Personal Statement:Pharmacology 2

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

'Today's science, tomorrow's medicine' The British Pharmacological Society's motto encapsulates my main reason for choosing to study pharmacology. It is a discipline at the forefront of medicine, and serves as a critical link between laboratory science and medical practice. Moreover, the course encompasses many aspects of physiology and biomedicine, whilst opening doors to work in the pioneering field of drug development, as a clinical pharmacologist.

I am particularly interested in neuropharmacology. I believe the human brain and nervous system are not only the most interesting and complex areas of anatomy, but as the population ages, and cases of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's increase, they are also becoming a crucial sector of biomedical research.

In the future, it is my intention to continue in academia to achieve a PhD in neuropharmacology. I am confident that my skills and experiences will lead me to succeed when studying at degree level. I look forward to the opportunity to learn more about this vital science and to make the most of everything that life at university has to offer.

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

My A level choices have shown Chemistry and Cytology to be topics I have a genuine enthusiasm for, and subjects that I can enjoy studying outside the curriculum. I am a member of my school's Biology Society and Biology Journal Club, where students give a weekly presentation on a scientific paper. I also run the Biochemistry Society, which requires me to think creatively to maintain the group's interest. This has strengthened my ability to lead a group effectively and has established a mature working relationship between myself and the science department.

These clubs have provided the opportunity to discuss and analyse scientific literature with my peers. Ben Goldacre's 'Bad Science' was particularly interesting as it led me to question the way science is sometimes portrayed in the media.

I am Chemistry Prefect and have benefited from working with our laboratory technicians, creating solutions with specific concentrations to be used in experiments lower down the school. This has increased my confidence in my practical abilities, which will aid me in experiment based learning. This role also enables me to build up my communication skills by being the department representative for current students and showcase the subject to prospective pupils and parents at consultation evenings and open days.

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

During work experience at Bradford Royal Infirmary, I witnessed firsthand the interdependency different drugs have on each other and on the body.

As a dyslexic, I am motivated to help others with similar problems. I currently tutor two younger girls in school, and I have become a Learning Enrichment Ambassador. This responsibility includes organising the 'Study Buddy' system and arranging clubs for Special Educational Needs pupils. Once a week, I volunteer at my former primary school to help with their after-school activities. These responsibilities have enhanced my personal development, interpersonal skills and made me more effective when working in a team. I believe it was because of these attributes that I was chosen to assist in the Year 11 foundation GCSE maths class whilst in the lower sixth.

For the last year, weekly, I have taught swimming to children from the local Special Needs School. This has shown me the importance of being patient, consistent and having a positive attitude in the face of adversity.

I have played the piano recreationally for 8 years and have sung in my school's junior, senior and elite choir, a past time I wish to continue at university. I love learning languages and since the age of fourteen I have been teaching myself Japanese. This shows I have an enquiring mind, determination and the ability to study independently.

Twice weekly Tae Kwon Do lessons have taught me the importance of commitment and persistence in overcoming a challenge, for which I have recently achieved a blue belt.

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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