Rida S.

What do you like about your course and why?

Studying Physics at Surrey was a great decision for me. Having a good student-to-staff ratio was important to me and Surrey offered me that. You really get to form a bond with the lecturers, who remember you on a first-name basis. 

The department is very friendly and offers plenty of support. The facilities are also excellent. We have access to telescopes and a radiation lab. There is much more freedom to carry out experiments and truly think like a physicist. This is a huge step up from simply watching experiments at A-level. 

I also love the opportunity to explore many different areas of physics, from quantum and nuclear physics to biophysics, while still focusing on my true passion — astronomy. But, the course doesn’t just aim to expand your knowledge, but also helps develop other key skills required to be a physicist, such as coding, as well as written and oral communication.

What do you enjoy most about Surrey?

My favourite part of the campus is the lake. It gives me a real sense of peace, whether I’m sitting there alone or spending time with friends. I love that the university is campus-based, because you get to call it your own. You get to see it change with the seasons, from pink cherry blossoms in spring to the deep reds of autumn.

 I’ve also had the chance to make friends from all over the world and from a wide range of disciplines, which has really broadened my outlook on life. I’ve been able to try so many new activities, like Mahjong, Debate, Badminton, Hackathons to name a few.  

I’m also part of the Student Ambassador Scheme, which has been a fantastic opportunity to gain work experience on campus and meet amazing people from different disciplines. It’s a great way to develop and refine your soft skills.

Did you do a Professional Training placement?

I am starting my research placement with the Astrophysics group. I will be working on identifying dwarf galaxies around our neighbouring galaxy. I’m really excited to begin this next step in my research journey.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

I’m still exploring what I’d like to do in the future. I’m currently considering either continuing into research or pivoting into aerospace engineering. I know that possibilities are endless, and the future is full of exciting opportunities for future physicists.

Any advice to students thinking of studying this course?

Grab every opportunity and don’t hesitate to try something new. Whether it’s public speaking or stepping outside your comfort zone, give it a go! University is the perfect platform to explore, grow, and build your confidence. For a Physics course in particular, make sure to reach out to your lecturers whenever you need help.  It really does make a difference. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! University is an exciting journey, so enjoy the ride.

Find out more about our Physics undergraduate courses, including our Physics with Astronomy BSc (Hons)/MPhys.