Katy Pallister

BSc Maths and Physics (2015-2018)

Role: Public Engagement Officer (Institute of Physics)

When I chose to study Maths and Physics at Warwick, I never expected to end up where I have or taken the journey I did to get there, but it has all felt very natural.

Whilst I enjoyed understanding physics concepts, I found it more fulfilling to try and communicate this creatively to others. I wrote for the student newspaper, The Boar, and had a radio show on RaW. But it was after speaking with the Warwick Careers Service, that I attended a careers in the arts and media event and put a name to this field I was interested in - science communication. After that, I took several IATL modules and the science communication course (open to BSc students) to broaden my skillset.

Following my BSc at Warwick, I went on to study for an MSc in Science Communication and have since worked as a TV researcher, a science journalist, managed a women in science awards scheme, taught children at holiday science camps, tried my hand at science comedy, presented science shows at museums, designed and delivered science engagement events for families, and recently led a campaign to change how physics and physicists are represented in the media.

At every stage, I have relied on what I learnt from my time at Warwick; how to solve problems, think logically, form clear arguments and manage my time effectively.

As I embark on the next stage of my career, campaigning for social and political change at a charity, I think it is important to remember that even if you don’t end up working in physics after studying for a degree in it, the skills and experience you gain by doing one can set you up for a whole host of different careers.