Clinical Psychologist Personal Statement

I see psychology as a complicated jigsaw of human behaviour, thought and emotion. My desire is to collect the thousands of pieces and create them into a map to follow to understanding psychology. The subject is newly established with many ground breaking discoveries; this excites me and makes me curious to find out more. The diversity of the topic leaves so many unanswered questions about the complexity of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behaviour. Psychology is academically challenging however it also inspires me to want to learn more about the nature and outcomes of certain behaviour and how these behaviours interact and under what conditions they arise. I have a particular interest in understanding mental illness- growing up with a grandparent with severe depression and psychosis, has exposed me to how fragile such a complex organ can be from a young age. I aspire to use findings within the subject to improve outcomes and make a difference to the lives of people who suffer from issues that arise from mental conditions. A younger sibling has recently been diagnosed with dyslexia and struggles with pronunciation of certain words; this has sparked my interest in how the brain develops and language acquisition in children. I often help him with this homework which has left me with many questions of why children learn and process information at different rates; how can one child find something so trivial

yet another struggle for hours and still not understand? As a result of these personal experiences, I crave to study the intricacy of the mind further.
My ultimate career goal is to become a Clinical Psychologist; for me to pursue a doctorate and then hopefully a job in clinical psychology I thought it would be beneficial for me to have experience with people and have an insight into what this particular job setting is like.

This is why I undertook voluntary work at the MRI hospital in Manchester as part of a charity called ‘Kissing it Better’. I am honoured to have worked as a part of this charity as it aims to give vulnerable, lonely patients some hope and company in their

recovery.
My A-level subjects strongly reflect my interest in the scientific elements of psychology; but also my creativity. Biology is similar to psychology in the way that everything we learn about is so relevant to our everyday lives. Studying biology has developed my confidence in problem solving and analytical skills which would benefit me when studying the research methods modules and analysing results of research . Chemistry has strengthened my ability in deducing information from given facts and how to assemble data and then assess my results; this would be highly beneficial to me when studying psychology- especially when conducting research of my own. Being selected to be an Ambassador for my college has given me the responsibility of representing college at several events throughout the year including new student open days and Charity events. This role has enhanced my confidence and communication skills whilst showing my responsibility. Being an ambassador also highlights my motivation and dedication to succeed in all aspects of my education.
In 2013 my commitment and dedication was illustrated as I qualified for my prestigious sixth form Netball team whilst I was in year 10. This gave me the amazing opportunity to travel to South Africa on a netball tour. During the tour we boarded with local families whose first language wasn’t English; this made it challenging to adapt however strengthened my confidence and portrayed that I was an effective communicator. Since being at college I have continued to play netball as part of the college team which shows my passion for being a team player. I have successfully completed the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award which re-iterates my practical and social skills. Aside from studying for A-levels, in my free time I enjoy going to the gym and socialising with friends.
I am excited at the prospect of undertaking a degree in Psychology at university and becoming a mature and able student as I explore the subject independently.