ArtyDReams

  • Joined Jul 23, 2022
  • In A Particle in an Electric Field | Ashmi's Uni Journal

    Hello, AN!

    I am officially done with exams! (Party time)

    What a weird feeling to be doing exams in REB and my lord the fact they put the Quantum Physics exam (my last exam) at the exact same time as the first-year physics exam at 8:30 in the morning was a whole mood. If only they also put the second-year physics exam at the same time then I maybe could have put a PSS club event called "Panic with us on the morning of your physics exam at REB" and got the most well-attended event award. Oh well, that's an idea for next year. Overall it was very funny to see all the physics students panicking together before walking into the silent REB (Yes I did join them in the panic disco).

    In regards to what's happening in the future, I got into the Laby Research Scholars Program held by the school of physics and starting another research opportunity! I'll be looking at dark sector searches with the Belle II experiment in Japan which is exciting. This does take up the majority of my winter holidays, which is a bit rough as I haven't had a proper holiday since my first year due to stacking too much on. Thankfully my last semester I barely have any subjects so I can chill a bit.

    Just a brief recap on what has happened this semester, I've been trying to organise a possible physics camp under the Physics Students Society (PSS) and some other events. We had a lot of events this semester, at least 2 a week which I am happy with and the turnout has been great. Lots of free food has been provided and I can safely say I've made back my SSAF fees just by the amount of food I've consumed from my own club. Note to younger years, always join an executive committee of a club. As this is my last year, I've gone around teaching the other club members how to do things so that when I leave next year, things are in good hands. I'm really happy with the club committee this year and it sounds like there are some exciting events to come! Being president of PSS has also brought some weird and wonderful opportunities this semester, from being invited to physics breakfasts, giving talks to the wider community, student outreach and more. It has also brought a couple more Unimelb love letters to my name (with a tally of 9 so far, hopefully, I can hit 10 before I graduate). Looking back on everything since I'm nearing the end of this degree, I'm glad I've taken every opportunity that I have seen and can safely say I've made the best of the uni experience (so far). There are so many things I look back on which I smile at (and also cringe), like waking up and volunteering at 7am in the morning on a 1-degree day in Winterfest with 3 random people I didn't know to screaming my lungs out at PSS trivia nights with a physics community to remember. It's been a good time, and I didn't expect to meet so many people yet become friends with so many in different disciplines than my own. I've lost count of how many people I've met along the way, but I'm honestly so grateful that I can walk past the physics building and someone always comes up to say hi (or shouts my name before proceeding to sprint towards me), not just the students but also the academics. I would have never thought anything like this would ever happen back at the start of first year, but I'm glad the effort I've put in has paid off. I've been my happiest and probably my best throughout this degree.

    I'm going to attach a paragraph from old Ash at the beginning of this journal (the old AN):

    "My last long term goal is that by the time I finish uni, I want to be able to look back and say that I am significantly better than when I first started. When I talk about being better, I mean knowing more quality people (networking), taking things one step at a time rather than focusing too far into the future, developing some self-confidence, improving my communication skills, step out of my comfort zone, engage in the community, if possible having a great academic record and lastly, to be happier than I am right now."

    There is one thing left to do before I graduate though, and that is to complete this degree with a "great academic record". I'm currently on a H1 WAM and the goal is by the time I graduate, to still have that H1 WAM. With that being said, it's time for me to plan future PSS events and make sure that this undergrad journey ends with a bang.

    That's it for now, see you another time!

  • In A Particle in an Electric Field | Ashmi's Uni Journal

    Hi everyone,

    It has been a while since my last update, and a lot of my future ideas and goals have changed. In fact, I think for the first time in my life, I may have found the answers to a lot of things I've been confused about. Maybe I'll start with what I know now and go from there.

    I will pursue a research career and become an academic in physics.
    I will work in experimental particle physics.
    I will do my postdoc overseas.

    Those 3 sentences took way too long to solidify, but now I finally have learnt who I want to become and what I want to be. It has taken so long to make this statement; I feel like it is the stigma and stereotypes faced in physics. Maybe it's my insecurity that female academics in physics are rare and that it is very hard to break past this barrier, maybe it is the lack of awareness that research in physics exists, maybe it is the competitive nature of becoming an academic, maybe its people saying I can never get there, or maybe it's all the above and more.

    But I don't care anymore.
    I don't care what others think.

