Personal Statement:Zoology

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

"An understanding of the natural world...is a source of not only great curiosity, but great fulfilment."- David Attenborough, a man whom I greatly admire for his enthusiasm and contribution to science. From the microorganisms to predators, from the environmental structure to the molecular, the many wonders of the world truly fascinate me, which is why I wish to explore them in more depth. I wish to study Zoology due to the diversity of life the world has to offer, focusing my degree on animal life specifically.

One of the many ideas that I find so captivating in my studies of biology A-level is the theory of evolution, which I believe is the foundation for many of the principles that interest me the most. Because of this, I have broadened my knowledge through literature such as "almost like a whale" by Steve Jones and also through journals such as the ZSL, as I believe understanding the key concepts of new ideas is vital to educate humanity on the ever changing world of science. I particularly enjoyed Jones' modern view on the theory of evolution as it shows how modern technology can improve older theorems to suit the modern day. To develop my personal understanding further, I also enjoy reading the "Big Picture" magazine which helps me to experience the new scientific advances, particularly the issue on populations which explored Darwin's relation to evolutionary forces that made organisms successful as it shows how fundamental research has shaped the way we view populations today. The article applies knowledge of genetics to how we view the physical world including the effect of mutations and inbreeding to animal and human populations. Reading this has helped to enrich my A level biology studies and the concepts needed to pursue a degree in Zoology. I am looking forward to field studies the most as I feel that the practical applications of Zoology are just as important as the theoretical ones. This links with my interest to the practical research elements of the course and laboratory sessions.

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

My A level choices of mostly science based courses have allowed me to develop analytical skills as well as important field work skills. Although these subjects have been a challenge, I have found them to be both stimulating and enjoyable. Using logic in my work is something I find particularly interesting and it is why I enjoy these subjects the most.

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

Outside of my biology lessons, I have also taken an active role in the department through providing a taster session for prospective A-level students. This involved sharing my experiences and encouraging students to take on biology as a subject. I strongly believe that helping younger students is a valuable experience; teaching and assisting others has allowed me to gain confidence.

An experience that I feel has shaped me has been my volunteering work with a Lourdes pilgrimage. Not only have I become more compassionate and mature through the experience, but I have also been able to gain presentation skills, team working skills and leadership skills. Having to take part in public speaking events to raise awareness and having to communicate with both the elderly and non-English speakers has helped me gain these skills and values.

In addition to this, I have participated in roles such as lower school mentor and prefect which has allowed me to create meaningful relationships with younger students, allowing me to take on roles of responsibility. This involved working with students on a personal level to solve problems both academically and socially, gaining personal skills in problem solving.

Making a difference in the world through science is one of my fundamental goals in life, as I believe many of the world's issues, such as climate change and animals facing extinction, need the expertise of biologists to solve. As a self-motivated individual it is my goal to do my part to solve these problems and I truly believe that a degree will lead me closer to these goals.

Universities applied to:

• Newcastle University
• University of Reading
• University of Bristol
• Swansea University
• University of Salford

Grades achieved:

• Biology (A2) - B
• Mathematics (A2) - C
• I.C.T (A2) - B
• English Language (AS) - B

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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