Mathematics degree personal statement example (1g) - reviewer comments

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I find a constant source of pleasure in conceptualising unfamiliar ideas as well as thinking logically and analytically to arrive at satisfying and often beautiful proofs. I am fascinated by the ubiquity of maths and the way that it underpins everything around us. I encountered binary maths at the age of five and since then have found numbers and logic bewitching.

The far-reaching applicability and connections between different fields in mathematics gives me a thirst for knowledge across a broad spectrum of pure and applied mathematics. By tackling and discussing challenging maths problems and extending my knowledge in a variety of ways, I have found my passion for maths increasing greatly this year. I want this to continue in my university life through the intensity of the maths course and I want to gain a depth of knowledge in mathematics. I know this will lead me along fascinating avenues and I look forward to finding out about new and exciting areas of mathematics as I make the transition from school to university.

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

I have had many opportunities to apply my maths skills over the years. In year 7, I obtained a gold award in the UK Mathematical Challenge which gained me a place on a series of mathematics master-classes. These classes covered topics ranging from relativity to John Conway's Perpetual Calendar and showed me a more mature mathematical way of thinking. Reading books such as 'Fermat's Last Theorem' and attending various maths and science lectures also fuelled and deepened my interest. I regularly attend a maths club in Cardiff University, tackling problems independently then discussing solutions with other keen mathematicians.

The increased pace of Further Maths has suited me and I have succeeded in gaining 100% in four of my maths and physics modules in year 12. The many unfamiliar and abstract ideas in maths have been fascinating. I have enjoyed learning more about the way the world works through chemistry and physics lessons.

Tutoring students for their GCSE maths was a fascinating experience which also helped me analyse and develop my own studies and mathematical skills.

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

I have completed a national engineering scheme where our team undertook a project to save water. We did extensive research to develop solutions for the company's challenge then produced a report on our findings and delivered an extended presentation to a panel. For the project to succeed we had to apply a wide range of skills for example ICT, problem solving, communication and application of number.

Over the last six months I have volunteered for over 100 hours in an after-school, play-care facility. I also run a book club and a contemporary dance club at my school where I have learned how to prepare suitable yet challenging work for the students then apply my preparation into practice. I subscribe to National Geographic and read the New Scientist regularly.

I am 'full of life', confident and at ease in new situations. I enjoy the unknown. I am determined and committed to everything I decide to do and like to arrive at my own conclusions through discussion and debate. Dance is a passion for me as a creative and practical activity. I do over 7 hours a week of ballet and contemporary dance training which has given me a high-level technique and skill base with a growing sense of artistry. I am a member of the national dance company of Wales' associates' scheme and am studying advanced grades in ballet.

I travel widely, recently visiting places such as India, Morocco and Vietnam - all of which have increased my sense of independence and search for new experiences. I represent my County in cross-country races, which offers me physical and mental challenges which I face with eager enthusiasm.

Universities applied to:

• Oxford
• Warwick
• Bristol
• UCL
• Imperial

Grades achieved:

• Mathematics - A
• Further Mathematics - A
• Physics - A
• Chemistry - A
• Physics (AEA) - Merit
• Mathematics (AEA) - Merit
• Chemistry (AEA) - Merit

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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