personal statement for human geography

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• Geography Personal Statement Examples

Use these Geography personal statement examples as an inspiration to write your own for the UCAS application . Below you can find real 4 personal statements for the geography course.

My deep belief in the significance of geography in today’s world drives my desire to pursue a degree in the field. Many global issues, including population growth, sustainability, environmental degradation, resource depletion, and natural disasters can be understood through a geographical lens. Furthermore, many natural disasters occur as a result of disregarding the advice of geographers, for example, constructing homes on floodplains, altering water courses, or building nuclear power plants in earthquake-prone areas. The importance of geographical knowledge and understanding for our future well-being cannot be overstated, and the subject appeals to me both for its intrinsic interest and its relevance to our daily lives.

My specific interests include geographical economics, globalisation, and the impact of technology on shrinking the world and creating multicultural societies. Additionally, geographical knowledge allows us to recognise the disparities in the human world, which may become more pronounced as resources become scarcer. With the planet being a finite resource and technology not able to solve all our problems, it is crucial for us to consider the sustainability of western consumption and the effects of climate change, as well as the aftermath of natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. However, there is no subject more exhilarating than the dynamism of the Earth.

Academically, I am strong and have held various positions of responsibility at school. As a high achiever in the Geography Department, I led a field trip for younger pupils last year.  I have coached the year 8 hockey competition at my school and served as captain of the hockey team.  I had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of construction during my work experience at a company in London. I conducted building surveys, visited job sites, and learned about the company’s computer system, giving me a glimpse of what it’s like to work in the industry. Additionally, I attended meetings with professionals and visited other companies, further expanding my understanding of the field. Prior to this, I had a placement at a retail store where I worked in a team and received customer service training. These experiences provided me with valuable insights into the job market and taught me the skills necessary to be employable. The transferable nature of many of the skills involved in geography is what drew me to the field, as it opens doors to various possible careers.

In my free time, I am an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular interest in football and hockey, and I am always committed to staying physically fit. Fishing is another hobby that I enjoy as a means of relaxation. I also love to travel and experience different cultures, having had the opportunity to visit Japan on a school trip and various parts of America, including school skiing trips. I am a beginner piano player and I am currently in grade 2. Additionally, I always strive to stay current in my field of study by following the latest developments and trends.

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• UCAS Personal Statement: A Writing Guide And Tips For Success
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• How to Write a Personal Statement That Stands Out
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• Personal Statement Examples

Personal Statement Example for Geography

I have always been fascinated by the subject of Geography and it has been the school subject that has inspired me the most and in which I have achieved the highest grades. The subject holds great intellectual interest for me, but it also seems to be of great importance and relevance in today’s world. Sustainability is an issue that I believe is of the utmost importance and I would like to pursue a degree course that will deepen my understanding of current problems and potentially enable me to contribute to their solutions. I am interested in all aspects of Geography and am considering a career as a teacher of the subject after completing my degree. I believe that geographical and environmental knowledge is essential for any 21st-century individual, as our survival depends on it. I hope to use my training to guide others towards a responsible attitude towards the world we inhabit.

I am aware of the ways in which the environment is changing and the significance of natural disasters, as well as the human implications of poverty and the gap between MDCs and LDCs. I hope that a degree course would delve into the questions of sustainable development, environmental protection, the geopolitics of water usage, carbon management, the development of alternative fuels, recycling, climate change, and the relationship between trade, business and sustainability. The subject also delves into the field of ethics and politics. I also hope to explore how ecosystems function and how technology can be used for conservation rather than being viewed as an enemy. All of these issues are of great importance to me and have inspired me to apply for a degree in Geography.

I am passionate about geography and have had the privilege to travel extensively in Europe and America, which has given me a glimpse of the world’s geographical diversity and how it affects human habitation. I have participated in conferences on tectonic plates and urban geography, as well as in many Geography professional events at the Royal Geographical Society in London. Through my work experience, I have come to believe that teaching is a career path that I would enjoy. I have held leadership roles in my school, which have helped me develop both academically and personally. I am determined, and dedicated, and have a strong academic record. As the first in my family to consider a university course, I am hardworking, organised, and socially responsible.

In 2008, I had the opportunity to go on a trip to Iceland where I saw firsthand the effects of pollution on glaciers, and was able to visit many sites that were fascinating to a true geographer. It was an extraordinary experience to visit a terrain that was so different from what I was used to. I have also been fortunate to follow geographical topics whenever I can. I read newspaper articles on all geographical subjects eagerly, and I attended a conference on the workings of tectonic plates, and another on “Understanding Cities.”

My working experience has led me to believe that I would enjoy a teaching career. I worked briefly at a primary school in Wandsworth, carrying out a number of supervisory tasks such as guiding and organizing children’s play and work, taking part in sports day and helping with school assemblies. The job calls for patience, good time management, and the confidence to make decisions. At my own school, I hold a number of positions of responsibility, all of which have helped me to mature both as a student and as a human being. I enjoy reading and I am a runner and have raised money for charity in several races.

