This summer, after being awarded a Nuffield Science Bursary, I spent four weeks in a local university's engineering department.

I was able to use new techniques and work with new machines including an MRI Scanner and Acoustic Emissions detectors. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience of the different laboratories, strange apparatus and collaborating with other researchers. I worked with an engineering graduate on her summer project investigating spiral fractures in paediatrics and have produced a report of our work . There was a subsequent presentation evening, where I had the chance to share my findings with fellow students and invited members of the scientific community. I really enjoyed my time there and am now very keen to continue with scientific research in my favourite discipline, physics. The sheer scope of physics, covering everything from particle theory to the expanding universe, really excites me. I am particularly drawn to the theoretical side of physics, especially quantum theory but also solving problems using the classical Newtonian framework. Applying this theory to the real world is also of great interest to me, for instance using what we know of nuclear fusion in stars to provide energy here on Earth. I try to follow developments in physics online. This is an exciting time in physics with the world's biggest experiment taking place in the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, and I keep up to date by subscribing to the CERN Courier and being on the emailing list of collidingparticles.com. I have read a number of popular science books and particularly enjoyed Feynman's Six Easy Pieces. I was also fortunate enough to attend a lecture given by the Astronomer Royal for Scotland on astrophysics. If given the opportunity, at undergraduate or postgraduate level, I would like to study abroad. I am already bilingual but would welcome the opportunity to improve my French thereby expanding my skills and increasing my employability. I understand the importance of good mathematical knowledge in physics, which is why I decided to study Further Mathematics AS. This has given me a wider knowledge of mathematics and a more challenging and motivating syllabus. I particularly enjoy how Further Mathematics demands the use of many different techniques to reach an answer. I enjoyed my AS Studies and feel that by taking sciences and mathematics I have benefited by developing a deeper appreciation of proof and the scientific method. Most of all, I enjoyed learning the theory behind science, for example in chemistry learning why some elements are more reactive than others. I am now

beginning to appreciate the potential of science, especially physics, and look forward to experiencing how much more physics can offer. Despite my busy academic programme, I find time for other interests. My main hobby is creative writing and a few years ago I was a runner-up in a national writing competition. I was also fortunate enough to meet my favourite author after creating a short video for another competition. Until recently, I also ran the school's online magazine and wrote the weekly news for the school radio station. I am involved in an initiative by a local councillor to involve women in politics and took part in a Mock UN Meeting. This involved a lot of preparation and teamwork, as well as the ability to negotiate and compromise with other "delegates". I feel that a degree in physics will give me plenty of opportunity to explore new areas, while continuing to interest and challenge me throughout my period of study.