How has your physics background been helpful in your work, if at all? I think there are parallels between my interest in physics and the work I do now. First, I found with studying physics that there are so many fields that are interesting and worth researching but (for me at least) it was overwhelming trying to understand everything to t h e l e v e l o f d e t a i l I wan t e d , and s o p r i o r i t i z i n g key areas for my interest was essential. I’m in the same situation with my career. There is a continual pipeline of new releases and technology features, so continual learning is essential, but so is prioritization because it’s impossible to be an expert on everything.

Second, for me, studying physics was not a wa l k i n t h e p a r k , b u t I am mo t i v a t e d b y c ha llenges, and so overall it was a very positive experience. I have taken that understanding with me into my career and there are plenty of challenging situations in consulting that can be turned into opportunities. My degree experience overall set me up for a lifetime of learning, with everything I need to continue to grow and develop in my career.

My degree experience overall set me up for a lifetime of learning, with ever y thing I need to continue to grow and develop in my career

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Any advice for today’s students? Find what motivates you and be true to it. Adjust your university experience to make sure that you put the most into it, and get the most out of it. This is the point in your life where you have the most time available to pursue your interests and hobbies, so it’s good to have a balanced experience. Post university, really think about what you enjoy and what you personally deem to be successful, but keep in mind that this is different for everyone so don’t feel you should just f o l l ow t he c r owd. Choos e an op t i on t ha t suppor t s con t i nuing t o develop you as a per s on. ● www.paconsulting.com

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Physics World  Careers 2020