Before doing a Master’s at Imperial, I studied Physics with Astrophysics and wrote my Bachelor’s dissertation on late universe inflation. I always wanted to go into research and to do so in theoretical physics I needed a Master's degree.
I wanted a deeper understanding of the subject and exposure to real-world physics, a preparatory step towards a PhD and beyond.
For as long as I can remember, Physics and Imperial College London have been synonymous with me. The calibre of research and study here is unmatched and to be a part of it was beyond exciting. In fact, the MSc in Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces was the only Master’s course I applied for. I was inspired by the physicists to come from Imperial, notably Nobel Laureate Dr Abdus Salam and Professor Thomas Kibble CBE, who designed the course I am on.
The transition to a Master’s degree
A Master’s degree is a massive step up from a Bachelor’s, and no amount of warning can prepare you for the hard work that is to come. But it was intense in other ways too. The sheer excitement of studying at an institution with so much heritage, the novelty of meeting new people and the nervous energy of starting a new life. I had a wonderful start and found a groove very quickly, I really felt like I belonged.
The Student Union organised some lovely icebreaker events on campus which helped me meet new people. But what was most effective for me was simply being on campus, going about my day and doing what I enjoyed. This put me in a place where I could join societies and get involved in campus life engaging with all sorts of different and interesting people.
Diving deep into physics
The most rewarding element of the course has been learning physics as it is. Due to the nature of the subject, we are often taught a simplified version or a slightly cleaner (or abridged) proof of a theorem, but in Quantum Fields and Fundamental Forces, there are no more curtains to draw back. We look at every minute detail, every exception to every rule and every messy analysis to really take in the elegance of quantum field theory; to be truly involved in the subatomic world.
However, on the other side of the coin, to truly understand what is happening in our universe takes time and effort. Each proof is gory, and each theory is layered and intricate. The standards are also higher than most other theoretical physics courses and we, as students, are pushed to our limits throughout the degree. The quantity and quality of content to be covered in 12 months is a lot and keeping up to date with all of it can be quite a push.
The advantages of being associated with Imperial
Being associated with Imperial is a catalyst towards credibility. While applying to various PhD’s, I find myself in a position where I need to prove less my academic ability and more my depth of knowledge and individuality.
There are many projects that I have found solely through the Imperial communications channels which I was not able to access through public means.
Taking time out from studying
In my free time I have participated in a few societies, but mainly have been competing in with the Pool and Snooker society in various leagues including the London Pool League and BUCS Snooker. I have also been spending time with the Imperial College Boat Club as a coxswain.
The best way to get involved in societies is to attend the fair at the beginning of the academic year. My advice is to sign up to everything you find interesting and attend what you can.
It is so much better to attend one or two sessions than none at all. I am a strong believer in having various hobbies outside of my degree and would encourage all new students to get involved in various societies.
The London factor
London, to me, has always been the greatest city in the world. I wanted to move here for a very long time, and having lived in India, Indonesia and Singapore, I see myself in the city for a long time. It can be quite an adjustment if you have never lived in a big city before, but the essence of this place is to accept everyone and everything. I have had various unbelievable experiences living here and have met some marvellous people along the way.
Looking to the future
I plan on doing a PhD in Condensed Matter Theory and am currently in the process of picking a project. The Careers Service has been very helpful in finding PhD positions within my field of interest. I am confident one of those options will prevail.
During my time at Imperial, I would say I am simply striving for more. My time here has proved to me that I can achieve more than I believed I could.
While it is important to plan and prepare for the future, I recommend future students make use of all the time you get at Imperial. The future is never certain, be sure to appreciate the present.
As a student at Imperial, you are involved in the highest standard of academia and research and as long as you do your best and are passionate in your efforts, only good can come of it.
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