    Over the summer, I worked on two major research projects, one for the SABRE South experiment for ARC Dark Matter Particle Physics and one for ARC TMOS in optics. What both projects taught me is that a research career is really for me. The particle physics project in particular, taught me that the experimental particle physics group is where I belong. The question now is, do I stay at Unimelb for postgrad or do I look elsewhere? As I've learnt, the answers will reveal themselves with time. I'm investigating a range of EPP experiments around the world, more dark matter experiments, neutrino oscillation experiments and collider experiments. I've also been elected as the new president for PSS, and that brought more clarity and sanity into my life.

    This is not an "I want" phase anymore, this is an "I will" and I am going to get there.

    I've never seen things so clearly before.
    It is like looking through crystal-clear water,
    And the reflection of an endless, unbounded sky bouncing off the surface.

    They say the sky's the limit,
    But I need to aim higher.

    It's time to break free from the chains that hold me to the ground;
    And run into the unknown that awaits,
    Does it scare me?
    No, not anymore.
    In fact, I'm excited,
    To jump into the world that has been waiting patiently for me.

    This is the end of today's update, an update much needed for this journal.
    I'll come back in the future to provide more thoughts.
    For now, it's time for me to get ready to hit the ground running.

    • In ATAR Notes Discussions Updates and Suggestions 💙

      Update! Some as per requests and also just general improvements:

      • Menu links: you can now get back to the atarnotes.com and uninotes.com websites from here, lol 😅
      • Cover photo and user bio: can be added via profile pages
      • Post bookmarks: you can now bookmark any post for reference and it'll appear in your private 'bookmarks' section available in the left sidebar
      • Forum statistics: available in the sidebar on the main page
      • \bf{LaTeX} 🥳 : you can now input LaTeX equations using the \sqrt{x} button!
    • In Tips on getting a 40+ in Visual Communication and Design

      Visual Communication Design – Tips to get a 40+ in Visual Communication and Design:
      Hi guys! Here’s my advice to score high is visual communication and design (VCD). I particularly scored a 43 in VCD during 2021, so I wanted to give some tips on how to possibly achieve those high marks or how to boost your current marks. You could be aiming for a 25, a 38, a 42, etc. Whatever your goal is, I hope this can help in some way.

      Resources:
      Textbook -> I used the Nelson Net VCD textbook, as that was the one I had to use for the subject. I found it to be a decent textbook with plenty of helpful information about design fields, design history, elements and principles, digital design, folio tips, etc. It does however have a lot of excess information that is helpful for your understanding and to aid in skill improvement. Like any subject, you’ll need to be able to work out which information is important to remember/memorise for exam/SAC contexts. I would definitely use the study design as a checklist, and make use of the definitions/information given in the cross specifications section of the study design. Overall, I don’t think you can go too wrong with textbooks for VCD, as they will all be quite in depth and have a lot of excess content anyway.

      Online resources -> There is very little online resources for VCD. I did make use of the Edrolo videos my school gave me excess to, especially during my exam study to consolidate my theory knowledge without getting to lost in all the information in the textbook.

      Class PPT -> If your teacher makes PPTs with lots of information, use it. It is likely taken from the textbook in a condensed form. Good teachers will know their stuff, so make use of these PPTs to help strengthen your theory knowledge and your folio skills.

      Teachers -> They are your number one resource! Honestly, don’t underestimate the power of asking questions and getting feedback. Of course, when it comes to SACs and the SAT, they can be slightly limited (they can’t give you answers), but they can help you if your struggling or need ideas on what to change with your designs. Also make the most of your SAC feedback to improve your writing, and send them samples to look at to see if you’re on the right track. The same goes for practice exams. Get them to mark some and look over your responses (this is one thing I wish I did more of). Please please please don’t ignore them. They’re there to help you and the more feedback you can get, the better.

      SAC tips:
      For year 12 VCD, there are design analysis SACs and a SAC on design in contexts. The SACs will likely be very straight forward, but they require good writing skills, a strong understanding of what makes up good designs (elements and principles, field, specialist practitioners, impacts on intended audience, etc.). Make sure to do lots of practice. You can try making a table that outlines all the areas that needs to be covered in your response. I would include the following -> Type of visual communication (what it is), purpose and its effect, intended audience, context and its impact, design elements and their impact, design principles and their effect with design elements, methods and their effect/why they were chosen, media and its visual effect, and materials. Of course, check with your teacher what they are looking for. I would recommend using Pinterest, google images and/or design gallery websites to find images to practice, and ensure that you practice all the fields of design. With the design in contexts SAC, make sure you have a strong understanding of the roles of people involved in design projects (design, client, specialists from different fields with examples, etc.), factors involved in design (social, cultural, ethical, environmental, economic, legal, etc.), and legal elements (copyright, patents, registered designs, trademarks, etc. and where they are applied). Your teacher and textbook should go through this thoroughly with you.

