#uni personal statement

Where would we be without human curiosity? This intellectual thirst for knowledge allows us to think outside of the box, be creative and ultimately discover new and exciting concepts. I have an inquisitive nature; from an early age I would not settle for simple facts, always delving deeper, asking the ‘why’s and ‘how’s behind every day simple tasks. During my studies I have found my feet in a number of different disciplines; being a natural mathematician led me to the sciences, whilst Philosophy sparked an interest in a range of works from Plato and Aristotle to Westphal’s account of the philosophy of religion. Aristotle’s work directed me towards ‘Utopia’ by Thomas More, which I found profoundly interesting when considering political philosophy as he highlights the impact of humanity on the world. I believe it is a combination of scientific and mathematical disciples along with philosophical and psychological concepts, which allow us to interpret the world around us. Conversations with my mother, who studied aspects of neurology, have sparked my interest for neuroscience. The EPQ thus gave me an opportunity to pursue my own research interests and develop my academic writing. My investigation was into the treatment of eating disorders; including the psychological effects on the brain. The Minnesota Starvation study drove me to explore the plasticity of the mind, leading me to reading “The diving-bell and the butterfly” which has introduced me to a different area of neurology. Throughout the year I was able to work independently, be self-motivated and organised. These skills I had previously developed as I studied A2 chemistry and maths from home with few contact hours due to illness - circumstances I did not let dampen my passion for studying leading me to obtain 99% in a mechanics module. Over the past few years’ personal difficulties have shown me the true fragility of human life. Throughout this time, I have found writing and blogging about my personal barriers and continual fight helpful as well as supporting others in similar positions, re-igniting my passion to make a difference in the world. I have found the problem solving aspect of mathematics both challenging and enjoyable, many of which skills I have been able to translate to my study of Chemistry. I experience excitement and a sense of achievement whilst searching for an answer that has not yet been matched elsewhere. My ability to analyse, criticise and compare philosophical arguments has matured and I am now able to apply this to my other studies such as chemistry experiment analysis. As the only Chemistry student my scientific mind flourished and I developed an interest for inorganic chemistry. I particularly enjoyed titration experiments as they captured my analytic and mathematical nature. At college I was deputy head girl and had an active role in the student union. I partook in a model United Nations day where I took on the role of a delegate to debate global issues. I have found that volunteering as a swimming coach has developed my confidence and communication skills with people of different ages. Completing the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze and community sports leaders awards along side this further developed my leadership, preparation skills and ability to present to an audience. I have gained grade 6 clarinet and a grade of study on bassoon. I had the opportunity to attend the ‘Aspiring Female Potential Programme’ at HSBC in Canary Wharf, which has shown me the diversity of careers available in the industry.