example of international relations personal statement

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International Relations Masters Personal Statement Sample

Written by Ben Taylor

This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in International Relations. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement .

In today’s unstable political climate, a nuanced, multifaceted understanding of international relations seems more important than ever, with the emergence of right-wing populism around the world and the imminent reckoning of the climate crisis (not to mention the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic). Being able to grasp the power dynamics at play between (and within) nations seems crucial to maintaining some semblance of continuity in the international community.

Having studied History and Politics at undergraduate level, one of the aspects of your Masters in International Relations programme that appeals to me the most is its interdisciplinary nature. Sociology, international law and history are all incredibly important when it comes to understanding our current moment and I look forward to studying the myriad ways in which they inform each other.

My undergraduate dissertation focused on the breakup of Yugoslavia and the subsequent Dayton Accords peace agreement, and was informed by my time at an NGO in Sarajevo in 2017. This organisation promoted human rights in the Balkan region and I helped with the development of several campaigns to support judicial and civic reform. I’m eager to expand on this research for my Masters and have already secured another internship working for a Zagreb-based refugee organisation next summer.

While at university I was active in several student societies, including being on the committee for the Amnesty International Society, where I helped organise several keynote speeches and letter-writing campaigns. I was also the social secretary for the History Society and the treasurer for the Alternative Music Society, putting on several financially lucrative gigs around the city.

After graduating in 2018, I started working as an account manager for a marketing agency, drumming up sales and also acting as a liaison between our clients and the in-house team of creatives. I like to think that this experience has boosted my interpersonal communication skills and given me a knack for negotiation and managing expectations.

Despite working full-time, I’ve continued to travel widely wherever possible, returning to the Balkans on several occasions and also making self-guided study trips to the International Criminal Court in the Hague, the UN Headquarters in New York City and the United Nations Office at Geneva.

I hope that your Masters programme will provide the scope to expand on my existing experience and give me opportunities to develop expertise in new and exciting areas. Once my studies have finished, I hope to find work in a more senior role at an NGO in the Balkans and I’m sure that your programme will act as the perfect springboard for this goal.

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Sample International Relations Personal Statement (Columbia, Cornell, Kings)

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following essay is written by an applicant who got accepted to top graduate programs in international relations and affairs (Masters in IR). Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Columbia’s SIPA school, Cornell’s ILR school and Kings College London. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in international relations and affairs should look like.

Sample Personal Statement in International Relations and Affairs

After GCE A-levels, I was so smitten with Economics that I wanted it to stay with me for life. As it happens to be, that did turn out to be true. I received a scholarship to the London School of Economics (LSE) and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Economics. While at the LSE, I developed an interest in economic research. I interned at the Center for Economic Research in Washington, DC, every summer for four years. My work in DC was based on Evidence-Based Procurement Reforms. The project aimed to evaluate public sector institutes’ procurement process to increase efficiency in their procurement workflow. The fieldwork required me to work with government officials and help them digitize the procurement process. I realized that even though the officials wanted public sector organizations to work efficiently, such changes were not easy to bring unless better policies were designed.

During my junior year at LSE, I worked as a research assistant at the Center for Research in Economics and Business (CREB). At CREB, I worked with Professor Antony Bert on a preliminary report to evaluate the impact of microcredit on women in developing countries. The study was conducted in collaboration with a nonprofit, and it helped me see the difference my work could make in the lives of women entrepreneurs.

During my senior year at LSE, I was selected for the Global UGRAD program. My time at Utica College helped me decide where I wanted to proceed with economics. The rich discussions in my “international political economy” and “international relations” classes gave me a lot to think about. I especially remember when I led a seminar on how the West could help the East solve its economic problems. The classroom was an amalgamation of different nationalities, so the varying viewpoints were very interesting.

The thought that developing countries may be a burden for the developed world to bear saddened me. I had previously given little thought to my country’s role in the global economy. It became apparent to me that the resources, even in the wealthiest countries, are scarce, and development is a pressing issue. At the same time, interacting with people from different ethnicities opened my mind to what I needed to do for developing countries. Talking about the problems of developing countries with others motivated me to play my part in making them better, and working for their development, seemed the right place to start.

My fascination with economics grew further when I heard Professor Kaushik Basu, the Chief Economist at World Bank, talk about the challenges facing the South Asian region at the 11th South Asian Economics Students’ Meet (SAESM) in Bhutan. He stated that the South Asian region could greatly benefit from regional integration if its countries overcame problems, such as mutual mistrust, by formulating policies to help eradicate such barriers. This increased my proclivity toward development economics and sparked an interest in studying policymaking.

Recently, I got the opportunity to intern at the Planning and Development Department of India. It was a window for me to peek into the world of policymaking, which did not turn out to be as I had hoped. Millions of dollars were allocated to different projects, yet with no significant improvement in the common man’s life. I became certain that much more is needed to be done to make public policies more effective. For example, there was no proper cost-benefit analysis of projects, and there were instances where funds were tied up in projects due to bureaucratic delays.

I was thrilled to start working as a Research Assistant for a Tax project. As I had become enamored with public policy by now, I was excited to work for evidence-based policy reform. The project intends to strengthen the social relationship between the government and the taxpayers by highlighting the link between property tax revenues and public services. I have been coordinating and working closely with the Excise and Taxation Department and have also been involved in collecting and cleaning taxpayer data. While I am learning a lot here at The Indian Econometric Society (TIES), it has helped me identify the gaps in my knowledge. For example, I lack the econometric skills to analyze public programs and policies.

