Personal Statement:Physics 27

Physics Personal Statement

Physics and mathematics are truly beautiful subjects. I find it fascinating that maths so elegantly communicates physical ideas to produce powerful explanations for the nature of reality. This is the core reason that I aspire to study theoretical physics. I relish the abstract nature of concepts within physics, although it is satisfying to then apply these to the physical world. I discovered my passion for this subject after attending a series of physics lectures at Nottingham University. Here, I was able to study particle physics and participate in a research project on the nature of dark matter, culminating in a presentation of our findings.

I have found A level modules on particle theory and wave-particle duality particularly interesting. I have always had an affinity for maths and after gaining my A level in 2009, I went on to self-study further maths modules. The classical mechanics modules led me to begin to research further concepts such as relativity. Ideas like the absence of absolute space and time and the uncertainty principle became ever more fascinating, the less I was able to rely on intuition and predictability. I found that I am able to comprehend abstract concepts and apply existing knowledge to unfamiliar situations.

My favourite books on the subject include "The Trouble with Physics" by Lee Smolin, and "Finding Moonshine" by Marcus du Sautoy. The latter was particularly interesting and gave me an insight into a theorist's mind. I like to remain informed of recent developments within the subject, such as recent the breakthroughs in quantum entanglement.

I have a fascination with languages and so have continued my study of German, developing my understanding of communication. This has been a key factor in my decision to take a gap year with Project Trust. Spending the year in India working as a teacher with the visually impaired, I shall have the opportunity to learn an entirely new language, while working to develop a deprived community. In order to travel with the charity, I must fundraise 5000 pounds and have begun to do this through a series of recitals and charity dinners during which my friends and I shall perform.

I was able to participate in the silver BA crest award scheme on a project involving drug production. This allowed me to develop my experimental skills through laboratory production, purification and analysis of Aspirin and Paracetamol. However, I find physical chemistry rather more fascinating and have enjoyed topics such as equilibria and reaction rates.

Last year, I was elected as chair of the Sixth Form Committee. My responsibilities have included organizing charity events, overseeing social functions within the Sixth Form and establishing extra-curricular societies. Through this, I have learned disciplines such as organisation and leadership which are necessary for any further study. I am a member of the school debating team and regularly speak at school events, thus developing my confidence in public speaking. Outside of school, I am a confident performer and participate competitively as a ballroom and Latin dancer within a troupe. For 10 years, I have been playing clarinet and I have been learning saxophone and violin for five. I now provide private tuition, perform in recitals regularly and I am a member of a pit band for a local amateur dramatics society. These pursuits give me an opportunity to express myself artistically while also working closely with others, developing my ability to contribute effectively within a team.

After graduation, I hope to enter research and eventually lectureship. My desire to further understand the world while contributing to the scientific community will drive me to fully immerse myself in academic study and advance our understanding of the universe. The boundaries of science are yet to be found and I hope to be on the front line as we progress towards them.

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