Business mathematics and statistics degree personal statement example (1a)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Economics lies at the core of both modern and ancient societies and I am keen to extend my knowledge of this interesting subject by studying economic theories at university level. To date, my experience of the subject has been through my GCSE, AS and current A2 level studies and, although I am aware that the subject will be very different at university, I am convinced that this is the subject area for me and ultimately one I would like to follow as a career. A financially based subject is of particular interest to me because of the fundamental relevance it has to everything in the modern world, from the performance of the corner shop to the efficient operation of the largest multi-national companies. Trade and financial transactions underpin all societies and it is for this reason that I would like to study in this field at university.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

I am particularly interested in Mathematics, which comprises half of my A Level subject matter. Although my UCAS form only shows three subjects at AS level I have completed seven modules of Mathematics at AS level and, by summer, will have completed twelve modules, or two full A2 grades. Although I have not studied econometrics, given my interest in mathematics I am looking forward to studying this aspect of the subject. In my opinion mathematics is key to everyday life and the knowledge and application of it is fundamental to all economic studies and theories. I believe the relationship between mathematics and economics, and the fact that a large proportion of my A levels are mathematically related, can only help me in my studies in this area at university.

I have recently read 'The Code Book' by Simon Singh, which I found very interesting. It demonstrates how important mathematics is in everyday life, often determining the outcome of important historical events. The book cites the example of the ongoing 'battle' between code makers and cryptanalysts with some very fascinating stories. In particular, the Second World War ended much earlier than originally anticipated due to the considerable success of the code breakers, individuals who, in my opinion, were just as important as those fighting on the battlefields. This links in with computing, which is at the heart of such topics.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

I have been very interested in computing for many years and have considerable experience in designing and maintaining websites, my most successful one receiving over 1,500 hits a day. I am interested in how computers work and how they can be used to address complex tasks and am now in the process of learning PHP, having already mastered HTML. Computing, as with mathematics, is extremely important in everyday life and consequently is at the forefront of the world's leading economies.

Sport is also a particular interest of mine. I very much enjoy playing football and other sports, including badminton and roller-blading. Recently I successfully completed and was awarded with The Duke of Edinburgh's Silver Award. Overall, I found the exercise both physically and mentally demanding, but thoroughly enjoyed participating in the programme and feel that, on a personal basis, I gained a lot from the experience. A key part of the project was the voluntary service component. In this I elected to spend an hour a week for six months visiting an old lady. She greatly appreciated the opportunity to talk to a member of 'the younger generation'. From my side, I found it interesting to learn how things have changed over the last 80+ years - sometimes it seems for the worse!

Music is another of my interests. I have played the piano for many years and currently play to a grade six standard, despite having only attained Associated Board of Music Grade 4.

I believe myself to be a self-motivated, hard-working person, who can successfully meet deadlines. I enjoy expanding my horizons in terms of learning, and am eager to extend my knowledge of particular areas and tackle any problems I may encounter on the way.

Universities applied to:

• Bath
• Durham
• LSE
• Newcastle
• Nottingham
• Oxford (Trinity)

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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