My physics family

Coming straight from A-Levels, I was initially apprehensive about the workload and adapting to lecture-based learning rather than being in a classroom. I was worried that if the pace was too fast, I wouldn’t be able to catch up, and that if I didn’t understand something, I wouldn’t be able to ask a question.

I was first reassured by students in higher years, who I was connected to via the ‘Physics family’ system. This is where first years are given ‘physics parents’ that can offer support and answer any questions. They assured me that there would be plenty of support available, one example being weekly drop-in sessions, where you can talk to a PhD student about anything you need some extra help with on your course.

My worries were further reassured when, during the first week, lecturers were very friendly, and open to answering questions, both during and after lectures. This made me feel comfortable enough to ask questions or to ask to go over something if I didn’t understand it the first time.