linguistics personal statement ideas

Applying for Linguistics at University in 2023: Reading, Personal Statement and Interview Tips From an Oxford Linguistics Graduate

This article is written by U2 Spanish and Linguistics mentor, Rhys. Rhys graduated with a First in Linguistics and Spanish from St. Catherine’s College, Oxford in 2012. He has a particular interest in both Old Norse and modern Icelandic, as well as on how languages in general change over time - and was the winner of the Fred Holcroft Prize for study of the history of Spanish as a language. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Linguistics at Oxbridge, how to prepare and what to expect at interview (+ the resources suggested will be useful for personal statement preparation for other top UK universities).

Why Linguistics?

Linguistics is the subject for people who don’t think two languages is enough.  Now, that’s not to say that it’s all about learning lots of languages at once. Far from it, in fact! Linguistics is even better than that. The truth is, the individual language is a worthwhile and valuable object of study in itself, but the aim of Linguistics is to go a little deeper (though you’ll certainly pick up bits from myriad languages along the way). 

We know that a lot of our language ability is something shared by every human: we all have at least one language, we all acquire languages in the same way as infants, we all use the same tools to make and understand speech (or sign language), and it seems like we might even (though it probably doesn’t feel like it sometimes!) be using the same grammatical “algorithm”, even if the thing that comes out of our mouths gets labelled as English, Malay, or Quechua. And that’s not all. I haven’t even talked about language’s interaction with psychology, neurology, or how language infuses and affects pretty much every aspect of society. Linguistics is, in brief, an “under-the-bonnet” look at what might be the one thing that makes humans unique in the animal kingdom.

So, if it’s so great, why isn’t it a more widespread and popular subject? Many students seem to “stumble upon” Linguistics by accident - but it’s odd that a subject so varied and fundamental to human existence is the sort of thing that needs a stumble to be found! In my opinion, it’s because it’s not a standard school subject. There is no GCSE in Linguistics, no course dedicated to it at A-Level or IB (though other subjects do borrow some of its tools, and vice versa). This can be at once daunting and liberating for a prospective student.  Where do you start? How best to prepare? What are interviewers at Oxbridge looking for?

What follows, for the entirety of this article, is my personal opinion. My specialities were historical linguistics (i.e. how languages change over time) and phonetics (i.e. the mechanics of sequencing and producing speech), but a specialist in e.g. Psycholinguistics might write a very different blog post! What I want to stress is: there is no right or wrong way to prepare for Linguistics . Some people see this as the curse of an interdisciplinary subject, but I see it as a joy. Always more to explore, ready for whenever you want - and it means that you can follow your nose to a large extent. Do you have an interest in speech disorders (often called “aphasia” for a general term)? Great! Indulge it as part of your preparation. Is computational linguistics your thing? Delve into that with gusto.

Let me put it another way. Linguists draw a distinction between prescriptive linguistics (“this is how you should speak and write” - or what most of the world thinks linguists do!) and descriptive linguistics (“let’s record and explain what people actually say and do”). The latter, descriptive linguistics, is what the vast, vast majority of linguists practice - and it’s what you’ll be studying. This guide aims to be similarly descriptive, and not prescriptive. I will suggest what is available, what might be good to pursue or to investigate, and point out some of the things that would make a strong candidate (it is impossible to be exhaustive). It is rare that I will be prescriptive; there are very few “you shoulds” in what follows.  Since Linguistics is a new subject for everyone at the start of university, aptitude and enthusiasm are prized above all else . Our focus will be on how to make the most of that aptitude, and how best to channel that enthusiasm.

Why are you applying?

Before you begin preparing for your linguistics application, it is worth taking a few minutes to think about the reasons why you wish to study the course. This will be crucial for personal statement writing and you may be asked about your motivations for applying at interview.

Reading Around the Subject

As you can tell, this blog post is going to take a highly permissive approach to what counts as useful preparation - but, because of the nature of the UK application process (with the personal statement and maybe an interview, depending on university), some reading and discussion of what you’ve learnt from reading is something that will definitely feature. I should make clear that you should feel no compulsion to tackle any academic texts at this point. Why would you have to - you don’t have any formal training yet! Things on the ambitious side of popular science / written for general consumption by the public will be fine.

A common starting point is Oxford’s Very Short Introduction To Linguistics , and I can see why. You can read it in an afternoon, and it will give a broad overview of what different disciplines in Linguistics there are.  From there, you can take a mosey down whatever route you like - maybe even multiple routes if you aren’t sure. Some of these routes - such as Sociolinguistics - even have Very Short Introductions of their own.

Another fantastic starting point, quite a bit longer but very digestible, is The Story of Human Language by John McWhorter .  This is actually a series of recorded lectures available as an audiobook (or direct from The Great Courses) that has an accompanying PDF with things like diagrams, charts, and so on. I think that, despite the slightly chintzy format of the recording (the between-chapter music really is awful), the content is excellent - and it has the advantage of encouraging you to head off in the direction you choose. Note what makes you prick up your ears - literally - and take your reading from there.

A good touchstone - not necessarily a cover-to-cover read, but a touchstone - is Limits of Language by Mikael Parkvall . If, like me, your only pre-university knowledge of languages is of European languages, this is a great way to dive in to some of the world’s linguistic diversity. I also find that it has a good indication of the different sub-themes encompassed in the discipline - so again, one to dip in and out of, and to reference if needed.

Many universities - including Oxford - only offer Linguistics as a joint course (in Oxford’s case, this means with Psychology, or Philosophy, or a modern language). This is an opportunity for some crossover reading. If you’re studying Linguistics with Italian, for example, it’s worth knowing a little about what Italian is and where it comes from (no, just saying Latin isn’t going to cut the mustard!).  If paired with Psychology, then something on how language operates in the brain is probably a good place to start (perhaps The Stuff of Thought by Steven Pinker is where to go first).

At Cambridge, you spend part of your first year studying the history and development of English itself - and one of the most readable and engaging introductions to that which I’ve found is another John McWhorter book, Our Magnificent Bastard Tongue .  In fact, I’d go so far as recommending it to all applicants; since you will be studying with English as the medium, it’s no surprise that many examples you encounter will be from English - and therefore a knowledge of the language’s history itself is a boon.

