English Course – The Most Suitable Choice for Me

English is my life, always has been and always will be because there is something about the English language that speaks to my soul. My love affair with English dates back over 15 years, with my first experiences of reading. I feel like I am a part of something great when I read. I can shift myself to any place in time, in the world, or even out of this world through the words in a book. English is therefore, my window to a world outside of my tiny little part of London. I could not consider another subject choice, it is all about English, in all of its forms. Through all the changes in my life, there was always a book, or poem, that I could relate to and it seemed as if the writer knew my pain at that exact moment and how to ease it. I have taken this experience with words to younger students as an English mentor at my local Primary school, as part of an afterschool’s program to help improve general literacy. This has really boosted my communication and comprehension skills because the students I worked with had conceptual learning difficulties. I have spent much of my short life playing with text, from scriptwriting at the Chickenshed Theatre for my drama team’s performance to short stories, since the age of 9. Creative writing is something I enjoy and intend to develop through this degree course. I would love to tune in on my creative talent to be able to develop professional scripts, and eventually a novel.

My experience with English is not limited to the written word. Exploring spoken word poetry whilst studying drama for 5 years has built on important communication and performance skills. This experience has increased my understanding of literature though the study of historical and contemporary themed poems in national and international contexts. One of my favourite poems, Goblins Market by Christina Rosette inspired me to look at poetry as an expressive media and this is also something I hope learn more about. Past roles as a playleader for children aged 5 to 11 years; and as a McDonald’s team member make me suitable for higher education because of the need for me to be a good team member, and more social. I believe that creative writing will require me to work with fellow writers. Networking with my peers that can critique my work and learning how to hone in on my own talents to perfect my craft is an exciting prospect, and something that has driven me to apply for this course. I am used to working with and learning from others, especially identified when working on a community video project, as part of a London Youth Theatre Programme, with the Chickenshed. I had to work with a team of 12, agreeing all aspects of video production to create an informative video about the importance of reading. I believe one of the best ways to improve my own interpersonal skills is by learning about myself. While learning about other people’s imagination I believe I will become more self-aware; leading to better communication skills and ultimately I will master my own interpersonal skills.

As I grow as a writer I hope to discover more about myself and find a way to pour that back into my writing skills. As an active member of my school’s student council, I believe I would be a good addition to the student body because I have experience with the democratic system of education. I often liaised with my peers and the Parent Teacher Association members to ensure that the school was in a constant state of improvement. One of the many responsibilities as a student representative was to ensure the development of students in the lower years and those with special educational needs. I also served as a mentor, helping GCSE English students with set work to help improve their final grade. I was invited to give speeches to groups of students, preparing them for future decisions and life challenges, whilst choosing curriculum options.

I have always believed that a healthy body is just as important as a healthy mind; I was part of the Marshall’s cheerleading squad for 4 years. My commitment to a healthy lifestyle has, without question, enhanced my self-discipline and overall organisation skills; evidencing my suitability for the resilience necessary for success in higher education. I was fortunate to be granted the opportunity to spend two weeks at the Guardian newspaper, although I did not write anything for the paper, I had the opportunity to see and experience a “real world” work environment and shadow industry professionals. I realised my suitability for team work and ability to communicate at all levels with colleagues and other stakeholders.

This experience evidences I can complete tasks given within a relatively short period, to the highest standard. This evidences my suitability for the course and as an active member of the student body. Work experience and my A Level course have confirmed with no uncertainty my chosen area of study is right for me and the right step in my pursuit of personal and professional perfection.