Tell us a bit about yourself
I am a recent MPhys Physics Graduate, gaining a 1st Class with Honours. I am continuing my education with Strathclyde by undertaking a PhD in the Physics Department.
I have always had a keen interest in Physics through education and learning in my own time. My time at the university has played a significant role in shaping my path for the future by providing me with skills and experiences I couldn’t have gained anywhere else.
Why did you choose to study at Strathclyde?
One of the main reasons I chose to study at Strathclyde was Glasgow. Growing up in the countryside of Aberdeenshire the thought of living in a bustling city with personality was always appealing. When I applied to universities while in Academy my main two choices were Edinburgh and Glasgow, and although Edinburgh is a beautiful city, once you’ve been to Glasgow you realise the people really do make Glasgow. There is so much to see and do in Glasgow, especially for a student, and even more so with Strathclyde as it is right in the heart of the city.
What do you think about the University?
From my time at the university, it has evolved so much in just 5 years with new buildings and prospective projects for the future of the university. There is so much to do at Strathclyde and plenty of support available to everyone from mental health to finances and even just for help studying for your course. Strathclyde has a lot to offer for education and the more time you spend there the more people and opportunities arise to aid you and further your development not just as a student but as a person.
Why did you choose to study MPhys Physics?
I chose to study Physics as I have always been interested in the topic since I was young. I think almost every little kid dreams about being an astronaut at some point and physics is the first stepping stone in science that really opens your eyes and shows you the wonders and peculiarities of the Universe. Learning about the Universe at high school and reading new research in the physics field online really guided me to follow a scientific path through education as I really enjoyed learning new things.
What do you like most about MPhys Physics?
Physics has such a variety of things to learn and take from this course, whether you want to be an experimentalist, a theorist or follow a computational background. I personally enjoy experimental physics as being able to run real experiments in a lab that have been tested time and again through history or developing new strategies to discover something new is a truly extraordinary feeling. Also, being able to talk with like-minded people interested in the same field is enriching.
What are you getting out of it?
I have developed academic skills, gained practical experience and expanded my knowledge on a topic I love. All of these things I will take with me through life and further education and apply them to my future endeavours. I have also gained a new network of friends from my course that I aim to keep for life and met so many people who have helped me along the way.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduating with my MPhys 1st Class with Honours, I plan to undertake a PhD with the department in a new and different field that was introduced to me through my project work in 4th and 5th year. I will be investigating polymicrobial biofilms using the Mesolens under the aid of Prof. Gail McConnell. I am really looking forward to it and learning new and exciting things with my future at Strathclyde.
What would you say to anyone considering coming to study at Strathclyde?
To anyone considering Strathclyde, specifically Physics, I would say make sure you consider not only if this is a course you want to do but that you enjoy it also, as it makes a big difference in learning. Even though I am through the other end of it now I can reflect and honestly say even though I enjoyed it there are hard and difficult aspects of University. It can be daunting and scary at times in terms of feeling lost or alone but if you persevere and actively ask for help there are people at the University who will help you. Whether it’s simply falling behind in class or a more serious problem the University will be there and I encourage you to follow higher education as it can open so many opportunities in life. Finally, and most importantly, don’t forget to have fun, enjoy your university years and take advantage of your time here as best you can!
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
I would also like to personally thank members of the Physics department who have helped me through difficult times at University and supported me in achieving a degree award I never expected to obtain.
