Ananya travelled from India to study Astrophysics, at the University of Edinburgh. Four years later, she shares her experience as an undergraduate student in the School of Physics and Astronomy.
What was the best part of your degree programme?
On one hand, it was the student community; on the other, the academic faculty. When I initially came to Edinburgh, I was a bit apprehensive about meeting people because I joined during the Covid years. Meeting people online was hard, but by second year, studies were in person and things got much easier. Sitting together in class, doing assignments, and bonding outside of class has been one of the highlights of my degree.
As an Astrophysics student, I’ve been very fortunate. Up the hill at the Royal Observatory Edinburgh, we have a small group of academics who have been incredibly supportive and helpful. I found great mentors who guided me and helped shape my research interests.
Why did you choose to study in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh?
I was really keen to study in the UK, and having visited Edinburgh previously, I felt this place was a good fit for me. The flexibility of my degree programme was also very appealing. I’ve always been committed to astrophysics, but knowing that I had the option to explore other interests was really important.
Another thing that really stood out to me was the research being done at the School of Physics and Astronomy and the number of international collaborations. I think this gives you the opportunity to work with fascinating people at the forefront of their field. This went hand in hand with the material I was taught in class, which worked really well.
Tell me about one highlight of your time in Edinburgh.
In Edinburgh, I celebrated my first Diwali abroad, which was organised by the Indian Society, and it was amazing!
Engaging with the activities organised by the Indian Society helped me meet new people, have fun, take a break from the usual academic routine, and feel less homesick – which was especially helpful at the start of my degree.
What do you wish you had known before starting your studies?
How important it is to engage with societies, fairs, and activities during Welcome Week. It’s a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the university and see what societies you might be interested in joining. It’s also a good way to meet people and help figure out how you’d like to spend your time outside of classes.
Did you have any concerns before leaving India?
I did – I wondered whether I would perform well academically and adjust to the new teaching style. I was also worried about fitting in and finding my routine away from home. I quickly forgot about these concerns when I started my degree. In the School of Physics and Astronomy you’re eased into the system, which is something I really appreciated especially at the very beginning of my studies.
Share one of our most memorable experiences during your time in the School of Physics and Astronomy
One of the most memorable experiences was when we surprised our professor with an impromptu birthday celebration. Donning birthday hats, we collectively celebrated his birthday—it felt really nice to make his day.
It reminded me that behind the academic rigour and research, our professors are approachable and kind. Moments like these helped create a more supportive learning environment—one that encouraged open communication and mutual respect, allowing us to grow holistically.
I also had the opportunity to join the Rocketry Society, where I was part of the software team. The role involved learning a new programming language, and it was exciting to apply physics concepts outside the classroom and use my knowledge to help build a rocket.
What are your plans now that you’re about to graduate?
I will be joining Johns Hopkins University (JHU) in the US to pursue a PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics. As an aspiring observational astronomer, I look forward to furthering my understanding of extragalactic astronomy under the guidance of faculty members at JHU and the Space Telescope Science Institute.
I am very grateful for the research opportunities provided at Edinburgh through labs, projects, and internships. These allowed me to hone my skills while exploring my areas of interest.
Do you have any tips for students who are planning on coming to Edinburgh and starting a physics and astronomy degree programme?
To international students, I would say: give yourself time to grow, explore, and make mistakes.
Be open to new cultures, new people, and new experiences. Learn from them and be inspired.
Adjusting to a new country and teaching style does take time, but it’s all part of the experience of living and studying abroad. Things might not always go well—and that’s okay. When they don’t, you’ll pick yourself back up from wherever you left off.