Human Geography Personal Statement Example

Choosing to pursue a degree in Geography was an easy decision for me, as it combines my interests in current affairs and the social sciences. I am captivated by the dynamic and ever-changing nature of geography and its ability to bring together social, environmental, and economic disciplines. My particular interest lies in social and political geographies, but I understand the importance of understanding both physical and human worlds in order to fully grasp the subject.

I have always enjoyed engaging in debates, and my involvement in debating societies since high school has helped me develop an understanding of different perspectives. One notable experience was creating a video with my peers in support of nuclear power as a sustainable energy source in relation to climate change. The video was entered into a national competition and I was fortunate enough to attend the Nuclear New Build 2016 conference in London, where my group was awarded the third prize. This experience gave me valuable insight into the cutting-edge research being done in the field of nuclear power and its importance in gaining energy security in the UK.

Fieldwork is another aspect of geography that I find particularly intriguing. I have conducted studies on the River Chew, specifically looking at how it changes downstream and the human influences on its pH levels. My study revealed that more agricultural and industrial areas resulted in a more acidic river, reinforcing my hypothesis. Additionally, my studies in economics, specifically poverty, human development, and globalization, have sparked my interest in social issues.

I have also had the opportunity to learn about other cultures through various experiences. In 2013, I spent a week on an exchange in Germany, where I worked in a local primary school, which helped me become more independent, observant, and responsible. I am also planning to trek around Greece and Albania to achieve my Explorer Belt, a prestigious award in scouting which requires careful planning, teamwork, and perseverance.

I am actively involved in the scouting movement and have taken on various leadership roles. I am a fully qualified Young scout and have gained my first Chief Scouts Award. Through this, I have participated in many activities such as classes in Astronomy, international trips, and planning and completing a two-day expedition. I strongly believe that these experiences and responsibilities have shaped me as a person and have given me the leadership qualities and determination to achieve my goals in my chosen field of study.

Personal Statement for Geography Course

Geography is a subject that has always deeply interested me, as it relates to almost everything in everyday life. Growing up in Southampton, close to the coast, I have had many opportunities to study and explore landmarks such as Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Old Harry Rocks. I have also been on field trips to Studland, and South Wales to study various geographical concepts such as succession in a psammosere, urban land uses, rivers, soils, deindustrialization, and urban land uses.

I have been passionate about music since a young age and have been playing the drums for over eight years. In 2001, I achieved a grade 8 standard and grade 5 music theory. In 1998, I joined the Youth Wind Orchestra (DYWO) and had the opportunity to play in the millennium concert at the Royal Albert Hall in 2000. Through DYWO, I have met many other young musicians and teachers from all over Southampton and have learned new percussion instruments such as timpani, vibraphone, and congas. I am also involved in various bands and ensembles in my school and have played at parties and functions with my own rock band.

I went on a two-week work experience with “The Band of the Royal Corps of Signals” in Blandford, where I played the percussion and had the opportunity to participate in Prince Philip’s 70th birthday celebrations at Cardiff castle. Although I have chosen not to pursue music as a career, I have gained valuable experiences and financial gain through playing in shows and teaching regularly.

I have also worked in a small village shop for a year and in the cafeteria at Monkey World, a local zoo for primates. During the summer, I was also chosen to supervise a newly built play area at Monkey World, which was a challenging but rewarding experience.

I have had the opportunity to travel to various countries such as Spain, Argentina, Poland, and Italy on family holidays. During my gap year, I plan to work to save up for more travel experiences prior to starting university.

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Geographical

Official magazine of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

Applications: How to write a brilliant personal statement

We asked those in the know what makes a geography personal statement stand out when applying for a geography undergraduate degree

As you’ll probably already know, all university applicants are allowed a maximum of five choices (either at different universities, or different courses at the same university). While many universities offer geography degrees they will all have slightly different specialisms and different field trip opportunities, so do plenty of research and attend open days (whether in person or virtually). 

Common advice is to apply for two or three courses that normally offer the sorts of grades you realistically expect to get, and two or three others which offer lower grades than you hope to get. Ultimately you will only be able to hold two offers; these tend to be the university you most want to go to, and one other safety-net offer for lower grades in case things go less well in examinations. 

Take care to put together a strong personal statement as this could be used to distinguish between two candidates with similar predicated grades. One of the best things you can do in your application is to include evidence that you have read around your subject ­– many applicants will look no further than the A-level syllabus. But most importantly of all, make it personal and make it clear why  you  want to study geography. Oh, and proof read! Take a look at what some of the people who really matter have to say on the subject…

‘The test of a really good personal statement is always this – by the end of reading it does it answer this question: “Why do you want to spend three years of your life studying Geography?” Explain your passion and love for the subject and do that as much as possible with references to your experiences and your life.’