I hope that graduate studies will help me obtain these skills and tools. I want to pursue a Master’s in International Relations specializing in international development policy, as I want to evaluate third-world countries’ policies in an international setting. My experiences provide a great opportunity to get a graduate degree and experience the cultural exchange experience again, where I can share more experiences from my work with the new people I meet. I hope to return to India better prepared to work on policy analysis by working for developmental organizations and agencies.

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International relations personal statements

On this page you'll find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study international relations and related courses at university.

These personal statements are written by real students - don't expect them all to be perfect! But by reading through a few of these samples, you'll be able to get some ideas and inspiration for your own personal statement.

International relations personal statement examples

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International Relations Personal Statement Example

The personal statement for international relations should emphasize your passion for the field as well as your unique experiences and qualities. The following is an example of an international relations personal statement .

As an avid reader of international news and a participant in Model United Nations conferences, I have long been fascinated by the complexities and challenges of global politics . I am drawn to the field of international relations because it offers a unique perspective on how countries interact with each other and how their decisions impact the world at large.

I believe that the study of international relations is crucial for understanding and addressing the most pressing issues of our time, such as climate change, terrorism, and economic inequality. In particular, I am interested in the role of international organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, in promoting cooperation and resolving conflicts among nations. I am also fascinated by the concept of international law and how it can be used to protect human rights and uphold global standards.

In college, I pursued a major in political science and a minor in economics, taking courses in international relations, comparative politics, and global governance. I have also had the opportunity to intern with the U.S. Department of State, where I assisted in the preparation of briefing materials and provided support to senior officials working on international affairs. This experience has deepened my understanding of the inner workings of the foreign policy process and has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in international relations.

I am now eager to take the next step in my academic and professional journey by pursuing a graduate degree in international relations. I am confident that the knowledge and skills I gain through this program will prepare me to make meaningful contributions to the field and to be a leader in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous world.

International Relations Personal Statement Writing Tips

Read our tips for writing a personal statement for international relations :

Start by thinking about why you are interested in international relations. What sparked your curiosity about the field? What specific issues or topics are you passionate about? By explaining your motivations and interests, you can give the admissions committee a sense of your personality and why you are a good fit for the program.
Next, highlight your relevant academic and professional experiences. Have you taken classes in international relations or related subjects? Have you interned or worked in a related field? Be sure to mention any research projects, study abroad experiences, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to international relations.
Explain how a graduate degree in international relations will help you achieve your career goals. What do you hope to do after you graduate? How will this program prepare you to succeed in your chosen field?
Keep your writing clear and concise. A personal statement is a short piece of writing, so you will need to be selective about what you include. Avoid overly complex sentences and jargon, and focus on communicating your ideas straightforwardly and engagingly.
Proofread and edit your statement carefully. A personal statement is a reflection of your writing skills and attention to detail, so it’s important to make sure your statement is free of errors and written. Ask a friend or family member to read over your statement and provide feedback, and be sure to review it yourself multiple times to catch any mistakes.

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International Relations & Politics Personal Statement Examples

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

Personal Statement Example Links

Personal Statement Example 1
Personal Statement Example 2
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Personal Statement Example 6

Ever been intrigued by the intricate dance of international politics and relations? Fascinated by the prospect of studying the mechanisms of power, negotiation, and diplomacy on a global scale?

If so, a degree in International Relations and Politics could be your ideal journey. This comprehensive field equips you with the skills to understand, critique, and participate in shaping the world’s political landscape.

International Relations 2 is an exciting and relevant university course for students interested in exploring the complexities of global politics. This course provides an in-depth look at the various forces shaping international relations, such as economic, political, and social dynamics.

It also examines the role of international organisations, non-governmental organizations, and other actors in global affairs. Through a combination of lectures, readings, and discussions, students will gain an understanding of the global political landscape and the various ways in which countries interact with one another.

By studying international relations, students will gain a better understanding of the world around them and how their own actions can have an effect on the global stage. This course is an invaluable tool for students who want to understand the complexities of global politics and the role they can play in it.

👍 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

A degree in International Relations can open up a variety of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

In the public sector, graduates of International Relations can pursue careers in government, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and think tanks. Government positions can include foreign service officers and diplomats, intelligence analysts, policy analysts, and public affairs officers.

International organisations, such as the United Nations, offer positions in research, policy analysis, and diplomacy. NGOs often need staff to work on international development projects, human rights advocacy, and refugee resettlement. Think tanks provide opportunities for research and policy analysis, as well as advocacy and communications.

In the private sector, graduates of International Relations can pursue careers in international business, consulting, and journalism. International business positions can include global marketing, international trade, and international finance. Consulting firms often need staff to conduct research, analyse data, and develop strategies for their clients. Journalism positions can include reporting on international news, writing opinion pieces, and conducting interviews.

Overall, a degree in International Relations provides a wide range of career opportunities in a variety of industries and sectors. Graduates of International Relations can pursue positions in government, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, international business, consulting, and journalism.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into the University of Kent’s International Relations 2 course, applicants must have achieved a minimum grade of a 2:1 (or equivalent) in their first degree, and must have achieved a minimum grade of a 2:2 (or equivalent) in their second degree.

In addition to this, applicants must have successfully completed the University of Kent’s International Relations 1 course, or an equivalent course from another institution. This is to ensure that applicants have the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in the course.

In comparison to similar courses, the entry criteria for the University of Kent’s International Relations 2 course is relatively standard. Most universities require a minimum grade of a 2:1 (or equivalent) in the first degree, and a minimum grade of a 2:2 (or equivalent) in the second degree. Additionally, most universities require applicants to have successfully completed a course in International Relations 1, or an equivalent course from another institution.