Some very common texts to appear on personal statements are The Language Instinct by Steven Pinker , Through The Language Glass by Guy Deutscher ,  Linguistics: a Complete Introduction by David Hornsby , and any of a number of books by Jean Aitchison or David Crystal .  These are all popular for a reason - they’re really good! I will not highlight one of them in particular, however. Remember, outside reading is not about swallowing a chunk of prescribed knowledge; it’s about what you do with the knowledge you acquire. It is easy to tell when a student has read book X because “it’s what you’re supposed to do, isn’t it?”. It is far preferable for a student to have read a small number of texts, or to have developed a special interest and the ability to speak interestingly about it. It’s also far easier to show enthusiasm when you’re in that position, as that enthusiasm won’t be artificial.

Other Non-Book Sources

Podcasts are my go-to when it comes to learning about ... well, anything really.  For me, the format is great. Portable, almost always free, and pitched at just the right level: designed to hold attention, but sturdy enough for a good piece of knowledge to be acquired. Again, the ones that are going to appeal most is a matter of personal choice. But there’s plenty out there, and I think the majority of them are fairly good at covering a wide range of topics. The back-catalogues of some of them are copious (you do not need to listen to them all!), so be choosy - start with the episodes that whet your appetite, and then delve deeper if you develop a taste.  Some back-catalogues into which to delve are (in no particular order) Lingthusiasm , BBC Word of Mouth , The Allusionist , Lexicon Valley , The History of English .

YouTube and a few other video sites (such as TED) will also provide a good overview of certain subjects and topics - and, even better, some of them will allow you to get an idea of what other languages sound like along the way. Some of my favourite channels are NativLang , Tom Scott’s Language Files , and The Ling Space , though there are others to explore as well - again, feel free to act like a magpie here, and pounce on whatever seems shiny to you.

If you live in a large city, you might find talks and lectures on Linguistics that can be attended as well ... but honestly, this isn’t something you need to lose sleep over. I didn’t have access to these when I applied, for instance, and did not feel any poorer for it. Nor is Linguistics the sort of mass-appeal subject that, say, history or a science is - so it might be hard to find suitable lectures in the first place!

Either way, whether it’s books or some of the other avenues mentioned above, what matters is the benefit that engaging with them has given you. It all relates back to the undefined nature of what a good linguist will look like, and how there is no single body of knowledge, no syllabus, that is expected of you. The utility in these books, podcasts, and videos is what you learn, and how well you can demonstrate that learning - and that’s always easier if you have a genuine interest. Hence the emphasis above on enjoyment. If it’s not captivating you, try something else!

Special Interests for Linguistics

This is another facet of the qualities of a linguist being a little shapeless (or, if we’re kinder, flexible and open). As mentioned, Linguistics is a subject that people stumble upon, often by accident. It’s really common for that to be a specialist interest in something that intersects with Linguistics. 

I had one of these: Old Norse and Modern Icelandic, both of which had captured my imagination years before thinking about university. Whilst one might find a couple (only 2 or 3, to my knowledge) of places where these can be studied in the UK as the main component of your degree, I chose to go for Linguistics instead: that interest in Old Norse led to other things - especially language change - and from there to Linguistics itself (and yes, I did get to look at Old Norse as one exam paper within the degree). This is a trait that I’ve noticed with other students as well: previous students of mine have had interests in American Sign Language, or Mongolian, or bilingualism in young children, or how language use intersects with gender. I am happy to bet that you have some kind of Linguistics-related special interest as well. So: hone it.

There is no set method for this; it really is an open field. If it’s a language, then it’s worth looking at how that language works (not just how to speak it, but also its grammar, culture, sounds or signs, and history). If it’s something more thematic, like bilingualism, then I’d say that it’s worth looking for in-depth discussions, texts, or articles about it.  But I’ll guess that, if you’re looking at this page, you’ve started doing that for your special interest already. In short, give yourself the time to geek out about it! I was asked about Icelandic in every university interview I had, even the interviews which were not related to Old Norse, Icelandic, or Linguistics at all - another indication that there are many routes to demonstrating interest, and that the ball really is in your court.

Things You Don’t Need to Worry About for Linguistics

From-scratch subjects are a little different to others. If you’re applying for a language, then yes, some experience using that language (or, if feasible, time in a place where that language is spoken) is always welcome. For some other courses, having work experience is a major advantage, even a quasi-prerequisite. Not so with Linguistics! Many generalist guides to university application will chat about demonstrating your interest in a subject in a practical way, but fear not - this doesn’t apply here.

Some schools encourage students to write essays for prizes. I know of one for Linguistics, run by Trinity College at Cambridge (there may be more, this just happens to be the one I know) - you will need to be in Year 12/Lower Sixth or equivalent to be eligible, and the deadline is early August. You might find them useful as practice in researching a linguistic topic, and the topic (for 2021 at time of writing) is interesting, however, don’t consider them a priority and don’t be discouraged if you don’t win!

You also don’t need to know of any particular theories within Linguistics itself, nor really of any current affairs or developments (like I would expect for, say, a Modern Languages candidate). As you’ll find out soon enough, there are many theories which attempt to explain the mechanisms by which we produce speech.  For example, I guarantee that you’ll hear about Noam Chomsky and Generative Grammar in at least one of the books you read. A background outline of Chomsky’s ideas will be sufficient - but do not feel like you need an understanding of the theory itself.  Or, in other words, it’s good to know what it is, but it’s certainly not necessary to know how it works! 

Admissions Tests for Linguistics

Only Cambridge requires an admissions exam dedicated to Linguistics. Oxford used to do so, and students will still need to sit a test for the other “half” of their degree (either the Modern Languages Admissions Test ( see U2 blog ) if paired with a language, or the TSA (See U2 blog) if paired with Philosophy or Psychology), but the Linguistics-specific portion is no longer offered. This is (in my personal opinion) a shame, as they were actually rather absorbing!

That’s not to say that there’s no longer any usefulness in looking at Oxford’s tests, in fact, I think it’s super-helpful no matter which university you choose!  See other sections below.

