I applied for maths =)
Exeter - BBB - Firm
Reading - 300 points, B in maths - Insurance
Southampton - ABB after interview
Leicester - 300 points, A in maths
Loughborough - 300 points, A in maths
Bristol - rejected, no interview
Galileo once said, "Nature's great book is written in mathematics." I would love to further my understanding of Nature's great book and increase my knowledge of mathematics. Mathematics has always been a key part of my life. I grew up around continual math problems; for example, when I was only six years old I was encouraged to cube the number 7. When I was undergoing large amounts of dental treatments I was encouraged to expand brackets, and factorise equations in my head. As a result I hate to leave a problem unfinished, I have a need to complete puzzles and problems. Due to my love of maths my dream is to pass my love of the subject onto children. Cryptography is another area of maths that I enjoy, breaking a code, and reading the gibberish that appears to be written on the page is a real thrill. I would love to pursue a career in cryptography, before going into teaching.
During my first year of 6th Form I have voluntarily assisted with lower school maths classes, helping those who needed help. In addition, for two hours a week, I help with the Reception class at a local infants school. I intend to carry on this voluntary work during my final year at school. During the summer holidays I was employed to work at the Numeracy School, which was aimed at Year 6 pupils who were achieving Level 2 or 3. During the week I helped teach thirteen children mathematical skills. Prior to my A Levels I helped in The Blandford School library. I volunteered my breaks and lunches three times a week from the beginning of my time at the school, in Year 9, until I left in Year 11. Volunteering my time to help other people has taught me how important it is to be someone that people can rely on to be there at the right time and place. Helping to teach the younger children also showed me the importance of being able to be understood, and to be able to decipher what younger children, some of whom have speech impediments and other learning disabilities, are trying to tell you. During Year 8 I was made Form Captain, and a member of the school council, which taught me the importance of being organised and listening to other people's viewpoints.
In 2001 I was chosen as one of the four representatives of my county to go to the Children's Book Awards, which was an honour. Being chosen showed that I was an avid reader who enjoyed a wide variety of books, as I still do. I enjoy spending my spare time reading books, often those based on fantasy such as 'The Belgariad' by David Eddings. I also particularly like reading books by Dave Pelzer and Dan Brown. I play the flute and piano, at grade 5 and grade 6 standard respectively, and this has given me, not only enjoyment, but has improved my creativity as well. I have also attained a Merit in Grade 5 Theory. Participating in concerts has improved my confidence. I have been a member of Devizes and District Wind Band for a year, and have been a regular participant in my school orchestra, participating in all school concerts. My motivation and patience has enabled me to achieve these standards of playing. I would love to continue playing my instruments whilst at University, possibly joining the orchestra or wind band. My wide-ranging interests include surfing the Internet, sewing, and cross-stitch. I have recently started a Saturday job in a small shop selling china. Maintaining the balance between my academic and social life is key to my achievements at school. I have learnt to be respectful and tolerant of other cultures and religions, and to respect other people's opinions.
My preferred areas of study have been mathematics and core. These are integral to mathematics and have always intrigued me. Performing mathematics has always been my passion, and I whole-heartedly agree with Paul Halmos when he stated: "The only way to learn mathematics is to do mathematics." I look forward to applying that concept at University.
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