Math Personal Statement

Getting The Structure Right
In any personal statement for a mathematics subject there are certain questions that you need to answer.

Within the subject of Pure Mathematics, what are your specific interests?
Outline mathematical research topics which interest to you and why?
Consider your motivation for your choice of University
What are your career goals?
How do you see the program meeting your career goals?

Top tip: In your personal statement refer to math as mathematics!

Now you have completed the questionnaire and considered the answers to the questions above, the next process is to review the results and begin to plan your personal statement structure.

It is important to remember that this is a short personal statement, not an autobiography. Focus on your results from the questionnaire, and be particular about each element that you wish to include. We have outlined below a recommended structure:

Introduction
Giving your personal statement a strong opening will engage the reader's attention from the outset. Common mistakes include the use of clichéd and overused sentences in the introduction. For example, you should avoid starting your sentence with the following:

“ I have always wanted to study math.”
“ Mathematics is my calling.”
“ My passion has always been for numbers.”

Please avoid starting your first sentence with this sentence.

Below is an example of a powerful introduction:

“Mathematics is said to be the mother of all sciences and I find the wide scope fascinating”.

The Body
People often forget about the body personal statement, and focus on the introduction and conclusion. It is imperative to keep in mind that your writing must proceed in a logical succession from one sentence to the next.

The paragraphing can be used as a planning tool. The beginning of each paragraph should introduce the topic and the paragraph must end in a “hook” to the next paragraph, so you have a continued connection. Whenever possible give the first sentence an interesting angle.

Each paragraph should follow this general structure.
Make sure your sentence is supported by actions.
1. Specific detail - action that supports the point.
2. Specific detail - action that supports the point.
3. Specific detail - action that supports the point.

The Conclusion
Conclude the personal statement with an attention-grabbing sentence. You may find it helpful to reflect on your main accomplishments and experience. The main point of the conclusion is to underline your desire to study. Read the sample conclusion below.

“Through my intensive schoolwork, hands-on work experience, and prolonged personal interest, I have demonstrated my considerable commitment to mathematics”.

Having reached the conclusion, admissions officers need to feel that they know more about you than when they started.

Remember to keep the discussion personal. How much you revel about yourself is up to you. Many students fall into the trap of keeping the reader at arms length.

Next: Draft Structure Outline.

Note: This guide is not intended to replace the advice of tutors, admissions officers, or teachers; Get Into Uni simply provides advice and exercises to help you write a compelling personal statement.