Computer Science Personal Statement

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My fascination with technology was sparked when, as a child, I thought it would be a great idea to take apart my Playstation console. Aware of the danger, I was still eager to see how it all worked inside. I find it intriguing how fast society has been shaped and continues to be, by the influence of Computer Science. A few years ago, if someone were to have claimed that cars would become autonomous, people would have doubted them. Now we are at a stage where nearly anything is possible, and this is due to the relentless problem-solving of computer scientists. The latest software update released by Tesla Motors allows their cars to learn how to drive themselves and is an example of artificial intelligence, a sector which I am most interested in. I want to study Computer Science because I want to gain the knowledge needed to be able to help find solutions to world problems, with the efficient use of computer technology. With the knowledge and skills I will attain from this course, the creative ideas that I could bring into fruition would be endless. I hope to become one of the computer scientists who adapt technology to help the human race evolve. One possibility would be for artificially intelligent gadgets to recognise different people and adjust to their individual needs based on personal preferences.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

I understand that computer science is not just about programming and hardware but also about the ethics entailed in the process of a design as well as innovative thinking. Studying A-Level Philosophy and Ethics has given me an insight into many ethical situations that may arise around computer science, such as the creation of artificial intelligence. This raises controversy over whether or not we should be trying to create artificial intelligence, as people have different beliefs and faiths. One example of such controversy was during the development of Honda’s Asimo robot when engineers had to visit the Vatican to seek permission to continue the project due to how human-like the robot was developed to walk.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

I have been teaching myself Objective-C syntax in my spare time and have completed online programming courses, which have allowed me to explore the endless possibilities that computer science can bring to the world. I have also learnt to create a simple iOS game using Apple’s syntax called ‘Swift’, in XCode alongside Photoshop. During a week of volunteering on NCS, I visited Wazoku, the creators of an idea-sharing software used by major corporations such as Waitrose and The BBC. I was given an insight into the working environment that I hope to join after completing my degree. I am applying for work experience at Wazoku, in order to learn about how the software industry can influence the progress of companies. I am constantly seeking to learn new skills and gain experience from various activities. I have been a member of the RAF Air Cadets for four years, where I have learnt many valuable life skills such as discipline, leadership, charity, and confidence. Alongside these life skills, I have gained various qualifications such as The St. John’s Ambulance Youth First Aid qualification and Leading Cadet qualification. Being a cadet also involved doing charity work such as raising money for the RAF Benevolence Fund and the Poppy Appeal. Through all these experiences, I have learnt how to work with people from all walks of life, different backgrounds, and people who have different beliefs and ideas to the ones I do. This has enabled me to adjust my approach to solving different problems and situations. Technological advancements take place around us every day, from the evolution of bulky antenna phones into smartphones to the introduction of smart virtual assistants such as Apple’s Siri, Google Now, and Windows’ Cortana. I am inspired by the fact that computer science has become a fundamental element in the development of a better, smarter future for our world, and my goal is to be part of that development process.