      SAC design projects:
      These have a pretty low weighting, but they’re really important in allowing you to see which fields of design you enjoy working with the most, and they help you strengthen your design process skills. Definitely have fun with them, but make sure you work hard to mimic sort of what you would do if it was your SAT (just on a much smaller scale). I wouldn’t stress too much about them.

      Folio tips:
      The folio or SAT project is the big beast of year 12 VCD (more so than the exam I think). If you want to do well at VCD, you need to be prepared to pour many hours into your SAT folio because of its high weighting. Of course, don’t burn yourself out in the process. However, folio subjects are not easy and your folio is going to take lots and lots of effort if you want to achieve those high grades (i.e. A or A+). Here are some important tips:

      • Annotations are really important. Not only are they important, but good annotations are essential to not only boost your marks but to also help guide you through the design process. Make sure you move away from statements surrounding “this feelings” and “I like”. Basically, avoid anything that’s too subjective, especially when annotating your research and need to craft them in a more analytical manner (since more first-person types of annotations are needed for the development and refinement sections to explain your process of creating your design). Ask your teacher if you’re not too sure, but this really just take practice. You’ll notice that over time your annotations improve and become more specific and intricate. Also, make sure to not over do the annotations, because it's unnecessary and takes up a lot of time. Just include what’s needed to ensure your design process and ideas are clear.
      • Trial lots of different types of methods, media, and materials. Of course, don’t go too overboard, but make sure you choose a variety as it will aid in your design process dramatically. Don’t settle for what’s easy. Try things. Fail at things and write about it. It really shows that you’ve put lots of thought into your designs. I would recommend making a list of everything you want to trial so you don’t forget anything, since the development stage is quite intense.
      • The pitch and getting feedback are both super important components of your folio. You need to prioritise these just as much as any other design process stage. I can’t tell you how much getting feedback improved my designs. It allows you to see slight flaws in your designs that you wouldn’t have otherwise noticed. Make sure to carefully collate it so that you can go back to it when you need. Also make sure you’re clear with what changes you plan to make in response to the feedback.
      • Make sure you get plenty of feedback along the way, especially from your teacher, to ensure you’re on the right track.
      • For communication design particularly, make sure you trial different types of printed paper. I used Officeworks to print my designs, but it was quite stressful uploading everything. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time so you can assess which paper medium you want for your final design and can make any tweaks if required. Also, PRINT MULTIPLE COPIES in case something goes wrong.
      • Don’t leave things last minute! I mean, this is a given for any subject, but please don’t do this with your folio. You will be so stressed on top of all the other stress mounting on top of you as you finish up all your other subjects. Make lists and ensure you’ve ticked off all the folio requirements. That way you can hopefully get a good night’s sleep before handing it in.
      • REMEMBER TO BACK UP YOUR DIGITAL WORK!!!!!! Make sure you regularly back up your work to a USB in case something happens. You really don't want to loose all of your folio work!

      Exam preparation tips:

      • Make sure you brush up your theory notes and ensure that they are concise. I spent a decent amount of time making sure I understood the content. There isn’t a lot that you need to memories, but you need to have a good understanding of the theory that the stipulated by the study design.
      • Info to probably memories: Elements and Principles, Purposes, Design fields, legal info (just know what copyright, registered designs, trademarks, patents and moral rights are).
      • Practice is key! I would complete as many exams as you can, but at the same time, don’t go to over board. I did roughly 10 – 12 practice exams in full (it’s been a while so I can’t quite remember). I did mostly VCAA exams, but I threw in a few company ones for good measure. At first, you don’t need to do them under timed conditions necessarily, but work on ensuring you know how to answer different types of questions/know what is required by certain questions. I would aim to do a majority timed.
      • You don’t just have to do practice exams in full. I went through the VCAA exams and printed out a tone of rendering and drawing questions to practice (especially from the old exams). I then first practiced rendering different materials on a plain piece of paper before trying a VCAA question. The first one I did was not timed, but afterwards, I started timing myself until I could complete the rendering in 9 minutes (since most are 9 markers).
      • Ask your teacher for drawing worksheets to practice converting between different types of drawings (e.g., orthogonal to isometric). Make sure to practice every possible combination and ask your teacher for help if needed.
      • Make sure to refer to the drawing specification document by VCAA, as it provides you with information on the different forms of design drawings and the rules/regulations around them. Some are not very applicable in an exam setting, but most are. You need to know how scales work, and don’t forget how to do the orthogonal drawing icon! This document is also super helpful for your folio too!