UK Earnings Potential For International Relations

The average earnings for someone with a degree in international relations is highly dependent on the individual’s experience, location, and the type of job they are seeking. Generally speaking, graduates with a degree in international relations can expect to earn a median salary of around $60,000 per year.

In terms of trends in the job market, the demand for international relations professionals is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. This is due to the increasing complexity of global affairs and the need for professionals with the skills and knowledge to navigate them.

Additionally, the growth of international trade and the need for professionals to manage and negotiate these relationships is expected to further drive demand for international relations professionals. Finally, the increasing prevalence of technology in international affairs is also expected to create new opportunities for those with a degree in international relations.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses to International Relations 2 include International Relations 1, International Political Economy, Global Politics, and International Studies.

International Relations 1 is a foundational course that provides an introduction to the study of international relations. It covers topics such as the historical development of the international system, the major theories of international relations, and the structure and dynamics of the international system.

International Political Economy focuses on the economic aspects of international relations. It examines the relationship between politics and economics, the role of international organizations in the global economy, and the impact of globalization on the global economy.

Global Politics examines the global political system and its implications for international relations. It covers topics such as the role of international organizations, the emergence of transnational actors, and the impact of global economic and political forces on international relations.

International Studies is a broad-based course that examines the social, political, economic, and cultural aspects of international relations. It covers topics such as the history of international relations, the role of international organizations, and the impact of globalization on international relations.

The key differences between these courses are the topics covered. International Relations 1 focuses on the theoretical aspects of international relations, while International Political Economy and Global Politics focus on the economic and political aspects of international relations. International Studies is a more comprehensive course that covers a wide range of topics related to international relations.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in the International Relations 2 course include:

1. International Law: This module covers the legal framework of international relations, including the principles of international law, the sources of international law, and the role of the United Nations and other international organizations in the regulation of international relations.

2. International Organisations: This module examines the structure and functioning of international organizations, such as the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Trade Organization. It also examines the role of international organizations in the resolution of international disputes.

3. International Security: This module examines the main threats to international security, such as terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and regional conflicts. It also looks at the role of international organizations in addressing these threats.

4. International Economics: This module examines the economic policies of countries, the role of international trade and investment, and the functioning of the global economy.

5. International Politics: This module examines the politics of international relations, including the role of states, non-state actors, and international organizations in the global system.

6. International History: This module examines the history of international relations, from the end of World War II to the present day.

In addition to the topics and modules listed above, the course may also involve hands-on experience or practical work. This may include field trips to international organizations, simulations of international negotiations, and research projects.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the International Relations 2 course include former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright and former United Nations Ambassador Samantha Power. Albright served as the 64th Secretary of State from 1997 to 2001 and is currently the Chair of Albright Stonebridge Group, a global strategy firm.

Power served as the 28th United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 2013 to 2017 and is currently a professor at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. Both Albright and Power have made significant contributions to the field of international relations, having served in high-level positions in the United States government and having been involved in numerous international initiatives.

Alumni events and networking opportunities are available through the university’s alumni network. These events include webinars, lectures, and other events hosted by the university and organized by alumni groups.

Additionally, alumni can connect with each other through the alumni network’s online platform, which allows alumni to connect with each other and share resources. Alumni can also join the university’s alumni association, which provides networking opportunities and resources for alumni to stay connected with the university and its current students.

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Personal Statements
International Relations personal statement

International Relations Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

International Relations, the study of how different territories, regions, or countries manage their relationship when they recognise no superior authority over matters they all consider vital, can lead to many exciting career options.

If you’ve been considering apply to study International Relations at university, but are struggling with your personal statement, take a look at our example personal statement:

As well as having a strong interest in travel I have always been interested in the way that different countries work together, or in some cases against each other, both in times of peace and crisis.

Most people will remember where they were at the time of pivotal events in our society, for example 9/11. I myself was at school and remember wondering what action America would be able to take to punish those responsible for the tragedy. As the events following 9/11 unfolded and I learn more about war in school History lessons I became more interested in how countries communicate and how their relationships change over time.

In my final years at school, and later at college, I studied Critical Thinking which allowed me to develop my analytical skills and construct logical debates. At A Level I also studied Politics and Modern History which allowed me to gain an in-depth insight into how countries function and build relationships with others.

I was a member of my Student Council and worked part time throughout my time at college. I feel that both of these roles have given me the chance to build on my communication and teamwork skills.

Outside of school I spend as much time as I can travelling and learning new languages including French, Spanish, German, and more recently, Mandarin Chinese.

I look forward to developing all of my skills, both academic and social, during my time at university. I also look forward to the increased work experience opportunities that studying at university will give to me. I hope that by completing a degree course in International Relations will allow me to work towards a future career in politics.

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE International Relations Personal Statement

Explore your passion for politics.

Apply for a Politics and International Relations degree at Southampton and explore issues from globalisation to public policy!

International Relations Personal Statement

I have long been interested in world affairs; the interaction of its leaders, their different economies and 20th century history but had never made the connection to an interest in politics specifically until recently. An innate sense of moral justice together with a fascination for people, how they communicate and interact has seen me represent my form each and every year, become a School Council Member and finally be instrumental in creating and collating the Yearbook. I see obtaining a greater understanding of politics, not as a way of becoming a politician but to strengthen my communication skills and perception of people to use in say, speech writing, political journalism or even satirical comedy. Today’s constant global media presence in Politics makes it impossible not to be interested, informed or aware. My attraction in this area also inevitably draws me towards other cultures, and primarily that of my second language, French. Upon visiting France, I experienced the huge cultural difference, remarkable given the small distance between us which made me contemplate cultures miles away and all the countries I am yet to visit. It is my main aspiration to become fluent in French, as one of the most widely spoken languages in the world it will enable me to travel widely, understand and be understood and as one of the main languages of the EU & the UN it will be useful as part of my interest in Politics.