The Cambridge test is taken at-interview, lasts an hour, and is split into three equal-time and equal-mark parts: some questions on an unknown language, some data analysis (usually of graphs, but sometimes of charts), and a short essay based on a linguistics-themed topic. You will need to attempt all questions. You do not need specialist terminology or knowledge to complete these tests - that’s not what it’s about! It’s a gauge of a few things: your aptitude, your ability to process data, and a snapshot of your essay-writing ability. There are a few past papers available on the Cambridge website itself (on the Entry Requirements tab, at time of writing this guide) , and you will of course find it useful to practice with these. I do have a couple of other ideas as well, in case you run out:

There are a few more tips on the linguistic analysis below, so I won’t repeat that here.  For the graphs section, this is something that can be practised a little with Oxford’s past papers (link below), which also have graphs and charts to analyse (though, as the test for Oxford was half the length of Cambridge’s, they’re a little bit more simple - but still good practice!). But do not be intimidated by the graphs; they are (by my eye) no more complex than the chart/graph skills needed for GCSE Science, and some questions related to the graphs are often speculative (e.g. “the graphs show that younger people say XYZ but older people say ABC ; why might that be?”) - so the graphs themselves are usually no big deal.

The essay-writing section is what students find hardest, in my experience - and this is because a 20-minute essay is something unusual and not really expected in most other areas of study!  What I think is best is: to plan the essay, even just a rough plan, for a few minutes.  A look at the mark scheme shows us that there are marks for style and structure, so they’re expecting you to display both! The essay should be short, relevant, to-the-point, and organised. Often a structure is implied in the question, so this is easier than I’m making it sound - you’ll see what I mean. When writing, ensure that you have answered every aspect of the question - and nothing more (you don’t have time for more). This essay (indeed the whole test) is a skill, and as with any skill, practice leads to improvement.

Linguistic Analysis/ Dealing with Unfamiliar Languages

I’ve separated this out from other parts of this discussion, as it’s part of the process for everyone at some point: being presented with unfamiliar utterances in a language, being asked to draw conclusions and generalisations about the language’s form and grammar, and (sometimes) to make new sentences according to the grammar rules that you notice. This might sound terrifying, but trust me - once you start, it’s really fun!

This is where Oxford’s past papers are a great well of resources for some practice (on the How Do I Prepare? tab, at time of writing this guide) .  The Linguistics test is (well, was) part of the Modern Languages Admissions Test. PDFs of the whole thing are freely available on Oxford’s website, and available for download. Most of them also have mark schemes available - but you don’t need to worry about exam technique.  Instead, try and solve the little language-based puzzles (and most of them are puzzles, in a way). Gain a method for analysing and systematising the data, and explain it aloud to yourself - even if it makes you sound a little nuts! It’s what you’d need to do in an interview setting, so it’s decent practice. I found that coloured pens or a set of highlighters will be useful; it helps you notice and mark the commonalities and patterns (or grammar rules, in short) - and they’ll be ready if you need to use them to generate a new phrase in the language. I think you’ll be surprised at how engaging - fun, even - these will turn out to be. If applying for Cambridge, give Oxford’s papers a go: they help you get accustomed to the first and second questions in the Cambridge paper.

Some schools and students also participate in the UK Linguistics Olympiad . This is, again, a competition based on linguistic and grammatical analysis, or pattern finding. If your school offers it, great! Give it a try. But I certainly don’t think it’s an obligatory step in preparation - I didn’t even know what it was when applying! That said, I think it’s a brilliant resource for practising. Many of the papers from previous years, with explanations, are freely available on the UKLO website; you can practice solo with past questions from there. Again, I think these are great fun, and I think you will too! But you needn’t approach it in any formalised way if that option is unavailable or un-enticing.

This is an example problem from the Linguistics Olympiad - their training materials are excellent practice!

How to Prepare for the Linguistics Interview

The interview is often the section of the application process which most worries applicants. The info below is mostly for Oxford and Cambridge, though other courses with Linguistics as a component (e.g. BA Language and Culture at UCL) may also require an interview. What I find interesting is that there seems to be no set agenda for the interviews, no checklist, no recurring topic, and no “this will definitely happen” task or question. Again, I think it’s best to see this as a liberation rather than a worry. Feedback from previous students does indicate one commonality: the interviews themselves were more entertaining - pleasant, even - than expected. What follows is a list of things that I’ve heard of that crop up in interviews. You might experience all of these, or just some - and it’s no indication of a good or poor performance if you aren’t asked them all. Some are my own experiences, some from old classmates, some from old students of mine. They’re in no particular order:

•  A language puzzle . These are common, but not universal. Oxford in particular seems to be setting them, now that the paper-based test has been retired. I had one of these with an East African language. Often (but not always) you will be given the stimulus in advance of the interview - so it won’t necessarily be something you have to deal with on the spot!

•  Analysis of English grammar . This might ask you to explain and codify what’s going on in some English sentences - which might involve a bit of wordplay, or ambiguous sentences, or use of a particular word in a variety of contexts. Again, you are usually given a bit of alone time to look at these before the interview. The techniques for this are the same as for any other language puzzle: systematise, organise, find commonalities, and explain.

•  Discussion of your personal statement . With no grades or (in most cases) Linguistics-specific teacher reference to draw on, this is often the interviewers’ main source of information about you before the interview itself. If you’ve done your preparation right, there will be plenty of avenues waiting for the interviewer to pick up.

•  Discussion of any clear special interests . This is something that’ll likely make itself clear in your personal statement, but I’ve separated it out because (personal opinion alert!) it’s often the most interesting thing from the interviewer’s perspective. A nice source of variety. As mentioned earlier, I was asked about Icelandic in every interview, and I recall it being the topic which most interested the interviewers. When I give mock interviews, I pounce on any clear special subjects. It’s usually the area where you are most able to demonstrate aptitude, interest, and a drive to investigate something of your own volition - so keep chipping away at the special interest, whatever it is, and it will be easy for that interest to radiate out.

Overall, then, it seems to me that the interview is as open and flexible as the rest of what we’ve discussed so far. There are, of course, plenty of things that one can do in order to come across well. Most of these, like getting used to language puzzles, developing a special interest, and knowing the content of your personal statement, can be prepared in advance. But there is an element of unpredictability - and that is, of course, deliberate . It’s another indication that the interviewers are hunting for aptitude. This doesn’t mean they’re trying to catch you out! The opposite, in fact: since your ability is something of a blank slate (no indicative grades to look at, say), they’re trying to reel you in. I find it quite fitting that it’s often called an “invitation” to interview - because that’s exactly what it is. They’re asking you to come with an open mind, and to show them how that mind works.

