personal statement civil engineering

Personal Statement

By Michelle Zhang and Ignacio Martin Arzuaga Garcia

When applying to graduate school programs, you will need to provide a Statement of Purpose and a Resume/CV highlighting your interests in applying to a specific graduate program. Some graduate schools will also require a Personal Statement as part of your application package. This CommKit article will go over what a Personal Statement is and some strategies to approach writing one. Your Personal Statement can also be revised for future fellowships and scholarships beyond graduate school application.

Main takeaways

• Have an initial hook . The first paragraph of your statement is key to grabbing the attention of the reviewers.
• Tell a story about yourself . The Personal Statement is thought to be more informal and less structured than the Statement of Purpose. Although some formality in the writing should be preserved, in this statement you have the freedom to express yourself and show the reviewing committee who you really are.
• Be specific and avoid clichés . Reviewers will read a vast amount of Statements from different candidates. Thus, they are looking for concrete evidence of your personality, the culture of work, and the achievements that make you stand out from the pool of candidates. For this purpose, avoid vague sentences that don’t give any additional information to what you already explain in your other documents of the application package.

 “Statement of Purpose” vs. “Personal Statement”

As touched upon in our Statement of Purpose (SOP) CommKit article, many schools distinguish between the Statement of Purpose/Objective and the Personal Statement, providing different writing prompts for each. The main difference between these two types of essays is that the Statement of Purpose focuses on your professional background, goals and research interests, while the Personal Statement is more about your personal history and where your motivation for graduate school comes from. The table below summarizes key differences between the two documents.

While the Statement of Purpose primarily focuses on your academic and professional goals, the Personal Statement complements it by providing a more holistic understanding of you as a graduate school candidate. It allows you to go beyond your achievements and qualifications listed in your Resume, offering a narrative that reveals your character, values, and any transformative moments that have driven you to pursue higher education.

In the Personal Statement, you can share specific life experiences (e.g. being a first-generation college student, overcoming poverty, facing discrimination, or other challenges/opportunities) and explain how these have shaped your worldview and passion for your chosen field of study. By sharing these personal stories, you have the opportunity to highlight what is unique about yourself and how you will advance diversity within the institution.

It is worth noting that the Personal Statement may be referred to by different names depending on the institution or program. Some schools may use terms such as “Personal History Statement,” “Diversity Statement,” or other variations. Some schools may also provide specific prompts to write the Personal Statement on, or a list of questions to answer. Regardless of the name, the purpose remains the same—to provide you as an applicant with an opportunity to share your personal narrative and demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level studies.

Strategies and Common mistakes

Here we summarize a list of strategies and common mistakes to take into consideration when addressing your Personal Statement:

• Your statement should tell a story (a real one) about yourself, that shows the reader your personal journey upon this moment in your life and what are the next steps you are aiming to take.
• If you can’t find a personal story to tell, you can also share how a piece of news or a specific person (for example) impacts and/or inspires you.
• Make sure to align your story with the values and goals of the university or institution you are applying to.
• For grad school applications, your Personal Statement doesn’t need to list your skills or academic accomplishments, but to present a story that demonstrates those skills you possess. For example, your statement is a good place to prove your leadership skills through a real example.
• While in a Statement of Purpose the Admissions Committee will look for what you have done, in a Personal Statement they will prioritize how you addressed them. They will put attention on how you overcame the challenges you faced, what strategies you used to do it, and how you took advantage of the opportunities you were given.
• The Personal Statement can also be a good opportunity to “address the elephant in the room” if you haven’t done it in your Statement of Purpose. For example, if your grades at college are not as good as desired, or you don’t have experience in the field you are applying to, this document is a good place to explain the reasons for that. We all go through difficult times, make bad decisions, and want to make a change in our path. That’s not a problem. What we don’t have to do is to expect the reader will ignore that part. They won’t, and it is better to address those weak points in our application package rather than leave them without any explanation.
• Use concrete examples that speak for you. Be specific. Avoid vague statements that don’t give any piece of information about yourself, or to make statements about yourself without proving them.

Ultimately, the key is to offer an interesting piece of writing that the reader enjoys, and make them remember your profile when evaluating the pool of candidates.

