Personal Statement

Theoretical and mathematical physics has attracted my attention as from simple equations and limited resources, you can explain intricate systems. From a mathematics point of view, it is a subject I am strongly enthusiastic about especially as from an overall viewpoint; problems within mathematics require logical approaches and thinking skills which are qualities that I have been shown to express. I have been researching the motion of particles in my current physics unit which has led to me expanding my knowledge through reading about mathematics topics on the general motion of particles such as in two and three dimensions. What I find most intriguing is the study of harmonic motion and oscillatory motion as it explains the movement of a particle in proportion to the linear displacement from a fixed point; similar to how in physics a planetary body is orbited by moons for example. Having studied philosophy for the past 4 years, it has taught me that the answers to many questions surrounding the nature of the universe can be given a greater insight through physics and mathematics as they fall into the domain of empiricism. Physics as a whole has been a subject that has greatly seized my attention ever since I had looked up into the stars as a child, enthralled at the enormity of the universe. I have been following the advancements of the Square Kilometer Array having learnt about it from a recent trip to Jodrell Bank which further sparked my interest in the behaviour of planetary bodies affected by relativity.

Having worked at an engineering firm, it has taught me to use initiative and logical thinking to solve real life problems. Through assisting in the making of various steel products, it showed that that I was….

My general interests are playing the piano; I find that improvising music shows a great deal of creativity and motivation and I believe that this reflects on me as a person. It shows that I can manage (ted talks on musicians). My other interests include rock climbing and bouldering which show a great deal of teamwork and leadership qualities as the sports pose a risk. I have also completed my bronze and silver Duke of Edinburgh award which represents organisational skills, and time management. I am greatly inspired by scientific literature and the works of Lawrence Krauss and Richard Dawkins. In the past I have read “A Universe from Nothing” and “Unweaving the Rainbow” by both authors. More recently I attended the Manchester Science Week, in which there were various talks and lectures from a range of scientists. What grasped my attention was the Mathsjam event which I am now a current member of and a lecture on the mathematics of spheres and their behaviour in up to 24 dimensions.

I would welcome the chance to study this course and expand my knowledge on the subject alongside the current extra-curricular activities I enjoy. (express interest)

The macrocosm has been nature’s greatest mystery and is by far one of the most intriguing. The universe has always been a topic which has been interesting and the more we learn, very often, the less it makes sense, especially with regards to physics on a quantum level. This is perhaps what I find most incredible about the subject. Having studied philosophy for the past 4 years, it has taught me that the answers to many questions surrounding the epistemology of the universe can be given a greater insight through physics and mathematics as they fall into the domain of empiricism. From a mathematics standpoint, it is a subject I am strongly enthusiastic especially as from an aspectual viewpoint problems within mathematics require logical approaches and thinking skills which are qualities that I am certain I have. Physics as a whole has been a subject that has greatly encapsulated my attention ever since I’ve had a telescope and took up stargazing as a child and as a result, has led to me aspiring to become a physicist and go on to further study after university.

I have participated in many science related activities over the past years, more recently however, I have taken the opportunity to participate in various activities on ‘Manchester Science Week’. I am also attending a talk by Richard Dawkins, who ever since learning about in philosophy has been a personal interest of mine. His relation to other scientific fields introduced me to Lawrence Krauss, who has admittedly become one of my idols. His book ‘A Universe From Nothing’ grasped my interest in astrophysics and cosmology and how the universe works. Reading in itself is something I am deeply passionate about. Personally, it is something I find an immense amount of joy from doing, especially when reading non-fiction books which give an insight into the cognizance of the subject area which is physics.

Academic Achievements

Work Experience/Employment/Volunteering

Extra-Curricular Activities

Outside of college I have been involved in various activities. For example, I have developed an interest in rock climbing by learning how to boulder and belay. They are sports that require a person to be attentive, have good communication skills and show good leadership qualities that are fundamental when participating in group work.

As well as this, I have self-taught myself to play the piano. Playing and composing greatly motivate me and it is reassuring to other aspects of life that what was once aspiration is certainly within grasp providing you have dedication and self-discipline.