Cambridge demystified - physical NatSci
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOU1qp1q5-mBb4vqmK85pPw
My YouTube has loads of stuff on it about all of this too!
As part of @Oxford Mum demystifying series I’ve volunteered to write about physical natural sciences
Why did you want to study your subject?
I was about 13 when I really discovered that I loved science and that I wanted a career in it. By the time I was in yr10 my maths had really improved and I’d fallen in love with physics. I loved being able to explain phenomena around me. I remember the first time I derived an equation and te feeling I got when my teacher confirmed it. I was so excited! The highlight of my week was when the Isaac physics mentoring challenge was released on Thursdays. As well as this physics is so broad. There’s mechanics, astrophysics, quantum mechanics, electricity, particle physics... and so you can never get bored. When school started talking to us about careers I didn’t really like anything that was being suggested for me (engineering, accounting, teaching) until my teacher told me about research. It just seemed so perfect and since then I haven’t been able to imagine myself doing anything else. I’ve fallen in love with physics and that’s why I’m choosing to do it at uni.
Why Cambridge?
Above I spoke a lot about physics but I love maths and chemistry too! I didn’t feel ready to give up chemistry especially the physical side where it begins to overlap with physics. The Cambridge course would let me continue for at least another year. I also have the opportunity to try a new subject such as material science, earth sciences or even something biological. In the end I hope that this will lead to me being more well rounded as a scientist which is especially important as science is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary. On top of all of this there’s lots of opportunities to study lots of maths which is essential for physics. Cambridge seemed perfect because I got to do all this extra cool stuff whilst still getting the same depth of physics that I would at any other uni. All the other Nat sci courses that I looked at involved less physics to make time for all the other subjects while Cambridge doesn’t do this (they just pile on the extra work on top hence why it’s so difficult).
Obviously as a place to live Cambridge is amazing it’s absolutely stunning with all the old buildings and gardens (much nicer than Oxford imo), student satisfaction is very high, future prospects are great and it’s consistently right at the top of the league tables!
Did any of your teachers inspire you? Or any other expert (TV presenter etc)
My year7 science teacher was terrifying. But it was the fear of her which motivated me to try so hard in science which ultimately led to me finding my passion. So in a way she sort of inspired me. Otherwise it was more the subject itself which inspired me (I’m not from a sciencey family or anything so I didn’t have them to push me towards science)
Which resources did you use (please name as many as possible) Which books/journals did you read? Which did you like best, and why? What did they teach you?
ISAAC PHYSICS!!! It is the best thing you can possibly do it has physics, maths and chemistry questions ranging from GCSE to degree level. I-want-to-study-engineering is pretty similar but generally I prefer Isaac.
Isaac physics also has a series of workbooks which are free at some outreach events otherwise I think they’re £1 each but either way they’re definitely worth it. I particularly liked the quantum mechanics primer one.
I constantly checked the science section of bbc iPlayer for documentaries to watch. And the same applies for YouTube and TED talks.
At the open day last summer I spoke to Julia Riley (one of the academics at Cambridge) about what books I should be reading. She recommended solving problems and doing lots of maths over just reading. So if you do read try to find a book with problems as you go along. Anyway I read (mostly before this conversation):
Brief answers to the big questions by Stephen hawking
The theoretical minimum
A quantum mechanics primer
Quantum mechanics by Jim Al-Kalili (I was given this in yr10 and as such it was very basic)
The elegant universe by John greene
A brief history of time (don’t mention this on a PS because everyone has read it so admissions tutors don’t like it)
Fermat’s last theorem by Simon Singh
A universe from nothing
Stuff matters
Basically I just went on amazon and picked up a load of 2nd hand books for £1-3 each.
Did you attend any lectures, or take part in any competitions? If so, would you recommend them, and why?
Yr10 physicist of the year award from the Ogden trust (I was nominated by my physics teacher)
Masterclass at Cambridge
I attended lectures whenever possible at any local unis. I did the Artful Physics competition in 2016 with 2 friends and came 2nd so got a tour of RAL as our prize which was my first glimpse of what a real research lab is like. I did maths and physics challenges/ Olympiad’s but my school always forgot to enter me so I never got an official certificate off it but it’s still really good practice just to do the papers.
Perhaps the best thing I did was spending the summer in between yr12 and 13 at as many summer schools I could get on. All except headstart were free. I did one at Selwyn college (phys Nat sci), Surrey uni and Queens Belfast (this was headstart). I spoke about the Surrey one in my interview and the Selwyn one I wrote about quite a bit on my PS plus they gave us loads of advice while we were there, I met loads of amazing people, got a taster session on each of the physical sciences (maths physics, chem , materials and Earth), and a taster supervision.
I also did a few taster days including one at Oxford for material science which was really useful in seeing what materials is like as it’s not really studied at all at school. We had some taster lectures and labs as well as lots of opportunities to talk to students and staff.
Did you have any work experience? If so, how did you find it?
I did a week at the physics dept at Surrey uni following my GCSEs. The most useful aspect was talking to the PhD students who were supervising us and hearing about their experiences and advice.
I also did a week at MSSL in the summer between yr12 and 13 which was amazing. We had workshops on things like python and soldering, lectures from academics, lots of opportunities for questions and a chance to complete a project in small groups (projects ranged from predicting the northern lights to planning a trip to mars)
Did you have a specialist subject/EPQ? What was it? How did you go about your research?
I did an EPQ on the Drake equation which I was asked quite a lot about at interview (I had a general interview first where I was asked about super curriculars and stuff). I’d already come across the equation via a bbc documentary so I knew a bit about it. From there I devised a plan for my project and used academic papers to form my research (check the references section of Wikipedia)
What did you mention in your personal statement and why?
Once I start uni I will upload my PS to tsr under the sample PS section.
Isaac physics (they LOVE this!)
Summer skl at Selwyn + why I learnt/ why it was good
A cavendish quantum mechanics primer
Work experience at MSSL
Was maths discovered or invented documentary series (bbc) by Hannah fry
Summer skl at Surrey uni
Extra curriculars (more for the other unis I applied to than cam) 2 grade 8 LAMDAs with distinction, sailing, ballet, gold DofE, some singing stuff
A bit about my future plans and what I’m most looking forward to at uni
Which techniques did you use for the entrance test?
