Personal Statement:Aerospace/Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering

TSR Wiki > University > Applying to University > Personal Statement Library > Aerospace/Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering

Personal Statement: Aerospace Engineering

I have grown accustomed to the sight of commercial aircraft, especially the underside of the aircraft. Having lived parallel to the flight path to the runway at the Dubai airport, the opportunity to sight aircraft passing overhead every few minutes has become a norm in my life. My interest in the aerospace industry however goes beyond the appreciation of an aircraft. For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by motorised vehicles and structures of all sorts, ranging from buildings to bridges. Living in Dubai has allowed me to pursue this fascination. Accompanying my father whilst he was on business around the city has allowed me to meet people at various construction sites and factories which has helped me to learn about manufacturing and developing processes; it has also given me a valuable insight into how engineers put to use their education in the ‘real world’.

It is only two years ago that my general interest in engineering found a focus in a specific field. A public lecture given by an engineer from the prestigious ******* Institute of Technology steered me in a direction which I believe is compatible with my interests and passions. I felt that I had seen an image of myself in this engineer with regard to the interest and curiosity we shared in why things happen and work the way they do. The presentation was about aircraft and how they function. Leaving the lecture, I remember thinking to myself that this is what I want to do with my life. I followed up this clearer goal by taking Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics at A-Level because I believed this would challenge me intellectually and also begin to provide some answers to my innate curiosity in ‘how things work’. Since then I have taken a great interest in aircraft design. As I travel extensively, I have had plenty of time and motivation to consider possible systems that would enable the passenger to have a more pleasant flight. I also make use of any chance to find out more about developments in the aerospace industry – certainly in cabin design, but even more so in changes in the internal engineering features.

To pursue my passion for building and designing things, I volunteered to join a team which would represent my school at a NASA sponsored Space Settlement Design competition. I was selected to head up the automation section of the project which, in short, involved designing landing docks for spacecraft and also presenting possible designs of spacecraft. This experience taught me a great deal about the importance of team work as well as how stimulating and effective working together with others as a single unit can be. It also helped me realise the satisfaction I have always gained from problem solving and working towards better solutions; it brought to mind an early sense of satisfaction when as a 12 year old I found an efficient way of getting into my top bunk bed with ease(the bunk-bed did not have a ladder. This I accomplished with the use of a series of handles and steps placed at crucial hand and foot positions.

Studying at an international residential school in ******, away from home has taught me a great deal about independence and self reliance. Further, it has given me the privilege of strong relationships with people from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds. It has also taught me to appreciate and accept things and circumstances that I may not be accustomed to.

I enjoy the activities I involve myself in, especially those on the sporting field. I have represented my school at hockey, cricket, and tennis and recently went on a football sports tour of the Middle East. Being part of a sporting team has allowed me to learn how to work as a member of a team no matter how large or small my role in the team may be. Last year I was elected by a committee of staff and students to run the Student Council Canteen which sells items of food to members of the student body. This same committee also elected me to become an executive of the Student Council. This involves corresponding with students of all ages about school life and any inconveniences they face or things they find satisfying. I am in the process of completing the silver award of the Duke of Edinburgh scheme. This has taught me about perseverence and endurance and the rewards of hard work. Through this scheme I have also been able to complete a first-aid course certified by the school and have been able to help out at the school hospital.

I am sure that my inherent passion for vehicles (especially the sort that fly) will enable me to study aerospace engineering with the enthusiasm and perseverance required to succeed. My experience of working within the British Curriculum away from home and in an international setting, convinces me that I will adjust easily to university life in Britain and enjoy it immensely.

Universities Applied to:

• University of Bath (5-Year Mech/Aero) - AAB Firm
• Imperial College London (Aero) - AAA Insurance
• University of Bristol (Aero) - AAB
• Southampton University (5-Year Aero) - AAB
• University of Nottingham (Aero) - ABB
• UCL (Mech) - ACD

Grades Achieved:

Predicted: AAAA

Grades Obtained: AAAB

Comments

General Comments:

I'd recommend everyone of you thoroughly check the contents and structure of each course you've applied for, as this does make a big difference in the end. A big part of my decision in choosing Bath lay solely here. I also applied and was unconditionally admitted to a few prestigious American institutions and used them as back-up choices in case I had failed to meet my offer at Bath.

Comments on the statement: