Graduate / Personal Statement for MA Conflict, Governance and International Development [4]

Dear moderators and fellow members, I am applying for a masters degree in Conflict, Governance and International Development at University of East Anglia. Please assist in reviewing my personal statement. Thank you.

University of East Anglia APPLICATION

I am applying for a master's degree in Conflict Governance and International Development at the University of East Anglia. This will enable me build a career in this field and use my acquired knowledge and skills to contribute to the development of the society I live in.

I have found that development is about making sure that people have access to basic needs and that it is aimed at reducing the level of poverty as well as boosting the quality of life and democracy. My interest in this area was first aroused during my compulsory one year National Youth Service Corps(NYSC) where I joined the Millennium Development Goals voluntary group. I contributed to creating awareness about the Millennium Development Goals as well as the government's development agenda by interacting with students in secondary schools. This enabled me gain skills in community mobilization, public engagement and communication for development. In addition, I obtained a certification in Prince2 (Project in a Controlled Environment) which covers the organization, management and control of projects.

I would like to start a career in the development sector and I believe pursuing a degree in Conflict, Governance and International Development is a step in the right direction. My interest in this course was largely influenced by the fact that I grew up in the northern region of Nigeria which has a high rate of poverty, inequality, and economic instability as a result of the incessant conflicts and poor governance in the area. A master's degree would broaden my perspective and further provide me with the relevant exposure I need to contribute by introducing new approaches as a solution to the pending issues in my society and the international community at large.

I strongly believe that taking this course in University of East Anglia will enrich my knowledge and career prospects. I am particularly interested in the program's course modules especially Conflict, Civil Wars and Peace, Media and International Development as well as the Development Work Placement which enables me gain practical skills for development while working with Non-Governmental Organizations. Furthermore studying at your university will enable me network with fellow scholars from developing countries as we discuss the various development issues from different perspectives

Following my MA Course, I intend to pursue my interest in research in the area of Conflict and Peace studies by doing a PHD and collaborating with Government departments.

I am well aware of the reputation of University of East Anglia's School of International Development. Reading the faculty profile, Course structure and teaching facilities have further increased my interest in studying here. It would be honored if I am considered to study here as this would enrich my knowledge and career prospects.