Professor Ian Candy – Professor in Geography at Royal Holloway University of London

 ‘The key to a great personal statement is that first word: personal. Your statement should be an authentic reflection of you, your personal interest in geography and why you want to pursue the study of geography for three years at University. I know that sounds really obvious, right? But statements have a habit of being drafted and redrafted, edited by well-meaning teachers and careers advisors, then drafted again, and what pops out the other end can sometimes be more of a generic statement than a personal one. So, keep it personal, keep it authentic and let your own voice ring through.’

Dr Alasdair Pinkerton – Professor in Geography at Royal Holloway University of London

 ‘In personal statements, we want to see your enthusiasm and passion for Geography. You should include evidence that demonstrates this, which could take many different forms. For example, you could write about places that you have visited, topics that excite you, your engagement with your local community, experiences when working or volunteering, books that you have read, or anything else that draws on your personal experience.’

Dr Rebecca Hodge – Director of Undergraduate Admissions at  Durham University

‘I look at the personal statements. Not so much the content (“everybody” wants to save the planet/whale/whatever), but if the statement is poorly written with typos and grammatical issues that tends to ring alarm bells for future work and assessments (unless the candidate has a declared disability which could affect their writing of course).’ 

Dr Peter Burt – Programme Lead for Geography at Greenwich University

‘I’m not involved in admissions at Oxford (I don’t interview students or do any of the selection), but I have been at other universities. On advice. I would just say it is very hard to prepare for an interview. Ask people to give you a practice interview (a teacher for instance) and always have a questions ready to ask if they say “have you got any questions for us” – don’t just reply “no”.

Personal statement – try to make parts of it more personal so that it is different. Say something about yourself that is unique to you, even if it is a bit quirky. Anything that makes you stand out as a little different might well help.’

Professor Danny Dorling – Halford Mackinder Professor of Geography at the University of Oxford

Plus, we caught up with  Mark Whitehead, a professor in the Department of Geography and Earth Sciences at  Aberystwyth University. Mark talks about why you should consider studying Geography and how to write the best personal statement

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• Human Geography Personal Statement

Human Geography Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

As someone who holds dual nationality, I am both English and French; the experience of different cultures and environment fascinates me. Growing up I split my time between England and France which helped to inspire my love of travel and exploring new places.

From an early age I have been a regular reader of National Geographic magazine and also enjoy the National Geographic television channel. I particularly enjoy documenting my travels using photography, something that was reflected in A Level choices. Alongside Photography I also chose to take Geography, Travel and Tourism, and Maths.

This combination of subjects allowed me to gain further knowledge in subjects that interest me, as well as helping me to develop my analytical and critical thinking skills. I was very interested in how events, such as the El Nino phenomenon, can have worldwide effects and how the world has reacted to it.

Another aspect of studying Geography that enjoyed at A Level was carrying out field work. It was a trip to the Lake District confirmed my passion and inspired me to choose to study Human Geography at degree level.

Outside of my education I am a keen traveller and try to travel both to Europe and the wider world at least twice every year. I hope that I have more opportunities to travel both throughout my time at university and after graduation.

I have also volunteered for a variety of organisations, both in the UK and abroad. My favourite volunteering experience was teaching English to  primary school aged children during a trip to Peru.

Studying a Human Geography degree will allow me to further develop my skills, especially the skills required to carry out fieldwork. I feel that my love of travel and my understanding of various cultures has given me a strong foundation that will enable me to achieve my best during my degree.

I hope that after graduation I can gain an entry level role in the travel and tourism industry. I am also considering the possibility of gaining further qualifications by enrolling on a postgraduate course.

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How to write a personal statement for geography

Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the subject – and make sure you apply for the right course

"Geography is a living, breathing subject, constantly adapting itself to change. It is dynamic and relevant, a great adventure with a purpose," wrote Michael Palin.

From global warming, to the impact of economic change on communities, geography can be a fascinating subject to study. But first, would-be geographers have to impress admissions tutors in an application.

In a personal statement for geography, tutors look for enthusiasm for the subject, experience and things that demonstrate you are a well-rounded person. There are some important things to include, and some equally important things to avoid.

What to include

Interests: Explain why you are interested in studying the course. "We want to know why on earth you want to do geography," says Peter Mackie, professor of human geography at Cardiff University.

"We're happy for students to express a specialist interest at this stage. You could say 'I'm interested in the Arab spring movement', or 'I'm interested in sustainability and climate change'. A better student can draw on interests outside of the classroom."

Experience: Next, admissions tutors want to hear about your experience. "You've told us about your interest, now we want you to prove it," says Mackie. "Show us the evidence."

"It could be a field trip, a holiday, or something you've seen in the local paper. If you've arranged geography seminars in school, or volunteered with Oxfam, let us know."

Personal qualities: Some tutors are particularly keen to see that you have compassion and empathy. "Students must show empathy with different people, places and environments," says Phil Barker, from Lancaster University's environment centre. "Things like volunteering can be good to talk about."

