Personal Statement:Mathematics and Physics

Hi, This is my first draft of my personal statement, i'm having difficulties writing about myself and i'm not sure if i've written enough. Please criticise as much as possible. Thanks =)

For as long as I can remember, I have always enjoyed problem solving and logic; I gained this from learning mathematics at school and as I started to develop my knowledge, I came to realise how important it really is in day-to-day life. Mathematics underlies all processes and patterns around us, and turns up everywhere you look in the world; nothing can work without it. This led me into my fascination ofhow the universe works. I discovered that physics is infinitely used in the world around me - from fluid dynamics in developing sweets and chocolates to understanding the life cycles of stars are how the universe began. Without physics, simple processes that we all take for granted wouldn’t exist, such as world wide communication and electricity - the idea that any advancement in physics could lead to even more extraordinary development in our understanding and quality of living is simply thrilling.

I particularly enjoy the core modules of mathematics at A level, it seems limitless and I find the challenge of problem solving relishing; mechanics makes it obvious how physics and mathematics work together hand in hand - the derivation of theories in physics would not be possible without maths, and physics provides maths with even more uses. Whilst studying physics at A level, I have found the subject challenging, stimulating and at times frustrating but the satisfaction gained when overcoming difficulties makes the hard work worth it, for example coming to terms with that fact that light actually consists of photons which are ‘packets’ or energy with no mass. Also, from taking psychology as an A level I have gained an incredibly useful skill of being able to constructively analyse, criticise and look at theories from every possible angle, and communicate these conclusions in well structured essays.

As a recreational activity, I have been self-teaching myself to play the piano for over 5 years. I acquired my love for music when I discovered how famous pieces of music, for instance, written by Chopin and Tchaikovsky, were simply mixtures of patterns and sequences, when looked at closely; yet they create such beautiful and complex songs filled with emotion which can be interpreted in so many different ways. To me - this relates back to mathematics and physics - on the outside, it looks as though they’re simply a list of theories and equations, but with further inspection, possibilities are endless. I have been under part-time employment since the age of 14 in various different types of vocations, for example babysitting and working at my local newsagents on weekends. I have been working in a retail store for over a year as a shop assistant which shows my commitment. From these jobs I have learnt a range of communications skills such dealing with unsatisfied customers and have gained experience in using my own initiative.

I would like to take a combined course of mathematics and physics at an even further level as it will expose me to challenges that will push me to my limits, enhance my knowledge and understanding, and also, simply for my own pleasure and personal interest. Although I am unsure of my path after graduating from university, I am certain that these qualifications will give me a variety of transferable skills and a strong base for a wide range of careers. I’m sure that I will thoroughly enjoy my university experience and that it will be full of opportunities and challenges that will help to develop me further as a person.