Structure Diagram

The Personal Statement is more flexible than the Statement of Purpose and, initially, it doesn’t have a fixed structure you have to fit your content within. Everyone’s path and personal history are different, and that will frame your write-up. You are welcome to be creative and address this document as you feel more comfortable with it. However, here we suggest a tentative structure that you can use to help you organize your statement. We recommend 2 pages maximum, unless specified otherwise by the university.

Alternatives to the Personal Statement

Some universities are also exploring innovative approaches to evaluate applicants beyond traditional methods. These alternatives provide aspiring graduate students with unique opportunities to distinguish themselves and showcase a holistic view of their skills, experiences, and potential. Some examples of alternative documents to the Personal Statement include:

DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Statement:

• Graduate school applications are increasingly incorporating DEI essays as a means to evaluate applicants’ commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment and dedication to cultivating a diverse and inclusive community within their chosen field of study. These essays provide candidates with an opportunity to showcase their understanding, experiences, and actions related to promoting diversity and equity.
• Your personal statement can be adapted to help write your DEI statement by focusing on key elements such as contributions to Diversity, values/beliefs as related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and self-reflection/growth from experiences where you have actively engaged with diverse communities, challenged biases, or learned from different perspectives.

Video Essays:

• Some universities are incorporating video essays into their application process, allowing applicants to verbally express their motivations, goals, and academic passions.
• This alternative provides a platform for candidates to showcase their communication skills, confidence, and presentation abilities.
• When adapting this Personal Statement CommKit for video essays, you should focus on developing a concise script that conveys your key points effectively, following the flow suggested above.
• You should also aim to strike a balance between authenticity and professionalism while engaging the audience with a compelling narrative.

Portfolio Submissions:

• To evaluate practical skills and creative abilities, some graduate programs request applicants to submit portfolios showcasing their work. Whether this is in fields such as engineering, design, fine arts, or computer science, this alternative allows candidates to present tangible evidence of their talent and expertise.
• When adapting your personal statement for portfolio-based applications, you should provide context for your work, explaining the motivation behind your projects and highlighting the skills you have developed throughout your academic journey.

When is it time to submit?

The Personal Statement may appear more approachable at the beginning, given its flexibility and relaxed tone. However, finding a good story to tell, and a compelling narrative that effectively showcases your abilities and accomplishments can be hard. Seeking feedback from friends, family, and peers can be invaluable throughout the brainstorming and revision process. If you’re affiliated with MIT you can also make an appointment with a Comm Fellow. In addition to carefully proofreading your statement, don’t forget to check the program requirements to ensure your submission meets the audience’s expectations.

Helpful articles

Gotian, R. & Neill, U. S. (2023). How to Write a Strong Personal Statement . Harvard Business Review. Purdue Online Writing Lab. Writing the Personal Statement .

Resources and Annotated Examples

Personal statement for an mit application.

This annotated Personal Statement shows how the candidate attempts to address the specific prompts in a series of concise essays. 567 KB

Content Generation Worksheet

This worksheet contains a series of questions along with examples intended to help you start drafting your Personal Statement. 54 KB

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

• Civil Engineering Personal Statement Examples

Discover an array of compelling personal statement examples tailored specifically for Civil Engineering courses in the UK. Writing a personal statement for a university application can undoubtedly pose a considerable challenge.

With our successful selection of Civil Engineering personal statement examples, we aim to provide you with valuable inspiration to help you conquer the task of writing a successful application for UCAS and your desired university.

Civil engineering has always been an integral part of my family’s identity, and I have been immersed in this world since a young age. Growing up with a father who holds a bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD in civil engineering, as well as running his own engineering and construction company, I have had the privilege of experiencing the fascinating aspects of this field firsthand. Accompanying my father to construction sites and witnessing the entire process from planning to completion has instilled in me a deep admiration for the power of infrastructure projects to transform communities and enhance human quality of life.

Beyond my enthusiasm for building projects, I am driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference in the world. I firmly believe that civil engineering has the potential to reshape the economic prospects of nations and cities, ultimately improving the well-being of their inhabitants. Contributing to such transformational projects would be an honour and a privilege. Moreover, the intellectual challenges posed by complex construction endeavours have always captivated me. I have a natural inclination for problem-solving, and the opportunity to tackle intricate puzzles in the realm of civil engineering is something I eagerly anticipate. Collaborating with a team of dedicated professionals to overcome obstacles and achieve successful outcomes is an aspect of civil engineering that particularly resonates with me.

