Maths Personal Statement Example 8

At the start of my Mathematics course I thought I knew quite a lot about the subject. Now, having studied it for 12 months, I have realised that there is so much more to learn than I originally thought. Just studying it at A-level has opened up so many questions that I didn't even know existed. Not only has my interest increased, it has made me more eager to learn. The main reason I want to continue studying Mathematics at higher level is so that I can do more than just skim the surface; I want to gain new insights, understand new concepts, and ask new questions.

Having studied both Pure Mathematics and Mechanics, I believe I am a well-rounded mathematician. Pure Mathematics is my personal favourite because I think other areas of Mathematics rely so heavily on the understanding of it. I also enjoy its focus on thought processes and problem solving techniques.

Among the mathematical books I have read, I enjoyed "Fermat's Last Theorem" by Amir. D. Aczel and "From Here to Infinity" by Ian Stewart, which deals with the concept of infinity, its implications and its paradoxes, both in Mathematics and elsewhere.

Last year I took part in a mentoring scheme in my school, during which I assisted a Year 8 Mathematics class once every week. They were one of the lower sets so I found it challenging trying to help them to understand new ideas. Despite this I found it extremely rewarding at the end of the year when some of the children performed better than expected in their Mathematics exam. I also found that having to go back to the very basics of Mathematics helped me to understand the way Mathematical skills and concepts are related and often built on one another. Last year I won the Year 12 Mathematics Award in my school and also received an award for 'Outstanding AS-level Results'.

In my spare time I enjoy cooking and often bake novelty cakes for friends' birthdays. Every week I attend a Girl Guides group and am a Young Leader there. I have completed the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and recently received a Millennium Volunteers Award. I have a part time job at my local library which I feel has developed my interpersonal skills. This job has helped me to learn to work both as part of a team and independently, and to make mature and responsible decisions. During my time in Sixth Form I have set up a book club in my school which meets once a fortnight to discuss a variety of books. In June we went on a trip to the Lake District where we discussed romantic poetry and other literature. Last year I was chosen to be a senior prefect which involves representing the school at various events and performing regular duties. I feel that all of my extra-curricular commitments have made me more responsible and taught me how to manage my time effectively.

Although I am still unsure of the path I will take after graduating, I know that having a degree in Mathematics will give me many transferable skills. Studying Mathematics at a higher level will provide me with many challenges, and equally as much enjoyment.