I did all the past papers (there aren’t many unfortunately)
Physics Olympiad’s are similarish
BMAT ninja for MCQs (section 2 of BMAT)
General revision to make sure I knew everything on the spec)
How did you find the interview process? (NO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS PLEASE - this is against TSR guidelines)
1 general interview- 1 really nice interviewer while the other was quite cold)
1st subject specific- I think it went quite well and I got on well with both interviewers
2nd subject specific- this one was quite odd and they shut down everything I said even though I’m pretty sure I was on the right lines (not sure how you handle being questioned or something) I’m still quite confused about it.
Interview tips
It was quite different to what my school prepared me for. It was more like here’s a situation and then you get asked lots of in-depth questions e.g derive en equation fo this hit, then adapt it to his altered situation. There are lots of good practice question on Isaac physics
How did you feel after the interviews?
Relieved that it’s all done. I know I gave the application my all but I was scared that if I didn’t get it that it meant my all wasn’t enough which was scary.
Where were you when you got your offer? How did you react?
It was my 18th birthday and I was mid chemistry practical. We were waiting for something to dissolve so I had a few mins to spare so I checked my phone and there it was I didn’t expect it so early in the day so I was quite socked. I told my teacher and she screamed down the science corridor while I rang my mum.
Are you looking forward to coming up to Cambridge?
Yes! I cannot wait I’m so excited
General tips
If possible take maths, physics, chemistry and further maths to A2 as lots of admissions tutors won’t consider you without (especially FM) but they don’t openly tell people this which is annoying as my school tried to stop me as they didn’t know that phys Nat sci at cam is the only course where having 4 a levels really boosts your application to the point where it’s almost essential.
When looking for opportunities ask around from academics at unis to students to see what they did. Otherwise google is your best friend and that’s how I found most of mine.
Any other Qs feel free to ask
My YouTube has loads of stuff on it about all of this too!
As part of @Oxford Mum demystifying series I’ve volunteered to write about physical natural sciences
Why did you want to study your subject?
I was about 13 when I really discovered that I loved science and that I wanted a career in it. By the time I was in yr10 my maths had really improved and I’d fallen in love with physics. I loved being able to explain phenomena around me. I remember the first time I derived an equation and te feeling I got when my teacher confirmed it. I was so excited! The highlight of my week was when the Isaac physics mentoring challenge was released on Thursdays. As well as this physics is so broad. There’s mechanics, astrophysics, quantum mechanics, electricity, particle physics... and so you can never get bored. When school started talking to us about careers I didn’t really like anything that was being suggested for me (engineering, accounting, teaching) until my teacher told me about research. It just seemed so perfect and since then I haven’t been able to imagine myself doing anything else. I’ve fallen in love with physics and that’s why I’m choosing to do it at uni.
Why Cambridge?
Above I spoke a lot about physics but I love maths and chemistry too! I didn’t feel ready to give up chemistry especially the physical side where it begins to overlap with physics. The Cambridge course would let me continue for at least another year. I also have the opportunity to try a new subject such as material science, earth sciences or even something biological. In the end I hope that this will lead to me being more well rounded as a scientist which is especially important as science is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary. On top of all of this there’s lots of opportunities to study lots of maths which is essential for physics. Cambridge seemed perfect because I got to do all this extra cool stuff whilst still getting the same depth of physics that I would at any other uni. All the other Nat sci courses that I looked at involved less physics to make time for all the other subjects while Cambridge doesn’t do this (they just pile on the extra work on top hence why it’s so difficult).
Obviously as a place to live Cambridge is amazing it’s absolutely stunning with all the old buildings and gardens (much nicer than Oxford imo), student satisfaction is very high, future prospects are great and it’s consistently right at the top of the league tables!
Did any of your teachers inspire you? Or any other expert (TV presenter etc)
My year7 science teacher was terrifying. But it was the fear of her which motivated me to try so hard in science which ultimately led to me finding my passion. So in a way she sort of inspired me. Otherwise it was more the subject itself which inspired me (I’m not from a sciencey family or anything so I didn’t have them to push me towards science)
Which resources did you use (please name as many as possible) Which books/journals did you read? Which did you like best, and why? What did they teach you?
ISAAC PHYSICS!!! It is the best thing you can possibly do it has physics, maths and chemistry questions ranging from GCSE to degree level. I-want-to-study-engineering is pretty similar but generally I prefer Isaac.
Isaac physics also has a series of workbooks which are free at some outreach events otherwise I think they’re £1 each but either way they’re definitely worth it. I particularly liked the quantum mechanics primer one.
I constantly checked the science section of bbc iPlayer for documentaries to watch. And the same applies for YouTube and TED talks.
At the open day last summer I spoke to Julia Riley (one of the academics at Cambridge) about what books I should be reading. She recommended solving problems and doing lots of maths over just reading. So if you do read try to find a book with problems as you go along. Anyway I read (mostly before this conversation):
Brief answers to the big questions by Stephen hawking
The theoretical minimum
A quantum mechanics primer
Quantum mechanics by Jim Al-Kalili (I was given this in yr10 and as such it was very basic)
The elegant universe by John greene
A brief history of time (don’t mention this on a PS because everyone has read it so admissions tutors don’t like it)
Fermat’s last theorem by Simon Singh
A universe from nothing
Stuff matters
Basically I just went on amazon and picked up a load of 2nd hand books for £1-3 each.
Did you attend any lectures, or take part in any competitions? If so, would you recommend them, and why?
Yr10 physicist of the year award from the Ogden trust (I was nominated by my physics teacher)
Masterclass at Cambridge
I attended lectures whenever possible at any local unis. I did the Artful Physics competition in 2016 with 2 friends and came 2nd so got a tour of RAL as our prize which was my first glimpse of what a real research lab is like. I did maths and physics challenges/ Olympiad’s but my school always forgot to enter me so I never got an official certificate off it but it’s still really good practice just to do the papers.
