Mathematics with physics degree personal statement example (1d) firm offer Bath

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Since primary school I've always found mathematics to be the most interesting and enjoyable of subjects and going through GCSEs and A Levels made me realise how suited it was to me. I have always felt that the rules of maths come naturally to me and have also realised that maths is what I want to do in my future. During my GCSEs I became much more interested in physics and I feel I have a flair for this subject too. I am now confident in maths and physics and I plan to have a career in one or both of these subjects. Studying a course based on maths and/or physics would increase my chances of getting a job in this field and allow me to enjoy myself whilst learning. I find myself very interested in learning how maths and physics fit in to our daily lives and discovering or explaining how complex systems work. For instance I currently teach a year seven maths class, this involves helping them discover equations, solving their questions and explaining to them why these equations work. Teaching this class helps me to see new methods to problem solving and made me realise that this is want I want to do in my life. I realised that mechanics and physics link together very well as both topics include modelling real life situations as mathematical problems and my study in both subjects has heightened my desire to carry them on further in my life.

I am very interested in carrying on my learning of mathematics and physics and would love to study them both at a higher level. I feel going to university will benefit me as it help me to become more independent, give me new experiences and allow me to meet same minded people.

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

During my GCSEs I took part in the local Carnegie challenge both years which included reading nine books within nine weeks and then presenting my chosen book to the judges. I've learnt many debating and presenting skills as well as organisation skills as one year I was leader of our group. I Have Completed the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award which I found both interesting and challenging as it involved working as a team. This award helped me to be confident in putting forth my ideas and making decisions, as well as encouraging me to be enthusiastic and committed to the task at hand. In 2010 I spent a week working in the office for a local construction company which helped me to see how much thought and planning goes into something that seems so simple and how each individual role makes a lot of difference on efficiency and production. It also encouraged me to be time and work efficient in the work place.

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

Both my parents are Electronic Engineers, for most of my life I have experienced a very technical side to life, for example, with my family I have built several models including model houses, tables, worktops and a realistic motor engine. My father and I are also very involved with the wiring and audio systems for our house and church, we both are regularly testing and improving the current arrangements. I have always been very interested in technology such as computers, media devices and sound systems and keen to learn how these devices work. On several occasions I have confidently taken apart and replaced/fixed electrical components for the computers in my home. In my spare time I enjoy reading, modelling and coding. Computer coding helps me with certain aspects of maths, such as algorithms, problem solving and algebra. Since an early age I have been passionate about music and I have taken music AS Level. I play many instruments including cornet, piano and guitar and I currently play in a local band. I also play badminton and volleyball regularly and I play for a local volleyball team. I volunteer as a public speaker and a youth helper at my local church. Working with children and addressing an audience have both helped me to become more confident in talking to others. Taking part in sport teams has improved my team work and social skills.

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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