To further expand my knowledge and experience, I have undertaken two work placements at an engineering and construction company, each lasting two months. These opportunities gave me valuable insights into various aspects of the construction business. In my first placement, I primarily worked in the company’s offices, gaining a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes intricacies of construction projects. During my second placement, I had the privilege of working with the surveying team on a housing project, which allowed me to grasp the multifaceted considerations involved in large-scale production projects. Additionally, my part-time job at a local coffee shop has honed important skills such as working under pressure and developing strong interpersonal relationships.

Beyond my academic pursuits, I am an avid participant in a wide range of hobbies, particularly sports. I regularly practice taekwondo and have achieved the level of a blue belt. Swimming, football, tennis, and rugby are recreational activities that bring me joy and foster a sense of discipline and teamwork. At school, I display great enthusiasm for physics and mathematics, both of which I recognise as being integral to the field of engineering. Witnessing how these subjects are applied in the design and construction of infrastructure projects has deepened my appreciation for their practical significance and further fueled my scientific curiosity and problem-solving drive.

As a diligent and committed student, my immediate priority is to achieve the best possible results in my A Levels, thereby ensuring that I am well-prepared for the rigorous demands of studying civil engineering at the university level. Following the completion of my BSc, I aspire to pursue a master’s degree in engineering, followed by a research degree in the field.

The combination of my appreciation for architecture, my passion for creating tangible impact, and my keen interest in project and construction management have solidified my determination to study civil engineering. I am particularly drawn to designing structures that harmoniously integrate with their surroundings. Through my previous work experience, I have been exposed to the practical aspects of the industry and have seen firsthand the direct benefits that well-executed projects can bring to the environment.

Having lived in various countries, I possess valuable adaptability skills and a multicultural background. I am fluent in both Arabic and English, allowing me to effectively communicate and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds. To expand my knowledge in the field, I actively engage in supplementary reading, such as “Structures or how things don’t Fall” by J.E. Gordon, and keep up-to-date with industry developments through the ‘New Civil Engineer magazine.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have taken on leadership roles, such as being the President and Co-founder of my local Handball Club. This experience taught me the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and effective communication. Leading by example and collaborating with others towards a common goal have equipped me with invaluable skills applicable in both professional and personal settings.

Looking ahead, I envision a career in civil engineering where I can engage in diverse engineering projects. My ultimate goal is to establish my firm specializing in refurbishing and renovating upscale properties. I am confident that by obtaining a degree in civil engineering, I will acquire the necessary tools and knowledge to excel in this field and fulfil my aspirations.

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Civil Engineering Personal Statement

Ever since I discovered my fascination for construction and my passion for mathematics and physics, it was clear to me that pursuing a course in civil engineering was a natural choice. Engineering plays a vital role in our modern world, and I aspire to contribute to society through my knowledge and skills in this field. The opportunity to study in the United Kingdom, a country that has always intrigued me, would be a dream come true, providing excellent career prospects and allowing me to immerse myself in the British way of life.

While I find many subjects at school interesting, my talent undeniably lies in mathematics. Over the past seven years, I have dedicated myself to taking extra math classes, significantly improving my skills. Additionally, since second grade, I have actively participated in various math competitions, consistently ranking among the top three. Collaborating with team members in these competitions has developed my teamwork skills, and I am proud to serve as the captain of my school’s math team, where I have honed my leadership qualities. Through my efforts, I have had the opportunity to represent my school in an international competition in India, where I earned two bronze medals, as well as attending several international summer camps. These experiences have instilled in me a sense of responsibility, as I have often had to balance my academic commitments with competition schedules. My relentless dedication to mathematics and physics has significantly enhanced my analytical and critical thinking abilities, affirming my belief in possessing the technical skills required to excel as a civil engineer.

While I have delved into extensive reading and research on civil engineering, it was only recently that I had the privilege of gaining firsthand experience in the field. My uncle’s profession allows me to interact with civil engineers, and during the summer, I had the opportunity to meet and observe them at work. Witnessing the challenges and demands they face firsthand has been invaluable in shaping my understanding of this discipline. Furthermore, my growing interest in Russian culture and history led me to study the Russian language for the past four years, achieving a high level of proficiency. In May, I plan to take an exam to obtain an internationally recognized Russian language certificate, further highlighting my commitment to embracing diverse cultures and languages.

