What are you studying and where?
I’m in my third year studying a Physics MSci course at Imperial College London.
What led you to choosing this subject(s) and course?
I’ve always been fascinated by how the world works so physics felt like the natural choice for my degree. My passion for the subject started when I first started learning about astrophysics/space at Emanuel, and even now I still love how physics challenges me to think deeply about the universe. It isn’t just about learning facts, it’s about asking big questions and finding ways to answer them, often through creative problem solving. Whether it’s understanding the fundamental forces that govern nature or applying mathematical models to the real world, I enjoy the process of breaking down complex problems.
What do you hope to do with your STEM qualifications?
I hope to have a career in engineering, as I enjoy applying physics to real-world problems. This summer, I’m taking an engineering internship, which will give me hands-on experience and help me explore where my skills fit best in the field.
At the same time, one of the things I love about physics is how many doors it opens. The problem-solving, analytical thinking, and mathematical skills I’ve developed can be applied in a huge range of industries, from technology to fintech quantitative finance to research. While I currently see myself staying in engineering, I’m excited by the potential to work on cutting-edge challenges in different fields.
Why do you think science is important in all our lives?
Science is essential because it helps us understand the world around us and drives progress in nearly every aspect of society. From the technology we use every day to medical advancements that save lives, science shapes the modern world. Physics also includes the fundamentals used in our current opportunities in big data, data science and AI – bringing about change at all levels of society. It’s about discovery and improving the way we live.
It also teaches us how to think critically, solve problems, and question the world. It allows us to tackle global challenges like climate change, renewable energy, and healthcare. Science is also part of everyday decision making – whether it’s assessing risks or simply using technology – science plays a role.
What science and maths influences came from your time at Emanuel?
My time at Emanuel played a huge role in developing my passion for science and maths. Taking part in the British Physics Olympiad, maths Olympiads, and other maths competitions pushed me to think more critically and tackle challenging problems beyond the curriculum. I also had some great teachers who encouraged curiosity and independent thinking. These experiences helped me develop a strong problem-solving mindset, which has been invaluable in my degree.
What do you love about science/the courses you have taken?
In my courses, I’ve really enjoyed the balance between theory and application. I love how mathematical concepts can describe physical phenomena so precisely, from quantum mechanics to electromagnetism. At the same time, experimental work has given me an appreciation for how theory translates into reality. The challenge of breaking down complex problems and finding creative solutions is something I find really rewarding.
What is something that you absolutely loved being a part of at Emanuel?
One of the things I absolutely loved about my time at Emanuel was the opportunity to take part in so many different sports and extracurricular activities. The school placed a big emphasis on offering a wide range of experiences, and I really enjoyed being able to try out different sports over the years alongside national level swimming. In fact, I now represent my university in both swimming and rowing at national level! Beyond sports, there were so many extracurriculars available, like literature quizzes and mentoring opportunities. I remember one year I got to help make costumes for one of the school plays!
Being involved in so many different activities helped me develop a well-rounded skill set. Looking back, I’m so grateful for how much Emanuel encouraged both academic and extracurricular exploration, as it played a huge role in shaping my interests and ambitions.
What positives do you think the new science and dining building will add to the school? Why is it important to have modern facilities for pupils?
The new building will provide a great environment for learning; the modern labs and classrooms will allow for more hands-on experiments and interactive learning, which is crucial for subjects where practical application plays an important role.
Having modern facilities is important because a well-equipped learning space allows for more effective teaching and makes learning more engaging. The dining area will improve the overall school experience, giving students a space to relax, socialise, and recharge.