I half-suspect that this guide might not have been what you expected. Many “how-to” guides are, by definition, prescriptive; this was descriptive. I’ve purposefully avoided that as much as I can (though inevitably there’s a bit of prescription above). It’s all because of those two central things that are most prized in the selection for Linguistics (and indeed some other from-scratch subjects): interest, and aptitude. The intention of this guide has not been to push you in a particular direction, because there is no set direction in which you should be pushed. If you’ve read this far in this (really quite long!) blog post, it’s a safe bet that you’re already interested in Linguistics. You probably already know what the special interest is as well - the thing that first caught your eye, the thing that makes your knowledge and investigation unique. What’s laid out above are just tools that you can use to sharpen your own aptitude, to augment your interests. I emphasise it so frequently because I think it really matters.  Treat the information above not as a route laid out on a map, but merely the unscrolled map itself . It is up to you to chart the course you’ll most enjoy - and it will, I promise, be enjoyable.

Are You Applying For Linguistics or Joint Honours Linguistics (E.g. PPL) at Oxbridge?

Oxbridge Linguistics Mentoring

U2 offers ad hoc sessions as well as wider Oxbridge Mentoring programmes ( book a free consultation to discuss options). We have a great team of Oxbridge-educated Linguistics mentors including 1st Class, Master’s and PhD level graduates.

The Process:

1) We suggest an Oxbridge Linguistics graduate as a mentor and send their full CV for review. Our mentors are deeply familiar with the admissions process to study Linguistics/ Joint Honours with Linguistics at the University of Oxford and Cambridge, and are well-placed to guide you through personal statement curation, the entrance exam (if applicable) and interview process. 

2) We typically suggest beginning with a 1.5 hour informal assessment/ taster session , where the mentor will informally assess the student’s current performance level for application, including test and interview. Following this, we issue a report with feedback, and structure a plan to best prepare.

3) U2’s approach for regular Linguistics application sessions: The main focus of tutorial sessions will be to explore material that can be discussed in the personal statement and at interview. Mentors ensure each student refines their interests within Linguistics, and is exposed to a range of approaches and new concepts, guiding students in their reading and wider subject exploration. Together, we build a case for the student, exploring their special interests in the subject and honing skills for the admissions test if applicable.

Frequency of sessions can be decided between student and mentor. Students can take either ad hoc sessions, or we structure a full programme for preparation, which may include further co-curricular opportunities such as our research projects , our Languages Summer Schools and Oxbridge mock interview days. Oxbridge mentoring presents a wonderful opportunity to learn from and be inspired by some extraordinary academic minds. We would be delighted to support you through what can be a challenging, but hugely rewarding process.

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Yale Linguistics

You are here, what are you looking for in the personal statement.

Your statement should convey your reasons for wanting to pursue graduate study in linguistics. You should outline your areas of research interest, what kinds of questions you would like to pursue, and why you are in a good position to answer these questions. What kinds of linguistics questions interest you? Why do you think they are good to study? Be as specific as you can. We are interested in candidates with strong analytical abilities, and laying out research questions and ideas in a clear and compelling manner is a good opportunity to demonstrate such abilities. Your statement should also address the issue of fit between your interests and those of the faculty members in Linguistics at Yale (hint: spend some time looking at  faculty research pages ). Applications from candidates, however strong, with research interests far removed from those of the department faculty are not likely to be successful.

Linguistics Personal Statement Examples

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

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2
• Personal Statement Example 3
• Personal Statement Example 4
• Personal Statement Example 5
• Personal Statement Example 6

Ever wondered about the complexities of human language, its structure, evolution, and impact on society? Intrigued by how we communicate, interpret, and understand linguistic signals?

If so, a degree in Linguistics might be the perfect pathway for you. This fascinating field invites you to delve into the scientific study of language, exploring the nuances of syntax, phonetics, semantics, and more.

The linguistics course covers a wide range of topics, including the history of language, the structure of language, language acquisition, and the application of linguistics in various fields. You will learn about the different aspects of language, such as phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. You will also explore the various theories of language and how they are used to analyze and interpret language data.

By studying linguistics, students gain an understanding of the structure, history, and development of language. They learn to analyze language from a variety of perspectives, including its social, cultural, and historical contexts. In addition, students gain an appreciation for the complexity of language and its role in communication.

Through the study of linguistics, students can gain a better understanding of how language is used to express ideas, feelings, and beliefs. Furthermore, students can develop their own language skills and become more proficient in communicating with others. Ultimately, studying linguistics provides students with a valuable tool for understanding the world around them and communicating effectively.

👍 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

Someone with a degree in linguistics can pursue a variety of careers and professions. These include:

1. Language Teacher: Language teachers can teach in a variety of settings, including primary and secondary schools, universities, language schools, and private tutoring.

2. Interpreter/Translator: Interpreters and translators work with both written and spoken language to help facilitate communication between two languages. They can work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, hospitals, and private companies.

3. Speech-Language Pathologist: Speech-language pathologists work with individuals who have speech and language disorders, such as stuttering and difficulty understanding and producing language. They can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and private practice.

4. Lexicographer: Lexicographers work to create, maintain, and update dictionaries and other reference works. They can work in a variety of settings, including publishing companies, libraries, and universities.

5. Computational Linguist: Computational linguists use computer science and linguistics to develop and improve language-based technology, such as natural language processing and machine translation. They can work in a variety of settings, including software companies, research labs, and universities.

6. Language Researcher: Language researchers use linguistics to study language and language use. They can work in a variety of settings, including universities, research labs, and government agencies.

UK Admission Requirements

To be accepted into the University of Kent’s Linguistics course, applicants must have a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject such as English Language, Linguistics, or a related subject. Preference may be given to applicants who have achieved a higher grade.

In addition to a degree, applicants must also demonstrate a good level of English proficiency. This is usually assessed through a recognised English language test such as the IELTS or TOEFL.

Other entry criteria may include a personal statement, references, and/or an interview.

