Thomas
Lindsay

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study your subject?

"I have always had an interest in Physics and love to talk about it with friends and family. I wish to share my interest and love for physics, and open doors for those of all ages who are also interested in physics using my ability to educate and make things more interesting than others may initially perceive."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I picked this course because not only do I have an interest in physics, but I also have a passion for teaching. Therefore, I wanted to become the best teacher possible and be able to do it in the best possible time. Therefore, I choose NTU due to the course integration between physics and education, allowing me to study both at the same time."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?

"I have enjoyed my studies a lot! Although the first year is mostly physics, there have still been educational aspects. The best part of being on the course has been being on placement at a school for a week observing lessons and helping in them. I have been able to experience plenty of other things as well as I have done plenty of lab and programming work within the physics department."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

"My understanding of physics and how to apply it has been aided through multiple projects - the best of them was the physics school working with Rolls-Royce on a programming project using physics to solve problems."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Being able to make a difference to those who need it, by opening up new worlds to students so that they can follow their dreams and fulfil their potential."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"I went to a local Secondary School to observe a diverse range of different classes and teaching situations. I was able to also help and get a week of hands-on experience helping the children with their work.

Having this placement allowed me to further my confidence in working with children as well as my confidence in my own knowledge. Another great thing was being suited up in a professional environment and getting experience in the workplace.

What I loved the most was that I was allowed to help in the classroom, I was accepted by the teachers and the students appreciated my approach to helping them out."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"The most memorable moment was when I was able to get through to some year elevens just before their Physics exam. They had difficulty understanding Vectors and Scalars, but through acting it out with my actions and plenty of energy I was able to get through to them.

On the last day of placement, some of the students went around the school to try and find me and thank me for my help. That thanks was so impactful to me, and the fact that I was able to help these kids was amazing."

Support

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

"The University and staff are very supportive and if you need it, they will help you both academically and personally. All the staff are there for you and really care."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

"I was able to make friends through mutual interests and hobbies, both on my course as well as through societies."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU? 

"Once I have completed my final year placed in two different schools, I plan to continue to work by getting employed at a secondary school as a Physics teacher and progress my career as a teacher."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals? 

"NTU provides plenty of opportunities both in physics and education during the course such as working with Rolls-Royce on a programming task and with education going into schools and getting hands-on experience making me employable."

Advice

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

"Although the course will be busy and you will have to work hard, make sure you make time for yourself. It's important to enjoy your time at university!"