Today's world has been shaped by ages of civil engineering improvements. The world's population keeps soaring, but on the other hand, caring about the environment is more than ever a vital duty for us. I believe I would enjoy the challenges of addressing the growing need for structures, while at the same time taking into account the need to protect the environment by using sustainable materials.

Since I was young, I have enjoyed scientific subjects as a hobby, as they help to understand and simulate the world's mechanisms. I have always been particularly interested in physics and mathematics as they are for me the subjects which best answer engineering issues, and taught me to solve a problem without delay even under pressure. I recently took part in the French mathematics Olympiads competing against pupils in the year ahead of me. I think this work was close to a civil engineer's thought process: quickly solving important mathematical problems, without mistakes, and sometimes having to work out the process to find the right answer. I also enjoy geology and last year took part in a field trip to the French Alps to study plate tectonics. There, I realized for the first time just how much energy the Earth contains, and how important it is to take it into consideration to build a long-lasting construction. Having lived in different parts of the world, I realized how the designs of engineering projects and of local architecture vary according to the climate and according to cultural habits. I completed a work experience placement at the "Route des Tamarins" viaduct, two years ago, when I was living on the island of la Reunion. I was astonished to discover that a bridge can expand by up to forty centimeters due to tropical heat.

Last year, I completed my coursework on eco-designing and eco-construction, in order to learn more about environmental engineering, as I think it is one of the most important aspects of a civil engineer's work nowadays. As I have a strong interest in computer sciences, I decided to program my own website about what I learned: http://www.tpebiohabitat.com Two years ago, while a member of the French scout troop of London, I designed a three meter high wooden structure built over two levels to support a tent for ten people, the challenge being to not use any rope. I directed the whole project from the design phase to the end of the construction. The structure lasted for three weeks in perfect comfort and security. This useful pre-engineering project taught me to lead a team and reconcile their security and physical capacities with the need to work efficiently to meet the deadlines. It also showed me how crucial the choice of material can be in a building project. Our elevated tent was very solid and passed every test at the end of the three weeks. I believe this project and my scouting experience, particularly my last two years as a patrol leader, taught me personal qualities, such as leadership, selflessness and meeting of deadlines.

I have been a sports enthusiast since childhood. I play football at a high level in an adult league, and have played against Arsenal's under-18 team. I am also proud to have participated in a five-day sponsored bicycle race from London to Paris for charity. Sports help me relax after work, but also answer to a need to give my best and to surpass myself in working towards a precise objective.

I am now looking forward to a varied and exciting career in engineering. I hope university will lead me towards this and help me develop my personal abilities.