Other interests: In addition to your course-related experience, admissions tutors want to hear about your other interests. "We want people to be well rounded because all of our graduates go on to do diverse things," says Lucie Bilsbrough, admissions officer at the University of Leeds.

"So if you do ballet or you work at Mcdonalds, let us know. Because that can show that you're good at time management and that you have a life outside of geography."

Personality: It's also good to have an idea of what you want to gain from the course. "Say what you want to do once you leave university, even if you don't know in any detail," says Bilsbrough. "Because it looks good if you have an idea."

This can help to show tutors your personality. "I always advise applicants to try and find their own voice," says Bilsbrough. "Because you see a lot of applications that are very generic."

Communication: Basic grammar and spelling are expected. "The ability to communicate, both written and verbally, is important," says Mackie. "So students could talk about debating societies or a presentation they've given. You have to show you're willing to read and to work hard."

What to avoid doing

Lack of research: What should you avoid in a personal statement? First of all, make sure you apply for the right course. "We sometimes get people who have clearly applied for the wrong thing," says Barker.

"There are students who apply saying 'I'm really interested in a career in geo-physics'. And they've applied for a geography degree. Sometimes things with superficially similar names confuse people, so it's very important to do your research."

Forcing things together: Don't try and connect unrelated experiences to geography. "Some students try to tie unrelated experiences, such as working in Topshop or football coaching, to geography in very strange, weird and wonderful ways," says Mackie.

Lack of depth: It's best not to simply describe what you've done, but to evaluate and explain things. "People tend to be quite descriptive," says Barker. "You should try to be more evaluative to get depth into the statement."

Complicated: Don't try and tackle too many complicated ideas in not enough detail. "Sometimes we get people who try and write a lot about academic literature," says Barker. "But it's hard to do that well with a short amount of words, so it might not be right for the personal statement."

Too brief: But at the same time, make sure you use the space you've got. "Some applicants keep it very short," says Bilsbrough. "That makes you think, do you really want to do this and are you really committed?"

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Geography Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Geographers
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

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Are you looking for a way to stand out from the crowd when applying for a geography course? Writing a personal statement is a great way to make your application stand out from the rest. Here, we provide some examples of personal statements for geography courses, as well as an overview of what you can expect from a geography course.

Geography is an interesting and relevant choice for students because it is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field of study. Geography is the study of the physical and human features of the Earth’s surface, and it encompasses a wide range of topics such as climate, landforms, population, resources, and economic activities. Geography is an important field of study for understanding the complex relationships between people, places, and the environment.

It is also a great way to gain an understanding of global issues, such as climate change, poverty, and migration. By studying geography, students can gain a better understanding of the world around them, as well as the skills necessary to make informed decisions about their own lives and the lives of others.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in geography can open up a wide range of career opportunities. Geographers can work in a variety of industries, including government, education, environmental consulting, urban planning, and the private sector.

In the government sector, geographers may work as policy analysts, cartographers, or research scientists. They may also work in urban planning, helping to develop plans for the growth and development of cities and towns.

In the education sector, geographers may work as teachers, lecturers, or research assistants. They may also work with educational organizations to develop curriculum and programs related to geography.

In the environmental consulting sector, geographers may work as environmental consultants, helping to assess the impact of development projects on the environment. They may also work as researchers, helping to identify and analyze environmental issues.

In the private sector, geographers may work as consultants, helping to identify and analyze geographic data for businesses. They may also work as analysts, helping to develop marketing strategies based on geographic data.

Finally, geographers may also work in a variety of other industries, such as tourism, transportation, and agriculture. They may also work in the media, helping to produce maps and other visualizations for television and film.

UK Admission Requirements

The UK Admission Requirements for a Geography course vary depending on the university. Generally, applicants must have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C, including Maths and English, and at least two A-Levels in relevant subjects such as Geography, Mathematics, and Science. Some universities may also require applicants to have achieved a specific grade in their A-Levels.

In comparison to other courses, the entry criteria for a Geography course is relatively high. This is because the course is highly analytical and requires a good understanding of Maths and Science. Additionally, having a good knowledge of the subject is essential for success.