Perhaps the best thing I did was spending the summer in between yr12 and 13 at as many summer schools I could get on. All except headstart were free. I did one at Selwyn college (phys Nat sci), Surrey uni and Queens Belfast (this was headstart). I spoke about the Surrey one in my interview and the Selwyn one I wrote about quite a bit on my PS plus they gave us loads of advice while we were there, I met loads of amazing people, got a taster session on each of the physical sciences (maths physics, chem , materials and Earth), and a taster supervision.
I also did a few taster days including one at Oxford for material science which was really useful in seeing what materials is like as it’s not really studied at all at school. We had some taster lectures and labs as well as lots of opportunities to talk to students and staff.
Did you have any work experience? If so, how did you find it?
I did a week at the physics dept at Surrey uni following my GCSEs. The most useful aspect was talking to the PhD students who were supervising us and hearing about their experiences and advice.
I also did a week at MSSL in the summer between yr12 and 13 which was amazing. We had workshops on things like python and soldering, lectures from academics, lots of opportunities for questions and a chance to complete a project in small groups (projects ranged from predicting the northern lights to planning a trip to mars)
Did you have a specialist subject/EPQ? What was it? How did you go about your research?
I did an EPQ on the Drake equation which I was asked quite a lot about at interview (I had a general interview first where I was asked about super curriculars and stuff). I’d already come across the equation via a bbc documentary so I knew a bit about it. From there I devised a plan for my project and used academic papers to form my research (check the references section of Wikipedia)
What did you mention in your personal statement and why?
Once I start uni I will upload my PS to tsr under the sample PS section.
Isaac physics (they LOVE this!)
Summer skl at Selwyn + why I learnt/ why it was good
A cavendish quantum mechanics primer
Work experience at MSSL
Was maths discovered or invented documentary series (bbc) by Hannah fry
Summer skl at Surrey uni
Extra curriculars (more for the other unis I applied to than cam) 2 grade 8 LAMDAs with distinction, sailing, ballet, gold DofE, some singing stuff
A bit about my future plans and what I’m most looking forward to at uni
Which techniques did you use for the entrance test?
I did all the past papers (there aren’t many unfortunately)
Physics Olympiad’s are similarish
BMAT ninja for MCQs (section 2 of BMAT)
General revision to make sure I knew everything on the spec)
How did you find the interview process? (NO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS PLEASE - this is against TSR guidelines)
1 general interview- 1 really nice interviewer while the other was quite cold)
1st subject specific- I think it went quite well and I got on well with both interviewers
2nd subject specific- this one was quite odd and they shut down everything I said even though I’m pretty sure I was on the right lines (not sure how you handle being questioned or something) I’m still quite confused about it.
Interview tips
It was quite different to what my school prepared me for. It was more like here’s a situation and then you get asked lots of in-depth questions e.g derive en equation fo this hit, then adapt it to his altered situation. There are lots of good practice question on Isaac physics
How did you feel after the interviews?
Relieved that it’s all done. I know I gave the application my all but I was scared that if I didn’t get it that it meant my all wasn’t enough which was scary.
Where were you when you got your offer? How did you react?
It was my 18th birthday and I was mid chemistry practical. We were waiting for something to dissolve so I had a few mins to spare so I checked my phone and there it was I didn’t expect it so early in the day so I was quite socked. I told my teacher and she screamed down the science corridor while I rang my mum.
Are you looking forward to coming up to Cambridge?
Yes! I cannot wait I’m so excited
General tips
If possible take maths, physics, chemistry and further maths to A2 as lots of admissions tutors won’t consider you without (especially FM) but they don’t openly tell people this which is annoying as my school tried to stop me as they didn’t know that phys Nat sci at cam is the only course where having 4 a levels really boosts your application to the point where it’s almost essential.
When looking for opportunities ask around from academics at unis to students to see what they did. Otherwise google is your best friend and that’s how I found most of mine.
Any other Qs feel free to ask
(edited 3 years ago)
Scroll to see replies
Additional resources:
Sample interview questions:
https://www.cambridgeinterviewquestions.com/questions/sciences/natural-sciences/
(plus recommended reading)
https://sites.google.com/site/oxbridgeinterviewquestions/natural-sciences
https://arctanb.wordpress.com/2010/01/04/interview-for-physical-natural-sciences-at-cambridge/
Physical Natsci youtubes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlM_0D1uR50
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUwN6GI-0EQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXH6SMOc8lU
Sample interview questions:
https://www.cambridgeinterviewquestions.com/questions/sciences/natural-sciences/
(plus recommended reading)
https://sites.google.com/site/oxbridgeinterviewquestions/natural-sciences
https://arctanb.wordpress.com/2010/01/04/interview-for-physical-natural-sciences-at-cambridge/
Physical Natsci youtubes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlM_0D1uR50
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUwN6GI-0EQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXH6SMOc8lU
So yet another very busy chapter, with you bustling excitedly from one wonderful opportunity to another. You are the perfect illustration of why it's so worthwhile to find as many schemes as you can, and apply (although in lockdown, this will probably not be possible). Don't think "I won't get in, the competition will be too fierce! Someone has to get in, and that applies to the schemes as well as Cambridge.
The keenness here is palpable. I can see you sitting on the edge of your chair as you explain phenomena, derive explanations, and generally do "cool stuff". Any candidates would do well to explore the Isaac Physics mentoring challenge:
https://isaacphysics.org/pages/isaac_mentor
You are really selling me this subject, which is so broad and never boring (despite my only ever getting a D in it!) You can delve into old favourites and discover new ones as well. Natsci students swear by their subject, and I can see its appeal. Cambridge will be the making of you, when you get to study with world class experts and like minded fellow students. Whenever I read a Cambridge Demystified chapter, I always feel the offer holder really belongs at Cambridge and richly deserves to be there.
I have often read about inspiring teachers, but scary teachers can be useful, too (my German teacher was like this, and I was always trying to impress her).
Whatever your subject, listening to Ted Talks are always worthwhile:
https://www.ted.com/talks/helen_czerski_the_fascinating_physics_of_everyday_life?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/murray_gell_mann_beauty_truth_and_physics?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/harry_cliff_have_we_reached_the_end_of_physics?language=en
Artful Physics
https://artfulphysics.com/
RAL (not sure about what this is... could you please send a link?
