How and why did you decide which subjects to study?

I chose Economics and Politics because I wanted to take subjects that interested me and were something new, but were also relevant to what is happening in the world and current affairs. I did well in Maths at GCSE so felt confident in carrying on that to A Level.

What have you most enjoyed about your courses?

The thing I’ve most enjoyed is the relevancy. For example, in Economics we look at the impact of Brexit on the UK economy and the uncertainty it might bring. And in Politics, Donald Trump’s response to the mass shooting in Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School gave us a prime example of Republican views on gun control.

Tell us about your Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)?

I did this extra qualification (the equivalent of an AS) on the impact poverty has in the UK and how economically feasible and desirable it would be to adopt a Universal Basic Income.

This allowed me to develop my interests in my two favourite subjects (Economics and Politics) and gave me the opportunity to research something that is relevant to today’s society and may become increasingly important in the future.

I could also mention it as something unique to me, in my personal statement and it helped me develop essential essay writing and researching skills that will be really useful for university.

What are your plans for the future?

In the summer I’m planning on going inter-railing for a month before taking up a place to study Politics and Economics at Leeds University in September.

Ciara, 2018