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Should I mention doing dangerous home chemistry experiments in my personal statement?

I'm in Y12, studying maths, chemistry, and physics, and planning to study either chemistry or pharmacy at uni. One of my favourite hobbies is dabbling in a little home chemistry, especially making dangerous chemicals (eg, I have made HCN). I'm wondering whether I should include this in my personal statement. My friends say that I should discuss the home chemistry as it shows skill and interest in the subject, but should neglect to mention the more dangerous reactions as it may make universities reject me for fear of safety issues or concerns over my sanity. I disagree: I think that my skill in handling dangerous chemicals safely would reflect positively on me, or at the very least make me stand out amongst the other applicants. Who do you agree with?
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Original post by AlexTheIdiot
I'm in Y12, studying maths, chemistry, and physics, and planning to study either chemistry or pharmacy at uni. One of my favourite hobbies is dabbling in a little home chemistry, especially making dangerous chemicals (eg, I have made HCN). I'm wondering whether I should include this in my personal statement. My friends say that I should discuss the home chemistry as it shows skill and interest in the subject, but should neglect to mention the more dangerous reactions as it may make universities reject me for fear of safety issues or concerns over my sanity. I disagree: I think that my skill in handling dangerous chemicals safely would reflect positively on me, or at the very least make me stand out amongst the other applicants. Who do you agree with?

maybe just put "i have demonstrated my capability in handling potentially hazardous chemicals safely during my home experiments". it might be best not to mention you made hydrogen cyanide
(edited 7 months ago)

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