The entry criteria for the University of Kent’s Linguistics course is similar to many other universities who offer linguistics courses. Most universities will require a minimum of a 2:1 undergraduate degree in a relevant subject, as well as a good level of English proficiency. Some universities may also require a personal statement, references, and/or an interview.

UK Earnings Potential For Linguists

The average earnings for someone with a degree in linguistics will vary depending on the individual’s experience, qualifications, and the job market. Generally, linguists with a bachelor’s degree can expect to make between $30,000 and $60,000 per year. Those with a master’s degree may earn up to $80,000 per year.

In terms of job market trends, the demand for linguists is increasing as the world becomes more interconnected and the need for translation services increases. Additionally, linguists are in demand in the fields of technology, artificial intelligence, and data science, as well as in the fields of education, marketing, and healthcare.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to linguistics include English Language and Literature, Applied Linguistics, and Language and Communication.

English Language and Literature focuses on the analysis of language and literature, while Applied Linguistics examines the use of language in various contexts, such as education, business, and media. Language and Communication explores the use of language in communication, such as how language is used to convey meaning and how language can be used to influence others.

Linguistics is a broader field that encompasses all of these areas, as it looks at the structure and use of language in a variety of contexts. It focuses on the study of language in its various forms, such as syntax, morphology, phonology, and semantics. It also looks at how language is used in different contexts and how it is acquired, developed, and maintained.

In comparison to the other courses, Linguistics is more comprehensive and looks at language from a broader perspective. It examines language from a scientific and theoretical perspective, rather than just a practical one. Additionally, it looks at language from a historical and cultural perspective, which is not necessarily the focus of the other courses.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules typically covered in a university course in linguistics include:

• Introduction to linguistics: This module introduces students to the fundamental concepts of linguistics, such as the structure of language, the history of language, and the different types of languages.
• Phonetics and Phonology: This module focuses on the study of the sounds of language, including the production and perception of speech sounds, the structure of sound systems, and the phonological rules of language.
• Morphology and Syntax: This module focuses on the study of the structure of words and sentences, including the formation of words, the structure of sentences, and the rules of grammar.
• Semantics and Pragmatics: This module focuses on the study of the meaning of language, including the meaning of words, the meaning of sentences, and the use of language in context.
• Language Acquisition: This module focuses on the study of how children learn language, including the stages of language development, the role of the environment, and the influence of language on thought.
• Sociolinguistics: This module focuses on the study of language in social context, including language variation and change, language and identity, and language and power.
• Applied Linguistics: This module focuses on the application of linguistic knowledge to real-world problems, such as language teaching, language assessment, and language policy.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the course of linguistics include Noam Chomsky, a renowned linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, and political activist. Chomsky is known for his pioneering work in the field of linguistics, specifically for his theories of generative grammar.

He has written numerous books, articles, and essays on language and linguistics, and is considered one of the most influential linguists of the 20th century. Chomsky is currently a Professor Emeritus of Linguistics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Other notable alumni from the course of linguistics include Steven Pinker, a cognitive scientist, linguist, and popular science author. Pinker has written several books on language and linguistics, including The Language Instinct, Words and Rules, and The Stuff of Thought.

He is currently a Professor of Psychology at Harvard University.Alumni events and networking opportunities for linguistics students are offered by many universities. For example, the University of California, Berkeley offers an annual alumni event for linguistics students, which includes a panel discussion, alumni networking, and a Q&A session.

In addition, many universities offer alumni networking opportunities through online platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook. These platforms allow alumni to connect with each other and share job opportunities, research opportunities, and other resources.

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Linguistics Personal Statements Samples For Students

11 samples of this type

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Free Personal Statement On Cognitive Linguistics Program

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Postgraduate Personal Statement Example: Clinical Linguistics

Reading examples of personal statements can be valuable when applying to a university or college course. 

After all, personal statement examples can teach you how to write and structure your application, and you can quickly learn how to write a personal statement by examining others.

But with so many university personal statement examples available, how do you know if you’re reading a good one?

Postgraduate personal statements should highlight relevant academic and practical experience, research skills and ambitions and their suitability for the course. This postgraduate personal statement example for Clinical Linguistics clearly illustrates these three critical elements.

Studying master’s degree personal statement examples can be especially valuable. They’re sometimes referred to as personal mission statements or statements of purpose , so if you’re tasked with writing a personal mission statement, the following example will work for you.

I’ve broken down this personal statement example section by section, with a commentary on each element. 

That way, you’ll see its strengths and weaknesses and get some inspiration for your own personal statement .

Once you’ve read the personal statement example and analysis, you’ll be able to download a pdf of the whole document, to use as inspiration for your own!

Personal Statement Example: Introduction

“My motivation to study language disorders stems from my experience working with children with special needs growing up in bilingual families and communities. Working closely with speech-language pathologists in the Marshall Learning Group, an international special education centre, I reflected on how to best support language-impaired people as a researcher. Spending around two months with a child with Williams syndrome who could speak three languages encouraged me to look beyond the double dissociation between language and cognition. Accordingly, I assessed the language abilities in Williams syndrome, such as pragmatic ability, in a multilingual context. This experience provided me with a research focus on bilingual children with neurodevelopmental disorders and how their brains process speech and language, underpinning my decision to choose Clinical Linguistics for postgraduate study.”

My Commentary and Analysis 

This is a highly effective and well-structured introduction to a postgraduate personal statement. The writer opens with a hook that connects their interests with a meaningful personal experience, and from there, they go on to outline their relevant clinical experience and expertise. This works well, as it conveys a convincing level of knowledge and engagement through the use of relevant terminology. It also immediately shows that the writer has real-world experience with the subject they intend to study. As a result, the reader is likely to see the validity and relevance of the application as a whole.

The last sentence is quite sophisticated. It gives an example of a practical action taken in a clinical context, outlines the value of the experience to the applicant and then indicates how this forms the basis of the motivation behind their application.

Again, this serves to reassure the reader by showing them a clear link between the writer’s past, present and future aims, making it clear that the course is the next logical step on their learning journey.

If you’re struggling with your personal statement introduction, check out my article on how to write perfect opening paragraphs here .