I am a persistent individual who strives to achieve the goals I set for myself. Engaging in charity work at the local Red Cross branch has not only enhanced my social and organizational skills but has also fostered my ability to propose innovative solutions and remain composed in challenging situations. Balancing my academic pursuits with extracurricular activities has taught me valuable time management skills, allowing me to indulge in non-academic pastimes. I am an avid chess player and have achieved awards in both regional and national tournaments, refining my logical and analytical thinking. Reading has always been a cherished pastime, cultivating a creative mindset within me. Authors such as Dickens, Sienkiewicz, and numerous Russian writers have influenced my love for literature. Additionally, history, particularly British and East European history, captivates my curiosity. In my leisure time, I enjoy jogging and practising archery to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

Throughout history, civilizations have achieved remarkable engineering feats, from the ancient Giza Pyramids to the modern-day Burj Dubai. I greatly admire how seemingly impossible ideas materialize into some of the world’s most iconic structures. As I discover more applications of civil engineering in our daily lives, my passion and interest continue to grow.

Participating in the ‘Headstart’ program provided me with a profound insight into studying engineering at university. Engaging in team activities centred around civil engineering, we designed, constructed, and marketed a prototype waterslide. This hands-on experience allowed us to replicate the challenges engineers face in the professional world, working with limited resources and time constraints. Our team’s competitive spirit and hard work resulted in us securing first place

The Best Civil Engineering Personal Statement

Growing up on a farm and constructing structures out of straw bales provided me with my first taste of large-scale design. Balancing creativity with stability challenged and captivated my imagination. Combining this passion with my longstanding interest in science and mathematics led me to envision a career in civil engineering. My experiences at Mott Macdonald and Headstart have only solidified my conviction.

During my AS-level studies, I thoroughly enjoyed Mathematics and further pursued AS Further Maths this year. Joining the Further Maths group, I independently delved into topics they had already covered, with Mechanics being a particular highlight. I found practical applications of Maths, such as the use of matrices in analyzing framed structures, intriguing. I am eager to explore this subject in greater depth during my degree. Additionally, while studying environmental issues in Geography, I independently researched the reduction of emissions associated with project production and operations. I discovered projects like the “Round 3” offshore wind energy program, which actively strives to lower carbon dioxide emissions. Reading about the ambitious work on foundations within such projects sparked a special interest in me.

Participating in the Headstart engineering course offered me an opportunity to engage in diverse applications of maths. One memorable group activity involved designing a waterslide for a park, considering factors such as structure, cost, scale, speed, and profitability. This experience allowed me to witness the effectiveness of collaborative problem-solving and the power of group dynamics. Recently, I attended a talk on carbon and the oil industry, which emphasized the importance of engineers, governments, and the public working together to address challenges. Being part of an industry that fosters collaboration across diverse groups greatly appeals to me.

During a two-week work experience at Mott Macdonald, I contributed to an ongoing sewage treatment project. I was surprised by the range of tasks involved, such as analyzing flooding levels, designing electrical kiosks, and calculating gradients for wastewater drains. It was gratifying to learn that my sketches of the electrical kiosks would be utilized in the planning application process. Additionally, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a group working on an internationally funded project in Ghana, focused on improving clean water supply to small communities. Mapping the villages and assessing their needs made me realize the global significance of civil engineering, particularly for developing countries. Further research at home highlighted the rapid expansion of African nations like Uganda and Zambia, presenting opportunities for infrastructure development and local empowerment.

Playing the violin for the past twelve years has taught me the value of perseverance and maintaining a long-term perspective. Balancing daily practice with academic commitments, I achieved Grade Eight and have been part of my county youth orchestra for four years. I possess strong motivation, a diligent work ethic, and the ability to manage demanding responsibilities, as evidenced by my commitment to a morning bakery job that begins at 4:30 am.

Among the various disciplines within civil engineering, I am particularly drawn to environmental, water, and geotechnical engineering. The prospect of using water engineering to address the global challenge of water scarcity showcases the significant impact an engineer can make. Witnessing an example of this during my work experience in Ghana left a profound impression on me.

