How competent did you feel as a physics graduate/recent post graduate student?

[jeebs]

I graduated a four year physics course at a quite highly rated British university in 2011, and am now 24 years old. I managed a to graduate with a 1st and am now into the first year of my PhD, but I sometimes question if I'm really that competent/knowledgeable. I feel as though I have forgotten significant amount of what I have covered in the past 10 or so years of learning physics, with too little time/energy to go back and re-learn it all. So much material hastily learned for exams and then gradually forgotten. You hear so much these days about university degrees becoming easier, so I can't help but wonder if it's true - have I gained a deep understanding of things, or have I just figured out how to pass exams effectively? More than anything I feel poorly informed about what is really going on in current research, I mean, most of my course focussed on things that have been established for decades or longer.

Is this a common feeling amongst people at this stage in their physics career, regardless of which decade we're in? At what point did you start feeling like a "real" physicist (at least in your depth/breadth of understanding, if not in your official job title)?

 

[Someone1987]

I am the same age as you although I am a second year graduate student. During my first year I did not feel very competent in physics at all. It wasn't so much forgetting things from undergrad though. I mainly felt like I had a lot of gaps in my knowledge. It seemed like a lot of other graduate students had similar feelings.

I will say that by the end of the first year, especially after studying hard and passing my quals, I began to feel much more confident. I don't know if I would call myself a full-blown physicist but, I definitely feel like I am getting there.

I obviously can't speak for graduate students in past decades but I hope you feel better knowing you aren't alone.

 

[mal4mac]

Everyone forgets stuff.

No one will expect you to 'do it all again' or fix it all in permanent memory. You might find yourself in a situation where you may have to, say, teach the E&M course you once took. Then you should go over it again... preferably not while giving the lecture :)

Learning is not, crucially, about permanently memorising some basic physics knowledge. It's about being able to learn, or re-learn, stuff that you need for your current research project or work task.

Physics is an old science, there's an awful lot to learn. Why would you expect to be taken to the research frontier by your undergraduate degree?

If you are doing a PhD in physics then you are a real physicist, at least in embryo.

 

[mal4mac]

I will say that by the end of the first year, especially after studying hard and passing my quals...

He's in the UK, where the BSc is "passing quals"... actually he did four years so probably has an MSc, so he should at least act confident :)

 

[Matrix0]

First of all, congratulations on your academic achievements and for pursuing a PhD in physics! As a fellow scientist, I can understand and relate to the feelings of self-doubt and questioning one's competence in the field.

It is natural to feel overwhelmed and question our knowledge and understanding, especially in a field as vast and complex as physics. The amount of information we learn in university can be overwhelming, and it is impossible to retain all of it throughout our career. Additionally, the pressure of exams and grades can sometimes lead to a focus on memorization rather than deep understanding of concepts. However, this does not mean that your degree or knowledge is not valuable or meaningful. The skills and critical thinking you have gained through your education are just as important as the specific knowledge.

In terms of the difficulty of university degrees, it is important to remember that education is constantly evolving and adapting to new research and advancements. While it may seem like degrees are becoming easier, it is more likely that the focus has shifted towards developing skills and critical thinking rather than just memorization. As for current research, it is always a good idea to stay updated and continuously learn about new developments in your field. This can be through attending seminars, conferences, or simply keeping up with scientific literature.

Feeling like a "real" physicist is a personal journey and may vary from person to person. It is important to remember that there is no set timeline or specific point at which one can consider themselves a true expert in their field. It is a continuous process of learning and growth, and it is completely normal to feel like you have more to learn.

In conclusion, it is common for people at this stage in their physics career to question their competence and knowledge. However, it is important to recognize the value of your education and the skills you have gained. Keep an open mind, stay updated on current research, and continue to learn and grow in your field. You are on the right path and should be proud of your accomplishments.