Politics and IR Personal Statement

Growing up, I was always captivated by my mum's stories of visiting the House of Commons as a teenager to see her MP godfather, as well as the political debates that would occur around the dinner table when he visited. I wanted to recreate these political debates at home, and, consequently, found a love for current affairs and political issues.

When I was first introduced to the concept of human rights, I saw them as unbreakable rules that states must abide by. However, through my study of Global Politics, I have discovered flaws in the human rights system and law. Particularly the lack of enforcement, which leads to powerful states bypassing them. By studying Politics and International Relations, I seek to develop my understanding of the political sphere and create solid foundations in politics before potentially taking a Law conversion course to pursue my interest in international law.

Within the IB programme, my broader curriculum of subjects has helped me to develop a global outlook. Studying German and Japanese has enhanced my understanding of both cultures and their perspectives on issues such as immigration and climate change. My study of English Literature has improved my critical analysis of texts and exposed me to texts that explore political themes, such as conflict and colonialism, in the analysis of Our Country's Good. By undertaking my Extended Essay on the topic of cultural diplomacy and its impact on state interactions, I have developed skills in political research on a subject that interests me and concluded that previous state relations limit the impact of cultural diplomacy. Studying Global Politics has reinforced my love of the subject and allowed me to engage with local MPs on the issue of the NHS workforce through personally organised interviews, as well as improved my public speaking through regular presentations and seminars. For example, at our most recent seminar on the role different stakeholders have on sustainable development, I represented Greenpeace.

My passion for politics extends beyond purely course-based aspects due to my love for the field. To expand my knowledge, I have read books such as The Prince by Machiavelli, which gave me an insight into a realist perspective of power politics and, in particular, an understanding of Realpolitik, expanding on my knowledge gained through Global Politics. I have also read Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshall; I found this book particularly interesting as it emphasised the impact geography and borders have on international relations and state development. This reading allows me to interpret regional tensions and conflicts more accurately from a well-informed perspective. Alongside reading political works, I have attended formal talks with my local MP. These talks have allowed me to explore local political issues, such as healthcare, and understand the applications of politics within a career and when addressing local issues.

In addition, I aspire to explore and learn new political theories and approaches and consider their application in real-world issues and international law. Through being a Pastoral Captain and a member of the Senior Leadership Team, I have developed the necessary leadership skills that a study of Politics and International Relations would demand. Alongside schoolwork, I often coach sailing locally and regionally. Through coaching, I have gained the ability to convey important information through effective communication, as well as enforcing my planning and leadership skills. I also compete in international and national sailing competitions alongside schoolwork, thus improving my time management. Alongside my enthusiasm for politics, the skillset I have developed will allow me to deal with the high demands of this rigorous course. For this reason, I believe that pursuing Politics and International Relations is the best way to develop my passion at the next academic level, and I am excited to see where this degree can take me.