Personal Statement Example: Academic Background 1

“My undergraduate studies in English Language and Applied Linguistics prepared me to explore psycholinguistics and neurolinguistics concerning language impairments in more depth. I am focused on applying my robust knowledge of internal linguistics, such as morphology and syntax, to understand how language is processed and represented in the mind and brain. Learning the dual-route model in visual word recognition, I grasped the classification of dyslexia in the psycholinguistics module. This sparked more comprehensive research interests in examining electrophysiological and clinical evidence of dyslexia. As a proactive learner, I gained access to neurolinguistic learning resources regarding language-related brain anatomy and neuroimaging techniques used in language disorder research. Building upon my understanding of the theoretical frameworks of dyslexia with the Cerebellar Theory deepened my knowledge of the causal relations between brain dysfunctions and language disorders such as aphasia and specific language impairment. Keen to better understand the psychological reality of human language processing mechanisms, I am enthusiastic about studying in this transnational research master’s programme.

Slater University’s language disorders and neuroimaging techniques modules align with my research interest in atypical language development. Acknowledging autistic children’s difficulties comprehending indirect speech acts, I conducted a speech-act analysis of ASD International’s Buckley Corpus data. To achieve this, I applied CHILDES clinical corpora and focused on the children’s pragmatic language deficits when volunteering at the autism support centre. Interviewing their speech-language pathologist led me to consider other receptive language difficulties, such as auditory processing disorders. Consequently, I am passionate about taking the module Language and Speech Disorders in Children and studying with Dr Lula Mogul, whose research focus is children’s auditory processing difficulties, to investigate the speech and hearing disorders affecting speech perception and comprehension.”

My Commentary and Analysis

The next section of this personal statement example begins by outlining the relevant aspects of the writer’s undergraduate education. As with the introduction, the terminology is used with authority and accuracy, conveying the impression of a deeply capable academic candidate.

What makes this more impressive is the way the writer connects the elements. They aren’t written simply as a list of accomplishments or learning experiences, but instead, the writer makes connections between each experience, what was learned and how that is relevant to moving forwards academically. 

This is what makes the difference between a good personal statement and an excellent one!

The writer refers to their capacity for independent study, which is another critical ingredient in a successful master’s personal statement.

They then go on to outline their research interests and tie this in with evidencing an understanding of what the course they are applying for has to offer in this respect, adding validity to their choice of application. They also underpin their ambitions with clinical experience once more before focusing on the work of a prominent faculty member. This again adds weight to their decision to apply for this course and shows the admissions reader that they have done their homework and fully understand the challenges and content of the modules they intend to study. 

By doing so, the writer offers reassurance to the reader and gives them the confidence to make an offer in the knowledge that the applicant is likely to flourish on the course and complete it to the best of their ability.

If you’d like to learn more about structuring your personal statement or statement of purpose , check out my awesome Personal Statement Template eBook here . It’s full of detailed examples of what to include!

Personal Statement Example: Academic Background 2

“Seeking to intervene in speech perception deficits, I was attracted by the module detailing serious games and app development for the language-impaired population. Working in the CogniFit brain-training research project against neurodegeneration, I observed serious cognitive training games extensively used in clinical practice to evaluate participants’ progress in auditory perceptual and cognitive skills. During this process, I became familiar with the EMCL++ programme, where I can develop serious game concepts that can facilitate healthcare professionals’ intervention for children with speech perception and recognition difficulties. I also aim to study the mechanisms of neuroplasticity by using neuroimaging techniques to discover how language-impaired users’ brains react to similar training activities. Equally, the Neuroimaging and Language module for online techniques, such as event-related potentials, will equip me with the necessary knowledge to measure brain activity during speech processing.”

Commentary and Analysis

This section continues in the same vein, outlining a diverse range of study experiences, the skills developed and their relevance to the application. There is a strong emerging sense that this candidate has a clear vision for their academic and professional future and has taken the time to fully prepare themselves.

This is highly impressive. 

Of equal value is the knowledge the writer shows of exactly how elements of the course will develop their knowledge. This kind of evidence is crucial in a postgraduate personal statement, and the style in which the application is written, which is concise, direct and purposeful, is also compelling.

Check out lots more examples of personal statements here , and see how they can inspire your application!

“The psycholinguistic modules at James University, and the opportunity to participate in the Science of Aphasia Conference, are valuable for my research on bilingualism and language disorders. Inspired by my work experience with occupational therapists, I researched phonological iconicity with Chinese-English bilinguals to discover the gustatory meanings of specific phonemes shared in both languages. This speech perception research led me to the undergraduate psycholinguistics conference, where I presented my research findings on an academic poster and exchanged ideas with my colleagues and visiting scholars. This strengthened my confidence to engage with seasoned scholars at the Science of Aphasia Conference, discuss the latest breakthroughs in clinical linguistics and possibly find my master’s thesis supervisor.

To better understand how bilingual speakers’ languages interact, I continued to study speech perception in language acquisition. Using a Python-based programme in PsychoPy to run the experiment and ANOVA in SPSS for data analysis, I researched brain-intact Chinese-English bilingual adult learners’ phonological transfer when learning a third language. These behavioural experiments kindled my curiosity about the structural plasticity in the bilingual brain, which I expect to pursue in the Bilingualism module. Meanwhile, I aim to enhance my research and statistical analysis skills in the Eye-Tracking Research and Statistics and Research Methods in Psycholinguistics modules.”

My Commentary and Analysis: 

This outstanding section demonstrates networking skills, academic engagement outside of the classroom and the development of a specialism within their discipline. These all indicate a candidate that is dedicated, strategic and dynamic, as well as ambitious. 

These experiences all add to the writer’s suitability and authority, as does the reference to the use of coding and algorithmic software such as Python. Again, rather than just listing these skills and experiences, the writer has indicated how these will be of value to a specific aspect of the course they are applying for, which further adds to their suitability.

The one thing that all successful personal statements have in common is that they are concise, engaging and accurate in spelling, punctuation and grammar. Consequently, I always recommend Grammarly to my students and clients. 

It’s an outstanding tool for ensuring your personal statement is rich with detail whilst hitting those all-important word limits. Check out the free version of Grammarly here , or hit the banner for more information.