Writing is something I love and with a late attempt at writing, a friend and I penned a sitcom and submitted it to the BBC. To get feedback at all was an accolade and their constructive criticism has been invaluable to my writing. Analysing the written word too and reading authors such as Alan Moore, whose graphic novels like; ‘Watchmen’ are complex, brilliant and perversely realistic. I see the written and spoken word as being a powerful contribution to Politics, without which it would be impossible to articulate a reasoned or believable argument.

I also secured placements with Evans Vettori Architects whose business is mainly public sector. Then with one of the largest commercial law firms in Great Britain, Pinsent Masons in their Outsourcing, Commercial and Technology department where I enjoyed an amazing week following the infamous ‘Vodkat’ case and beta testing the new ITechLaw website on behalf of one of the Partners.

As co-administrator of ‘911 Publishing’, we collated new subscription details and distributed large numbers of magazines to Porche lovers throughout the world. I was also keen to follow up on the annual advertising campaign for Derbyshire County Council Youth Purchasing Officers and much enjoyed my time with them, working with law enforcement officers and trading standards officers to stamp out illegal sales to the underage.

Possibly my proudest achievement has been my success on stage performing in leading roles in seven productions in a variety of genres. The ability to learn vast volumes of text together with a good tenor vocal has made this one of the most rewarding aspects of both school and social life. I am currently involved in writing, producing and performing a brand new musical, for which I was chosen from nearly one hundred hopefuls. I look forward to it coming to fruition next Easter.

My own personal interests include Rubik’s cubing, comedy, computing, socialising and film recently indulging in both French and English language films. I have been on many trips, both in and out of school to see films, theatre productions and live comedy. I find sport; chiefly football and running, fun and help relieve stress especially when playing in a team, as I have done for my whole school career.

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Sample Personal Statement of Purpose for the MA in International Affairs, African Applicant

My mother tongue is Kinyarwanda; I am also a near-native speaker of both French and Swahili. I knew very little English when I came to the USA in 2012, at the age of 21; but I have given it my all. It is not quite as good as my French but continues to improve rapidly. I see my future unfolding in French and Swahili as well as English, since they are the three foremost languages of commerce and interaction in Africa.

A Tutsi originally from East Congo, my first memories are of fleeing political violence in the land where I was born. In the events surrounding the genocide in Rwanda of 1994, both of my parents disappeared, one at a time, presumed deceased. The bodies of my two oldest siblings were recovered. We had sought refuge in a refugee camp fleeing violence against Tutsis in the Congo. I subsequently grew up in the refugee camp in Rwanda, reading everything that I could get my hands on. I was resettled to the USA in 2012 along with my two surviving brothers. Now 26 and a US citizen, I hope to serve my country.

I am especially excited about the prospect of studying under the direction of professors XXXX and XXXX. Dr. XXXX has written extensively about African conflicts. Since I am especially interested in “Conflict Resolution” as a response to the refugee crisis, I also see the work of Dr. XXXX on the African diaspora to be especially relevant to the research that I hope to undertake in the future. Finally, GWU is also the perfect location as a result of the wide range of internships available.

The generosity that the United States has showed to me is a powerful motivating force that drives me to excel as a student of International Affairs, preparing myself for a career with the State Department, the United States Immigration and Citizenship Services, or the United Nations.

I thank you for considering my application to the XXXX School.

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Samples of My Work in International Relations/Affairs

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Master's International Relations Sample Statement of Purpose, Chinese Applicant with background in Finance, Humanitarian Initiative

I recognise that this age in which knowledge of other cultures, peoples and attitudes is almost instantly available, there exist unique opportunities and challenges that are entirely new in the world of diplomacy and I want to be a part of a ‘new diplomacy’ that will be required to fully exploit this situation and to identify and overcome its challenges.

Like most young people, I have always wanted to spend my life ‘making a difference’ rather than merely making a living but this ambition was rather vague and unfocussed until I took up a post at an INGO called Saferworld. Although my role was financial, I worked alongside dedicated and highly trained people whose goal is to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives for those affected, or potentially affected, by war. I was inspired by their idealism and enthusiasm and this fired a desire in me to work to the same or similar ends.

I have recent experience working as a volunteer with a local NGO in Cambodia whose goal is to encourage development and effective local government. I assisted the NGO in the design of effective fundraising campaigns, assisting in the improvement of financial procedures and controls and improving local staff English Language skills. This first-hand experience of seeing the cheerful and determined way in which enormous challenges are faced was highly inspiring and totally confirmed me in my ambition to work in the field of international relations. I have also made several visits to my parents’ home country of Pakistan and travelled in Europe and North Africa.

A background in Finance may be atypical for applicants for this course but I believe that this specialist knowledge will enable me to ‘add value’ to it and to provide specialist input in a future career in such matters as the financial controls necessary for effective provision of aid and in countries struggling against the scourge of corruption. I would be very interested in assisting in research related to effective means of combatting corrupt practices during the course or some other finance related project.

I have happily worked, studied, served and socialized with people from many cultural and social backgrounds. I enjoy meeting new people and sharing experiences and cultural knowledge and I have a well-developed sense of humour. I have experience of effective report writing and of designing and providing interesting verbal presentations. I am an enthusiastic amateur writer and I ‘unwind’ by boxing which also keeps me fit and calls for high level tactical skills and self-discipline.

