Personal Statement - Geology 4

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

The impact of Geology on our society fascinates me. By understanding the structure and behaviour of the Earth, the Geologist is able to solve a diverse range of problems. Increasingly, I am developing the logical approach needed to undertake such challenges. I was privileged to attend a course run by the Smallpeice Trust at Exeter University, where I enjoyed learning various geological skills both in the field and in the laboratory. These included, surveying tunnels and detonating a controlled explosion at Holman’s test mine, as well as applying various mineral separation techniques. This increased my focus and determination to contribute to the mining industry.

In Year 12, I was fortunate to visit Iceland. On this extraordinary trip we observed geysers, volcanoes and the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. It was amazing to see at such close hand what we had studied at school and its local impact. A visit to the Lapworth Museum enabled me to study the remarkable range of fossils from progressive periods. This put into perspective the millions of years required for evolution. Days later, from Wren’s Nest, I started my fossil and rock collection. These experiences further fuelled my passion for Geology.

Recently, I have enjoyed reading “The Planet in a Pebble”, which outlines the vast quantities of information contained in a single rock. In this book, Jan Zalasiewicz puts forward that, with ingenuity and application of knowledge, accurate conclusions about the origin of the pebble, its history and even its future can be established, making Geology the “Ultimate Forensic Science”.

The prospect of studying Geology is exciting. I am particularly interested in the engineering applications of Mining Geology and hope to pursue a career in this area. I have enjoyed my time at school and now look forward to the challenge of University and a fulfilling career.

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

I have applied these principles in my A2 Geology laboratory coursework by determining the palaeo-energy levels experienced by fractured Eocene bivalves. I did this by correlating the fossil damage with that sustained by various analogous recent bivalves subjected to known impact energies. For our A2 field-based coursework, we went to Saundersfoot. There, as part of my hypothesis, I studied to what level the local strata could provide evidence for the Variscan Orogeny. During the five day stay I worked independently; recording dip and strike data using compass clinometers and sketching scaled annotated diagrams of the various structures.

At school, my teachers acknowledged my responsible and sensible nature, and made me a prefect. This entailed many tasks, involving hall monitoring and open day tours where I demonstrated my ability to work well with a wide variety of people in different situations.

My predicted grades include Geology (A*), Mathematics (A*), Physics (A), Further Maths (A), and Geography (C).

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

I was fortunate to attend a course run by the Smallpeice Trust at Exeter University, where I enjoyed learning various geological skills both in the field and in the laboratory, including surveying tunnels and detonating a controlled explosion at Holman’s test mine, as well as applying various mineral separation techniques.

During work experience at Thomasons, an engineering office in Guildford, I had the opportunity to use CAD software. My proficiency with computer software will be useful when dealing with new technologies such as geophysical modelling. This academic year, I hope to obtain further work experience with Fugro-Robertson and at the Lapworth Museum.

Cycling, swimming and kayaking keep me fit and active, which is essential for Geology fieldwork. I have achieved Grade 8 in trumpet and am the principal player in Dudley Metropolitan Advanced Orchestra. I perform in other ensembles including Sovereign Brass Band, a championship level band which is ranked in the top one hundred worldwide. These commitments have increased my confidence and demonstrate successful time management whilst studying. I also play piano at Grade 5, and intend to continue these hobbies at University, as well as embarking on new ones.

Universities applied to:

• University of Exeter (BSc Engineering Geology and Geotechnics)
• University of Exeter (Mining Engineering)
• University of Leicester (Msc Geology with geophysics)
• University of Birmingham (Msc Geology)
• Imperial College (Msc Geology with Geophysics)

Grades achieved:

• Geology (A2) - predicted A*
• Mathematics (A2) - predicted A*
• Physics (A2) - predicted A
• Further Maths (AS) - predicted A
• Geography (AS) - C

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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