Shannon Tuck

While a physics degree isn't directly related to transport planning, I developed a range of skills which I have been able to apply. These include data analysis, numerical ability, written and verbal communication and problem solving.

My employer has told me that they employ grads with a range of degrees because they like having a team with a mixed skill set. They were very keen to have a physics graduate because I can work on projects which include a lot of data analysis and require modelling with software.

There are a surprising number of sectors who really like physics grads because of our skill set and our ability to solve the hard problems.

I thoroughly enjoy having the opportunity to use my skills and apply them to real world situations.

Post 16 Education: A Levels Maths, Physics, Chemistry & EPQ

Higher Education: MPhys Physics with Astrophysics and Cosmology; Please note: degree titles do change over time.

Why did you study Physics?

Maths was always one of my favourite subjects in school and I had a personal interest in astronomy, so I thought physics was a good combination of those to study at university.

I originally wanted to go in to research when I was applying for universities because I was extremely interested in astrophysics after doing an EPQ in college. Eventually I changed my mind because I wanted to apply my skills in the work place rather than furthering education.

To put it simply, Physics explains how the universe works. It uses mathematics to determine the mechanics of everything from atomic structure to galaxies and everything in between.

Shannon’s experience as a student

I really enjoyed my time at university, focusing on your favourite subject in depth is very enjoyable. Especially when the lecturers are so passionate about their research and what they are teaching. Studying a subject is only a part of it, there is a whole student experience which I absolutely loved. An important factor for me was how much support is available. I always had someone I could go to for advice and guidance which was particularly important in my final year while I was doing my dissertation and trying to figure out what I wanted to do post uni.

Shannon’s Career

I am now a Graduate Transport Planner for Jacobs (Engineering Group, not the cracker company!). In my final year of uni, I started applying for grad schemes.

I attended the careers fairs and used websites such as Gradcracker (website for STEM grads) to apply for any roles that accepted physics grads. I had no set career in mind so I was open to many different roles (logistics, analyst, software, project management etc). I got quite lucky in the process, the first company I interviewed for offered me a job, which I gratefully accepted.