I greatly look forward to interacting with students and a faculty who share my enthusiasm and passion for this area of study and can promise to apply exceptional enthusiasm and diligence during the course.

Thank you for considering my application.

The Paradox of Humanitarian Aid

International Relations is a multi-disciplinary major that draws from politics, history, economics, law, sociology, psychology, philosophy, ethics, and geography. You'll be dealing with foreign cultures, languages, worldviews, and values. The study of foreign languages is a necessity, as is a sense of empathy, compassion, and good will.

As someone with a PHD in Religion and Social Ethics, I am especially engaged with the study of those aspects of international relations theory which concern the extent and scope of ethical obligations between states in an era of globalization. I will help with creative ideas for your statement as we work together as a team forming and eloquently expressing the most important part, your long term goals. A world traveler who has gotten to know Asia and Europe personally throughout decades of study of politics and history, I could be a very valuable asset to your endeavors.

International Relations & Ethics

Leading schools of thought that serve to articulate an ethical posture for International Relations include Cosmopolitanism and anti-Cosmopolitanism, Realism, Liberalism, and Marxism. These are all ethical traditions that conceptually address moral issues in international relations. As a historian of the Cold War, in particular, I understand the historical background of IR, especially as concerns the Developing World.

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Sample 1st Paragraph for the Master’s Degree in International Public Management at the XXXX School of International Affairs, Korean Applicant, Program in France

International Relations – Feminism and International Relations.

The Heroines of International Relations

There is little about the heroines of international relations online. Scour the Women Leaders in International Relations & Foreign Policy Facebook group, and you´ll find some mentioned, as well as a speech or two from Michelle Obama.

But as Madeleine Albright hilariously and very rightly said: “There is a special place in hell for women who do not help other women.” Yep. So we decided to help everyone get on the bandwagon and recognize some of the amazing women in this field. Let´s get started.

Martha Finnemore

Martha Finnemore was born in 1959, and is now a constructivist scholar of international relations . She is also a University Professor at the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University .

Finnemore is best known for her books, which helped to pioneer constructivism National Interests in International Society, The Purpose of Intervention, and Rules for the World (with Michael Barnett).

In 2009, a survey of over 2700 international relations faculty in ten countries named her one of the twenty five most influential scholars in the discipline, and one of the five scholars whose work in the last five years has been the most interesting!

An earlier survey of over 1000 American international relations faculty also ranked her similarly in both categories, and in 2011, she was elected as a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Finnemore completed her B.A. at Harvard , followed by an M.A. from the University of Sydney and a Ph.D. from Stanford . Her husband, David Furth, is acting chief of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission .

Nadia Murad Basee Taha

Nadia Murad Basee Taha is a Yazidi human rights activist , Nobel Peace Prize nominee and since September 2016, the first Goodwill Ambassador for the Dignity of Survivors of Human Trafficking of the United Nations . She was kidnapped and held by the Islamic State in 2014.

Murad was born in the village of Kocho in Sinjar , northern Iraq . Her family, of the Yazidi people, were farmers. Murad grew up on a farm.

In 2014, when she was 21 years old, Murad was a student living in the village of Kocho in Sinjar , northern Iraq . Islamic State fighters rounded up the Yazidi community in the village and killed 600 people – including six of Nadia's brothers and stepbrothers – and taking the younger women into slavery.

That year Murad was one of more than 6,700 Yazidi women taken prisoner by Islamic State in Iraq, held as a slave in the city of Mosul , beaten, burned with cigarettes, and raped when trying to escape.

But in November 2014, Nadia was able to escape after her captor left the house unlocked. She was taken in by a neighboring family. They were able to smuggle her out of the Islamic State controlled area, allowing her to make her way to a refugee camp in Duhok , northern Iraq, and then to Stuttgart , Germany .

On December 16, 2015, Murad briefed the United Nations Security Council on the issue of human trafficking and conflict for the first time. As part of her role as an ambassador, Murad participates in global and local advocacy initiatives to bring awareness of human trafficking and refugees.

She reaches out to refugee and survivor communities, listening to testimonies of victims of trafficking and genocide.

As of September 2016, Attorney Amal Clooney spoke before the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to discuss the decision she made in June 2016 to represent Murad as a client in legal action against ISIL commanders.

Clooney characterized the genocide, rape, and trafficking as a "bureaucracy of evil on an industrial scale". He described a slave market existing both online, on Facebook and in the Mideast that is still active today. Murad has received many serious threats to her safety as a result of her work.

Nevertheless, she has received a number of honors:

5 January 2016: Received the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize nomination by the Iraqi government for activism.
16 September 2016: Declared First Goodwill Ambassador for the Dignity of Survivors of Human Trafficking of the United Nations
10 October 2016: Received the Council of Europe Vaclav Havel Award for Human Rights
27 October 2016: Awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought (with Lamiya Aji Bashar )

These very different women all have something in common: they are strategically placed within international relations and the human rights world. And they take what they do seriously. Do you fit into that category? If so, we´d love to help you.

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Personal Statement – MSc International Relations Management

Sample personal statement

29 July, 2022

Personal statement – msc international relations management share.

12 May, 2013

I writing this application with great joy to study International Relations Management MSc at the University of Bedfordshire to enhance my current academic attainments, increase my skills in a subject synonymous, and pave a path to better career opportunities in the field. As my career goal is to peers a critical awareness of the social communities and global industries, which I found in the study of International Relations Management and I always want to contribute a part of myself into the globalization system reform, and in developed and developing nations. Moreover, I found that this course is a platform to work within a wide range of economic, technological, demographic and social justice concerns. I believe this course will be the right choice for my career plans and objectives.

