Lena
Why did you decide that Exeter was the best place to study your particular subject?
Growing up, the schools that I went to were very small, providing students with close contact to the teachers. Due to this it was very important for me to still have contact with my academics at university. In the Physics department all the academics have an open-door policy which makes it easy for students to contact them whilst we also have weekly tutorials and problems classes where we get help from our lecturers and postgraduate students. Furthermore, for me sports have always been a key component in my life. Due to Exeter's excellent sports facilities I am able to compete competitively in golf for both the University and my home club whilst at the same time getting the support to achieve a high standard degree.
Describe your typical day at Exeter
Wake up, walk up to the campus, go to the gym, have lectures, go home, make food, have more lectures or problems class, go to golf training, go home, work on problem sheets and revision, make dinner, go to bed.
What are the best aspects of studying within your department?
Not only do we get amazing academic support in the form of tutorials, problems classes and the open door policy but we are also provided with a lot of resources to make our studies and work easier. The Physics department provides free printing for physics students whilst also having many PCs and iMacs available for students to use.
How would you describe the vibe on campus?
Sporty, casual, hard-working, serious, fun.
What activities are you taking part in? Which facilities/activities do you enjoy the most?
I am part of the Exeter University Golf Club (EUGC), PhySoc (Physics) and ScandicSoc (Scandinavian Society). The sports facilities are fantastic with their wide range of classes and options for both sports enthusiasts and beginners. As part of the HPP team we get very good support in terms of training and when injured. PhySoc has fortnightly socials where the physics students meet up to have a good time outside of lectures. The Scandinavian Society is a place to meet new people who share the same culture and background as me whilst we also have socials to enjoy and celebrate the Scandinavian traditions.
What particular skills are you gaining from this experience (personal and professional), will this help you in your choice of career?
Time management skills – playing golf and representing the university whilst simultaneously working towards my degree. Physics is a subject where we have a lot of contact hours so making sure I go to lectures and seminars whilst also putting in training as well as doing my assignments requires a lot of time. I am however still able to have fun and enjoy my time at university.
What’s the best thing about living in Exeter?
The weather – pretty good compared to the stereotypical British weather.
First year accommodation is close to everything. The University is outside from the city itself but within walking distance.
Would you recommend Exeter to your friends?
Yes, the combination of the beautiful campus, the wide range of societies and the challenging degree options make Exeter a place where one can feel at home, have fun and be challenged.
