MSci Theoretical Physics , School of Physics and Astronomy
"There are so many opportunities available at uni if you're willing to make an effort, and the rewards are always worth it!"
Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?
For me it was a combination of three factors. Firstly, the Physics department at Birmingham is world-renowned, which for students translates to excellent teaching and learning practices in a large number of fields.
Secondly, the university is only a few tens of miles from my hometown, which makes going home for a night or two easy, so I still get to see my family often during term-time.
Thirdly, I was eager to try life in a big city as it is a very different environment from where I grew up. Spending most of my time on campus or in Selly Oak or Harborne means I am able to keep the city centre at arm's length when I want to, but when I do want to visit, it is just a short train trip away, and its proximity has provided me with many experiences that wouldn't be available if the university was in a smaller city or town.
What do you think are the best points of your course?
I have really enjoyed the variety of learning methods in my course – between practical labs, computing labs, small group tutorials and lectures, it has been a great way to try out all sorts of different aspects of physics and styles of learning, which often complement each other and give broad experience that can be drawn on in later years.
What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?
I love the sense of community at the university. Although campus has expanded much beyond the few original red-brick buildings, areas such as the Guild of Students and Chancellor's Court are familiar to all students studying here. The size of the university also means that there are plenty of sports teams and societies for all tastes and interests.
What’s your highlight of your time at the University?
I was recently elected President of the 'Wayfarers' Hiking Society, which is something I am very proud of but is just one of many high points of the past year and a half since I came to uni. There are so many opportunities available at uni if you're willing to make an effort, and the rewards are always worth it!
What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?
Make plenty of friends on your course as you never know when you will need to work with them a couple years down the line. Work hard (but not too hard) and make the most of the three or four years you have here. It is a great privilege and will go much faster than you think.