Mathematics degree personal statement example (1b)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

For me, maths is more than a study of numbers and patterns. It is a way of thought. An analytical and logical outlook of the world. I first discovered this in primary school, under the guidance of a retired mathematician, who showed me the beauty of maths, even beyond the classroom. Each week, he introduced me to a new concept, a new puzzle or a new challenge which would fuel my inquisitive nature and my desire to learn more.

Since then, my love of maths has developed and I have continued to explore the subject both in and outside of school. Alongside my GCSE, I undertook a Free Standing Mathematics Qualification in additional maths. Similarly, I am currently undertaking an AS in further maths in addition to my other A Levels. I opted to do these extra qualifications in order to develop my skill and aptitude in maths and challenge myself in my favourite subject.

I have also attended a maths conference at Solihull College, where I learnt about the practical uses of maths in everyday life. I also recently attended two lectures at Birmingham University which explored how maths is applied in climate models and the maths of chance and probability. Another conference I attended was held at Adrian Boult Hall in Birmingham and through these out of school events I have been able to gain an insight into the importance of maths in society.

I am a hardworking and enthusiastic student, who is motivated by challenges and puzzles from which I can gain new skills and insight. I believe mathematics is a subject which will allow me to fully reach my potential and I look forward to studying it at university.

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

Alongside my formal studies, I am currently undertaking an AS in further maths in addition to my other A Levels. These qualifications have helped me deepen my understanding and challenge myself in complex mathematical concepts beyond the standard curriculum.

I am currently involved in an original group research project on sleep and have completed an extended project exploring the effects of bariatric surgery. My involvement in these projects has helped to develop my independent study skills as well as my research technique; this will prove useful during the course of my higher education.

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

My passion for maths has also led me to take up a number of other opportunities outside of academics. These include being appointed the role of treasurer for the School Council and managing a company in the Young Enterprise programme which went on to take part in the regional competition and made a healthy profit.

In the past two years, I have also undertaken 4 weeks of work experience at a local primary school where I was involved in helping out during numeracy lessons and running a lunchtime Maths club for the pupils. I also helped the students in their business workshop where I helped supervise and aid money management. I am also currently involved in providing maths tuition to year 7 students within my local area, aiding them with basic mathematical concepts such as algebra.

Through various other experiences, I have developed a number of interpersonal skills which will help me to work successfully at university and allow me to work towards a career in teaching. I am currently head of both the School Council and the school’s Cultural Awareness Society. I am also editor of the Sixth form magazine, have completed a Sports Leadership Award and was a peer mentor for younger pupils. These roles have developed both my leadership and communication skills.

I am able to work as a member of a team, and this is a skill which I have developed as a member of various school sports teams and societies. For example, I worked within a group on an online project, aiming to ease the transition for students entering sixth form. These skills were also developed when I achieved the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award.

In my spare time I enjoy reading books, especially crime fiction, which allows me to apply my logical thinking skills. I also enjoy writing poetry, some of which has appeared in books and charity newsletters such as Frishta. I play badminton and football for leisure and find that maintaining my fitness improves my ability to remain positive in all aspects of life.

Universities applied to:

• Coventry

Grades achieved:

• Maths (A2) - A
• Further maths (AS) - A
• bio (A2) - A*
• chem (A2) - A

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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