Maths Challenge
https://www.ukmt.org.uk/
Physics challenge
https://www.bpho.org.uk/
Headstart
Could you please provide a link for this, as well? Thanks
Oxford taster Days (again, may not resume until next year)
https://www2.physics.ox.ac.uk/study-here/undergraduates/open-days
MSSL
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/mssl/
The week at a physics department at a university - how did you manage that? Did you just email the department? It's so cool to be able to talk to the PhD students. It just shows that even if you want an opportunity and there isn't one, you can create one.
LAMDA
https://ww2.lamda.ac.uk/
This looks like a lot of fun. Does this mean the Footlights beckon?
https://www.cambridgefootlights.org/
It won't be long before you burst onto the Cambridge scene, and you will be awesome! I'd better get your autograph, quick before the rush!
Fantastic, @Sophhhowa
The keenness here is palpable. I can see you sitting on the edge of your chair as you explain phenomena, derive explanations, and generally do "cool stuff". Any candidates would do well to explore the Isaac Physics mentoring challenge:
https://isaacphysics.org/pages/isaac_mentor
You are really selling me this subject, which is so broad and never boring (despite my only ever getting a D in it!) You can delve into old favourites and discover new ones as well. Natsci students swear by their subject, and I can see its appeal. Cambridge will be the making of you, when you get to study with world class experts and like minded fellow students. Whenever I read a Cambridge Demystified chapter, I always feel the offer holder really belongs at Cambridge and richly deserves to be there.
I have often read about inspiring teachers, but scary teachers can be useful, too (my German teacher was like this, and I was always trying to impress her).
Whatever your subject, listening to Ted Talks are always worthwhile:
https://www.ted.com/talks/helen_czerski_the_fascinating_physics_of_everyday_life?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/murray_gell_mann_beauty_truth_and_physics?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/harry_cliff_have_we_reached_the_end_of_physics?language=en
Artful Physics
https://artfulphysics.com/
RAL (not sure about what this is... could you please send a link?
Maths Challenge
https://www.ukmt.org.uk/
Physics challenge
https://www.bpho.org.uk/
Headstart
Could you please provide a link for this, as well? Thanks
Oxford taster Days (again, may not resume until next year)
https://www2.physics.ox.ac.uk/study-here/undergraduates/open-days
MSSL
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/mssl/
The week at a physics department at a university - how did you manage that? Did you just email the department? It's so cool to be able to talk to the PhD students. It just shows that even if you want an opportunity and there isn't one, you can create one.
LAMDA
https://ww2.lamda.ac.uk/
This looks like a lot of fun. Does this mean the Footlights beckon?
https://www.cambridgefootlights.org/
It won't be long before you burst onto the Cambridge scene, and you will be awesome! I'd better get your autograph, quick before the rush!
Fantastic, @Sophhhowa
Original post by Oxford Mum
So yet another very busy chapter, with you bustling excitedly from one wonderful opportunity to another. You are the perfect illustration of why it's so worthwhile to find as many schemes as you can, and apply (although in lockdown, this will probably not be possible). Don't think "I won't get in, the competition will be too fierce! Someone has to get in, and that applies to the schemes as well as Cambridge.
The keenness here is palpable. I can see you sitting on the edge of your chair as you explain phenomena, derive explanations, and generally do "cool stuff". Any candidates would do well to explore the Isaac Physics mentoring challenge:
https://isaacphysics.org/pages/isaac_mentor
You are really selling me this subject, which is so broad and never boring (despite my only ever getting a D in it!) You can delve into old favourites and discover new ones as well. Natsci students swear by their subject, and I can see its appeal. Cambridge will be the making of you, when you get to study with world class experts and like minded fellow students. Whenever I read a Cambridge Demystified chapter, I always feel the offer holder really belongs at Cambridge and richly deserves to be there.
I have often read about inspiring teachers, but scary teachers can be useful, too (my German teacher was like this, and I was always trying to impress her).
Whatever your subject, listening to Ted Talks are always worthwhile:
https://www.ted.com/talks/helen_czerski_the_fascinating_physics_of_everyday_life?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/murray_gell_mann_beauty_truth_and_physics?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/harry_cliff_have_we_reached_the_end_of_physics?language=en
Artful Physics
https://artfulphysics.com/
RAL (not sure about what this is... could you please send a link?
Maths Challenge
https://www.ukmt.org.uk/
Physics challenge
https://www.bpho.org.uk/
Headstart
Could you please provide a link for this, as well? Thanks
Oxford taster Days (again, may not resume until next year)
https://www2.physics.ox.ac.uk/study-here/undergraduates/open-days
MSSL
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/mssl/
The week at a physics department at a university - how did you manage that? Did you just email the department? It's so cool to be able to talk to the PhD students. It just shows that even if you want an opportunity and there isn't one, you can create one.
LAMDA
https://ww2.lamda.ac.uk/
This looks like a lot of fun. Does this mean the Footlights beckon?
https://www.cambridgefootlights.org/
It won't be long before you burst onto the Cambridge scene, and you will be awesome! I'd better get your autograph, quick before the rush!
Fantastic, @Sophhhowa
The keenness here is palpable. I can see you sitting on the edge of your chair as you explain phenomena, derive explanations, and generally do "cool stuff". Any candidates would do well to explore the Isaac Physics mentoring challenge:
https://isaacphysics.org/pages/isaac_mentor
You are really selling me this subject, which is so broad and never boring (despite my only ever getting a D in it!) You can delve into old favourites and discover new ones as well. Natsci students swear by their subject, and I can see its appeal. Cambridge will be the making of you, when you get to study with world class experts and like minded fellow students. Whenever I read a Cambridge Demystified chapter, I always feel the offer holder really belongs at Cambridge and richly deserves to be there.
I have often read about inspiring teachers, but scary teachers can be useful, too (my German teacher was like this, and I was always trying to impress her).
Whatever your subject, listening to Ted Talks are always worthwhile:
https://www.ted.com/talks/helen_czerski_the_fascinating_physics_of_everyday_life?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/murray_gell_mann_beauty_truth_and_physics?language=en
https://www.ted.com/talks/harry_cliff_have_we_reached_the_end_of_physics?language=en
Artful Physics
https://artfulphysics.com/
RAL (not sure about what this is... could you please send a link?
