What are you studying and where?
I graduated this year from the University of Cambridge, where I studied Natural Sciences. I obtained an MSci specialising in Materials Science.
I am currently at Harvard on a visiting student scholarship, called the Herchel-Smith fellowship. I am spending the year learning about climate change through fields that I have not yet formally studied; politics, justice, ethics and economics. I hope that this year will enable me to have a greater reaching impact in STEM, which I plan to return to.
What led you to choosing this subject(s) and course?
Physics and maths were always my favourite subjects at school! I was drawn to the Natural Sciences degree because of the breadth in the first year, and I was excited at the opportunity to try new things. I studied physics and maths, along with earth sciences and material science. I didn’t really know what materials was until I arrived at Cambridge, but it quickly became the subject I enjoyed the most. Given this, I am incredibly happy that I didn’t decide to do a pure physics degree, which was the other option I was considering – I would never have found materials!
What do you hope to do with your STEM qualifications?
I plan to develop sustainable energy storage and generation technologies. One day, I am hoping to work at the intersection between STEM and policy.
Why do you think science is important in all our lives?
I think that science is exciting; not just because it is interesting, but it’s applicable. Science makes me feel hopeful, in the face of mounting anxieties surrounding the climate. Paired with politics and action, science will be incredibly important for all our lives, most particularly as we head towards 2050.
What science and maths influences came from your time at Emanuel?
I credit my enjoyment of physics and maths to the teachers I had throughout my years at Emanuel, particularly in sixth form. The classes were small, stretching, and encouraged exploring beyond the curriculum. The informal style built a lot of camaraderie in the classes and I have many fond memories of them. I am incredibly grateful to those teachers who developed my lasting love for science.
What do you love about science and the courses you have taken?
I love the problem-solving nature of science, facing challenges with a toolbox of approaches. I specifically like the tangibility of Materials Science and the applicability to real world problems. The predominant focus on the atomic scale leaves me rigorously satisfied. This, combined with the acceptable empirical approaches that can be taken in times of pragmatism, gives the field a great opportunity to be impact-driven: something about which I care a lot.
What is something that you absolutely loved being a part of at Emanuel?
The commitment of the school to developing well-rounded individuals, both inside and outside of the classroom, was my favourite aspect of Emanuel. I feel incredibly lucky to have had the opportunities to pursue a huge range of sports, art and music throughout my time, and have a lasting love for all three. Some of my closest friends came from my time doing these extracurricular activities.
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?
It is great news to hear that the increasing STEM uptake at Emanuel is warranting a new building. The prospective design looks befitting to instil a sense of passion and excitement in a new generation of Emanuel students. The modern facilities will allow the students to explore science to their highest potential. I look forward to seeing the project come to fruition.