UK Earnings Potential For Geographers

The average earnings for someone with a degree in geography will vary depending on the job they pursue and the country in which they work. According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics, the median salary for geographers in the UK in 2019 was £32,000. This is slightly higher than the median salary for all occupations in the UK, which was £30,378 in 2019.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for geographers is expected to increase in the coming years due to the increasing importance of geographic information in a range of industries. The UK’s National Careers Service estimates that the number of jobs in the field of geography will grow by 8% between 2018 and 2028. This growth is expected to be driven by the need for geographers to provide data and analysis for a range of industries, such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to geography include:

• Environmental Science: This course focuses on the study of the environment and how it is affected by human activities. It covers topics such as climate change, pollution, and conservation. The key difference between this course and geography is that environmental science focuses more on the scientific aspects of the environment, while geography focuses more on the physical and cultural aspects.
• Geology: This course focuses on the study of the Earth’s rocks and minerals, as well as the processes that shape them. It covers topics such as plate tectonics, volcanism, and sedimentation. The key difference between this course and geography is that geology focuses more on the physical aspects of the Earth, while geography focuses more on the human aspects.
• Urban Studies: This course focuses on the study of cities and their development. It covers topics such as urban planning, transportation, and housing. The key difference between this course and geography is that urban studies focuses more on the social and economic aspects of cities, while geography focuses more on the physical and cultural aspects.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a university course in geography will depend on the specific university and course chosen. Generally, courses will cover topics such as physical geography, human geography, environmental geography, and GIS (Geographic Information Systems).

Physical geography topics may include geomorphology, climatology, biogeography, hydrology, and oceanography. Human geography topics may include economic geography, urban geography, political geography, cultural geography, and population geography. Environmental geography topics may include conservation, land use, and sustainability.

In addition to lectures, seminars, and tutorials, many university geography courses will also involve hands-on experience and practical work. This may include field trips, laboratory work, and data collection. Students may also be required to undertake individual or group research projects, which may involve data analysis, report writing, and presentations.

Alumni Network

One notable alumnus from the geography course is Professor Tim O’Riordan, who is a professor emeritus at the University of East Anglia. Professor O’Riordan is a leading figure in the field of environmental science and sustainability, and has written numerous books and articles on the subject. He is currently a visiting professor at the University of Cambridge, and is a member of the UK’s Climate Change Committee. He is also a trustee of the Natural Environment Research Council.

Alumni events and networking opportunities for geography course alumni are offered through the university’s Alumni Network. These include virtual events, such as webinars and online seminars, as well as in-person events, such as alumni reunions and networking receptions.

Alumni are also invited to join the university’s LinkedIn group, which provides a platform for alumni to connect with each other and stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments in the field.

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Successful Personal Statement For Geography At Oxford

Last Updated: 7th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Geography applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Geography Course at Oxford provides a holistic view of the workings of physical and human environments, the ways in which humans are transforming the world and the implications for human societies.

Read on to see how this candidate managed to navigate the many disciplines and topics of Geography. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement:

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Geography comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

Geography Personal Statement

Geography is outward-looking, dynamic and topical. It allows me to gain insight into daily news stories on immigration and Middle Eastern conflicts for example, by highlighting their complexity and the challenge to find and evaluate solutions to these problems for the future. The diversity and vital relevance of Geography makes it an immensely valuable subject to study in-depth and I would relish the opportunity to pursue further study in the field.

The area that is of particular interest to me is development geography and specifically global aid. I was introduced to the use of aid in closing the wealth divide in my A2 case studies, where bottom-up aid on a local scale was consistently depicted as a sustainable solution. I was forced to question these views, however, after reading ‘Dead Aid’ by Dambisa Moyo. Her critical comments on charity-based aid particularly caught my attention as they offered a stark contrast in perspective on my case studies. I found it interesting that the factors which contributed to the success of many of the case studies, including small-scale, intermediate technology and low cost solutions were the very aspects of aid that Moyo calls ‘band-aid’ solutions implying unsustainability. The book also touched on the controversial issue of whether aid remains a successful or even acceptable solution when the $50 billion of aid given to Africa annually is arguably not producing significant economic development or improvement. To investigate this further I read ‘The End Of Poverty’ by Jeffrey Sachs which explained how well managed aid can indeed offer an answer to closing the wealth divide. This led to my research into the Millenium Villages of Ghana. Here aid, coupled with local leadership, appears to have delivered a long-term solution to serious economic and social problems. This divergence in opinion over a controversial issue has excited me about exploring these issues in more detail.

To investigate these issues further, I have been prompted to take a gap year to experience the workings of an international NGO. I will be joining the work of education promoting ‘Empower A Child’ in Uganda for 3 months. I hope to gain a rewarding insight into the practical relevance of Geography in the field of non-profit aid and specifically to test Sach’s belief that investment into education is a viable solution to ending poverty.

My other subjects complement my understanding of economic, physical and scientific elements of development and Geography in general. Reading ‘Driven to Extinction’ by Richard Pearson highlighted how Biology and Geography are inextricably linked in our study of the physical world, particularly with regards to the role regulatory systems have in levels of biodiversity. Chemistry and Physics have been relevant in equipping me with the skills to devise data collection programmes and to analyse the results; skills which were necessary to my fieldwork visit to Dartmoor. 

