Personal Statement:Geophysics

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I want to study Geophysics because I am interested in learning about earth’s structure and dynamics and understanding how the complex physical processes can be described using simple, elegant mathematical theories. Geophysics combines my aptitude for Maths and Physics with my interest in the structure of the earth.

One aspect I am particularly interested in is plate tectonics. Attending a lecture on the Miyakejima eruption in 2000 sparked my interest in the complexities of predicting the size of volcanic eruptions using a variety of techniques, including remote sensing from satellites to track magma propagating into large dykes. My knowledge of stress and strain from A-level Physics is useful in explaining the ‘cracking’ of rocks above the dykes.

Climate change is an intriguing area which I have read extensively on. ‘The Naked Sun’ examines the often ignored effect of solar radiation on climate, detailing studies such as the CLOUD experiment. McGuire’s book ‘Waking the Giant’ particularly interested me as it examines the geophysical effects of climate change, such as increased volcanic activity due to melting ice caps leading to a drop in pressure in the mantle.

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

I have downloaded a climate model onto my computer which helps climateprediction.net refine their future models by modelling past change. I was particularly engaged by the 3D earth models detailing future temperature and cloud cover variations on my computer screen. I also used GIS during my Geography fieldwork to plot data graphically on Google Earth and research the River Bran and Usk. I used equipment such as a flowmeter to take a variety of measurements that were compared to theoretical models to deduce flood risk levels.

This summer I attended a Headstart course at Southampton University in Geology & Geophysics. I sampled fieldwork techniques both on land and at sea, including looking at seismic scanning methods in the Solent, as well as attending taster lectures. This included a very interesting discussion concerning drilling to the ‘Moho’ - I am now writing an article for my school’s Geography magazine on the subject. I worked in a group producing a presentation for the end of the week, which was presented in front of a large audience in a seminar room.

I study Further Maths, and I enjoy using statistics to analyse and find correlations in data sets; I was able to use this to effectively analyse and represent my data from geography fieldwork. I attended a lecture by David Spiegelhalter on risk and probability, and later presented this with members of my maths set to a school assembly. I also enjoy studying the core maths modules and enjoy the satisfaction of applying my mind to solving complex problems; I have twice made it to the next round in the intermediate maths challenge with high gold scores. I also applied the mechanics I learnt in maths to a physics project to make a film about projectiles, and was struck by how simple maths could be used to find solutions to real life problems.

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

In work experience at PwC and RES, I applied my IT skills and statistical knowledge to handle data for a large climate simulation as well as processing data to refine wind models. However, I found that I would prefer to combine these skills with my interest in the solid earth and the outdoors. For example, in my expeditions for gold D of E, I enjoyed studying the glaciology of the Lake District, and developed teamwork skills which I built on by participating in conservation every Friday.

I am a keen sportsman both in and out of school, having represented my school at rugby, cricket and football for a number of years. I have been on three sports tours, which helped me organise my time for fundraising and bond with teammates while away in an unfamiliar environment. I play both the piano and the drums to Grade 7 standard. For 4 years I have played the drums at my church, including at a Christian Conference this summer, where I also led a group of 8-9 year old children for a week.

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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