      Rendering tips:

      • Do grey lead first and put the colour on top. Coloured pencils suck at creating good tone. That's what your grey leads are for!
      • Do the tone, then the texture, and lastly the colour
      • Make sure you have plenty of coloured pencils with you in case (but not too many because it might be hard to find them in the exam).

      Analytical question tips:

      • Just keep practicing them. Look back at your design analysis SACs and make sure you review the VCD content regularly. I basically printed out copies of my summarised notes and stuck them up on my wardrobe to practice active recall (or just went through them at my desk and tried to recall what I could before looking back at my notes).
      • Get feedback from your teacher! Get them to mark these questions and also make sure to read the exemplar responses on the VCAA examiner reports. I wish I did this more!
      • Try to be as concise as you can. This will come with practice. You simply just have the time to write lots, because it’s practically a mark per minute (and that’s not giving you time at the end to review your exam answers).

      Reading time tips:

      • Do the multiple choice in your head and choose your answers. This will give you an extra 4 minutes in the exam writing time! Don’t overthink them since they’re meant to be straight-forward.
      • I would briefly look through the other questions and drawing tasks, but don’t spend too much time with them.
      • I would then look at the design task and start thinking of ideas. Once you’ve spent some time with the question parts, you can go back to the other questions.
      • I would recommend 5 minutes on the MCQs and questions other than the design task, and then 10 minutes on the design task. However, that said, work out what’s best for you and your exam technique. Just don’t change it up in the exam because it might throw you off.

      Other exam tips:

      • Make sure you have all the materials you need (grey lead and coloured pencils, pens, sharpener, eraser, ruler, set squares, etc.). Check the VCAA exam materials page to find what you need.
      • If your stuck on a question, move on. You don’t have the time because you need to be spending a minute at most on each mark. However, try not to leave anything blank. Even if you just attempt 1 mark for a 4 marker, it’s better than nothing. Just remember to not panic (I did this for one of the questions, which threw me off a bit).
      • When practicing questions, you’ll start to learn what VCAA is looking for. Try and have a good idea of how you want to structure your answers, as this will help you in the exam.

      I hope these tips help. VCD is a tough subject, but it can also be super rewarding a fun. If you have any questions, let me know below and I’ll try to answer them as best as possible.

    • In A Particle in an Electric Field | Ashmi's Uni Journal

      ArtyDReams How on earth did you manage all those subjects ahhh.

      Geoo That's honestly incredible that you have were able to manage all those subjects!!!!

      I don't know either but managed to survive! I am defs looking forward to that sweet underloading I have next year.

      Geoo have you checked out the space weather department?

      Yes! This is one of the reasons I would like to get accepted into the Meteorology graduate program, to do the space weather! I think its something I would enjoy and still uses a lot of the physics I've learnt throughout my degree. Its competitive for entry, so its time to start the prep for it!

      ArtyDReams Enjoy the holidays! Hopefully I'll see you around sometime soon!

      Geoo try to sneak a week in to have a break

      You guys enjoy your break too! Yes, I will sneak a week in for a break somewhere down the track. Enjoy your holidays and hope to also hear updates from you guys too! 😁

              • In Billzene's catalytic isomerisation to benzene (aka Bill's Uni Journal Take 2)
              • In A Particle in an Electric Field | Ashmi's Uni Journal

                14th November 2022

                Hey, AN!
                It’s been a very long time since the last update and there is a lot to add to this journal.

                For this whole semester, I attempted to make an update for this journal but I was crippled by the exhaustion of overloading. Now that I’ve rested a bit, its time to inform you guys about what I’ve been up too!

                So during Semester 2 I took 5 subjects and audited another 2 on top of that. Yep, you read that right and double yep, I’m crazy. My exams were in person this semester (except for Differential Equations being online) which was a scary but interesting experience. My subjects this semester were hard, especially Theoretical Physics 2, but thankfully I have survived.

                The good news about overloading is that I now have a lot of wiggle room next year! Plenty of opportunities to underload and focus on my harder 3rd-year cores.

                This summer I have a lot going on, mainly internships and research projects. I have one internship which is fully data analysis (which is the boring one lol) and a research project on the SABRE experiment with the Australian Research Council of Dark Matter Particle Physics. I’ll be writing my first journal and thesis for publication, so I’m hyped! This research project is being credited as a science subject so I’ll have another subject knocked out for next year.