Maths Challenge
https://www.ukmt.org.uk/
Physics challenge
https://www.bpho.org.uk/
Headstart
Could you please provide a link for this, as well? Thanks
Oxford taster Days (again, may not resume until next year)
https://www2.physics.ox.ac.uk/study-here/undergraduates/open-days
MSSL
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/mssl/
The week at a physics department at a university - how did you manage that? Did you just email the department? It's so cool to be able to talk to the PhD students. It just shows that even if you want an opportunity and there isn't one, you can create one.
LAMDA
https://ww2.lamda.ac.uk/
This looks like a lot of fun. Does this mean the Footlights beckon?
https://www.cambridgefootlights.org/
It won't be long before you burst onto the Cambridge scene, and you will be awesome! I'd better get your autograph, quick before the rush!
Fantastic, @Sophhhowa
Just a few things to mention.
I think the artful physics that I did was a one off event to celebrate the anniversary of something (I can’t quite remember).
RAL is the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxford (I know they run lots of events inc work experience)
Headstart: https://www.etrust.org.uk/headstart-courses
There’s also inspire for yr11 (I think you can find that on the headstart link above if not give it a google)
The week of work experience I did at Surrey was the last year they did that and have since invested in other outreach events like the summer school I did. I did meet someone on NCS who said she emailed them and they gave her a week of shadowing
LAMDA was amazing and I really miss it. I’ll definitely be doing something musical/ acting at Cam quite what I haven’t decided yet.
About your comment on people being too scared to apply. Honestly I’m a normal person, there’s nothing particularly special about me so if I can do it so can you. I remember meeting people at events and being really intimidated but lots of people are just as scared as you and some of them resort to showing off as their way of coping, ultimately you just have to ignore it. I forgot to mention I went to a masterclass in cam too which was helpful but this was particularly bad for people showing off- a few rows infront of me they were having a competition for who got the most 9s at GCSE which really doesn’t matter as much as people think it does.
And these people are often the very ones that don't get in, in my experience....
All the people who have written for this book have said that when they came up to their unis for schemes/open days, they were surprised at how "normal" the students are. This is why I get so annoyed when people who don't go to Oxbridge perceive the students as arrogant and entitled. It's just not true!
All the people who have written for this book have said that when they came up to their unis for schemes/open days, they were surprised at how "normal" the students are. This is why I get so annoyed when people who don't go to Oxbridge perceive the students as arrogant and entitled. It's just not true!
This is a really good chapter, and I imagine many who enjoy the wrong half of science will appreciate it 
Your autocorrect has unfortunately changed Fermat's name, so you may wish to correct that.
Your autocorrect has unfortunately changed Fermat's name, so you may wish to correct that.
(edited 3 years ago)
Another lovely chapter! Physical NatSci is so popular, I’m sure lots of people will find this helpful! I hope you have a wonderful time studying such a broad and interesting degree
Original post by Theloniouss
This is a really good chapter, and I imagine many who enjoy the wrong half of science will appreciate it
Your autocorrect has unfortunately changed Fermat's name, so you may wish to correct that.
Your autocorrect has unfortunately changed Fermat's name, so you may wish to correct that.
Haha I’m assuming ur a biologist then. Thanks I’ll go fix that now.
Original post by Mona123456
Another lovely chapter! Physical NatSci is so popular, I’m sure lots of people will find this helpful! I hope you have a wonderful time studying such a broad and interesting degree
Thank you. I’m so excited! I suppose it’s so popular for a reason (other Nat sci courses just aren’t the same)
I’ve also started a YouTube & Instagram sharing tips, advice + my experience
YT: science with Soph https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOU1qp1q5-mBb4vqmK85pPw
Instagram: science.with.soph
YT: science with Soph https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOU1qp1q5-mBb4vqmK85pPw
Instagram: science.with.soph
(edited 3 years ago)
Thank you for helping others, Oxford needs others like you
Thanks for the great chapter!! And congrats on your offer!! I have a couple of questions
1) Are there any physics competition/olympiad books for physics? Or really any problem books in physics that have the same content as A level physics, but are harder?
2) How does one get better at physics and math? I'm looking to improve my skills
3) I'm not sure if u answered this, but how did u choose your college?
1) Are there any physics competition/olympiad books for physics? Or really any problem books in physics that have the same content as A level physics, but are harder?
2) How does one get better at physics and math? I'm looking to improve my skills
3) I'm not sure if u answered this, but how did u choose your college?
Original post by hmmm101
Thanks for the great chapter!! And congrats on your offer!! I have a couple of questions
1) Are there any physics competition/olympiad books for physics? Or really any problem books in physics that have the same content as A level physics, but are harder?
2) How does one get better at physics and math? I'm looking to improve my skills
3) I'm not sure if u answered this, but how did u choose your college?
1) Are there any physics competition/olympiad books for physics? Or really any problem books in physics that have the same content as A level physics, but are harder?
2) How does one get better at physics and math? I'm looking to improve my skills
3) I'm not sure if u answered this, but how did u choose your college?
Hi,
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
Original post by Sophhhowa
Hi,
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
thanks! And congrats on your confirmed offer! Good luck for your next 3 to 4 years at Cambridge!
Original post by Sophhhowa
Hi,
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
Excellent advice, Sophie!
I am so happy your place is confirmed. You deserve it, and are an inspiration to many aspiring science students. Ever since results day I have been wondering how the Oxford and Cambridge Demystified chapter writers have been getting on, so thanks for telling me.
Cambridge is lucky to have you, so enjoy.
Original post by Sophhhowa
As part of @Oxford Mum demystifying series I’ve volunteered to write about physical natural sciences
Why did you want to study your subject?