I have reviewed the programme of International Relations Management MSc at the University of Bedfordshire. The modules are organized to critical understanding and implement in developed and developing countries and the number of different assessment methods will contribute to the development and will enhance my employability. The modules include Brand Communication and Reputation Management, Business Dissertation, Intercultural Business Competencies, International Relations, Peacekeeping and Security, and Performance Achievement Planning. After progress to the Master’s capstone stage where I will need to complete a final capstone unit to choose one of the three options - Business Dissertation, Business Live Project, and Professional Practice. All capstone options will be evaluated as equivalent based on the learning outcomes. Also, the modules will develop my knowledge in understanding public relations, intercultural communication and international marketing on a professional level. After completion of my course, I want to be a Social Research Officer or Public Affairs Consultant in government organizations in my home country. Importantly, this course will provide me with a unique learning experience and I am confident that this course is the right choice for my future career path.

Following my SSC and Intermediate from Humanities group, I have completed my Bachelor of Law from Leading University, Sylhet, Bangladesh in 2016. Later on, I joined Sylhet Judge’s Court as Apprentice Lawyer to implement my career beginning in 2016. Now I am working at Law Offices of Haque Law & Associates as Junior Lawyer since January 2019. My core responsibility is to advise clients, claim liability, defending lawsuits, and obligations, and to analyze the probable outcomes of cases, using knowledge of legal precedents. Recently, I feel that I need to gain complete knowledge of the social communities and key concepts of international relations theory. And this programme will enable me to acquire knowledge and understanding in appropriate areas of theory and application of political ideologies in the open or silent remonstrance era. In addition, from this course, I will capable to think critically and independently in evaluating different interpretations of globalization and its impact on global trends. I am confident that my professional goal makes me a suitable candidate for the course.

From the university website, I have come to know that, this MSc course will increase my understanding especially in cultural and linguistic factors that affect international relations, as well as raise issues of ethical and political positions on questions of intervention peacekeeping. According to interest and career aspirations, this course will allow me to think critically and evaluate current research in independent research in the management of international relations. Moreover studying the course, I will understand the growth of NGOs, globalization of industry and multi-cultural communities made up of economic migrants and refugees. Most importantly, during the course I will have the opportunity to work with professionals in the field of international relations. As my previous work experience is mostly related to this course, I think this course is ideal for me to improve my independence and self-development. My learned skills and professional attain with a detailed appreciation will help me to complete my prospective study. I hope my chosen course will make it better and further open doors for my profession.

The brand of having a degree from the UK is highly respected by employers in Bangladesh as they believe that UK education builds proper professionals and there is a high expectation from applicants with such degrees. Though, the study environment in my country follows theoretical systems of education which are quite different and no soft skills gained. In recent years, all companies in Bangladesh are emphasizing hiring of Bangladeshi graduates with degrees from abroad, as they see the transferrable skills carried forward from the international education will play a key role in transforming their approach to the business and believe these graduates are capable of doing so. This has played a key part in my decision-making when choosing a study destination. Also, a recent Survey of International Graduate Outcomes 2019 by Universities UK International produce graduates shows that 82% of international graduates say that their UK degree is worth the financial investment and the same percentage say they are satisfied with their careers. 83% feel that a UK degree has helped them to get jobs that they would not get otherwise. So this is the reason to choose the UK over other education destinations. I can see myself thriving more in a world of knowledge and teaching methods I’m accustomed to.

The University of Bedfordshire is a public research university that is incredibly welcoming to international students. While researching the university website, I found that in 2014, the university achieved the fourth-largest improvement of 22 places in the REF Power Ranking in the sector with nearly half of its research considered to be internationally excellent and also come eighth in the UK in the People and Planet University Green League in 2019 and received the Eco Campus Platinum award in 2020. Most importantly, this university is known to support the students, and they have invested heavily in their facilities to shape the physical and intellectual environment of learning. With around 20,000 students from 100 countries, the university provides outstanding higher education to deliver a range of courses from foundation degrees to doctorates. Tutors are high- qualified academics and most of them have received National Teaching Fellowship Awards. Conversely, I will have the opportunity to gain real-world knowledge and transferable skills that employers look for in graduate recruits. And I think it will be a great achievement for me if I get the opportunity to study at the University of Bedfordshire.

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International Relations Personal Statement Sample

EssayEdge > Blog > International Relations Personal Statement Sample

My longtime fascination with politics and international affairs is reflected in my participation, starting in high school, in activities such as student council, school board meetings, Vietnam war protests, the McCarthy campaign, and the grape boycott. As each new cause came along, I was always ready to go to Washington or the state capital to wave a sign or chant slogans. Although I look back on these activities today with some chagrin, I realize they did help me to develop, at an early age, a sense of concern for social and political issues and a genuine desire to play a role.

As an undergraduate, I was more interested in social than academic development. During my last two years, I became involved with drugs and alcohol and devoted little time to my studies, doing only as much as was necessary to maintain a B average. After graduation my drug use became progressively worse; without the motivation or ability to look for a career job, I worked for a time in a factory and then, for three years, as a cab driver in New York City.

In 1980 I finally ”hit bottom” and became willing to accept help. I joined both Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, and for the next several years the primary business of my life was recovery. Although I had several ”slips” in the beginning, I have now enjoyed nearly seven years of complete freedom from drug and alcohol use. I mention my bout with addiction because I think it is important in answering two issues that presumably will be of concern to the admissions committee: my lackluster undergraduate record and the fact that I have waited until the age of 34 to begin preparing academically for a career in public policy. It would be an oversimplification to call addiction the cause for either of these things; rather I would say it was the most obvious manifestation of an underlying immaturity that characterized my post adolescent years. More importantly, the discipline of recovery has had a significant impact on my overall emotional growth.

