Stephen Broughton

I am a graduate of Newcastle University with the degree Master of Mathematics. The four year course not only encouraged a breadth of understanding in pure, applied and statistical mathematics; it also sought to give its students experience in practical tasks. As well as being taught cutting edge subjects in mathematical research areas such as knot theory, topology and Bayesian statistics; the programme requires students to create different presentations of their work in a year’s study.

In my year long project in algebraic topology I delivered a 15 minute presentation, an academic poster, and a report detailing my research in that area. I achieved highest marks for my oral presentation with a score of 8.5; I was awarded with a School Prize for my project poster; and my project was awarded an overall score of 78. My overall degree classification is Second Class Division I with Honours.

Aside from my recent academic achievements, I also have two management qualifications. I have completed the ILM Level 2 Certificate in Exploring Enterprise and the ILM Level 3 Introductory Certificate in First Line Management. These courses are designed to prepare students to study the mechanics of a company in order to complete a project to improve efficiency within it. In doing so, we learned about time management, people management, prioritising techniques and seeking areas of weakness. Such disciplines are greatly sought after as companies seek to economise and streamline their practices.

I have many hobbies, which include playing music, building websites and watching football. I own an electric guitar, a bass guitar and a drum machine amongst others: I play these for enjoyment rather than for others’ enjoyment. I also play the keyboards and the recorder with which I have played in front of audiences. My long experience with computers means I am proficient with many computing packages and operating systems, including Microsoft Windows and Ubuntu Linux systems. My experience lends to building and designing websites, including those of Stop AIDS Society Newcastle and Nerja Sol.