Choosing civil engineering as my future path involved reflecting on my preferences and aspirations. From a young age, I have been fascinated by physics, eager to explore the mysteries of the world and understand them in everyday contexts. Whenever I encounter massive structures, I ponder their ability to withstand the weight placed upon them and appreciate the supporting components. Mathematics, my second favourite subject, allows me to refine my logical thinking and enjoy the art of calculation. Recognizing the importance of these subjects in engineering, I am driven to study civil engineering.

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4 minutes read

Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

Dirghayu Kaushik

28 August 2024

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• Introduction

When aspiring to become a civil engineer, one of the most critical steps in your academic journey is crafting a persuasive personal statement for your university application.

This document not only reflects your academic prowess but also your passion, experiences, and vision for a future in civil engineering. This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating an impactful civil engineering personal statement, highlighting key elements to include and strategies to make your application stand out.

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• The Role of a Personal Statement in Civil Engineering Applications

Crafting a Compelling Introduction

The introduction of your civil engineering personal statement is your first opportunity to capture the attention of the admissions committee. It should immediately convey your enthusiasm for civil engineering.

Start with a hook – an intriguing anecdote, a fascinating fact about civil engineering, or a personal experience that sparked your interest in the field. Your opening sentences should set the tone for the rest of your statement, showcasing your passion and curiosity for civil engineering.

Illustrating Your Academic Background

Your academic achievements form the backbone of your personal statement. Discuss your proficiency in subjects vital to civil engineering, such as mathematics and physics.

Highlight any awards, recognitions, or exceptional grades that set you apart. Remember to not just list your achievements but also to reflect on how they have prepared you for a degree in civil engineering. Discuss any relevant projects or research you have undertaken, emphasizing your analytical and problem-solving skills.

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• Demonstrating Practical Experience and Skills

In the field of civil engineering, practical experience and skills are as important as academic knowledge. Your personal statement should clearly highlight these aspects. Here’s how you can effectively demonstrate your practical experience and skills:

• Detail Your Roles : Describe the specific roles and responsibilities you undertook during any work placements or internships related to civil engineering or construction.
• Project Contributions : Talk about specific projects you contributed to, emphasizing your role and the skills you utilized or developed.
• Learning Outcomes : Reflect on what these experiences taught you about civil engineering, like understanding project management, design principles, or teamwork in a professional setting.
• Community Projects : If you have volunteered in community projects involving construction or engineering, discuss your participation and the impact of the project.
• Skill Application : Highlight how you applied civil engineering principles or used technical skills during your volunteering.
• Personal Growth : Describe how these experiences contributed to your personal growth and reinforced your passion for civil engineering.
• Engineering Clubs or Societies : Participation in engineering clubs or societies at school or in your community can demonstrate your proactive interest in the field.
• Leadership Roles : If you held any leadership positions in these clubs, explain your role and any significant initiatives or projects you led.
• Team Projects : Discuss any team-based projects, such as building a model bridge or participating in engineering competitions, highlighting collaboration and problem-solving skills.
• Software Proficiency : Mention any civil engineering-related software you are proficient in, like AutoCAD, Revit, or SAP2000.
• Certifications : If you have completed any relevant courses or certifications, such as in project management or CAD, include these to showcase your commitment to learning industry-relevant skills.
• Research Involvement : Describe any research projects you participated in, particularly those related to civil engineering, and what your contributions were.
• Academic Design Projects : Discuss any design projects you undertook as part of your coursework, focusing on how you applied civil engineering principles.
• Construction Site Exposure : If you had the opportunity to visit or work on a construction site, describe the experience and your key takeaways about the practical aspects of civil engineering.
• Technical Challenges : Talk about any technical challenges you faced and how you addressed them, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
• Communication Skills : Illustrate instances where you effectively communicated complex technical information, perhaps during a presentation or team meeting.
• Adaptability and Flexibility : Provide examples of how you adapted to changing situations or requirements, a common scenario in civil engineering projects.
• Time Management : Highlight how you managed your time efficiently during projects or internships, balancing multiple tasks or deadlines.

By structuring your practical experience and skills in these points, your personal statement will paint a comprehensive picture of your readiness and suitability for a civil engineering program.

