Hello! My name is Lauren and I’m currently in my second year of my undergraduate degree in Physics (MPhys). I know how daunting it can be to start university. So I thought I’d write a blog about the rewarding experiences and opportunities. These make studying for a Physics degree at York an unforgettable journey!
Why did I choose to study Physics at York?
I chose to study Physics as it enables me to understand the world’s fundamental workings. I enjoy applying my knowledge to diverse physical situations. It’s a subject where there’s always something new to learn. It keeps you on your toes and offers a wealth of transferable skills that can be utilised in a future career! What attracted me to studying Physics at York, in particular, was that the university itself has a strong reputation for teaching and research. It also offers a wide range of captivating option modules available in later years, such as Plasma and Nuclear/Particle Physics. Additionally, I was impressed by the friendliness of the academic staff, and I can personally attest to this!
PhysSoc
PhysSoc is the university’s Physics Society which runs a range of activities for members to get involved in. This could be drinking and non-drinking socials, academic talks or even trips to external research facilities.
I recently visited the Diamond Light Source Synchrotron in Oxford where we attended a presentation and had a tour of the complex. It was such an exciting and insightful experience. I definitely recommend taking opportunities such as this for both enjoyment and your professional development!
You can join PhysSoc using the link here for a small charge. You will gain benefits such as a discount for Spring Ball and invitations to exclusive member events.
Representing the department
There are many opportunities in which you can represent the department too. The first is outreach where you communicate science to members of the public and schools in an accessible way. Examples include leading tours of the Astrocampus (you don’t have to be an Astrophysics student to do this) or taking part in the Binding Blocks programme.
If representing the department in a more academic sense is more your cup of tea, become a Course Representative! A Course Rep (co-ordinated through YUSU, the University’s student union) collects feedback. This feedback represents the views and opinions of students in their year group. They work in partnership with the department (attending meetings) to meaningfully shape their educational experience. Being a Course Rep myself, I can wholeheartedly say that it has been such a rewarding experience. Being able to foster professional relationships between staff and students, advocating for improvement and praising good practise makes it such a meaningful role to take on.
Also, watch out for an email when applications open, there’s no interview involved. All you’ve got to do is write a short manifesto and convince students to vote for you. It’s as simple as that!
Careers
Support with careers is integrated throughout your degree as Professional Skills modules. For example, I’ve had the experience of a mock interview, how to write a CV and the chance to improve team working skills through a group project.
WRIPA (White Rose Industrial Physics Academy) unites students with industry-based roles. This can be through helping you gain physics work experience opportunities, connecting with employers and tailored careers support. Even when you graduate, you can still lean on the department for careers advice!
WRIPA have made a careers tool and recently started a series of Physics career podcasts which I think are really useful. They both feature students and graduates talking about their role, what to expect from working at their particular company and what skills you can gain from it! WRIPA also organise career/placement fairs tailored to physics-based roles and site visits to companies. For example, I recently had the chance to visit Cummins and AMRC. I think these opportunities are incredibly important to get a more well-rounded perspective on what is on offer. If you’re not too sure what you’d like in a future career, hopefully, these experiences might provide you with some direction.
I hope you can see that studying Physics at York offers a dynamic and enriching experience that extends far beyond the classroom. You can embrace a journey of discovery, foster valuable connections, and acquire transferable skills that will guide you towards a successful and fulfilling career!
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