Mathematics with computer science degree personal statement example (1a)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Computer programming and Mathematics are the two topics that I am most interested in. They are both greatly suited to who I am and what I am good at because I have a clear, logical and rational mind. I have done a lot of individual learning around the areas of Science, Mathematics and Computers because I have a strong genuine interest in them. Because of this interest, I don’t lack in motivation towards learning about them. I always make sure that I understand the topics to a good level and I am always very keen to learn about them to a greater depth and detail.

My interest in computers and computer programming is purely extracurricular. I started programming a year ago and as soon as I did, I knew I was going to go far with it. I got familiar with a couple of programming languages and since then I have created a range of programs including a recreation of John Conway’s ‘Game of Life’ and a program that can play connect-4 much better than me. I have learnt most of what I know from books, including books on neural networks, artificial intelligence and games programming.

My interest in computers is not restricted to software either; I have a good idea of how to put together a computer and I have upgraded my computer hardware a couple of times by myself.

I have chosen to study mathematics as well for a few reasons. I find the subject interesting and I enjoy learning about it. I occasionally play around with maths that is off the school syllabus just for fun, usually trying to solve mechanics problems that I have thought up. Other than my interest towards the subject, I want to study mathematics because it is useful for many areas of advanced computer science, such as computer graphics and the simulation of complex systems.

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

In an attempt to merge my skills in mathematics and programming, I created a Mandelbrot set viewer. It can zoom in and out of the fractal, and has a choice of colour schemes. Each week my school has a new maths puzzle that is displayed in the mathematics department, before A-level I almost always was the first person to solve it. Since I started my A-levels I have often been the one to create the puzzle and provide the initial correct answer.

On top of programming and mathematics, I have a keen interest in physics, chemistry and other areas of science. I have read quite a few popular science books on quantum theory, Einstein’s theory of relativity and other more peculiar areas of science, such as the theory behind spontaneous synchronisation in nature. I try to keep up to date with the latest advancements in science and technology via my subscription to New Scientist and various websites. I have developed a broad range of knowledge over the sciences and I am always keen to learn more.

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

I go rock-climbing once or twice every week. I started climbing when I joined a climbing club at the Leeds indoor wall a couple of years ago, it didn’t take me long after I started to catch up with the rest of the group who had been climbing since they were much younger, and soon I was climbing routes which I previously thought would take me much longer to conquer. I can play the drum kit quite well and I have previously been in a couple of bands with friends. As with my climbing, I learnt to play the drums very quickly. My drum teacher suggested that I do the test for grade 8 drumming, but I never did because at the time I wasn’t interested in being graded.

I think I would be a good addition to your University; I am hard working, motivated and a fast learner. But the main reason that I stand out from the crowd is my very strong, genuine interest that I have in the two subjects I am applying to study at University.

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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