This approach demonstrates not only your theoretical knowledge but also your hands-on experience and the soft skills crucial for success in the field of civil engineering.

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• Personal Motivations and Aspirations

Connecting Personal Interests with Civil Engineering

Your personal statement should include a section dedicated to your personal interests and how they align with civil engineering. Perhaps you have a passion for sustainable development, a fascination with architectural design, or a keen interest in urban planning. Describe how these interests fuel your desire to study civil engineering and contribute to the field.

Articulating Long-Term Career Goals

Discuss your long-term professional objectives. Are you aiming to specialize in a particular area of civil engineering, such as structural or environmental engineering?

Do you aspire to work on significant infrastructure projects or contribute to innovative sustainable designs? Clearly articulating your career goals shows the admissions committee that you have a direction and are committed to making a meaningful contribution to the field.

• Reflection and Personal Growth

Learning from Challenges and Setbacks

Reflect on any challenges or setbacks you have faced and how they have shaped your journey towards civil engineering. This could include academic hurdles, personal obstacles, or even changes in your career aspirations.

Discuss how these experiences have strengthened your resolve to pursue a career in civil engineering and contributed to your personal growth.

The Evolution of Your Interest in Civil Engineering

Describe how your interest in civil engineering has evolved over time. This could include early experiences that piqued your interest, subjects at school that deepened your understanding, or interactions with professionals in the field that solidified your career choice. This evolution provides a narrative arc to your statement, showing a well-thought-out and genuine commitment to the field.

Reinforcing Your Commitment to Civil Engineering

Conclude your personal statement by summarizing your strengths, experiences, and aspirations. Reiterate your passion for civil engineering and your eagerness to contribute to the field.

End with a confident and forward-looking statement, leaving the admissions committee with a lasting impression of your potential as a civil engineering student and future professional.

How do I start my civil engineering personal statement?

Begin with a compelling anecdote or fact that reflects your interest in civil engineering and sets the tone for your statement.

What should I include in my personal statement for civil engineering?

Include your academic achievements, practical experiences, personal motivations, and how they align with your civil engineering aspirations.

Can I include personal challenges in my statement?

Yes, discussing personal challenges and how you overcame them can add depth to your statement and showcase resilience.

How important are extracurricular activities in a personal statement?

They are important as they demonstrate transferable skills and a well-rounded personality, which are valuable in civil engineering.

How do I conclude my civil engineering personal statement ?

Conclude by summarizing your key points and reiterating your passion and commitment to pursuing a career in civil engineering.

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Table of Contents

• • Introduction
• • The Role of a Personal Statement in Civil Engineering Applications
• • Demonstrating Practical Experience and Skills
• • Personal Motivations and Aspirations
• • Reflection and Personal Growth
• • Conclusion

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Civil engineering personal statement example (postgraduate).

Civil engineering has the power to influence the world around us and better the lives of others. I am interested in engineering due to its creativity to find innovative solutions, as well as the practical skills to implement the designs into a reality. The ever-changing field plays a vital part in modern life, with vast progressions owing to technological advancements.

The global changes regarding climate change and population expansion require fresh ideas and social understanding, with consideration for the environment, which I believe that I can contribute towards.

My fascination in studying civil engineering stems from my love for geography, which has given me contextual knowledge on the impacts of our changing world.

My main interest is in the coastal and water elements of civil engineering and how they can combat the rising issues in coastal regions, with the potential to reduce flooding and social damage. Studying geography has taught me the importance of sustainability and its incorporation into design and building.

I completed a geography NEA exploring 'Are the Coastal Defences in Tenby Sustainable for the Future?' Doing fieldwork on the cliff stability and the hard and soft engineering in place allowed me to be hands on, collecting data to support my decisions. I chose to investigate sustainability so that I could analyse the environmental, social and economic impacts of engineering structures on their location.

Science has also always been a strong interest of mine, and through my A-level studies I have found a greater appreciation for mathematics and physics due to the theoretical context they provide.

However, I find real interest in the manipulation of equations to work in a practical situation with the immeasurable parameters that humans can provide. For this reason, engineering truly appeals to me as I would have challenging opportunities to use my skills of design, manufacture and mathematics.

After doing seven years of Product Design, I have excellent knowledge in using CAD programmes, such as 2D Design and Google Sketch Up.

