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Law and German Personal Statement

As the practice of Law develops faster than ever before, I couldn't have picked a greater time to study it, shown by my studies in History. German is a further subject which I would like to study and with German being the most widely spoken native language in Europe and English being the most popular second language, it looks as though it would be a wise choice. Not only do I possess the determination to see myself through a degree in Law with German but these subject strengths have presented me with the basic skills with which to do it. History, which I won the Dunblane Cup for in May 2007, has equipped me with great problem solving skills and increased my writing skills whereas German has developed my listening skills and has given me a greater knowledge of how languages work, which I applied to English as well.

Becoming a Lawyer has been an ambition of mine for a large part of my life, as I believe I could make a positive difference in this role, such as taking on cases that other people wouldn't or even working on behalf of a charity at no additional cost. This was confirmed by my self-organised and relevant work experience at Barton & Hendry Solicitors in Cumbernauld, which shows not only great enthusiasm but also self-reliance and initiative. During the week I attended court hearings at both the district and sheriff courts local to the firm, which gave me a deep insight into the ins and outs of a working Court but I also acted as a witness to a power of attorney, where I got to see what was involved in such a piece of litigation - a whole new experience to me. I also completed a great deal of filing and franking, giving me a taster of what the routine was like in a real Law office. I learned valuable skills such as meeting deadlines and listening how to complete tasks successfully.

I have gained further skills through helping staff with classes in subjects of my choice, such as German and History. This helped me build on my existing self-confidence and also learn how to manage others effectively, a skill which is of great relevance in both a law or foreign language course. I also took an active part during the Primary 7 Induction Day in June 2007.

In May 2005 I completed a week of extreme sports-themed activities such as Sea Level Traversing and Paragliding. I was nominated by teachers for academic strength to take part in the Gifted and Talented Cohort at my previous school. This week showed me that my strengths are not just limited to what I have achieved in school and that I can cope with highly stressful situations in which wouldn't normally feel comfortable.

Outside of school I frequently read quality newspapers such as 'The Independent' or 'The Guardian' both to increase my literacy and enhance my knowledge. I have also visited museums, such as the National Museum of Scotland, which has increased my knowledge of local history. I have often watched German-language films such as 'Was Tun Wenn's Brennt?' and 'Good bye Lenin!' In July 2003 and 2005, while staying in Germany I visited museums such the Holocaust Museum in Berlin, I stayed with a German family for a week - this gave me a real taste of German culture and the language spoken in a native environment rather than a classroom.

I believe I am an ideal candidate for a degree in Law with German and by accepting my application you will equip me with relevant new skills and build upon the basic skills I have already gained.

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