Rohini Krishnadas

Why did you originally apply to do BSc Physics and Astrophysics with International Study at Birmingham?

When researching universities, I noticed that UoB was very highly ranked in the UK for Physics and its research department for Astrophysics was well recognised, with global advancements being made by professors here. I was drawn to the flexibility of the course offered, the high standards of teaching and the unique opportunity to study astrophysics with a year abroad.

What do you think are the best points of your course?

I really enjoy my modules! This year I’ve been super interested in the optional module of Medical Imaging which has really opened a whole new world of applications of physics in areas such as Nuclear Medicine and the physics of CT and MRI scans which is so interesting. Another highlight of my course would be Astro-labs as this is unique to the astrophysics course. In second year, this allowed us to use and model stellar data from the NASA Kepler space mission to deduce characteristics such as temperature of an exoplanet, which was great to apply what we learnt in lectures!

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

The best thing about studying at UoB is the friendliness of the staff, and their enthusiasm of the subject, which makes you feel so welcome and eager to ask questions and learn!

What’s your highlight of your time at the University?

I have a lot of great highlights but the biggest would be my year abroad which I spent in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Living and studying in Rio for a year was the best opportunity I could’ve asked for. It was an incredible experience to learn another language, encounter another culture and travel in South America as a part of my degree!

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?

Take up the opportunity to study abroad as it really is a once in a lifetime opportunity. As well as this I would say not to worry about feeling restricted as the course is so flexible, you can try out different modules and swap over to the master course or change onto other specific strands of physics (such as particle) very easily.

Is there anything extra students thinking about studying BSc Physics and Astrophysics with International Study should know?

That the work/life balance at UoB is great! There are lots of opportunities to try out new activities and meet new people outside of your own course, for example I'm part of dance societies and I play volleyball for the University's team!