Personal Statement:Mathematics 29

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Mathematics Personal Statement

Mathematics is often described as the tool of subjects such as physics and economics, but I love mathematics for what it is. For me, it is the challenge that mathematics presents that sets it apart, the opportunity to think creatively and use ingenuity, that sense of satisfaction not in getting the right answer, but in that moment when I suddenly see the pathway to it.

Books like “The Music of the Primes” have introduced me to the historical aspects of mathematics, however, I have preferred Martin Griffiths’ book “The Backbone of Pascal’s Triangle,” among others. Using the basic properties of these numbers, it proves some astonishing results about the distribution of prime numbers and more. I feel that I have matured as a mathematician by working through the proofs and challenges in this book, gaining confidence to tackle more complex concepts on my own. As I discover more in mathematics, the desire to learn more grows and I have, therefore, started to work through Courrant’s “What is Mathematics?” One of the most exciting aspects of mathematics for me is seeing what used to be incomprehensible fall into place. Although this book will be challenging, I am looking forward to deepening my understanding of mathematics through it.

I have found the A-level modules I have taken engaging, in particular the more advanced Mechanics modules and the Further Pure modules I am currently working on. I have enjoyed the Pure modules in particular, as I have found the content more intriguing, and it provides the foundation for much of what I have covered in other modules. In order to take Further Mathematics, I have had to take my Mathematics lessons at another school, and as the only candidate, they are more like a tutorial than a class. I learn by working through problems with my teacher, and I then work on more challenging problems at home and make notes on the content. I enjoy this method of learning, as it feels more active. Although the work load is intense ( we did all eight modules in the space of six months last year ) this heightened pace suits me better, encouraging me to work and think more independently.

I enjoy challenging myself, and I have, therefore, decided to sit the STEP I and II papers this year. The challenge that these questions present is much more exciting than the more predictable ones that appear on A-level papers. Although it is the most difficult aspect of these papers, applying my knowledge in situations I haven’t encountered before and to think outside the box is also the most exciting aspect. As well as working on mathematics myself, I have found the time to help other pupils who have difficulty with GCSE Mathematics. The need to clearly explain concepts to those I am tutoring and to consolidate my own knowledge has proved useful in my study of A-level Mathematics and my wider reading.

In my roles as Chairman and Secretary of the School Council in 4th and 5th year, and as a librarian, I have enjoyed a contributory role in school life, which I am continuing this year as Deputy Head Boy. I helped to organise events for Maths Week in Ireland last year, an event I was able to report on in our School Magazine as an editor and co-ordinator of mathematics articles. Until recently, I worked in a bookshop outside school. I enjoyed working there and meeting new people, whilst learning to manage my time effectively.

Mathematics has become an integral part of my life, and I find myself thinking about mathematics anywhere and everywhere, and at any time, whether it is a problem that I have yet to solve or a new proof that has captured my imagination. I cannot say whether or not I would be suited to a career in mathematical research, but certainly that is what I aspire to, not just working with the theorems of others, but discovering new patterns and charting my own path through the mathematical landscape.

Universities Applied to:

• University of Oxford MMath - Offer AAA Firm
• University of Durham MMath - Offer AAB Insurance
• Warwick University MMath - Offer AAA+2
• Imperial College London MMath - Offer AAA (Maths, Further Maths and Physics)
• University of Bristol MMath - Offer AAB

Grades Achieved:

With CCEA

• Mathematics - A*
• Further Mathematics - A*
• Physics - A*
• Chemistry - A*
• Religious Studies - A*
• STEP II - 1
• STEP III -1

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