Olivia was interested in space as a child, and decided before her GCSEs that she wanted to study physics at university and even do a PhD. However, when starting college, she struggled to take in all the information; “My grades dropped instantly and I had no idea why," she explains. After a tough first year, where she got UUUE in her AS-levels, she decided to re-sit, although she still found it hard.
“It was at this point that my teachers told me not to bother with physics, and that by aiming to study the subject at university I was setting myself up for failure." Olivia persevered, completing her A-levels with grades CEE and being offered a place on the engineering and maths foundation year at Sheffield Hallam. She explains; “I didn't give up because I knew there was more to physics than an A-level curriculum."
It was during this year that she discovered learning had suddenly become a lot easier; “I didn't understand why I was passing everything all of a sudden!" she explains. It was only when a friend encouraged her to do a learning needs assessment, and was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia that it all began to make sense; “I just learn differently and university study allowed me to do this, and so I did well as a result.”
After passing her foundation year, Olivia began on the physics course. During her second year of university, she spoke to students who had previously done placements at STFC to find out more and get tips for her application and subsequently, her interview. Her attitude and commitment shone through and she was offered the role.
Olivia has been working in the neutronics group, investigating the effect of neutron energy on radiolysis of liquid methane. In the moderators around the ISIS targets, the methane forms a polymer due to radiation damage. She has taken work from previous research to build a code to model the moderator and feed in data from ISIS.
The way of working has suited her well; “I enjoy having a problem and then finding my own solution. As well as learning what I need for my project, I'm trying to learn as much programming as possible, as I know this is a weak area for me."
Olivia is very keen to share her story with others who may be struggling in the same way; “If my struggle to get to this point raises awareness of the flaws and bias in the physics world lessens just one other person's struggle, or at least brings comfort knowing there's a place for everyone in physics who wants it, then it's worth it."
“Take chances, ask for help if you need it and if you realise you no longer love what you're doing its okay to stop. Just don't let other people be the ones making that decision for you. I knew there would be a place for me in physics and, whilst it's been an uphill battle, I've finally found it."
