Below is a chemistry personal statement, written by one of our friends.

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Chemistry personal statement
"To me chemistry is the science of how the world works, and is very much involved in tackling the
problems faced by our modern society. Chemistry is on our bodies, our food and our environment,
every time we light a match, boil an egg or simply breathe in and out, we perform a chemical
reaction. It is a science that is instrumental in shaping the world of the future, with almost every
technological innovation and important breakthrough involving chemistry. There is so much more
to chemistry that white coats, Bunsen burners and test tubes.
I really want to study chemistry because it can open the door to careers both inside and outside
the lab. Chemistry graduate are well prepared to assume professional positions in industry,
education, or public service. Chemists are one of the most in demand scientists, and are highly
sought after in numerous other occupations which make direct use of their scientific knowledge. It
will also not just restrict me to chemistry, but can be a stepping stone to many other professions.
I also want to understand how things really work, why they work, and be involved in pioneering
new experimental methods. Although it is challenging it also brings the real possibility of
discovery. Common materials, medicines and microchips have all been developed with the
involvement of chemists. In my opinion it is a subject that can enrich our quality of life
in numerous ways by providing new solutions to problems in health, materials, and energy usage.
I am results orientated individual who fully acknowledges that this core science is a demanding
intellectual subject, with no easy topics in it. I feel I am suitable for this course because I already
have many of the practical skills required for performing experiments, operating scientific
equipment, planning and organising projects, and also the knowledge of how to safely handle,
store and produce large quantities of chemicals. I consider myself to be an observant and accurate
person who is persistent, and has an eye for detail. In the past I have proven myself to be patient,
motivated and someone who can deal professionally with problems or setbacks.
After leaving school I went straight to college where I studied chemistry at A level. I learnt all
about how properties react with each other and change. My experience there gave me an excellent
understanding of all the aspects of molecules, their physical and chemical properties, their
composition and structure, their synthesis and use in the 21st century. I gained a comprehensive
understanding of pharmaceuticals, plastics, petrochemicals, agrochemicals, toiletries and food.
Classes covered a wide range of topics including; molecular structure, bonding, chemical reactions,
periodic trends, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, and thermodynamics. I felt it was a
worthwhile experience that has fully prepared me for university.
Up until recently I had a job as a laboratory assistant, working with a busy support team. Although
it was an entry level position I held, I was involved in important and vital work. My duties
included; preparing materials and samples for the labs following checklists, bar coding preparation
plates, sterilizing equipment, and also processing waste material for disposal by accurately
following safety instructions. Whilst there I also learnt how to examine and interpret results and
make evaluations based on limited information. This work experience was invaluable to me as it
gave me an insight into the world of work that cannot be taught in a classroom.
Choosing where to study is an important decision for me. After much consideration I have decided
to apply to your university because your institution is committed to high quality teaching and
student support, and it is also very active in research. You have internationally recognised
research groups, who specialise in all areas of chemistry including: biological chemistry, green
chemistry and molecular properties. I also like the way you have ensured that your syllabus is

filled with cutting-edge topics. I firmly believe that I will benefit from your excellence in teaching,
research and welfare provision, as well as your well-equipped teaching and research laboratories."