David Bajek

David Bajek, from Dundee, graduated in 2011 with a Physics BSc.

Why did you choose to study at Dundee?

Dundee University attracted me not only for its vibrant, connected and modern social environment, but also as a renowned leader in scientific research. Dundee is well known for giving its students a fantastic level of control of their student experience; whether it's their contribution to joining or even forming brand new societies, selecting preferred course modules, or the ability to take part in new and exciting genuine research. Here, you start to take control of your life!

What is the best thing about your course and why?

The physics department, which works closely with electronic engineering and renewable energy, in comparison to other departments is relatively small, but therefore very concentrated. This means that there are plenty of excellent and empathetic staff members available to full time students, and so you feel welcomed, unique, appreciated, and important from the first day of first year until graduation comes around.

What information do applicants need to know before starting this course?

You have to genuinely be interested in understanding the intricate details of all the subjects involved, and have a good drive when it comes to mathematics. This course is for those who enjoy problem solving, but more importantly who have a natural inquisitive curiosity for how the universe works! The pleasure in this course comes from the extra personal work you put in to appreciating the complexity of the topics, rather than just accepting the theory.

What has been your best learning experience to date and why?

The laboratory sessions in physics are fantastic - whether it's using the most up-to-date equipment or trying to repeat it on Dundee's vast collection of genuine antique models, as a student I've been propelled over a learning curve for appreciating and understanding the process of methodical experimentation, and relaying to readers all the excitement surrounding the topics.

What has been your best university experience to date and why?

Over the years I have received several completely unexpected awards for my academic record and for my contribution to research, and these acknowledgements not only greatly enhance the already tremendous experience of studying at Dundee, they make it so worth while going that extra mile and studying really hard.

What sports activities or clubs/societies are you involved with?

Dundee has a fantastic and rich diversity of societies, and I am hugely proud to have been given the opportunity to found the now very popular "Atheist Society" of which I am currently the president. I thoroughly recommend taking the time to join as many societies as you can in order to really quickly find people who share your interests!

Have you taken part in any student exchanges/work placements?

At the end of my first year my advisor of studies encouraged me to get involved in his research group - it was an incredible opportunity, and I've been a researcher ever since. The bursary money has been invaluable over the summer periods, but nothing in comparison to the value of the experiences. It has allowed me to take over and direct projects of my own, develop existing research and by next year will lead to some of my first published material. This is well worth looking into if you're really keen from an early stage.

What was your experience of settling into life in Dundee when you first arrived?

Having been born and raised in Dundee, I think my friends and classmates have enjoyed having someone with a strong knowledge of the city and the University. I know Dundee inside and out, and am always too happy to play tour guide for a day! It's also been fascinating for me getting opinions and stories of students from further away; their first days in the city following through their entire career here.

Do you have any advice for potential new students?

Consider coming to Dundee to study if you have a fondness for solving problems. Come here with the right attitude from day one, and the possibilities are endless; if you want to go far, to stand out and be recognised as an excellent student with great potential, you have to allow yourself to be truly passionate about your chosen subject. Come ready to explore the City of Discovery - there are so many little-known and hidden secrets scattered in and around Dundee, you have to be prepared for an adventure and to really seek out what you enjoy - there is something for everyone here, and the saddest day you will have is the day you leave for pastures new.