Robert Jones studied MPhys, BSc Theoretical Physics at the University of Leeds

Robert Jones

Why did you choose the University of Leeds? 

I felt it was research-inspired education offered by the School of Physics and Astronomy which really interested me and the course sounded really interesting.

Why did you choose to study theoretical physics?

I'd always had an interest in maths from an early age. I got an A* in physics at GCSE level, so decided to take it as one of my A-Levels and that's when I really fell in love with the subject. 

What do you like most about the course?

The satisfaction of coming to a sensible solution for a particularly vexing problem. I've sometimes spent up to 2 hours working on a problem and when I get the final correct result, it's the best feeling!

What skills have you gained from your course so far?

I've definitely got better at problem solving and lateral thinking.

I have to interact with a variety of people, including other students and academics, so my communication skills get used a lot.

My social skills have increased too, so I now do lots of planning and organising things as a member of the Physics Society committee, something I never imagined myself doing before I came to university.

Can you describe what student life at Leeds is like?

I unicycle into university during the day. If my lectures are after 9am then I'll do some studying beforehand.

I'll go over my lecture notes on an evening and make sure I understand everything, before going to play sport or socialise with friends.

What were you most worried about before arriving at university?

I was worried about making friends and understanding the content of my course.

I easily made friends here both on my course and outside of my course, and the lecturers have an open door policy so if I ever don't understand anything I can just go and ask them.

What do you like most about being a student?

There are so many opportunities to get involved in things. I'm involved in lots of activities, including scouts, climbing, rugby and band.

I also love the location of Leeds - it is really near to the countryside so I can go walking and enjoy the outdoors there.

Is there anything which particularly surprised you about being a student?

I was surprised at how much responsibility I had. You're responsible for your own learning ultimately so it's up to you how you manage your time.

What do you plan to do at the end of your course?

I want to continue with studying at a postgraduate level - then I want to go into academia.

What do you do outside of your studies?

I'm involved in a lot of things at university, including the samaritans, scouts, Physics Society and being a member of the committee, Captain of the rugby team, unicycling and general sports.

Are there any other comments you would like to make about being a student at the University of Leeds?

I've had an incredible experience here, both inside and outside of my course. I've made some great friends on my course and the staff are such great physicists.