Personal Statement - Hispanic Studies And History
History fascinates me greatly. The idea that History is comprised of endless stories based on varied sources aligning from a vast range of perspectives, sparks my curiosity. I was first introduced to these stories when I was shown clips of my great-grandfather carrying the coffin of King George VI on British Pathé, which ultimately ignited an interest in the past. Stories such as Hitler’s relentless reign or the development of the aviation giant, Boeing, all provide explanations for the wider impacts still felt today. Therefore, a degree in History would allow me to expand my understanding of historical context within a wider framework.
My interest in History has grown exponentially since taking A Level History. After studying 20th century Germany, I developed a genuine interest in the Holocaust, motivating me to explore the topic further. Therefore, I read the Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris which prepared me to participate in the 'Lessons from Auschwitz' programme by the Holocaust Educational Trust with its intense story of prisoners at the camp. I took at 22-hour trip with the Trust where I visited the camps and several museums in Kraków. Visiting these places gave me a deeper understanding of the atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust. This experience has led to a desire to learn more about historical injustices and how they have affected the modern world and the society. In continuation of this, I have recently enjoyed studying other momentous events, in my coursework where I analysed the gains achieved by African-Americans in the Civil Rights Movement through the 50s and explored the relevance of Martin Luther King.
In addition to History, I am currently studying Law and French. These subjects combined form the perfect infrastructure in preparation for university study. Studying these subjects has allowed me to combine my interests, whilst providing me with different perspectives of the world. Through Law, I have been able to bridge the gap between my interests in History whilst examining a variety of legal principles and statutes. I have developed a number of skills, including interpretation and application of given sources, which is transferrable to history in analysis. This has guided my expansive research of past statutes like the Vagrancy Act 1547 from history, to the Racial and Religious Hatred Act 2006. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge for the last unit in Law - Human Rights, as this is a crucial aspect of society that has seen various historical injustices in the past. Having developed the necessary research skills that were heightened by my work experience in the legal department at TFL, I’ve developed a varied understanding of legal concepts to the history of the French national anthem.
I have a love of languages, evident from my interests from studying French, though in terms of broadening my linguistic horizon, I aim to learn Spanish in order to be able to converse with a wider range of people across the world. Trips to Hispanic cities such as Cancún and Miami as well as across the Iberian Peninsula where I put the little Spanish I knew into practice, make me want to advance my Spanish. Combining my passion for languages with history in a degree is something that appeals to me greatly. Exploring the history of the Hispanic world appeals to me greatly. Topics like the roles of dance in Latin American society, Bachata in the Dominican Republic, though this may have arisen from my own enjoyment in it! In addition to my academic pursuits, I work at Marks and Spencer, where I’ve developed a key skill in retail which is being at the will of customers. My experiences have ranged from dealing with customer with Alzheimer’s, to reaching up to grab a loaf of bread. Working in retail has taught me just how rewarding helping others can be even with the smaller things. Furthermore, I have raised over £1,200 through runs for charity. I am a prefect, though I have previously been a deputy head boy.
