Rachel Andrews

Rachel is one of our most interesting alumna as that she was a Physics and Biochemistry double major. She didn't become a Physics major until later in her college career, but she found out that she loved the content of the Physics major. Originally Rachel planned to go into Engineering, but after job shadowing a Physical Therapist she decided to apply to a few Physical Therapy schools and she go into every single one she applied to. We at the Physics program at Roanoke College are very proud of Rachel!

Here are some questions we asked Rachel.

Q: What was most important for you as a potential physics major/minor during your first year at Roanoke College?

A: Staying motivated and encouraged. I didn't pick up the major until junior year! I knew I liked the challenges my physics classes posed, so I hung in there and really enjoyed the quantitative and reasoning skills the classes and professors taught me      

Q: What advice do you have for graduating Physics majors/minors as they transition 
    away from Roanoke College and begin the next chapter of life?

A: You can do whatever you set your mind to! It's alright to have a curious mind and not know for sure what step to take next. Take everything in. Pursue as many (or as little) outlets as you want, just make sure you are using every single opportunity to learn and grow, With a physics degree under your belt, most people will be impressed and happy to interview you and/or hire you! That's not a common degree and it's hard! so it speaks for your character and brain.     

Q: What information, skills, or experiences would you say are most critical to obtain 
    before graduating with a Physics major/minor?

A: Try to do a little research. If it involves research in physics or chemistry, some type of research is good to have. Schools like seeing students participating in research. Just try it out. It presents different challenges that you might not encounter in class, and you also get to learn new techniques and strategies for problem solving and how to interact with a smart mentor (who can give you tips/advice on research and life in general)      

Q: How is your Physics major/minor helping you in your current employment situation?

A: I'm working part time but the girls I work with said when they saw physics & biochemistry major they were like, "done. hired". It has helped with applying to DPT schools because it is a different background to have lots of math and science. The major is hard, so they know they are getting good students for graduate school or employment