I was about 13 when I really discovered that I loved science and that I wanted a career in it. By the time I was in yr10 my maths had really improved and I’d fallen in love with physics. I loved being able to explain phenomena around me. I remember the first time I derived an equation and te feeling I got when my teacher confirmed it. I was so excited! The highlight of my week was when the Isaac physics mentoring challenge was released on Thursdays. As well as this physics is so broad. There’s mechanics, astrophysics, quantum mechanics, electricity, particle physics... and so you can never get bored. When school started talking to us about careers I didn’t really like anything that was being suggested for me (engineering, accounting, teaching) until my teacher told me about research. It just seemed so perfect and since then I haven’t been able to imagine myself doing anything else. I’ve fallen in love with physics and that’s why I’m choosing to do it at uni.
Why Cambridge?
Above I spoke a lot about physics but I love maths and chemistry too! I didn’t feel ready to give up chemistry especially the physical side where it begins to overlap with physics. The Cambridge course would let me continue for at least another year. I also have the opportunity to try a new subject such as material science, earth sciences or even something biological. In the end I hope that this will lead to me being more well rounded as a scientist which is especially important as science is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary. On top of all of this there’s lots of opportunities to study lots of maths which is essential for physics. Cambridge seemed perfect because I got to do all this extra cool stuff whilst still getting the same depth of physics that I would at any other uni. All the other Nat sci courses that I looked at involved less physics to make time for all the other subjects while Cambridge doesn’t do this (they just pile on the extra work on top hence why it’s so difficult).
Obviously as a place to live Cambridge is amazing it’s absolutely stunning with all the old buildings and gardens (much nicer than Oxford imo), student satisfaction is very high, future prospects are great and it’s consistently right at the top of the league tables!
Did any of your teachers inspire you? Or any other expert (TV presenter etc)
My year7 science teacher was terrifying. But it was the fear of her which motivated me to try so hard in science which ultimately led to me finding my passion. So in a way she sort of inspired me. Otherwise it was more the subject itself which inspired me (I’m not from a sciencey family or anything so I didn’t have them to push me towards science)
Which resources did you use (please name as many as possible) Which books/journals did you read? Which did you like best, and why? What did they teach you?
ISAAC PHYSICS!!! It is the best thing you can possibly do it has physics, maths and chemistry questions ranging from GCSE to degree level. I-want-to-study-engineering is pretty similar but generally I prefer Isaac.
Isaac physics also has a series of workbooks which are free at some outreach events otherwise I think they’re £1 each but either way they’re definitely worth it. I particularly liked the quantum mechanics primer one.
I constantly checked the science section of bbc iPlayer for documentaries to watch. And the same applies for YouTube and TED talks.
At the open day last summer I spoke to Julia Riley (one of the academics at Cambridge) about what books I should be reading. She recommended solving problems and doing lots of maths over just reading. So if you do read try to find a book with problems as you go along. Anyway I read (mostly before this conversation):
Brief answers to the big questions by Stephen hawking
The theoretical minimum
A quantum mechanics primer
Quantum mechanics by Jim Al-Kalili (I was given this in yr10 and as such it was very basic)
The elegant universe by John greene
A brief history of time (don’t mention this on a PS because everyone has read it so admissions tutors don’t like it)
Fermat’s last theorem by Simon Singh
A universe from nothing
Stuff matters
Basically I just went on amazon and picked up a load of 2nd hand books for £1-3 each.
Did you attend any lectures, or take part in any competitions? If so, would you recommend them, and why?
Yr10 physicist of the year award from the Ogden trust (I was nominated by my physics teacher)
Masterclass at Cambridge
I attended lectures whenever possible at any local unis. I did the Artful Physics competition in 2016 with 2 friends and came 2nd so got a tour of RAL as our prize which was my first glimpse of what a real research lab is like. I did maths and physics challenges/ Olympiad’s but my school always forgot to enter me so I never got an official certificate off it but it’s still really good practice just to do the papers.
Perhaps the best thing I did was spending the summer in between yr12 and 13 at as many summer schools I could get on. All except headstart were free. I did one at Selwyn college (phys Nat sci), Surrey uni and Queens Belfast (this was headstart). I spoke about the Surrey one in my interview and the Selwyn one I wrote about quite a bit on my PS plus they gave us loads of advice while we were there, I met loads of amazing people, got a taster session on each of the physical sciences (maths physics, chem , materials and Earth), and a taster supervision.
I also did a few taster days including one at Oxford for material science which was really useful in seeing what materials is like as it’s not really studied at all at school. We had some taster lectures and labs as well as lots of opportunities to talk to students and staff.
Did you have any work experience? If so, how did you find it?
I did a week at the physics dept at Surrey uni following my GCSEs. The most useful aspect was talking to the PhD students who were supervising us and hearing about their experiences and advice.
I also did a week at MSSL in the summer between yr12 and 13 which was amazing. We had workshops on things like python and soldering, lectures from academics, lots of opportunities for questions and a chance to complete a project in small groups (projects ranged from predicting the northern lights to planning a trip to mars)
Did you have a specialist subject/EPQ? What was it? How did you go about your research?
I did an EPQ on the Drake equation which I was asked quite a lot about at interview (I had a general interview first where I was asked about super curriculars and stuff). I’d already come across the equation via a bbc documentary so I knew a bit about it. From there I devised a plan for my project and used academic papers to form my research (check the references section of Wikipedia)
What did you mention in your personal statement and why?
Once I start uni I will upload my PS to tsr under the sample PS section.
Isaac physics (they LOVE this!)
Summer skl at Selwyn + why I learnt/ why it was good
A cavendish quantum mechanics primer
Work experience at MSSL
Was maths discovered or invented documentary series (bbc) by Hannah fry
Summer skl at Surrey uni
Extra curriculars (more for the other unis I applied to than cam) 2 grade 8 LAMDAs with distinction, sailing, ballet, gold DofE, some singing stuff
A bit about my future plans and what I’m most looking forward to at uni
Which techniques did you use for the entrance test?
I did all the past papers (there aren’t many unfortunately)
Physics Olympiad’s are similarish
BMAT ninja for MCQs (section 2 of BMAT)
General revision to make sure I knew everything on the spec)
How did you find the interview process? (NO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS PLEASE - this is against TSR guidelines)
1 general interview- 1 really nice interviewer while the other was quite cold)
1st subject specific- I think it went quite well and I got on well with both interviewers
2nd subject specific- this one was quite odd and they shut down everything I said even though I’m pretty sure I was on the right lines (not sure how you handle being questioned or something) I’m still quite confused about it.