My academic background is complemented by my extra-curricular activities. I was the Organ Scholar and Choir Prefect at my school. My responsibilities included conducting and directing the Chapel Choir on a weekly basis. I was also a fully committed and dedicated member of other choirs and ensembles.  I relished the challenge of arranging and conducting in the House Singing competition which required me to inspire and motivate team work within the house. I have gained 3 Grade 8’s in Organ, Piano and Flute and am currently working towards my Piano Diploma. I was involved in leading the school’s Christian Union through which I have catalysed fundraising for organisations such as Mary’s Meals. In my gap year I am working as Organist and Choir director at St Luke’s Church Grayshott before going to Uganda. These activities demonstrate leadership skills, commitment and an enthusiastic approach to challenges, all of which will equip me well for the study of Geography at university.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This is a very good personal statement and is well-written. The student is clearly interested in many aspects of geography, which is very important as geography is a multi-disciplinary subject. The student describes several areas of geography which capture their interest, demonstrating their interest and commitment to the reader. The student justifies their decision to take a gap year well, and the relevance their activities will have to the subject of geography and their interests in global aid.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

The student misspells the word ‘millennium’ in the second paragraph. The second paragraph is also very long. It is hard for the reader to stay focused when reading through long paragraphs, and it would have been better if the student had separated the second paragraph into two. The final paragraph is also very long, and it is not clear where the conclusion begins. As a result, the end of the statement does not deliver the impact which the student has intended to produce. If the student separates the sentence ‘These activities demonstrate leadership skills, commitment and an enthusiastic approach to challenges, all of which will equip me well for the study of Geography at university’ into a new final paragraph, this would have made the final statement much more effective.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is a very good statement. The student has a wealth of experiences and clearly highly motivated to study geography. Some paragraphs are very long, and this reduces the impact that the statement has on the reader. With some restructuring, this could be an excellent statement.

This Personal Statement for Geography is a solid example of demonstrating a wealth of knowledge, motivation and interest, vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

You can find more successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Geography application.

With our  Oxbridge Geography Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the TSA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

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Personal statement example geography personal statement.

Protect the planet with a Geography degree.

Explore tropical rainforests, vast deserts, and the human impact on Earth at Leicester University.

Interested in studying outside of the classroom?

Choose Geography at Hertfordshire, you will be constantly learning with trips (including one to the Swiss Alps!), lab and field training.

Geography Personal Statement

The immense size and complexity of the world has always fascinated me. As such, I have developed a deep appreciation of the rich interactions between the human and physical realms when studying Geography . To supplement my curiosity, I read National Geographic and enjoy publications of widely acclaimed scientists such as Dr Iain Stewart and Richard Dawkins.

The knowledge and understanding I gain from wider reading has allowed me to develop a synoptic understanding of Geography. Recently I explored the causes, effects and management of Hurricane Katrina. I was amazed at how the sheer force of physical geography and the intricacies of human geography combined to result in such long lasting and devastating impacts on a multitude of scales. I was inspired to complete my EPQ on the disaster. I intend to explore the causes and the effects of this tragedy enabling me to expand on my research literacy and time management skills, to prepare me for university.

Sociology has provided the opportunity for me to carefully cross-reference my learning through other subjects. Assessing different perspectives on the causes of societal issues and the political solutions required allows previously accepted models to be evaluated and improved over time. I relate this to my studies in Geography, where I am able to understand the reasons behind government actions and how these may impact society and the environment, both spatially and temporally.

Chemistry has allowed me to understand the interactions between particles on a micro-scale and how they behave in dissimilar environments. Being able to appreciate how the latter arises with due regard as to why these changes occur has furthered my analytical skills. I now have a detailed comprehension of how seemingly small changes can lead to greater consequences. Topics such as ‘Chemistry of the Air’ provided deep insight to climate change and how the government are attempting to find alternative resources to minimise an ever-increasing problem.

In summer 2013, I was selected for the Sutton Trust Summer School at Durham University , with a Geography focus. I developed a range of skills in peer collaboration and discussion whilst being challenged by exciting new material. The river exploration completed during the course provided a contrasting experience to my research completed previously along the river Grwyne Fawr, Wales. The latter experience developed my use of specialist equipment and data collection using technology in a higher risk physical environment. My exploration of the River Tee’s, Durham allowed for a first-hand view of the social benefits of a river. Combined, these fieldwork opportunities enriched my prior understanding of both human and physical geography in two physically similar, yet humanly different environments.

I have completed a two-week placement with Skanska: a multinational construction and development company. Working on the Cross-Rail Paddington Station Project allowed me to understand the associated environmental concerns and the precautions required to preserve the local area. Completing a variety of tasks within strict time frames enhanced my time management and self-discipline. It made clear to my manager that I have the potential to develop new abilities, as well as building on my communication skills and maturity. Geography is relevant to everybody.

Arriving at a shared understanding of the world is vital if we are to develop effective environmental sustainability to cater for the increasing population. New disciplines and applications of GIS and remote sensing have recently proliferated; both of which capture my attention. To be a part of this fast paced, ever-evolving subject is the driving force behind my enthusiasm for it.

