Matt Cook

Matt graduated from Aber in 2015 with a MPhys in Astrophysics. He now works for the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory. ‌‌

What do you remember most about your time at Aber?

Meeting my best friends for the first time, going to kick the bar and doing things I'll never get to do again. 

What are you doing now career-wise and how has your Aberystwyth Degree helped?

I completed a Masters in Astrophysics in 2015 and immediately got offered a job as a Research Scientist at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (I had to take time off to come to Graduation!). My job involves presenting complex scientific concepts to Government Officials, something I couldn't do without the experience and practice I gained during my time at Aber.
Both my 3rd and 4th year projects were bespoke projects that I developed with help from the Lecturers in the department; this allowed me to exercise my scientific intrigue and rather than doing a set project with decided milestones and goals, I learned the art of managing a Research project, an invaluable skill in my work environment.

What advice would you have for a student doing your course now?

Take time to enjoy it! It's all good and well nailing University academically but you will quickly find that it is the experiences you gain that are the most valuable. Try everything at least once, and don't worry if you struggle with something, you will be surrounded by people in the exact same position as you. 

You will make fleeting friends and lifetime friends, don't panic if you lose contact, the lifetime friends will be there if you need them.