For my Baker and McKenzie application i've got a question on Discuss a topic that you are passionate about. How did you become interested in it, and how has it influenced your personal or professional life. (300 words max) *
Is it okay to take a more abstract approach to this question? I'm Muslim and I wanted to talk about how I wanted to break Islamic stereotypes which I did through spreading awareness in debate societies and joining the Islamic society at my university.
or should I take a more direct approach and perhaps discuss extra-curricular activities such as my interest in swimming?
I think it's best if you are specific about what you have done and how it's benefited you and/or others.
For example, I say I like cycling. I then say that:
* I have learned about the technology of bicycles
* I have achieved personal goals such as cycling up mountains, by discipline and perseverance.
* I have expanded my network through joining cycling clubs, and through discussions about bicycles online.
* I supported a charity helping disadvantaged families by providing bicycles for transport.
If I were to, say, write about being a Christian, I would emphasise my specific active achievements. Hypothetically things like "I ran the children's group at church for a year building skills in A, B and C", "I set up a website for the church band helping them to do X, Y, Z", "I organised events for underprivileged children" and not something passive like "I went to church every week".