Personal Statement:Physics 21

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Physics has captivated me from an early age because of how logically it explains the natural phenomena of the universe. Growing up and learning that the way things work can be shown with mathematics has left craving for real answers. The way mathematics can explain the real world allows a gateway into unlimited possibilities for knowledge. Physics is a respected academic field and a degree in it would greatly prepare me for a career in research.

I am especially passionate about astrophysics, and to follow my interest further I successfully gained a Nuffield Science Bursary. This provided me with acceptance into a research institute and financial funds to help me carry out a project at University College London on the mass loss rate of exo-solar planets throughout their orbit around the host star. A majority of this work was done on computers, using the terminal application on a Macintosh to manipulate and run mathematical models created for the specific purpose. Over 50 exo-solar planets were used in the model, with data such as orbital eccentricity, semi-major axis, stellar mass and radius used to find the mass loss rate. I found the project an extremely interesting and beneficial experience, as it gave me more insight into the way physics research is organized, and allowed me to carry out my own scientific research.

Physics is something I have a very strong passion for and I believe I have the right attributes required for success in a physics degree. I hope to gain a deeper insight into how the universe works, and a physics degree will enable me to do so.

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

In the summer of 2009, I attended two separate work experience placements at the University of Birmingham and the University of Bristol. At Birmingham University I was given lectures on areas such as quantum mechanics and high energy particle physics. I was also given a thought experiment test, with questions designed for first and second year students. I enjoyed it as I was coming across ideas that had me challenge my previous knowledge, and the questions pushed me out of my comfort zone. At Bristol University there were many lessons, lectures and lab work. Highlights included creating calculus questions for first year students, and building circuit boards to be assembled with a spark chamber. I found these placements very useful as they gave me a clearer perception into university life and how the material is taught in lectures.

My desire for greater mathematical knowledge increased further once I knew I wanted to go into research after my degree. I moved up to the further mathematics group and I had to learn many modules by myself, as the further mathematics group had already covered most of the content. This shows I have the commitment and motivation required for independent learning, essential qualities needed for success at university.

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

In my spare time I enjoy riding BMX. I often travel across the UK to help run and take part in competitions and have also travelled to Berlin and Cologne to compete in worldwide events. This shows I can work in a team as events require the coordination and management of thousands of people over a weekend. I also play the drums and have won 1st prize in two county competitions. I played the drums and trombone in the school orchestra and jazz band, often playing in city centres, theme parks and travelling on a tour around Europe. This further deepened my belief that hard work and commitment can lead to great success.

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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