Interview tips
It was quite different to what my school prepared me for. It was more like here’s a situation and then you get asked lots of in-depth questions e.g derive en equation fo this hit, then adapt it to his altered situation. There are lots of good practice question on Isaac physics
How did you feel after the interviews?
Relieved that it’s all done. I know I gave the application my all but I was scared that if I didn’t get it that it meant my all wasn’t enough which was scary.
Where were you when you got your offer? How did you react?
It was my 18th birthday and I was mid chemistry practical. We were waiting for something to dissolve so I had a few mins to spare so I checked my phone and there it was I didn’t expect it so early in the day so I was quite socked. I told my teacher and she screamed down the science corridor while I rang my mum.
Are you looking forward to coming up to Cambridge?
Yes! I cannot wait I’m so excited
General tips
If possible take maths, physics, chemistry and further maths to A2 as lots of admissions tutors won’t consider you without (especially FM) but they don’t openly tell people this which is annoying as my school tried to stop me as they didn’t know that phys Nat sci at cam is the only course where having 4 a levels really boosts your application to the point where it’s almost essential.
When looking for opportunities ask around from academics at unis to students to see what they did. Otherwise google is your best friend and that’s how I found most of mine.
Any other Qs feel free to ask
Why did you want to study your subject?
I was about 13 when I really discovered that I loved science and that I wanted a career in it. By the time I was in yr10 my maths had really improved and I’d fallen in love with physics. I loved being able to explain phenomena around me. I remember the first time I derived an equation and te feeling I got when my teacher confirmed it. I was so excited! The highlight of my week was when the Isaac physics mentoring challenge was released on Thursdays. As well as this physics is so broad. There’s mechanics, astrophysics, quantum mechanics, electricity, particle physics... and so you can never get bored. When school started talking to us about careers I didn’t really like anything that was being suggested for me (engineering, accounting, teaching) until my teacher told me about research. It just seemed so perfect and since then I haven’t been able to imagine myself doing anything else. I’ve fallen in love with physics and that’s why I’m choosing to do it at uni.
Why Cambridge?
Above I spoke a lot about physics but I love maths and chemistry too! I didn’t feel ready to give up chemistry especially the physical side where it begins to overlap with physics. The Cambridge course would let me continue for at least another year. I also have the opportunity to try a new subject such as material science, earth sciences or even something biological. In the end I hope that this will lead to me being more well rounded as a scientist which is especially important as science is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary. On top of all of this there’s lots of opportunities to study lots of maths which is essential for physics. Cambridge seemed perfect because I got to do all this extra cool stuff whilst still getting the same depth of physics that I would at any other uni. All the other Nat sci courses that I looked at involved less physics to make time for all the other subjects while Cambridge doesn’t do this (they just pile on the extra work on top hence why it’s so difficult).
Obviously as a place to live Cambridge is amazing it’s absolutely stunning with all the old buildings and gardens (much nicer than Oxford imo), student satisfaction is very high, future prospects are great and it’s consistently right at the top of the league tables!
Did any of your teachers inspire you? Or any other expert (TV presenter etc)
My year7 science teacher was terrifying. But it was the fear of her which motivated me to try so hard in science which ultimately led to me finding my passion. So in a way she sort of inspired me. Otherwise it was more the subject itself which inspired me (I’m not from a sciencey family or anything so I didn’t have them to push me towards science)
Which resources did you use (please name as many as possible) Which books/journals did you read? Which did you like best, and why? What did they teach you?
ISAAC PHYSICS!!! It is the best thing you can possibly do it has physics, maths and chemistry questions ranging from GCSE to degree level. I-want-to-study-engineering is pretty similar but generally I prefer Isaac.
Isaac physics also has a series of workbooks which are free at some outreach events otherwise I think they’re £1 each but either way they’re definitely worth it. I particularly liked the quantum mechanics primer one.
I constantly checked the science section of bbc iPlayer for documentaries to watch. And the same applies for YouTube and TED talks.
At the open day last summer I spoke to Julia Riley (one of the academics at Cambridge) about what books I should be reading. She recommended solving problems and doing lots of maths over just reading. So if you do read try to find a book with problems as you go along. Anyway I read (mostly before this conversation):
Brief answers to the big questions by Stephen hawking
The theoretical minimum
A quantum mechanics primer
Quantum mechanics by Jim Al-Kalili (I was given this in yr10 and as such it was very basic)
The elegant universe by John greene
A brief history of time (don’t mention this on a PS because everyone has read it so admissions tutors don’t like it)
Fermat’s last theorem by Simon Singh
A universe from nothing
Stuff matters
Basically I just went on amazon and picked up a load of 2nd hand books for £1-3 each.
Did you attend any lectures, or take part in any competitions? If so, would you recommend them, and why?
Yr10 physicist of the year award from the Ogden trust (I was nominated by my physics teacher)
Masterclass at Cambridge
I attended lectures whenever possible at any local unis. I did the Artful Physics competition in 2016 with 2 friends and came 2nd so got a tour of RAL as our prize which was my first glimpse of what a real research lab is like. I did maths and physics challenges/ Olympiad’s but my school always forgot to enter me so I never got an official certificate off it but it’s still really good practice just to do the papers.
Perhaps the best thing I did was spending the summer in between yr12 and 13 at as many summer schools I could get on. All except headstart were free. I did one at Selwyn college (phys Nat sci), Surrey uni and Queens Belfast (this was headstart). I spoke about the Surrey one in my interview and the Selwyn one I wrote about quite a bit on my PS plus they gave us loads of advice while we were there, I met loads of amazing people, got a taster session on each of the physical sciences (maths physics, chem , materials and Earth), and a taster supervision.
I also did a few taster days including one at Oxford for material science which was really useful in seeing what materials is like as it’s not really studied at all at school. We had some taster lectures and labs as well as lots of opportunities to talk to students and staff.
Did you have any work experience? If so, how did you find it?
I did a week at the physics dept at Surrey uni following my GCSEs. The most useful aspect was talking to the PhD students who were supervising us and hearing about their experiences and advice.
