Studying Astrophysics has allowed me to develop new skills while also focusing on my own interests

Sejal Pongurlekar
Sejal Pongurlekar
Masters student
Astrophysics MSc
Sejal found that the modules offered in the Astrophysics MSc course aligned with her interests and future career aspirations.

What made you want to study your course?

I have always been interested in studying astronomy. Pursuing a masters in astrophysics fit in perfectly with my career aims. It allowed me to study something that I thoroughly enjoy whilst also being aligned with the goals I had set for myself.

What made you decide to study at the University of Sheffield?

One of the primary reasons I chose the University of Sheffield was because of the study program. The modules offered in the course align with my interests and future career aspirations. Moreover, I believe getting a degree from a university with such a strong academic reputation would surely strengthen my career prospects.

What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?

The course has been very engaging and enjoyable throughout. Parts of the course that I enjoyed the most were some of the modules offered and my dissertation project. The modules allowed me to develop new skills whilst also focusing on my own interests. I also appreciated the freedom of being able research topics that I found interesting and the support offered throughout for these choices.

What skills have you developed during your course?

Some of the skills that I developed through the course include the ability to conduct academic research, and being able to write for a scientific audience. Prior to the course, I did not have a lot of experience writing a scientific paper. However, the regular written assignments included during the course enabled me to gain sufficient experience in academic writing which would help me when pursuing my future career goals. Moreover, throughout the course I have learnt a number of transferable skills, including coding, which would be invaluable in the future, even in fields not directly related to astrophysics.

What would you say to a student thinking about studying your course at Sheffield?

I would highly recommend the course. I would say make sure that you understand and enjoy what you will be studying. Choose modules that you find interesting and intriguing. Try your best to find the work-life balance that works best for you, and don’t be afraid to ask lecturers or other current students for advice when it comes to picking modules for the semester.

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