Mathematics with economics degree personal statement example (1a)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

When first introduced to economics at a summer school in 2007, I instantly felt it was an area I would love to explore further. The theories encountered in economics are both relevant and extremely important, especially given the current economic climate. Mathematics was the subject I was most enthusiastic about and enjoyed greatly throughout school, particularly thriving on the challenge of problem solving, so I have always been confident that I would continue it at a higher level. Economics to me is the perfect complement, allowing mathematical methods to be applied to economic theories and then to what is happening in the real world.

While I have yet to make a final decision on my future career, mathematics and economics will undoubtedly be central to whichever path I pursue. I am confident that my passion and aptitude in both areas will enable me to approach the challenges of university with the determination and enthusiasm required to make the most of the opportunities presented to me.

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

My additional A level subjects have helped me develop the skills necessary to gain a better understanding of both economics and mathematics. English literature has enhanced my analytical skills, enabling me to effectively evaluate economic arguments and reach considered and accurate conclusions. Attending an English literature summer school at Villiers Park Educational Trust this year allowed me to further build on these evaluative skills. Studying physics alongside mathematics has encouraged me to be more inquisitive, exploring why a theory, law or equation works in order to understand it fully, which has proved crucial in both economics and mathematics. Robert Heilbroner's book 'The Worldly Philosophers' heightened my interest in economics, as it takes a fascinating look at the thoughts and history behind some of the most important and influential economists through time.

I received gold in the UKMT junior mathematics challenge, and in 2006 was part of my school's team which won the group borough round. I found these competitions particularly motivating, as we encountered tougher problems than in school and had to approach them in different ways. In 2008 I was accepted onto the LSE CHOICE programme to study mathematics at a summer school, and as a result of my performance was selected to return for sixteen Saturday sessions. We were again presented with problems requiring a lot more consideration and alternative ways of thinking, further confirming my desire to study mathematics.

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

In 2005 I was invited to join the National Academy for Gifted and Talented Youth (NAGTY), through which I attended the Economics Summer School at Bristol University last year. During the course I was exposed to new concepts and was required to use them alongside research and give presentations in which I applied economic theories to current issues. In 2007 I also participated in NAGTY's 'Big Deal Enterprise Challenge' at Warwick University. Creating and presenting a prototype product whilst considering current market conditions demonstrated just how sensitive business can be to a changing economy, highlighting the importance of market stability.

Throughout my AS studies I volunteered an afternoon every week assisting in a local primary school class. I was often responsible for fifteen children, organising and delivering activities to the class. I found this a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience, which improved my patience and ability to understand and be understood. In July 2008 I was selected to join the 'HSBC Voyage of Achievement' on a Tall Ship. Good teamwork and leadership quickly proved vital as we worked to efficiently complete various tasks in running the ship, and I qualified for a RYA competent crew certificate. Whilst the twelve days involved a lot of hard, tiring and demanding work it was very rewarding, and I plan to join another voyage soon to work towards the next certificate.

Universities applied to:

• Bristol
• York
• Newcastle
• Durham
• Cambridge

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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