Additionally, I have used CAM to manufacture prototypes and to model my designs before final production. For my A2 coursework, I am making a wooden castle with functional cog mechanisms for the portcullis.

This has allowed me to develop research skills, finding different properties of materials and how the finishes applied will strengthen or weaken the material.

My interest in engineering has extended beyond my studies; in 2017 I went to the annual Flood Expo at the Excel in London to see the leading innovations in flood prevention and management.

This included the M&CCE Expo, at which several different players in defence were present, with contrasting views on money allocations. I found this fascinating, and went to the seminars on civil engineering and its contribution to flood technology in order to further my knowledge in this field.

For in-school extracurricular activities, I am a senior prefect and the Geography Captain as well as being Form Representative.

Outside my academic interests, I have volunteered weekly at my local Beaver Scout Group for the last four years, and I have worked at a tuition centre for two years in the position of Head Student Helper, meaning I manage a group of peers and interact with parents.

These roles have improved my communication, organisational and teamwork skills. Additionally, I enjoy kayaking with Southend Canoe club, swimming and have my Gold Medallion Life Saving Award.

In the summer of 2018, I took part in a month-long World Challenge expedition to Swaziland and Mozambique, for which I had to raise £3950 through fundraising events.

Through these experiences and from my academia I am well prepared to study civil engineering as I have determination, and the desire to design to make lives easier and provide a greater respect for the environment.

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Civil Engineering Personal Statement

Submitted by Elizabeth

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Civil Engineering Personal Statement

I consider myself lucky in that I've been able to travel to a number of countries on different continents, and I've always wondered why I couldn't drink the tap water in one country, but I could in another. Eventually, I made the connection to the country's infrastructure. It wasn't until I volunteered in Ghana, did I truly appreciate the importance of infrastructure. While volunteering I visited local villages and saw how poor infrastructure affected developing countries like Ghana. Countries that do not have adequate water management or electricity systems and suffer from regular power outages and public health issues as a result. I am very keen to learn more about what it takes to plan and design systems that last for the benefits communities like the ones I visited in Ghana. My experiences in Ghana helped me realise that I wanted to do civil engineering.

This ambition started during a work experience placement with an architecture firm called Calfordseaden with the ambition of becoming an architect. It was there where I first introduced to the planning and designing of structures. While I loved designing and planning the look of buildings and becoming familiar with software like Autodesk AutoCAD, I found that I was more interested in whether my design could stand up. After that, I began to focus my interest in civil and structural engineering. Wanting to learn more I read the book 'Why Buildings Fall Down Why Structures Fail', which gave me an even greater appreciation for the structures around me. I attended a structural engineering taster day at City, University of London to learn more about what studying civil and structural engineering would involve.

Teamwork is an important skill required in engineering and it is something that I have been able to refine through the employer projects organised by my UTC. One of these employer projects involved working with Guy's and St Thomas' hospital, where my team and I were tasked with designing a buggy that could hold special medical equipment. This particular project involved us having to create CAD models, brainstorm solutions, evaluating effectiveness, and justifying modifications, which culminated with my teammates and I giving a presentation to a group of engineers that worked at Guy's and St Thomas Hospital. What I enjoyed the most about these projects was the problem solving, reviewing the problem and finding the most appropriate solution while recognising the limits that were placed on us. For instance, we were given very specific equipment of various sizes that the buggy had to be able to carry, and somehow make the buggy portable enough and easy for the child's carers to store in the back of a car.

Studying Mathematics at A Level ignited my love for problem-solving, with my favourite module being Mechanics as for me solving mathematical problems is most enjoyable when applied to real-life situations. I've enjoyed A Level Physics a similar reason. I love learning about the practical applications and examples of what I learn. For example the use of over-damping via. Shock absorbers in stabilising the Millennium Bridge.

I want to combine my desire to make a positive impact on communities, with my love of teamwork and problem solving and become a civil engineer. After earning my degree, I plan to gain more experience before working abroad in developing countries. In a world where global problems such as drought, flooding, hurricanes and earthquakes seem to become regular occurrences and a growing concern for many countries, I am determined to do my part in forming of solutions and safeguard the environment and the quality of living for others. I am most interested in the designing, building and maintaining of water systems and infrastructure such as roads and bridges.

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