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Last year I spent a fortnight on work experience, and enjoyed both of my two placements. At Birmingham University School of Chemistry, I was
able to use some techniques that were new to me at the time - such as GCMS, HPLC, and I.R. spectroscopy. I found it particularly enjoyable when I later learnt about the theory behind these at school. At Russell's Hall
Hospital, working in the pathology labs, I saw some medical applications of these and various other techniques, and was able to learn a little more about the science behind them.I have just finished taking part in a
six-week research project at Birmingham University with a bursary from the Nuffield Foundation. The project was organic chemistry based, and involved working towards the synthesis of a [2]catenane, with an intermediary
being the synthesis of a pseudorotaxane. I also hope to gain a Crest 'gold' award for this work. In and out of school, much of my free time is devoted to playing sport or rehearsing and performing in a number of
orchestras and smaller groups. I play the oboe, and earlier this year I achieved a distinction at grade VIII. I have been very lucky to play in my school Symphony Orchestra, which has been an enjoyable experience, as
well as Concert band. I also play in a wind quintet at school and sing in one of the choirs. Out of school, I play oboe in Birmingham Schools Baroque Orchestra and contra-bass recorder in B.S. Recorder Sinfonia. Earlier
this year I performed in the National Festival of Music for Youth, in Symphony Hall, with the Sinfonia, and I have just been asked to play solo recorder in a concerto with B.S.B.O. later this year. I intend to continue
playing music at university. In season, I am the goalkeeper for my school Hockey 1ST XI, and sometimes for my local hockey club. I enjoy this - although to prioritize work I have had to cut down on these activities
recently. I also enjoy cycling and canoeing - I often ride to school in summer. I am one of a number of licensed radio amateurs in school, and I am the secretary of my school Amateur Radio & Electronics Society.
We are lucky as we have some good equipment provided by the school, including a number of aerials on the roof! When conditions are good, I have been able to speak to other amateurs as far away as America and Australia.
Most years we take part in a 24-hour competition run annually by the Radio Society of Great Britain. |
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