Anybody else wish they could do their physics degree again?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the desire to revisit and potentially redo a physics degree, reflecting on personal experiences and the evolution of understanding after graduation. Participants share their feelings about further education, personal enrichment, and alternative ways to continue learning in the field of physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a wish to redo their physics degree, feeling more clarity and direction now, and mentions their current job in engineering and aspirations for further education.
  • Another participant shares their satisfaction in mentoring undergraduate physics majors, suggesting that this provides a fulfilling experience without needing to return to school.
  • Several participants propose that continuing education does not necessarily require returning to formal schooling, suggesting self-study through reading research papers and textbooks as viable alternatives.
  • One participant suggests that taking one or two additional courses, possibly at a graduate level, could be beneficial for those looking to deepen their knowledge.
  • A participant mentions reviewing old textbooks but expresses concern about time constraints for problem-solving, while acknowledging the value of reading academic papers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of sentiments regarding the desire to return to school, with some wishing to redo their degree while others find fulfillment in alternative learning methods. No consensus is reached on whether returning to school is necessary or beneficial.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note limitations in their current ability to engage deeply with physics due to time constraints and personal circumstances, which may affect their learning approaches.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to recent physics graduates contemplating further education, professionals in STEM fields seeking to continue their learning, and those involved in mentoring or advising students in physics.

majorcarter
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I do. I had a good experience the first time around but now (a few years after graduation) I feel like I have so much more clarity and direction. I could dive much deeper into the material and do more research. I wouldn't feel like I'm drowning in formula after formula.

I'm currently working at an engineering company as a tech and applying for a coursework only Masters of ECE. I like my job and the field and the steady paycheck. But I don't think I'm smart enough for a PhD in physics and just the thought of a PhD induces anxiety. It doesn't make sense to quit my job and career to find out if I could make it in a PhD program. Maybe someday in retirement I could get an MS in physics just for my own personal enrichment. But I wish there was more I could do with it now.
 
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Not me. I mentor a number of undergrad physics majors, some in research projects, others in just an informal advisory capacity. That provides enough of a vicarious experience knowing others benefit from my experiences.

Hang our for a while in PF. Share your experiences. Share what you would do differently. Share how those young minds full of much can become gainfully employed contributors to society.
 
You don't have to go back to school to continue learning. Set aside some time each week to read the latest research in the fields that interest you the most. You will gradually add to your store of physics knowledge. You could also buy some physics textbooks and work through them at your own pace.
 
phyzguy said:
You don't have to go back to school to continue learning. Set aside some time each week to read the latest research in the fields that interest you the most. You will gradually add to your store of physics knowledge. You could also buy some physics textbooks and work through them at your own pace.
That might not be satisfying. Possible suggestion: Review what you need, and try to return to school for one or two courses which you have not yet taken, either something introductory (maybe unlikely), something upper division, or graduate level. Any lab section connected to course would be great advantage.
 
phyzguy said:
You don't have to go back to school to continue learning. Set aside some time each week to read the latest research in the fields that interest you the most. You will gradually add to your store of physics knowledge. You could also buy some physics textbooks and work through them at your own pace.
I've been going through my old textbooks but I am afraid I don't have much time to work any problems. Reading papers is a good idea though. Thanks.
 

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