big >>*squishes fingers*

Sun, 27/09/2009 - 00:00

OK, seriously.. this was like... wow! if it is all true (which I believe it is) you are my role-model. The bad thing is that a lot of things you have done I have done too (exchange, volunteering). I am also multilingual and even have connections to Czech Rep. I would definitely cut out that bit about your mother. It is irrelevant cos it is not about you. You probably wanted to suggest that you must be a terribly good singer. And my explanation why you was not offered a place on LSE? They are looking for passion rather than knowledge. They want to teach you, not to listen to your experience. They might have thought that you are kind of over-educated in the area. Well, I would not offer you a place bcs I would probably think that you have done more than our future students will manage to do during their 3 year degree. What I mean is that you do not a degree - you probably already know enough.

Thu, 01/10/2009 - 22:34

Yeas lots of good stuff but theirs very little about the course itself thats what will lead people to think its all made up!

this is a very interesting

Fri, 09/10/2009 - 07:18

this is a very interesting read if its true!

ok, how can anybody have that

Sun, 11/10/2009 - 16:12

ok, how can anybody have that amount of applicable qualities? and achievements? and language? how are normal, underachieving people meant to be inspired by that?

Fri, 23/07/2010 - 17:59

i never read a such a personal statement like this,well done rukki

I really enjoy reading your

Sat, 04/12/2010 - 15:08

I really enjoy reading your motivation and background in international relations.Tunde Fajimbola,Nigeria.

When looking at your offers

Wed, 20/07/2011 - 10:00

When looking at your offers it would be usefel to know what grades you got as well

Thu, 13/10/2011 - 15:06

YOU ARE A LIAR

Amazing achievements! If only

Tue, 01/11/2011 - 22:10

Amazing achievements! If only all of us were wealthy enough to afford 'french-perfecting' jaunts to Europe every summer. What a load of pretentious drivel! Less about you and your cash, more about the course, and maybe LSE would have considered you.

Tue, 30/07/2013 - 14:20

It may be a good statement to please the university, However this is something that can also reduce the chances for other people to be given a place. as not everyone can apply to a UNIVERSITY In first place with this good writing if no one wrote for you. Think about leaving College to Uni

Sun, 15/09/2013 - 13:29

She did four exchanges in France without apparently taking French at her Final Exams ? Weird.

very bad. how can a student

Fri, 20/09/2013 - 20:18

very bad. how can a student like this get a chance in kings!!!!

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