Personal Statement:Natural Sciences 2013

Personal Statement for Natural Sciences 2013 Application Cycle

Natural Sciences is a course I immediately recognised as one that would suit my academic interests. The programme would enable me to select modules based on my personal aptitude and strengths that extend beyond one individual subject. I am determined to gain a thorough understanding of scientific concepts, an aspiration that may be achieved through a solid grounding of knowledge in related subjects.

My favourite topic is cell theory; learning about organelles and their contribution to biological processes such as protein synthesis is something I find fascinating. Cell biology seems so fundamental to me, providing the foundations for understanding such a diverse range of advanced subject areas. I also find physiology on a macro-level a captivating branch of Biology, studying how systems within a body contribute to an organism’s overall functioning. A work experience placement in a physiotherapy department furthered my physiological and anatomical knowledge, whilst encountering a related profession in the field. On reading Walter Gratzer’s ‘Giant Molecules’, I was enlightened to the significant contribution organic chemistry has in studying molecular details of biological polymers. I have learnt, for example, by understanding optical isomerism, how L amino acid enantiomers cause polypeptide alpha helices to twist to the right, providing excellent insight into protein structure. I continue to stimulate my mind by problem solving using analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy to positively identify compounds. Independent study has enriched my learning beyond the confines of the curriculum and I believe it to have been a key factor in attaining over a 98% AS Biology exam average.

Mathematics and Physics are two of the most exciting subjects I have studied in my education. The immense satisfaction that comes with solving complex problems through logical thinking and mathematical methods at the boundaries of my current ability is a compelling activity for me. Finding a practical application for techniques learnt on my course really demonstrates the multidisciplinary nature of science; hence mathematical modelling, manipulation of logarithms and statistical analysis is of personal interest. This year I have taken AS Further Maths, self-teaching a mechanics module with the intention of enhancing my mathematical portfolio.

The prospect of research is another attribute that attracts me to a science degree. This has been triggered from reading scientific literature (including ‘The Biologist’) documenting exciting projects. I was fortunate enough to attend a Sutton Trust Biological Science summer school at Cambridge University this year. Research areas shared with the students integrated ideas across the scientific spectrum, one such example inspected maintenance of neutral buoyancy in fish. Though fundamentally concerning vector addition with components of force, complex biochemical mechanisms such as the root effect within the swim bladder highlight a fantastic example physiology is of combining the natural sciences.

A large proportion of my leisure time consists of sporting and voluntary activities. I find mentoring particularly rewarding which is why I have recently become a STEM ambassador assisting in scientific workshops. For over 2 years I have fundraised for Thamesdown Hydro-pool and been a regular swim coach to children with varying disabilities. I am also a county 800m track athlete and cross-country runner. My attitude with respect to academia is consistent with my view to training. Perseverance and determination need to be sustained throughout the year to achieve optimal performance, and in 2011 our Wiltshire School’s team claimed a national title at the English School’s cross country championships. I believe Natural Sciences to be the perfect course for me. Given the privilege of a place I feel it can offer both a comprehensive core of knowledge and an opportunity to fulfil my potential.

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