Sample Chemical Engineering Personal Statement
My desire to pursue a career in Chemical Engineering was first sparked by an inspirational lecture by NASA astronaut Dr Albert Saccho. At the Institution of Chemical Engineers’ ‘ChemEng08’ conference, he discussed how chemical engineering not only benefits the present population, but is also being used to help to sustain the environment for future individuals. This made me realise that I too want to play a part in solving the complex, challenging and ever-changing problems facing our world.
I have had the opportunity to observe some of the practical uses of Chemical Engineering through interesting and stimulating work experience. In July 2010 I spent some time at the Hess Corporation, a global energy company involved in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas. I noticed there was great emphasis on the importance of safety, this was particularly highlighted whilst looking at the safety aspects of an oil rig that was being built near Denmark. I observed how the team analysed paper plans and interactive CAD 3D models in order to identify hazards. I learnt the importance of being thorough and having a meticulous attention to detail. I am interested in learning more about how techniques such as these can be developed to prevent disasters such as the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
I have also carried out work experience at a doctor’s surgery and pharmacy, where I learnt to appreciate the enormous significance of the pharmaceutical industry. I realised the impact that chemical engineers have on the health sector in manufacturing new drugs. I would love to learn more about biotechnology during the course of my degree.
Chemical Engineering would enable me to make the best use of the skills I have developed during my A-level studies. I appreciate that Maths will be a key foundation for this course. I enjoy solving mathematical problems in a logical manner, and have learnt the value of persistence to reach solutions.
Many aspects of my A-level Chemistry course can be applied to Chemical Engineering. For example, I am particularly interested in the study of entropy and thermodynamics, and look forward to studying them in greater depth at degree level. Additionally, in GCSE chemistry, I scored 100% in my practical investigation on polymers by using my strong analytical skills.
In Biology my knowledge of topics like homogenization, centrifugation and enzymes will assist my understanding of the biotechnology aspects of Chemical Engineering. Finally, the computing skills I have acquired for my AS level Applied ICT will enable me to keep up with modern methods of interpreting statistical data and designing solutions.
I am a highly self-motivated individual, with excellent time-management skills that enable me to balance my strong academic performance with a range of extra-curricular activities. I am a keen sportsman, my main sport being table tennis. I have played for my local club since 2007, winning two trophies to date, and would love to represent my university in this discipline. I have completed my Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, for which I played a major role in the ‘PE in primary schools’ scheme. My role included setting up equipment, motivating children when they were struggling and teaching them to apply the knowledge they learnt at the start of the lesson to the game at the end, employing the ‘teach-apply’ rule I had developed from my studies. Helping younger individuals progress was a very rewarding experience. The Duke of Edinburgh expeditions strengthened my leadership, decision making and team work skills, all of which will assist me in my future career in Chemical Engineering.
I believe I have the necessary skills and motivation to fulfil my ambition to become a Chemical Engineer. Whether it be developing drugs in the biotechnology sector or discovering ways of improving the efficiency of renewable/non renewable resources, I hope to play a role in sustaining the world for future generations.
We hope this sample Chemical Engineering personal statement has provided inspiration for your own writing.