| This is a real personal statement written by a student for their university application. It might help you decide what to include in your own. There are lots more examples in our collection of sample personal statements. |
Chemistry is the science on which the future relies; research is continually opening up new opportunities for the chemicals industry. My passion to make a difference can be achieved through the paths of catalyst design, pharmaceuticals, Medicines, bio-fuels and polymer chemistry. Any one of these routes will provide me with new challenges; in chemistry there is always something new for me to discover.
My infatuation for science began when my Grandad introduced me to chemistry by demonstrating a simple reaction of vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, causing me to question the reasons for the effervescence and the acid-base reaction. Throughout my life I have been motivated by chemistry; I like to question why things happen and what causes them to happen.
I have visited the RSC on several occasions for A-Level lectures which have talked in depth about poisons and toxicology, forensics, biochemistry and the history of chemistry. Not only have I attended lectures but have had hands on experience working in the chemicals industry. I was employed over the summer by Johnson Matthey working in their prototypes/samples group. I worked on catalyst washcoat preparation making up specific formulation washcoats ready for the catalysts to be coated and tested. I used analytical chemistry to do particle size distribution analysis of the washcoats, executed continual pH tests, measured the viscosity and worked out crucible solids of the waschoats. I was shown how XRF is used to determine heavy metal concentrations within the catalyst. This complemented my love of wider reading, finding out what's happening in the world of chemistry. I also enjoy autobiographies such as Uncle Tungsten by Oliver Sachs to understand other people's experiences within the chemicals industry.
When I started my GCSEs I was taught by a fantastic chemistry teacher who had a real passion for the subject, she made me realise that chemistry was the science for me and that I could set myself new challenges using this new found love. I have been involved in chemistry department activities, including a murder mystery day for year 7 pupils, supervising 2 groups undertaking chemical tests to determine the murderer's identity.
I have always enjoyed responsibilities and have been in many situations where I have had to be dependable. For school productions I have taken on the role of technical director. I am responsible for all sound and lighting during the show, ensuring it runs smoothly and managing a team of 10 people. I carry out all the sound and lighting for school events and local town shows. My position as Music and Art Technician at school has given me responsibility as I have to undertake tasks, use my initiative to solve problems and work as part of a team the departments. My job has enhanced my teamwork skills and allowed me to take on greater role within the school environment. I believe that this is a gap year well spent.
I have worked closely with Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue service over the years as a fire cadet; I quickly achieved the rank of sub officer and led the unit for 3 years. I have since left and rejoined as an instructor to aid the progression of the next generation of cadets and have been involved in organising camps and raising awareness of fire safety within the community.
My role as vice chair of the 6th form committee of 2006 has meant that I have organised charity and social events in school. My role on the committee was an honour as I was elected by my peers and then by the group to be vice chair.
I am a creative and enthusiastic scientist who wants to make a difference to the future use of chemistry. I want to be able to enjoy university life through involvement in student societies and work as a team whilst developing my passion for chemistry. I am looking forward to the opportunity of socialising with students who have similar interests to me, and to achieving my goal of a good foundation for a career in the chemicals industry.
