It is the ability of a scientist to reshape the future and expand their knowledge on a molecular level that has inspired me to want to study chemistry. Chemistry, for me, has become so much more than the study of physical and organic matter in the lab. This realisation came about whilst I was watching spectroscopist Garik Israelian’s ted talk entitled: ‘How spectroscopy could reveal alien life’. He used an analytical technique used by chemists all over the world which has helped to discover a potentially inhabitable atmosphere for extra-terrestrial life forms. This man is an inspiration to me personally because he has used scientific knowledge to shape the minds of our non-scientific community as well as shaping young scientific minds.
Whilst studying A-level chemistry, I found that I most enjoyed gaining a greater understanding and in-depth knowledge of the organic component of chemistry, specifically when learning about mass spectrometry and infrared spectroscopy. Both of these techniques, as I learned, are used by chemists to determine the structure of complex organic compounds. Studying these techniques gave me a more practical understanding of how data can be collected and used inside a lab.
Working within a school environment over a duration of two weeks for my work experience has helped me to gain many valuable skills. As a classroom assistant I was working with small groups of children which helped me to develop my interpersonal skills; the development of these skills will help me when working within small groups on laboratory experiments. Furthermore, I was given small tasks set by the class teacher which built upon my skills of communication and organisation. These skills will all be extremely useful on my chemistry degree.
The A-levels I am currently studying require me to use skills that will enhance my knowledge and demonstrate my interest in Chemistry. My A-level geography course involved collecting and analysing statistical data which was both complex and challenging, but helped me to develop my mathematical skills when collecting and graphing data in the lab.