Personal Statement Example: Conclusion

“In addition to the Language and Autism module, I desire to explore speech research modules at the University of Wildstein. Having worked with children with Down’s syndrome who find it challenging to pronounce certain words in the drama script during the rehearsal, I hope to move my research beyond speech perception to speech production at the phonetics level. Using Praat in the Articulatory, Acoustic and Perceptual Analysis of Speech Motor Disorders module, I am eager to study motor speech impairments to develop interventions for childhood dysarthria. This has expanded my capacity to think critically and learn from previous experiences, which will be beneficial when completing an internship researching language-impaired people’s speech processing at the EMCL++-associated partner, the SPRN Center on Cognition, Brain and Language in Spain. I will combine practical application with my master’s thesis and future PhD research into bilingual neurodiverse children’s communication difficulties.

As an aspiring clinical linguist, I will unite with SLP and other clinical practitioners to contribute to a comprehensive evidence base for helping bilingual and language-impaired children with developmental disabilities. Being a language lover and a speaker of three European languages, I look forward to an immersive study of Dutch and Finnish. Keen to acclimate to different learning settings, I am positive about working with peers from diverse cultural and language backgrounds and sharing my culture with them. Additionally, I will value the opportunity to participate in mobility activities and establish interpersonal and professional networks with alums and teaching cohorts worldwide. This course will unlock my potential in Clinical Linguistics and widen my engagement with related subjects in this field. I am dedicated to exploring numerous aspects of the language-brain relationship and intend to pursue further research as a PhD candidate upon graduation.”

A further paragraph that outlines the writer’s academic ambitions is successful as it reinforces aspects of quality and experience whilst making new points and offering new examples. This is effective, as many conclusion sections simply repeat previous content, whereas this example adds new, equally compelling content. 

This is impressive, as the reader discovers new skills the writer possesses. Mentioning PhD ambitions further reassures any admissions reader of the importance and significance of the master’s degree course.

The last paragraph makes mention of a range of relevant transferable skills. This is quite important here, as so far, this personal statement example has been focused purely on the writer’s academic background to the exclusion of much else. 

The writer also refers to the value they hope to bring to the university community and the ways in which they aim to contribute. This is an effective and compelling way to finish a personal statement, as it widens the candidate’s suitability and suggests that they have a broader understanding of how to collaborate successfully in an academic setting.

This would have been improved with reference to industry or internship experience or  opinions on wider reading or the work of practitioners in the field. However, this is a highly effective and engaging personal statement example that uses subject-specific vocabulary to convey a compelling level of suitability. 

For more great advice, check out my article on writing an excellent final personal statement paragraph here .

Click here or on the banner below to get your free download of this complete personal statement example . 

Whether you’re looking for personal mission statement examples or an example of personal purpose statement, I hope this personal statement example has been helpful. Above all, I wish you every success in your academic career. 

If you’d like to work with me to develop your personal statement 1:1 and write a powerful mission statement, I’d be delighted to hear from you. 

Find out about my personal statement support services by clicking here or on the image below.

Research and content verified by Personal Statement Planet .

David Hallen

I've worked in the Further Education and University Admissions sector for nearly 20 years as a teacher, department head, Head of Sixth Form, UCAS Admissions Advisor, UK Centre Lead and freelance personal statement advisor, editor and writer. And now I'm here for you...

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Sample 1st Paragraph, Chinese Applicant

While I earned my undergraduate degree in my native China in the area of Accounting, I am making a career change to language studies, Linguistics, and second language acquisition because my passion lies in words rather than numbers, people rather than statistics. To this end, for some time now I have been spending all of my free time reading widely in Linguistics and related areas and I am now studying in France as an exchange student through this coming May, 2018. I hope to be selected for the especially distinguished MA in Linguistics Program at XXXX University Dublin on the basis of my facility and accomplishments with languages, nearing fluency in French as well as Korean.

An Overview of Linguistics

Linguistics, the scientific study of language, is a multifaceted field that delves deep into the essence of human communication. In a world where language permeates every aspect of our lives, from social interactions to professional endeavors, the significance of linguistics cannot be overstated.

Understanding the Scope of Linguistics:

Linguistics is an expansive discipline, encompassing various aspects of language. It goes beyond the confines of any single language and seeks to unravel the intricate tapestry that language weaves into our lives. Linguists explore the phonetics and grammatical structures of languages, investigate how people communicate, and decipher the nuances of word and phrase meanings. Moreover, linguistics delves into the fascinating realm of language acquisition in children, examines how languages are represented in the human brain, and tracks the evolution of languages over time.

The Universality and Diversity of Language:

of the most intriguing facets of linguistics is its pursuit of universal truths about all languages while celebrating the diversity among them. While languages may differ vastly in structure, vocabulary, and pronunciation, linguistics seeks to identify the common threads that bind them together. This exploration reveals not only the shared human experience but also the elements that make each language unique.

Linguistics in the Modern World:

In today's globalized world, linguistics plays a pivotal role. The ease of travel and increased interaction between people who speak different languages underscores the importance of understanding how language functions. The ability to communicate effectively in diverse linguistic environments is a skill that is increasingly valuable, particularly in multicultural societies like Canada, where immigration and linguistic diversity are prevalent.

Interdisciplinary Nature of Linguistics:

Linguistics has embraced an interdisciplinary approach, forging connections with psychology, computer science, and philosophy. This cross-pollination of ideas and methodologies enhances our understanding of language and its role in human cognition. As technology continues to advance, linguistics is at the forefront of studying how humans interact with machines and the profound implications of this interaction.

Linguistics as a Career Path:

Linguistics opens up a world of career possibilities. Graduates can pursue advanced degrees in fields like speech pathology, aiding individuals with speech and language disorders. They can work in government agencies, serve as translators, or even contribute to code-breaking efforts. Linguists are also instrumental in healthcare settings, assisting patients who have experienced speech-related challenges due to conditions such as stroke.

The Reflection of Humanity:

Ultimately, linguistics offers insights into the essence of humanity itself. The ability to learn and communicate through language is a defining characteristic of our species. By studying linguistics, individuals gain a deeper understanding of their own identity and the shared human experience. It is a discipline that not only unravels the mechanics of language but also provides profound insights into who we are as human beings.

Conclusion:

In a world where language is the bridge connecting us all, linguistics emerges as a captivating and essential field of study. It unravels the mysteries of communication, celebrates the diversity of languages, and sheds light on our shared humanity. Whether you have a passion for languages or a curiosity about the inner workings of communication, linguistics offers a path of exploration that is both intellectually stimulating and profoundly enlightening.

