Masters International Relations Personal Statement Chinese Finance
International Relations are an especially vital area of study if conflicts are to be avoided or limited in the interests of commerce. However we live in particularly ‘interesting times’, as the Chinese describe such eras of potential conflict and tension, as that in which we find ourselves living today.
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 my studies.
Thank you for considering my application.
Masters International Relations Personal Statement Chinese Finance
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