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I have liked Mathematics since an early age as I found it was suited to my interests and skills. I find Mathematics uniquely satisfying to study, because it has a greater focus on understanding concepts and abstract induction than other science-based subjects. From the golden ratio in floral patterns to Penrose Tilings in quasicrystals, it is useful in design, by connecting form with function, and I find this application fascinating.
I have received gold certificates in maths challenges, later qualifying for the British Maths Olympiad, and the Intermediate Olympiad. I find focusing on difficult problems incredibly rewarding, particularly distinguishing properties which can simplify problems and make progress. I found the UKMT's 'Mathematical Olympiad Primer' useful to read about proof, and improve my background knowledge in different topics.
I like to read beyond school subjects, and in this vein, caught glimpses into subject research through reading the autobiography, 'A Mathematician's Apology'. It taught me Mathematics' purpose as a stand-alone pursuit and how it was studied collaboratively to progress into specialist topics. I also liked reading the book 'Does God Play Dice', as it introduced me to a variety of new areas, learning about Poincare Sections, the idea of periodicity and also the progression of mathematics before chaos theory.
Pure Mathematics is unlike my other subjects in how it incorporates new concepts, such as induction, contradiction, and logic, from intuitively plausible ideas into a simplifying mathematical notation. The ideas of relationships and connections are interesting in Mathematics, with Euler's Identity being a relevant example. I like this identity in how it brings together real and imaginary numbers to produce an important relationship between exponential and trigonometric functions. The applications of pure mathematics also interest me, like how statistics provide motives behind financial decisions, and how mechanics can be used to model physical situations.
Earlier this year, my further maths set achieved 3rd in the London region UKMT Senior Team Challenge, and established a school record. Being flexible in team situations has also helped me as a C1 assistant teacher. It taught me to communicate mathematical ideas to students and be receptive to individual needs. I believe that embracing new opportunities is important, whether recreational or academic, and the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Expedition taught me to respond positively to challenges, navigate into unchartered terrain, and to lead a group. I also play chess, and enjoy listening to classical music, as I find them to be relaxing, and creative hobbies.
I have recently transferred to Rochester Independent College, being attracted by an increased range of maths courses, including the option of extra statistics modules. I relish the challenge of tackling further modules and the accelerated mathematics course, because I want to challenge myself mathematically as much as possible.
Overall, the prospect of a university education in Mathematics has unmatched appeal. I hope to improve and extend my capabilities, and later use these skills to contribute in society.
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