A degree in Geography will allow me to explore beyond the confines of textbooks and gain a practical experience in understanding physical processes and developing deeper appreciations of contemporary issues.

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10 Top Tips for a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement

Your Cambridge personal statement is a crucial component in your university application as it gives you a chance to articulate why you’re particularly interested in Geography and to distinguish yourself from other applicants. Additionally, it offers the Cambridge interviewer a focal point to base discussions about your personality, interests and deduce your commitment to Geography. To help guide you through the process, our Cambridge application experts have compiled a list of top 10 tips for everything you should do and not do for your Oxbridge Geography Personal Statement for the Cambridge 2024/25 application cycle. 

Geography is a course that focuses on some of the biggest challenges facing our planet, from food security, climate and biodiversity emergencies to pandemics and globalisation, and social inequalities and urbanisation to volcanoes and melting ice sheets. Your Geography personal statement could demonstrate the link between these domains and more. Moreover, when planning out your personal statement, make sure you research Cambridge’s achievements in the field of Geography and include it into your writing to illustrate your interest in studying Geography at Cambridge. For example, the department holds themselves to a high academic standard and many graduates are employed the year after graduation.

Almost all Cambridge colleges that admit undergraduates will accept applications for Geography. The current exception is Peterhouse College. Newnham College and Murray Edwards College only accept applications from women. Wolfson College , Hughes Hall College and St Edmund’s College only admit students who are over 21 at the time the course starts. In some years, certain Colleges have more Geography students than others, but the pattern fluctuates from year to year. 

Cambridge no longer requires Geography applicants to complete a pre-interview assessment. However, some Cambridge colleges may ask applicants who are invited to an interview to submit one or two examples of your written work from a relevant A Level/IB (or equivalent) course. Therefore, your geography personal statement is essential in making a god first impression on admissions tutors. We’re here to help, whether it’s through a cambridge geography personal statement check or reading on for our top tips.

Top 5 Tips for a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement

Tell your story.

Think about what drew you to study Geography at Cambridge in the first place. What skills or experience do you have that are worth mentioning? Cambridge admissions tutors are looking out for personal experiences against a high academic background. Consider your future career plans, extra-curricular work, and why you chose to study at Cambridge over all other universities.

What makes you suitable

In your personal statement, you must demonstrate what sets you apart from all other aspiring Geographers. Since Geography is such a multi-disciplinary subject, there are many things to mention from globalisation, to inequalities, to wealth divide and more. Remember to mention what interests you about Geography and any relevant skills or experience you have. This can range from extra reading to travelling, to academic skills. 

Read around the subject you’re applying for

Since the competition at Cambridge University is so great, demonstrating you have undertaken extra-curricular work will benefit your personal statement. Examples include readings in topics within Geography that interest you, for example, urbanisation or the wealth gap. Click here for a list of books published by Cambridge University for ideal reading.

Proof read & read aloud your work

Once you’re happy with the content of your draft, check it, check it and check it again! Useful people to ask to proofread your work include a teacher in the field, a current Cambridge student, and a student who is studying Geography. By allowing people to take a look at your statement, they would be able to pick up mistakes or name improvements that you may have missed.

Why Geography

Since Geography is such a varied subject, write a little bit about what stimulated your interest, and consider the careers this degree will present to you. Most students end up working in varied careers, such as business, marketing and human resources, according to the Cambridge website.

Top 5 things to AVOID for your Cambridge Geography Personal Statement

Writing a list of achievements.

Don’t list things without expanding on them. It’s better to list fewer experiences but to expand upon what you learnt from those experiences. Make sure you link back to studying a degree in Geography as it will show Cambridge admissions tutors you have insight into what the degree will entail.

Don’t write anything that isn’t true

Don’t exaggerate. You may be asked to provide evidence of your stated achievements, or if you are interviewed you may be asked detailed questions about things you’ve mentioned. It will reflect poorly on you if you are caught out or if you are unable to answer questions about your personal statement.

Copying someone else’s personal statements

Don’t plagiarise. While you can look at geography personal statement examples, do not copy someone else’s UCAS personal statement or use something you have found on the internet. UCAS uses software to check every personal statement for plagiarism. If you are caught, your application will not be seen as genuine or authentic. 

Not reflecting on or justifying your point

Explain points without repeating yourself. Expand on how you’ve acquired certain skills and why they’re important. Examples include, data collection and analytical skills. Remember, quality is always better than quantity- it’s better to expand on a few points than to list every point you can without going into detail.

Don’t sound unprofessional

Steer clear of slang, clichés and quotes. It will sound repetitive to Cambridge admissions tutors to hear about how students are “passionate” about their subject or that they have a “thirst for knowledge”. Write about your personal experience with your Geography journey, and allow the Cambridge admissions tutor to do the rest.

→ What is a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement?

