Can I Succeed in a Physics Degree Despite Practical Challenges?

[MisterMan]

Hi, I was considering taking Physics in my first year at university starting this year on September, but I am little concerned about the work involved. I am currently doing Physics at my secondary school and am coping well with the theory but when it comes to practical it seems I am unable to access the knowledge gained from the theory and use it in practice and I feel inadequate in that area.

My concern is that when I told my teacher I was considering taking Theoretical Physics he informed me it contained a substantial amount of practical, so my question is this : Do I have a good chance at surviving the physics course and getting a good grade even if my practical isn't as good as my theory?

 

[arunma]

Uh, by practical do you mean lab?

In my experience taking freshman physics, lab isn't so important. What really matters is being able to solve problems on paper. Usually the lab is a fairly small proportion of your grade (something like 15%), so it can't hurt you that much. Besides that, usually you get a good grade if you just show up and do what the lab book says.

It's worth noting that this won't actually help you if you go to grad school. As a physicist, I rarely use the stuff I learned in most of my classes. All of the stuff I do makes use of skills I learned in my experimental classes: programming, circuits, statistical analysis of data, etc. But if you're still at the freshman physics level, that probably doesn't matter.

Just my experience, anyway. Yours may differ.

 

[bignum]

At least Physics labs aren't like Chemistry ones, I mean they always throw a few chemical trivias and expect you to know them immediately.

 

[MisterMan]

Usually the lab is a fairly small proportion of your grade (something like 15%), so it can't hurt you that much.

I'm doing physics at my school this year and the lab work was fairly minimal but I just thought that as you get higher up the academic ladder more emphasis is on the experimental work than on the theory but as long as it is still possible to get A grades while relying on theory work mostly, I'll be happy. I suspect that university equipment will be better and I'll be given more time in the lab than at school-schools seem more interested in abstract concepts than experimental techniques it seems- giving a lot more time to practice and get better at experiments.

 

[rezeew]

I completely understand your concerns about taking a Bachelor of Science in Physics. It is a challenging and rigorous program, but it is also incredibly rewarding. I commend you for taking on such a demanding subject in your secondary school and for considering continuing your studies in this field at university.

In regards to your concerns about the practical aspect of physics, it is important to remember that theory and practice go hand in hand. While theoretical knowledge is important, it is equally important to be able to apply that knowledge in practical situations. However, it is also common for students to struggle with the practical aspect of physics, as it requires a different set of skills and can be more challenging to grasp.

I would encourage you to continue pursuing your interest in physics and to not let your concerns about practical work hold you back. With hard work, dedication, and practice, you can improve your practical skills and become more confident in applying your theoretical knowledge. Additionally, universities often offer support and resources for students who may need extra help in certain areas, such as practical work. I would recommend reaching out to your university's physics department to see what resources are available to you.

Overall, I believe that if you have a strong understanding of the theoretical concepts and are willing to put in the effort to improve your practical skills, you have a good chance of succeeding in the physics course and achieving a good grade. Remember to not be too hard on yourself and to seek help when needed. Best of luck in your studies!