During the last years of my addiction I was completely oblivious to the world around me. Until 1983 I didn’t even realize that there had been a revolution in Nicaragua or that one was going on in El Salvador. Then I rejoined the Quaker Meeting, in which I had been raised as a child, and quickly gravitated to its Peace and Social Order Committee. They were just then initiating a project to help refugees from Central America, and I joined enthusiastically in the work. I began reading about Central America and, later, teaching myself Spanish. I got to know refugees who were victims of poverty and oppression, became more grateful for my own economic and educational advantages, and developed a strong desire to give something back by working to provide opportunities to those who have not been so lucky.

In 1986 I went to Nicaragua to pick coffee for two weeks. This trip changed my whole outlook on both the United States and the underdeveloped world. The combination of living for two weeks amid poverty and engaging in long political discussions with my fellow coffee pickers, including several well-educated professionals who held views significantly to the left of mine, profoundly shook my world view. I came back humbled, aware of how little I knew about the world and eager to learn more. I began raiding the public library for everything I could find on the Third World and started subscribing to a wide variety of periodicals, from scholarly journals such as Foreign Affairs and Asian Survey to obscure newsletters such as Through Our Eyes (published by U.S. citizens living in Nicaragua).

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Over the intervening two years, my interest has gradually focused on economics. I have come to realize that economic development (including equitable distribution of wealth) is the key to peace and social justice, both at home and in the Third World. I didn’t study economics in college and have found it difficult to understand the economic issues that are at the heart of many policy decisions. At the same time, though, I am fascinated by the subject. Given my belief that basic economic needs are among the most fundamental of human rights, how can society best go about providing for them? Although I call myself an idealist, I’m convinced that true idealism must be pragmatic. I am not impressed, for example, by simplistic formulations that require people to be better than they are. As a Quaker I believe that the means are inseparable from the end; as an American I believe that democracy and freedom of expression are essential elements of a just society, though I’m not wedded to the idea that our version of democracy is the only legitimate one.

Although I have carved out a comfortable niche in my present job, with a responsible position and a good salary, I have become increasingly dissatisfied with the prospect of a career in business applications programming. More and more of my time and energy is now being absorbed by community activities. After getting my master’s in public administration, I would like to work in the area of economic development in the Third World, particularly Latin America. The setting might be a private (possibly church-based) development agency, the UN, the OAS, one of the multilateral development banks, or a government agency. What I need from graduate school is the academic foundation for such a career. What I offer in return is a perspective that comes from significant involvement in policy issues at the grass roots level, where they originate and ultimately must be resolved.

Discussing international relations experience in a personal statement is an excellent approach to crafting a winning paper. However, this experience should be valuable and beneficial to your self-development. We know it can be hard to reflect it all in writing, so hiring a personal statement editor on EssayEdge can help you.

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Personal Statements/Interest Statements/Admissions Essays

A personal statement allows you the opportunity to sell yourself to an admissions committee; much like you would sell yourself to an employer when writing a cover letter.

Most often, personal statements will fall into one of two categories:

General Statement: Allows you the most freedom and flexibility in terms of what to include.
Question-Specific Statement/Directive: The academic program asks specific questions which you should address in your statement.

Make your statement distinctive by selling your image briefly and accurately, including real-life examples to back up your points. Authentic enthusiasm is a plus, writing about parts of your life or career that are interesting and relevant help grab a reader’s attention. Use your personal statement to clear up any confusion or gaps in your résumé, but do not dwell on weaknesses. Avoid trying to include as much information as possible, without regard for limitations or strategic intent. Focus on being more distinctive than comprehensive.

As you begin to draft your personal statement, consider the following:

When did you become interested in the field? What knowledge have you gained about the field that has strengthened that interest?
Use key words to show your knowledge. Speak the language of the field.
What are your career goals after graduate study is complete?
What personal qualities/experiences will make your application appear unique?
How has your involvement in college activities, part-time work, internships, or volunteer work helped prepare you for this next phase of study?
What skills do you possess that would be most relevant to the field? (Use EXAMPLES)
Are there any academic discrepancies on your transcript or in your application you need to address?
Why this school and this program?
Connect with the mission of the organization.

Tips as you write:

Write in the active voice: Candidates who write well have an advantage in the application process because they can state their case in a concise, compelling manner.
Be specific. Use examples to illustrate your interests, skills, etc.
Length: Some schools are specific about how long they want your statement to be. Adhere to their guidelines. If no details are provided, aim for a 500-word essay.
Tell an interesting story. Admissions committees read a lot of these statements…what will you write that will make them remember your story?
Make sure your opening paragraph is an attention-grabber.
Avoid clichés. Use this statement to show your originality.
One size does not fit all. Tailor your statement to specific schools.
Proofread! Review and revise your document and get others to review it as well.

Politics and International Relations

Author: jack long-martinez, applied in: winter 2015, university offers: lse, warwick, york.

In The Soldier and the State Samuel P. Huntington writes that “collective will supplants individual whim”, and it is this notion of the collaborative power of humanity which is key to my desire to study politics. I find both mankind’s ability to draw strength from the creation of societies and the interrelationships between political powers intriguing and I am eager, therefore, to explore the world’s civilisations in detail.

