HSF question

[a-858]

Introduce us to a topic you know about and explain why it interests you.

For this question, I'm speaking about my interest in the future of European security. I've split it into three paragraphs, one explaining the issue, then going into depth as to two reasons it interests me and then speaking about an event I organised to do with it.

After speaking to grad recruitment, I know that I can speak about anything but I'm worried they be wondering why I shouldn't be looking at a masters in EU politics, security etc.

 

[Hazal]

Introduce us to a topic you know about and explain why it interests you.

For this question, I'm speaking about my interest in the future of European security. I've split it into three paragraphs, one explaining the issue, then going into depth as to two reasons it interests me and then speaking about an event I organised to do with it.

After speaking to grad recruitment, I know that I can speak about anything but I'm worried they be wondering why I shouldn't be looking at a masters in EU politics, security etc.

I wouldn't be worried!

From experience, talking about something you're genuinely interested is the best way to go about answering this question. Your writing will flow and you have a brilliant personal connection to the topic with the event you organised. That suggests this is really something you know about. The success of your answer, now you have a good topic, will be in your writing.

May I ask, does this topic heavily relate to your degree, or no?

 

[a-858]

I wouldn't be worried!

From experience, talking about something you're genuinely interested is the best way to go about answering this question. Your writing will flow and you have a brilliant personal connection to the topic with the event you organised. That suggests this is really something you know about. The success of your answer, now you have a good topic, will be in your writing.

May I ask, does this topic heavily relate to your degree, or no?

Thanks Hazal!

Yes, I study politics at university.

 

[Hazal]

I ask because my only reservation with this question and doing something that closely relates to your degree is that you might not seem like you have many interests or knowledge beyond your degree.

Don't take that too literally because I think you've genuinely chosen a topic that you know about (after all, that's what the question asks). Just make sure it's not a topic you're doing in your dissertation for example. Another tip is to make it relatable to a wider audience, and not just to those who specialise in political issues. Just keep in mind, how will I attract the recruiter's interest.

Hope that helps you more than confuses you!

 

[Salma]

Great Advice Hazal! (As always)

 

[a-858]

I ask because my only reservation with this question and doing something that closely relates to your degree is that you might not seem like you have many interests or knowledge beyond your degree.

Don't take that too literally because I think you've genuinely chosen a topic that you know about (after all, that's what the question asks). Just make sure it's not a topic you're doing in your dissertation for example. Another tip is to make it relatable to a wider audience, and not just to those who specialise in political issues. Just keep in mind, how will I attract the recruiter's interest.

Hope that helps you more than confuses you!

Thanks Hazal! Although I am studying European politics, the issue of security hasn't come up, nor am I doing it for my dissertation.

How would I make it relatable? (I don't like this question as I'm bit boring)

 

[Hazal]

Thanks Hazal! Although I am studying European politics, the issue of security hasn't come up, nor am I doing it for my dissertation.

How would I make it relatable? (I don't like this question as I'm bit boring)

That sounds fine then!

It's a difficult one but maybe if you write out your first draft without thinking about relating it to anyone, then either read it yourself or get someone to read it for you, and see if it makes sense to the average reader. A friend would be your best bet, especially one who doesn't study politics because they can tell you whether your topic interested them or not. Then, work from there by asking how you could make it more relatable, if it isn't already.