How Does Starting at University of Arizona Shape a New Student's Future?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the experiences and expectations of a new student starting at the University of Arizona, particularly in relation to the Astronomy and Optical Engineering programs. Participants share encouragement and insights about the university's offerings and potential opportunities for students.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • A participant expresses excitement about starting at the University of Arizona, majoring in Astronomy, with a possibility of switching to Optical Engineering.
  • Several participants offer encouragement and share positive experiences related to the university.
  • One participant highlights the strength of UA's Optical Engineering program, suggesting it may be among the best in the country.
  • Another participant mentions the university's involvement in creating mirrors for observatories, implying potential hands-on opportunities for students.
  • Participants emphasize the importance of staying open to opportunities during the undergraduate experience.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the positive aspects of the University of Arizona and express encouragement, but there is no explicit consensus on the best path between Astronomy and Optical Engineering.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the quality of programs and opportunities are based on personal experiences and anecdotal evidence, which may not be universally applicable.

Who May Find This Useful

New students considering the University of Arizona, particularly those interested in Astronomy or Optical Engineering, as well as individuals looking for insights into university life and opportunities in STEM fields.

Drakkith
Mentor
Messages
23,205
Reaction score
7,687
Well, looks like I'll be starting school in about 3 weeks at the University of Arizona here in Tucson. As long as all my financial aid stuff gets approved by the VA in time at least. I'll be majoring in Astronomy unless I decide to change over to Optical Engineering in the future.

Wish me luck!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Good luck! I think you will do great! I had a friend who went to UA and he loved it there.
 
Have fun man! Stick to astronomy though it's too awesome to leave behind :D
 
Good luck and clear skies.
 
Good luck, Drakkith. I'm sure you'll do well.
 
UA has a great optical engineering program...possibly the best in the country.
 
They make mirrors there for prominent observatories and orbiting observatories. If you acquit yourself well, you may get into some interesting programs as an undergrad - great experience. Best of luck - you'll do fine, but keep your eyes peeled for opportunities, too. I hope you have fun.
 
Keep us posted, and congrats!
 

Similar threads

Schools Which University should I go to for my undergrad in physics?
  • · Replies 82 ·
3
Replies
82
Views
9K
Schools Senior Year Student -- What US universities are good for physics?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Transfer Advice + Financial Aid Appeal Advice
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Looking to start a new career in physics, need some advice
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
29 years old, undergraduate student, anxious about future
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Becoming a Physicist: US Universities for High School Student from India
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Programs Grad prospects of a current International Senior in HS
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Schools Help choosing a university in Arizona
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Should I go for Liberal Arts Physics?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
NEU for a Bachelors of Physics
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K