Student spotlight: Making the most of university life
For Ciara, studying Astrophysics at Queen Mary offered the perfect combination of academic challenge, hands-on astronomy and the exciting experience of student life in London.
/filters:format(webp)/prod01/channel_322/school-of-physical-and-chemical-sciences/media/school-of-physical-and-chemical-sciences/images/news-images/Ciara-Niamh-McAree.jpg)
Hi! My name is Ciara and I have just finished my degree in Astrophysics. I decided to study at Queen Mary as I enjoy city life in London, the transport links come in handy! I also wanted to be in a diverse area with lots to explore while studying what I love.
The Astronomy Unit really stood out to me here, I was even fortunate enough to use the telescope in the Queen Mary observatory for my final year project! The quality of the course is seen in the scope of physics modules, from fundamentals like Newtonian physics to newer, exciting areas like Quantum Mechanics and Cosmology. I’ve had the chance to study so many different topics.
Physics makes you visualise the world differently, from everyday life on Earth to the edges of the universe. Studying at the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences taught me to think of frameworks to solve a range of problems, and the perseverance to do it!
There is so much the student community has to offer. I spent a lot of my degree involved in several sports clubs like Women’s Rugby and even tried my hand at weightlifting in the Barbell society. The academic societies like Psistar (physics society) and WQPP (Women and Queer People in Physics) helped maintain my love for science and engaging with my peers. You are always free to start your own society too!
Challenges are natural in any degree; in fact we need them to get anywhere. I was worried when I struggled with some difficult concepts in physics, but I had endless support from my professors. Working on problems in office hours and an array of email questions helped me overcome my fears. I even struggled moving away from home for the first time, but I adapted with the help of my friends and teammates.
The Careers and Enterprise team at Queen Mary have helped me prepare for my future career. Their one-on-one support helped me structure cover letters and CVs, while keeping updated on the ever-changing employer world. Additional services like mock interviews and assessment workshops gave me the confidence for all sorts of applications after my degree.
I aspire to work in the space sector in the future, whichever path that may take me! I’m excited to see where my degree will lead me and will miss my time at Queen Mary. My advice for future students would be to take any opportunity that comes your way, and don’t be afraid to make your own!