Personal Statement:Physics 34

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Physics has always been a subject that I have held in high regard, and my passion for it has only intensified during recent years. Due to my inquisitive nature, I find myself constantly asking the questions "How?" and "Why?", and physics as a subject is famous for presenting such queries. The exploration of these challenges is something that I am extremely interested in, and only a physics degree would allow me to pursue their answers. The study of physics allows us to describe the macroscopic universe in microscopic terms, and enables us to explain practical problems through mathematics. The ability to numerically and algebraically describe the world in front of me is particularly fascinating, and the process of successfully doing so is equally thrilling.

I strive to sate my hunger for knowledge, and do so by actively reading news from sources such as NewScientist, and the Institute of Physics (of which I am a junior member), in order to keep up with the latest findings and advances. An example of a recent news story that caught my attention was the "proton radius puzzle". I have enjoyed reading books such as 'Why does E=mc^2?', and from them I was especially interested in learning about space-time and relativity. I was able to further my understanding as to why a moving clock ticks at a slower rate, a rather unintuitive principle.

Curiosity has driven to pursue a career in physics research, and I will never become complacent with my knowledge. A physics degree will allow me to further my understanding of the universe, as well as providing me with the ability to challenge current theories and knowledge to push the boundaries of science.

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

Outside of college, I was involved in a lengthy STEM project with the Engineering Development Trust concerning the management and safety of gas pipelines. During which, I carried out large amounts independent research and work, whilst also managing my A level study time aptly to maintain a good standard. This project required me to produce and test a solution to a real-world issue as part of a team of four students, and concluded with giving a presentation of our work followed by an interview. In recognition of my achievements, I received a BSA CREST Gold award, and my team was ranked as above average by the panel of experts we presented to.

I leapt at the challenge of writing an EPQ paper concerning the future of solar colonisation, which required in-depth research into the interesting features of several bodies in the solar system, and evaluation as to their suitability for sustaining life.

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

In addition, I seized the opportunity to work with the Institute of Physics, as an advisor to high school pupils undertaking a project about exoplanets. This was an excellent experience, which allowed me to share my passion and excitement for physics with the 19 pupils I mentored, and which also gave me the chance to refine my ability to explain ideas in a clear and understandable fashion. Teaching myself to be proficient in several programming languages, including JavaScript and HTML, has allowed me to consider ways to programmatically solve problems presented in physics class, for example, questions relating to circular and harmonic motion. I explored computing further by experimenting with website management, and hosting my programs on a personal server.

Having started volunteering at a charity shop as part of my Duke of Edinburgh Award, I continued working there for over a year. This has given me a strong sense of responsibility, while also strengthening my interpersonal skills. In gratitude for my efforts, I was rewarded with the most valued vInspired award, the v100. If time permits, I anticipate continuing within the DofE programme whilst at university, as it will provide an excellent opportunity for me to meet new people and forge relationships.

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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