I’m always asking how things work and wondering why. I’m passionate about learning, especially about the physical world. My interests in science are broad, so chemistry suits me well. With an understanding of chemistry, I can just as easily find out how gravity works as how mitosis comes about.

A concept like entropy can help to explain why my bedroom tends to get messier by the day. That it’s possible to see the world in a simpler, quantitative way is the principal attraction of chemistry for me. My argumentative personality means I like to debate and discuss ideas and solve problems ingeniously. I find teamwork challenging and enjoyable especially where it involves using the imagination.

Photography is my favourite hobby because I like to capture and express things visually. I’m completing a Duke of Edinburgh’s gold award which has taught me leadership skills, initiative, determination and communication. This summer I went to Ecuador to climb volcanoes in the Andes which developed me personally a great deal. I’m now planning further mountaineering trips and I hope to complete the Mountain Leader award at some point.

I’ve been on exchanges to France and Germany and found being abroad stimulates original thought. I have a passion for learning languages and I enjoy being immersed in new cultures.

I’ve contributed to the community by being a counsellor and working with disabled children, experiences which were emotionally challenging but rewarding. Editing and designing the school magazine and directing the TV broadcast taught me organisational and presentation skills. Recently I’ve assisted with bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s expeditions which I’ve found very fulfilling.

For work experience I designed websites at a local computer firm. I’ve developed those IT skills to create www.benjamin-mills.com where I publish study notes and photos. To enhance my interest in science I entered Salters’ Chemistry Festival, went to Cambridge Science Masterclass and now I’m organising work experience at Unilever Research.

I’m fascinated by discovering the way the world functions, I think in a distinctive way and I’ve got many personal qualities to offer. I am really looking forward to studying chemistry and starting my future career.