Personal Statement:Physics 28

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Studying physics is integral to my ambition in acquiring a deeper understanding of how the Universe works, as well as developing my skills in logic and reasoning, and I would like this to lead to a career in physics. I am greatly interested in quantum physics as I am fascinated by the wonderfully peculiar aspects of this cutting edge subject, and its potential impact and many applications within technology.

In order to increase my knowledge of physics outside the A-level syllabus, I keep up to date with 'New Scientist' and similar publications. I read about complex theories and important discoveries and recently enjoyed 'Quantum electrodynamics' by Richard Feynman. I am currently reading 'The New Quantum Universe' by Tony Hey and Patrick Walters. My reading has enabled me to develop an insight into topics that I might cover during my degree, and I have found this mentally stimulating and intriguing. Other areas of physics I am particularly interested in include graphene science and quantum computing, as they have many potential implications in technology. As a Villiers Park scholar, I have been on a five day physics residential course. This course involved seminars with talks on topics such as nuclear physics, and we visited the Cambridge Institute of Astronomy. The course expanded my knowledge of physics and my competence to research and present ideas logically in a formal situation.

This academic year I plan to focus purely on my A-levels, ensuring that I achieve my aim in entering the university of my choice. In studying physics at university I intend to build on my understanding of the Universe, and ultimately work in scientific research in order that I can contribute to scientific knowledge and technology. As a highly motivated student, I will bring a strong enthusiasm to develop my academic knowledge and ability.

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

A stimulating part of my A-level physics course involved producing an experiment and constructing a detailed report on it. This required a great deal of independent thinking and helped enhance my practical ability. My proficiency in performing experiments has also been developed in studying chemistry, which has widened my insight into the structure of matter and its chemical reactions. I enjoy studying mathematics at A-level, because as well as developing my problem solving capability, it enables me to use formulae and equations with efficiency.

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

My main interest outside physics is music. Since 2010 I have attained grade 8 with distinction in both piano and violin. Further to this I attained an ATCL diploma in piano, awarding me 90 credits at level 4 of the QCF. These achievements tested my mental capability in a very different way to my academic studies, and I believe show my discipline and determination to achieve at the highest levels. My particular interest in music means that it is important for me to continue music to A2 level as my additional subject. My musical ability has also led to work experience. I regularly play the piano or with a string quartet at social occasions. I also play in regional and semi-professional orchestras and these experiences have developed my skills in working with people.

Other interests outside my academic studies include mountain biking and road cycling. In 2010, I cycled an 800 mile tour of Scotland, and in 2011 I cycled over 1200 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats, raising money for the British Heart Foundation. These were both challenging but highly enjoyable experiences, and tested my capacity to handle difficult situations and work as a team.

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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