A Cambridge Geography Personal Statement is a written statement that accompanies a university application to study geography at the University of Cambridge. The personal statement is an opportunity for the candidate to showcase their academic achievements, interests, and passion for geography.

→What should be included in a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement?

A Cambridge Geography Personal Statement should include the candidate’s academic achievements, their relevant work experience, any relevant extracurricular activities or hobbies, and their passion for geography. The statement should also highlight the candidate’s interest in the course and their future career aspirations.

→How long should a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement be?

A Cambridge Geography Personal Statement should be no longer than 4,000 characters or 47 lines of text, whichever comes first. This includes spaces and punctuation.

→How important is it to proofread my personal statement?

Proofreading your personal statement is extremely important as it shows attention to detail and a commitment to presenting your best work. It is recommended that you read your personal statement out loud to catch any errors or awkward phrasing.

→What are some common mistakes to avoid in a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement?

Common mistakes to avoid in a Cambridge Geography Personal Statement include making general statements without providing specific examples, using cliches, copying or plagiarizing content, being too informal or using inappropriate language, and not proofreading thoroughly.

→Why is the personal statement important for a Cambridge geography application?

The personal statement is an important component of a Cambridge geography application because it allows the admissions team to assess the candidate’s suitability for the course. The personal statement also provides an opportunity for the candidate to demonstrate their motivation and passion for the subject.

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Geography personal statement example 2.

In a dynamic world, the study of geography is increasingly important. The diversity of the subject and the interaction between the physical environment and human population is becoming even more evident with climate change and globalisation influencing our everyday lives.

Visiting Iceland allowed me to appreciate this relationship between physical and human geography. I enjoyed exploring the Hellisheidi geothermal power station, which harnesses anatural energy source via a flash-steam power plant. Geothermal energy not only saves Iceland £63 million annually in oil imports but lessens contributions to global warming. Likewise, the 2010 Eyjafjallajokull fissure eruption fascinated me, reflecting the ability of a physical phenomenon to affect the wider human population, with 107,000 flights cancelled causing major disruption to the global economy. Most concerning was the disturbance to developing economies like Zambia, whose flower and vegetable industry experienced huge daily losses reflecting the vulnerability of an increasingly globalised world.

My interest in the rapidly developing issue of globalisation led me to read Stiglitz's 'Globalisation and its Discontents'. Having studied the role of the IMF and World Bank in Economics, I found Stiglitz's intense criticism persuasive. The many examples of failed economic policy, from Russia's transition to a market economy to the Argentine financial collapse, make me question the value of these organisations. I find it remarkable to see that China-the world's fastest growing economy and most favoured destination for foreign direct investment-declined any IMF funds and has thrived despite economic downturns.

Having achieved full UMS points in my geography AS level, I took a particular interest in the vulnerability and effects of natural hazards in different regions. A recently published article by the BBC revealed that Shanghai has been identified by The Coastal City Flood Vulnerability Index as the 'most vulnerable to flood risk' of nine cities. Initially it surprised me that geographically challenged Dhaka scores as less vulnerable to flood risk than wealthy Shanghai. However, this new index takes into account 19 physical, social and economic factors demonstrating the complexities of vulnerability.

In Geographical Magazine, an article regarding the matriarchal society of the Mosuo people of China's Yunnan Province led me to develop an enthusiasm for the geographies of feminism. This ethnic group has no word for 'father' or 'husband' and land, property and possessions are all owned by each household's Grandmother. The social premise that siblings live together more harmoniously than sexual partners interested me, as it is the opposite of most societies including the majority Han, who dominate 92% of China.

During work experience at the London Aquarium, I enjoyed my time within the conservation area advising visitors about the 'Good Fish Guide'-a consumer guide to sustainable seafood from the Marine Conservation Society. This led me to further my knowledge about conservation by reading Martha Honey's 'Ecotourism and Sustainable Development'. The negative impacts of ecotourism and the failure of many schemes to provide a sustainable conservation solution in theGalapagos Islands particularly interested me, having chosen 'Biodiversity under Threat' as one of my A level modules. Music is an artistically and intellectually stimulating outlet and I play the cello and piano.When I was 14, I was awarded the Marguerite Swan Prize for achieving the highest marknationally in grade 8 cello, reflecting my determination and commitment. I have also volunteered as a learning mentor for a child with dyslexia at the Skinners Kent Academy, assisting with reading and writing. This helped me appreciate educational differences and their ramifications.

My desire to study geography is absolute and I relish the opportunity to further my knowledge of both physical features and human activities.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by hello1994 for application in 2013.

hello1994's university choices The University of Durham University of Bristol The University of Edinburgh University College London Oxford University

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

This personal statement is unrated

Related Personal Statements

Awesome personal statement.

Tue, 05/11/2013 - 20:41

As the comment title suggests, I am a big fan of this PS. It is awesome. One of the best I have read!

Congrats on the offer to Oxford, UCL, Durham and Bristol!

Hopefully you got into your first choice!

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