As an introduction to my study of global political cultures, I read J. Stiglitz’s novel The Price of Inequality; his exposure of the flaws in US social structure prior to the Great Recession gave an insight into the workings of contemporary American society, with the author focusing in particular on the relationship between the nation’s reckless financial sector and the suffering of the USA’s “99 percent”. I subsequently read F. Fukuyama’s After the Neocons. This text furthered my understanding of American politics, discussing the consequences of the Bush administration’s incorrect application of neoconservative theory with regards to foreign policy and criticising its reliance on overwhelming military force as the key driver of cultural development.

Undertaking an extended project concerning the extent to which Francoist Spain was a fascist state allowed me to explore the political history of both Spain and Europe as a whole. My research led me to conclude that, in spite of sharing traits with its Fascist contemporaries, the absence of typically fascist ideals such as militaristic expansion and utopianism meant that the regime could never itself be truly classed as fascist. This view echoes that of S J Woolf, who labelled Franco’s fascism as “at best…half hearted”.

In order to understand international politics in a broader context, I also read Fukuyama’s The End of History and the Last Man; through his analysis of political development over the course of history and identification of Western liberal democracy as the ultimate political system, the author indicates the past’s importance in shaping today’s politics. It is questionable, however, whether Fukuyama’s views concerning Western society are valid, with the prominence of competing cultures-particularly Islam-casting doubt over their legitimacy. His argument has, therefore, been widely disputed, with S. Huntington, for example, describing belief in “the universality of Western culture” as “false” and “immoral”.

Politics and social organisation is not, however, only important on an international scale. It governs interaction at any level, be it within government or among communities, which inspires me to explore all forms of political activity. Publications such as The Economist and literature such as R.Peston’s How do we Fix this Mess? developed my interest in national politics. Work experience with Norman Lamb MP achieved similar outcomes; I gained a practical insight into the varied role of an MP at local level, with my drafting of letters to constituents, policy research and exchanges with Mr Lamb and his staff all proving to be invaluable in expanding my understanding and appreciation of Britain’s political system.

Outside the classroom, I have been heavily involved in charitable work. I raised several thousand pounds as an executive on Norwich School’s Appeals Committee and worked with the international charity ‘Smile’, for which I delivered speeches to audiences of over 900 people within Norwich Cathedral. Communication was also crucial to my role as Managing Director of a Young Enterprise company, through which I appeared on BBC Radio Norfolk. In addition, I have provided mathematics tutoring to GCSE pupils in school and played tennis to national standard. Moreover, I have recently been appointed Deputy Head of Norwich School, making me responsible for various aspects of school life, such as the Consultative Committee-the large pupil-led body which exists to voice students’ concerns on school matters-and the prefect body.

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Politics can be seen as essentially a convention inextricably linked to the birth of diversityand conflict,but it can also be seen as a willingness to co-operate and act collectively.Mypassion to study politics further is unrelenting.The current lack of political participationin modern society intrigues me.I am certain that over time, political participation hasdeteriorated due to society simply losing interest,therefore it is my desire to examine society closely and calculate why general political participation by the mass hascrumbled,most importantly,who the fault lies with.This is one of many reasons that I feelpolitics and international relations would be an excellent combination to study.

Studying Politics and International relations will enable me to combine a subjects which I have loved since being first introduced to Nigerian politics through my uncle who was a senator,conversations with him increased my interest for politics.As an enthusiastic and highly motivated student I would love to experience and face the challenges which such a prestigious course would offer me.Studying Government and Politics at A Level reinforced my appreciation for these subjects.I understand that the disciplines are interlinked with one another, particularly when concerned with the welfare of our society.Politics deals with the distribution and the exercise of power while International Relations examine the relationship between countries and policies that are formulated.What I intend to study is not just how the policies are formed but the moral and the principles behind them and why they are successful or unsuccessful in society.Studying sociology at A level has enabled me to look at the sociological perspective of international relations and also compare any theories and political ideologies.My study of Media Studies at A Level has enabled me to develop the analytical skills required to fully understand complex texts and has provided me with the knowledge of the influence of media in politics and the importance for politicians of having the media on their side.

My passion for these subjects extends beyond an academic aspect;I have a passion for the field.I enjoy reading books such as The Globalization of World Politics,this will enable me to have a broad knowledge of international relations and to what extent its effects are seen in modern society.I often attend public debates held at parliament,particularly House of Commons,these have expanded my knowledge on topics ranging from political ideologies international policies,all of which I have found extremely useful.Being a part of"Think Outside"debating group,I represented my school on a range of debating topics,with successful results.Last year I travelled to South Africa where I had an insight into the culture and tradition of the indigenous people,this deepened my political and cultural knowledge and also emphasised the importance of family structure,education and socialisation in society. Having visited various countries and learning about their policies and how they are made and to what extent it benefits their society has inspired me to pursue a career in international relations and politics.

It is a passion of mine to learn new political and international approaches and analysis which will give me the proper foundations and broaden my knowledge.The aforementioned reasons drive my will to study politics and international relations;I believe it will give me the confidence that will make me better able to deal with the high demands of this course.Being a part of school council also head prefect ultimately inspired my drive for debating in which I represented my debating group at national competitions.At the age of 15 I was elected as my local youth mayor in which I served for 1 year this enabled me to experience the political life in a micro scale. Ultimately,I am proud of my ability to balance both study and a school life successfully.

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This personal statement was written by HeyZee for application in 2012.

HeyZee's university choices University of Sussex The University of Sheffield The University of Kent University of Exeter The University of Hull

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

HeyZee's Comments

im a normal that decided to use a non basic structure, my advice will be do not use the structure the colege gives u if you want to create a WOW personal statement, think of it like this how can you expect to make an extravegant p/s with a basic structure

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