I also did a week at MSSL in the summer between yr12 and 13 which was amazing. We had workshops on things like python and soldering, lectures from academics, lots of opportunities for questions and a chance to complete a project in small groups (projects ranged from predicting the northern lights to planning a trip to mars)
Did you have a specialist subject/EPQ? What was it? How did you go about your research?
I did an EPQ on the Drake equation which I was asked quite a lot about at interview (I had a general interview first where I was asked about super curriculars and stuff). I’d already come across the equation via a bbc documentary so I knew a bit about it. From there I devised a plan for my project and used academic papers to form my research (check the references section of Wikipedia)
What did you mention in your personal statement and why?
Once I start uni I will upload my PS to tsr under the sample PS section.
Isaac physics (they LOVE this!)
Summer skl at Selwyn + why I learnt/ why it was good
A cavendish quantum mechanics primer
Work experience at MSSL
Was maths discovered or invented documentary series (bbc) by Hannah fry
Summer skl at Surrey uni
Extra curriculars (more for the other unis I applied to than cam) 2 grade 8 LAMDAs with distinction, sailing, ballet, gold DofE, some singing stuff
A bit about my future plans and what I’m most looking forward to at uni
Which techniques did you use for the entrance test?
I did all the past papers (there aren’t many unfortunately)
Physics Olympiad’s are similarish
BMAT ninja for MCQs (section 2 of BMAT)
General revision to make sure I knew everything on the spec)
How did you find the interview process? (NO INTERVIEW QUESTIONS PLEASE - this is against TSR guidelines)
1 general interview- 1 really nice interviewer while the other was quite cold)
1st subject specific- I think it went quite well and I got on well with both interviewers
2nd subject specific- this one was quite odd and they shut down everything I said even though I’m pretty sure I was on the right lines (not sure how you handle being questioned or something) I’m still quite confused about it.
Interview tips
It was quite different to what my school prepared me for. It was more like here’s a situation and then you get asked lots of in-depth questions e.g derive en equation fo this hit, then adapt it to his altered situation. There are lots of good practice question on Isaac physics
How did you feel after the interviews?
Relieved that it’s all done. I know I gave the application my all but I was scared that if I didn’t get it that it meant my all wasn’t enough which was scary.
Where were you when you got your offer? How did you react?
It was my 18th birthday and I was mid chemistry practical. We were waiting for something to dissolve so I had a few mins to spare so I checked my phone and there it was I didn’t expect it so early in the day so I was quite socked. I told my teacher and she screamed down the science corridor while I rang my mum.
Are you looking forward to coming up to Cambridge?
Yes! I cannot wait I’m so excited
General tips
If possible take maths, physics, chemistry and further maths to A2 as lots of admissions tutors won’t consider you without (especially FM) but they don’t openly tell people this which is annoying as my school tried to stop me as they didn’t know that phys Nat sci at cam is the only course where having 4 a levels really boosts your application to the point where it’s almost essential.
When looking for opportunities ask around from academics at unis to students to see what they did. Otherwise google is your best friend and that’s how I found most of mine.
Any other Qs feel free to ask
Would you be able to give me a link to the Selwyn phys natsci summer school?
Original post by a_sadek91
Would you be able to give me a link to the Selwyn phys natsci summer school?
They’ll advertise the summer 2021 one around April/May so you’ll have to wait till then
Original post by Sophhhowa
They’ll advertise the summer 2021 one around April/May so you’ll have to wait till then
Okay, thanks
Original post by Sophhhowa
Hi,
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
Excitingly my offer is now confirmed!
1) the physics Olympiad and the maths challenge. Books wise try the Isaac physics books or just general Isaac physics
2) make sure you understand the content then practice practice practice
3) visit a few and when you know, you know. If not just pick one randomly it really doesn’t matter (you might get pooled anyway). Definitely consider the less well known ones rather than just looking at Trinity, johns, Jesus, Christ’s, corpus, queens etc
hi im planning to make a physnatsci application for 2021 entry.
you mentioned consider the less well known colleges.
are there any benefits/drawbacks in doing so?
i would imagine applying to a over-subscribed colleges could reduce the chance of getting an interview invitation compared to less popular ones?
Original post by harlem
hi im planning to make a physnatsci application for 2021 entry.
you mentioned consider the less well known colleges.
are there any benefits/drawbacks in doing so?
i would imagine applying to a over-subscribed colleges could reduce the chance of getting an interview invitation compared to less popular ones?
you mentioned consider the less well known colleges.
are there any benefits/drawbacks in doing so?
i would imagine applying to a over-subscribed colleges could reduce the chance of getting an interview invitation compared to less popular ones?
Applying to an oversubscribed college does NOT affect your chances of getting an interview or getting in. However, you are more likely to get pooled which could mean you get a college you don’t particularly like or one that’s quite far away e.g Girton or Homerton. Personally I think colleges like Trinity, Corpus, Queens, Christ’s (basically all the famous ones) are overrated. I looked at all of those I’ve listed and I didn’t like them. Trinity made me feel really small, Christ’s felt snobby, with corpus the nearest toilet may be in another building so if you need the loo in the middle of the night you’d have to go outside to get there. Obviously this is just my opinion but I think some of the less well known colleges are actually much better e.g Selwyn, Sidney, Robinson, Newnham, Girton (if you don’t mind the trek). If you applied to one of these the chances of getting pooled are very small so if you get in you will almost certainly be at the college you picked. Pros of these colleges, much friendlier, less academicly pushy/competitive (ie you dont have to aim for a first of you don’t want to), pretty gardens, more supportive, people tend to be more ‘normal and a bit less geeky, often have little things that are hard to find e.g a swimming pool, ovens, lots of en-suites, better food. Cons, fewer scholarships and bursaries (although if you need help they will give it to you), depends on the college but newnham is all girls, Girton is a bit far out, Robinson doesn’t have any traditional architecture, Selwyn often requires sharing a bathroom with quite a few people. Having said all of this, everyone always ends up loving their college so it doesn’t matter too much. At the end of the day it’s the same lectures, labs, degree etc no matter which college (the only difference is the supervisors but even then sometimes you’ll have a supervision at a different college)
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