This personal statement was part of this student’s successful application to University of Sheffield, University of Nottingham, and Cardiff University.
I’ve always been fascinated by the Malaysian legal system. It is a unique and complex institution guided by common law containing heavy influences from religious and customary sources. I find this aspect of our legal system intriguing, as it gives me a perspective into the complexities of balancing tradition and culture while also adapting to the laws of the modern world to govern a country. This curiosity is the catalyst that fuelled my interest in applying to law schools, as I am keen to learn more about the intricacies surrounding legal frameworks and to delve deeper into how legal principles are used to solve contemporary issues.
My interest in law was further reinforced during my foundation year. I especially enjoyed my Legal Learning Skills class, where we were given the opportunity to examine real case law and extract important information. I found this subject to be extremely relevant in my pursuit of a legal education as it refined my analytical and reasoning skills. Identifying the ratio decidendi of cases also allowed me to understand the perspective of the judges and how the court’s decision was ultimately formed.
My passion for healthy discourse and research led me to join the debate team in my first year of high school. When asked whether I wanted to join the English or Malay debate team, I chose the English team on the basis that they had a vast collection of resources and training materials compared to the latter team. Debating in English also meant that I wasn’t restricted to motions only affecting Malaysian policy and was free to explore topics related to global issues. Consequently, this experience broadened my perspective on certain matters and became a gateway for me to learn about discourse happening all around the world.
I chose the UK as my preferred destination, as I thoroughly believe a UK education will have a lasting impact on my journey towards becoming a solicitor. The legal history of the UK is rich in compelling cases, landmark decisions, and notable jurists. Common law, the system of law practiced in Malaysia, originated from the UK, therefore making it the ideal place for me to study, as I am able to immerse myself in the heart of one of the world’s most influential legal systems. Aside from that, the UK is also home to bright legal academicians and professors, renowned for their compelling lectures and dynamic courses. I am sure that I would benefit a lot from the eased accessibility to experts in order to hone my own abilities.
I have also demonstrated leadership and reliability by joining the student council here in college. My time on the Council has also enhanced my interpersonal communication skills and taught me valuable lessons on effective collaboration. Planning and organising college events have helped me improve on my decision-making and problem-solving skills, both of which I believe are essential for a law student. I strongly believe that the qualities I possess and have acquired make me a strong candidate for admission into your respective undergraduate programme.
My goal during university would be to seek a greater understanding of law as a whole while also striving for personal growth through active participation in seminars, extracurriculars, and internships available to ensure I maximise my time at the university and unlock my fullest potential. Upon graduation, I hope to be able to contribute back to the world and help shape a better society through legal reforms, especially in regards to social issues that leave lasting impacts. A great education is the first crucial step towards achieving this dream, and I am eager to be given the opportunity of turning it into a reality.