Personal Statement - Mechanical Engineering 5

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Engineering, for me, has always been the obvious choice of career. It allows me to combine my interest in physics and solving mathematical problems with my creativity and entrepreneurship.

Much of my childhood was spent happily designing and building things. I regularly watched engineering shows on television, and persuaded my family to enter BBC Family Robot Wars, which we won. Our prize was a solid fuel rocket that we then converted into a triple jumping device to compete on BBC 2's Geronimo programme.

My long-term goal is to combine my engineering and entrepreneurial interests by forming my own innovative engineering company. Reading engineering is a challenge I relish and I wish to utilise the knowledge gained from studying the subject at university level, to play my part as an engineer of our rapidly progressing world.

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

I chose my A level subjects because they provide the necessary skills to pursue a degree in engineering. I particularly enjoyed my physics project on the use of fibreglass in skis. It allowed me to apply mechanics to a real life situation, where I compared different materials and calculated the optimum coefficient of friction for a downhill skier.

To broaden my knowledge of engineering I have read a number of books, the most interesting of which were 'Ten Technologies to Save the Planet' by Chris Goodall and 'Against The Odds: An Autobiography' by James Dyson. Goodall's book showed me how modern society is addicted to fossil fuels, and whilst sustainable technologies do exist, there is an urgent need for engineers to develop viable solutions. Dyson demonstrated to me the hard work and perseverance needed to deliver such solutions, and the impact that one determined entrepreneur can make.

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

I have secured various work placements related to engineering. Last summer I worked for a company who manufacture high specification titanium bicycles. My project was to design and prototype a high performance bicycle that would fit into aeroplane hand luggage. The company will be displaying a production model of my design at the Earl's Court Cycle Show. The previous summer I worked in the rapid prototyping department at a large local engineering company, where I designed and built a switching test rig and a display showcase. My time there showed me what it was like to work as part of a large organisation and the importance of teamwork. I found all the projects engaging as they allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge in practical situations. The placements have been interesting, stimulating and thoroughly enjoyable. They have broadened my knowledge of the subject and have further confirmed engineering is the career I wish to follow.

Last year I started volunteering at my local primary school's technology club. I find it rewarding to help the children complete their challenges, and improve their understanding of the principles involved. Additionally, keen to pursue my engineering interests outside of school, I participated in both the Access to Bristol scheme and the Bath Mechanical Engineering Headstart course. Both courses gave me an insight into studying engineering at university, confirming that it is the right degree for me.

I also entered the Young Enterprise Scheme; I took on the role of managing director, and although sometimes stressful and frustrating, I enjoyed the challenge of managing a company. It taught me a lot about finance, organisation and working with clients; skills that will be beneficial to any future career. At the Young Enterprise regional finals we were awarded first place for the best service company, and second place in the sales and marketing category.

Universities applied to:

• Oxford - Engineering Science
• Bristol - Mechanical Engineering
• Loughborough - Mechanical Engineering
• Bath - Mechanical Engineering

Grades achieved:

• 3A's
• AAA/AAB
• AAA
• AAA

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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