Should i attend to top universities to become a physicist?

In summary, the conversation is about the speaker's potential plans to study space physics at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, which is known for its aerospace program. The speaker is considering whether they should attend a top university like Harvard or Yale to become a good physicist. The other person in the conversation suggests that the speaker should work hard at Embry Riddle and then go to a top graduate school. They also mention that the university's space physics program may be weak and primarily focused on engineering. The speaker clarifies that they want to study physics, not aerospace engineering. They also mention that they are an international student and Embry Riddle meets their English requirements. The conversation ends with a discussion about the university's research
  • #1
Saif Almazrouei
9
1
Hey.

I may go next year to study space physics in Embry Riddle Aeronautical university in Daytona Beach. i know that they have the best aerospace program in the world. But do they have a very good physics program. because what i am asking about is that should i go to one of the top universities like Harvard or Yale or universities like that to become a good physicist and otherwise i won't be that good theatrical physicist?
 
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  • #2
Saif Almazrouei said:
Hey.

I may go next year to study space physics in Embry Riddle Aeronautical university in Daytona Beach. i know that they have the best aerospace program in the world. But do they have a very good physics program. because what i am asking about is that should i go to one of the top universities like Harvard or Yale or universities like that to become a good physicist and otherwise i won't be that good theatrical physicist?

Do well there and move on to a top 20 or top 30 graduate school. You do not need a top undergrad school to become a physicist; you need to work very hard.
 
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Likes okantomi and Intraverno
  • #3
I checked Embry Riddle's physics curriculum . If you are interested in theoretical physics at a good graduate school you might want to do some comparison shopping. Embry Riddle's space physics program seems to a little weak and more oriented to engineering. A good performance there still might not be enough when you are competing with good students from any of 41 schools in the US New and Word Survey of space science programs in which Embry Riddle is not listed.
 
  • #4
Saif Almazrouei said:
I may go next year to study space physics in Embry Riddle Aeronautical university in Daytona Beach. i know that they have the best aerospace program in the world. But do they have a very good physics program. because what i am asking about is that should i go to one of the top universities like Harvard or Yale or universities like that to become a good physicist and otherwise i won't be that good theatrical physicist?
I don't understand: do you want to be a physicist or an aerospace engineer? The answer to that question should help a lot in determining where you go to school...
 
  • #5
russ_watters said:
I don't understand: do you want to be a physicist or an aerospace engineer? The answer to that question should help a lot in determining where you go to school...
I want to be a physicist.. I will study physics
 
  • #6
There are probably hundreds of colleges and universities in the US where one can get a decent undergraduate physics education that will prepare you adequately for graduate school. Why are you considering Embry-Riddle specifically? I'm just curious...
 
  • #7
jtbell said:
There are probably hundreds of colleges and universities in the US where one can get a decent undergraduate physics education that will prepare you adequately for graduate school. Why are you considering Embry-Riddle specifically? I'm just curious...
Its because of many reasons. I'm an international student and i have the english requirements of this university. and i will work in space agency and many other reasons. but is embry riddle that bad?
 
  • #8
Embry-Riddle's space physics degree has the standard courses for general graduate school preparation (classical mechanics, thermodynamics. electricity & magnetism, quantum mechanics), although only one semester of each. Most schools have two semesters of upper-level E&M, for example. The other courses are engineering and specialized space physics courses.

Most or all of their research seems to be oriented towards space physics.

If you're certain that you want to go into space physics, the program looks OK to me. However, if you later decide that you would rather go into some other area of physics, that might be a problem. That's why most undergraduate physics programs in the US are not strongly specialized. They allow students to explore different fields, which increases the chance of finding a field that is a good fit for them. Most high-school students don't know enough physics yet to make an informed choice.
 

1. Should I attend a top university to become a physicist?

Attending a top university can certainly provide many benefits for aspiring physicists. These institutions often have well-established and reputable physics programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and renowned faculty members who can offer valuable guidance and mentorship. Additionally, attending a top university can open up opportunities for research and collaborations, as well as provide a strong network and connections within the field of physics.

2. Will attending a top university guarantee success in my career as a physicist?

While attending a top university can certainly provide a strong foundation and resources for your physics career, it is ultimately up to the individual to make the most of their education and opportunities. Success as a physicist also relies on factors such as dedication, hard work, and passion for the subject. Attending a top university does not guarantee success, but it can certainly provide a strong starting point.

3. Are there any downsides to attending a top university as a physics major?

While attending a top university can be beneficial, it may also come with some challenges. These institutions often have highly competitive and rigorous programs, which can be overwhelming for some students. Additionally, tuition and living expenses at top universities can be quite expensive. It is important to consider these factors and weigh them against the potential benefits before making a decision.

4. Are there other factors besides attending a top university that can contribute to my success as a physicist?

Yes, attending a top university is not the only factor that can contribute to success as a physicist. Other important factors include research experience, internships, networking, and developing strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills. It is also important to have a strong passion and drive for the subject, as well as continuously learning and staying updated on advancements in the field.

5. Can I still become a successful physicist if I don't attend a top university?

Yes, attending a top university is not a requirement for success as a physicist. There are many successful physicists who have graduated from lesser-known universities or even started their education at community colleges. It is important to find a university with a strong physics program that fits your needs and learning style. Additionally, gaining research experience and networking can also greatly contribute to your success as a physicist, regardless of the university you attend.

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