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Personal statement example english literature personal statement.

English Literature Personal Statement

Literature has a unique ability in gathering an array of emotions from its readers whilst revealing attitudes towards characters or time periods. A writer’s ingenuity has always engrossed me, which led me to believe that English is the ideal degree to read at university.

An insight into canonical literature truly developed a hunger for literature within me. I particularly found Austen’s focus on the women of Georgian society to be amusing, notably the way that marriage was such a significant aspect of their lives. Her books seemed to remove excessive vulnerability from her female characters; they were thoughtful like Anne Elliot, intelligent like Elizabeth Bennet and imaginative like Catherine Morland. Victorian literature was also engaging in my eyes with Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” offering me a satirical outlook on the social hierarchy of the nineteenth century. I was intrigued by how the members of the upper class, such as Lady Bracknell, persisted to maintain their status and strived to have no association with those that they believed were of a lower breed.

Recently, I have started to appreciate the finesse of close reading. I admired how the use of creative language in Arundhati Roy’s “The God of Small Things”, such as the capitalisation of words, accentuated meaningful events through the twins’ eyes. The parallels were visible between their delight in the English language and my own when I had first began to learn English as a second language. Furthermore, close reading was vital in my comprehension of a governesses’ life in Victorian England and aided me to differentiate between the romantic view that “Jane Eyre” portrayed as opposed to the mundanity that Anne Bronte depicted in “Agnes Grey”.

My AS English Literature course was fundamental to me in developing my ability to critically analyse characters and ideas, especially in the novel “Frankenstein”. I found it fascinating that Frankenstein’s hubris leads to the creature’s destructive nature and that Shelley questions humanity’s desire to overstep the boundaries of science. Nevertheless, I found myself sympathising with Frankenstein due to his eagerness in pioneering a new path for mankind and found him comparable to scientists today. My own investigative approach was heightened by the study of Biology and Mathematics at AS. Similarly, Emily Dickinson’s poetry taught me to consider what she was implying behind her stanzas and to contemplate the presentation of her themes. Her poem “I felt a Funeral, in my Brain” was poignant in the sense that it compared a mental illness to a death which I found harrowing.

What I found most gratifying outside of college was my development in communication skills, an aspect that is imperative for an English student. Participating in Model United Nations as a Syrian delegate was demanding during the peak of the crisis but it honed my capability to produce effectual responses. I volunteer at Marie Curie Cancer Care in order to give back to the community as well as it enabling me to work effectively in a team, which I find invaluable. I learnt to swim this year-a prospect that I had initially been fearful of. I also became a volunteer for the Summer Reading Challenge through my local library. It was beneficial in the sense that I was able to create a curiosity for unfamiliar stories in younger children.

Over the years, my affection for English has only been elevated and my aptitude and diligence for learning will be of great service during my time at university. I view literature with unwavering zeal which will certainly permit me to relish the challenges ahead.

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Languages/linguistics personal statement example.

My decision to study languages at University stems from a fascination of the complexity of language and the changes which languages go through. As I am Scottish, I often speak in a regional dialect and I find myself engrossed as to why people speak in dialects and why speakers of the same language can have difficulties understanding each other. For some time, I have been intrigued by foreign languages as well as my own. After studying three foreign languages and English at school, the decision to study languages seemed a natural one. My biggest ambition in life has been to learn a foreign language and French really stood out to me in first year when I took part in my school's French club and we put on a play. As this goal developed, so did my love for not only foreign languages, but for my own language and the theory behind languages.

Another passion in my life is music. I have been studying Clarinet for five years and teaching myself Tenor Saxophone for two years. In March 2006, I was awarded Trinity grade five Clarinet at distinction level and I am currently preparing to sit grade seven Clarinet. I take part in many music groups in my school and East Lothian. Studying advanced higher music this year has also fuelled my love for languages and I am doing extensive research on French composers. As well as music, I love taking part in sporting activities. I swim regularly in my free time and I take part in the tennis club at school. Finally, my part-time job at Domino's Pizza has taught me valuable lessons in money management and being more confident.

I contribute to a number of areas in school. Last year, I was a prefect and this year, I have been chosen for the role of House Captain which entails running the House Council to discuss ideas for the school. I find this exciting as I get an opportunity to make positive decisions. My other duties include helping out at Parents' evenings and register classes and speaking to groups of pupils. In other areas, I take part in the Amnesty International Group where I raise money and campaign, school magazine and the prom and yearbook committee. In these areas, I have the opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge such as politics, journalism and responsibility with organising events.

Through studying advanced higher French, I have discovered French literature, something which I find highly enjoyable. For advanced higher, I read 'Le Silence De La Mer', by Vercors, and was immediately captivated and encouraged by my ability to not only read the book, but understand and analyse the novel. I find speaking to the language assistants at school to be a rewarding experience as I get the chance to practise the language and gain knowledge of the assistants' culture and life. Overall, I enjoy the advanced higher course as I am able to express myself more than ever before in a foreign language. From a linguistics point of view, I find the work of Steven Pinker very stimulating, particularly his views on first language acquisition which I read in his book, 'The Language Instinct.'

I have many areas which I believe studying language could lead me in the future. Through my own research, I have become highly interested in the area of teaching. I am intrigued by how young children learn languages and I feel very strongly that children should be taught languages from a very early age. I love the opportunity to promote this by helping out at a Spanish club at a local primary school.

I find that all of the activities I take part in and subjects that I have studied have made me a well-rounded, independent person, with worthy knowledge from many disciplines. I believe I will be committed to University as I understand how to study well through doing my advanced highers self study and I believe I am suited well to for a degree in languages. I cannot wait to start my degree course as I will be able to develop and refine skills I already have and gain new knowledge.

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This personal statement was written by Ldesu for application in 2010.

Degree MA French and Linguistics at The University of Edinburgh

Ldesu's Comments

Sent my application away at the beginning of dec 2009 with AABB in Scottish Highers. Received 5 unconditionals and I accepted my offer to the University of Edinburgh to do French and Linguistics. N.B. Where it says my grades are A levels on my profile, they are infact Scottish Highers. Likewise for GCSE levels, they are Scottish Standard Grades.

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