                I do also have another research project that I was offered, however, I can’t say much as it's confidential till it's fully confirmed tomorrow. If I do end up accepting it, I’ll let you guys know.

                Next year is a big year and here are the following subjects I will possibly be taking:

                • Science Research Project (Summer Term)
                • Quantum Physics (S1)
                • Electrodynamics (S1)
                • Lab and Comp 3 (S1)
                • Statistical Physics (S2)
                • Sub-Atomic Physics (S2)
                • Elements of Quantum Computing (S2)

                And then it's graduation after that!

                After graduation, I’m thinking two options, either going straight into masters or taking 1-2 years to work in a grad job before coming back. The latter is looking like the better option now as the journey through a masters and a PhD is going to be long, so I may as well save a bit before diving straight in.

                If I were to go for grad roles, I’m thinking of a meteorologist (as meteorology in Australia requires a physics degree). Since I haven’t done an honours year, I can’t apply for any research grad roles which sucks, but there are other temporary options out there that would use my physics degree quite well. There are also quite large physics scholarships for female candidates, but I might not be able to get one next year, so I’m assuming the worst and going for a grad job just to have some money before continuing. I don’t like the idea of a gap between a PhD and masters so this time between my bachelors and masters would be the best for now.

                Oh yeah, the Physics Students’ Society had many events this semester and our current president will be going on exchange next semester, so it seems I’ll be acting president till the AGM.

                I’ll stop here for today and give a few more details when some progress has been made.
                See you guys another time!

                • In University General Chat

                  Joseph41
                  Next weeks my last ever week of in person uni classes! Which is exciting but I'm also super nervous about leaving uni! I have placement in term 1 next year & then I've graduated!!

                  • In A reminder when it comes to uni: it's okay to change your mind!

                    Just wanted to put it out there for all the people who are apprehensive about choosing a uni course.

                    It's pretty common that the course you'll go into or the units you pick at the beginning might not be what you end up doing later down the line.

                    Anecdotally, my sister has changed her course three times this year and has settled on one she loves. I started this year in a science and arts double degree and now I intend to only graduate with a single degree in science. I've failed a unit that has really made me think about what I want to pursue.

                    I highly suspect that if you get a random sample of uni students, at least one of them will tell you that the course they chose in Year 12 is different from what they are pursuing now.

                    The other thing is that you can still get to where you want to go, no matter what your ATAR is. We have a pretty good system for the most part, where you can do pathway courses if your ATAR or study scores fall short of the entry requirements for a course.

                    Uni is a time to grow and find yourself. From being in your late teens as a high school student to finishing a bachelor degree in your 20s or beyond that, a lot can change. You gain a lot of freedom and independence. Gone are the days where you spend six hours a day, five days a week in a classroom with not so self-directed learning. It might be a bit of an adjustment, and it might take a while to find your feet. Know that it's okay to not have it all figured out.

                    Go smash out those exams and take care of yourselves in the process of preparing for them. However the exams go, we will be right here with you 🙂

                    • In Katie’s journey back to the classroom (music education)!!

                      Katie’s journey back to the classroom (music education)!!

                      Hey, I’m Katie! I used to be around the forums a lot but haven’t for a while. This journal follows on from my one in yr 12 Katie-A rhino’s charge through the HSC! and my previous uni one with exactly the same name.

                      I’m in the 5th year of my music/education degree now at UNSW. I have 3 subjects left of my entire degree-2 music subjects next term and my last placement in term 1 next year! Technically I was meant to finish uni at the end of this year but I extended my degree by a term because of lockdown last year (I didn’t want to start my last placement online)

                      Why do I want to be a teacher?
                      I have wanted to become an instrumental teacher since around year 5 where I wanted to be able to teach young kids how to play a musical instrument. In high school I had music teachers who I really loved as well as those that I haven’t enjoyed their classes or teaching style as much. I would love to be able to explain difficult musical concepts (especially those that I didn’t understand at first) clearly to a class in a way that they can understand easily. I want to be able to share my passion for music with kids and be a class that everyone can enjoy and escape from the stress of everyday life. I’m also really keen to be able to help out with a schools band/musicals and encourage students to try and learn an instrument.

                      Me and music:
                      I’ve played the clarinet since year 3 so for around 15 years now. I’m still getting clarinet lessons and am hoping to complete my AMEB certificate of performance at the end of this year. I also play with my community band, uni’s wind symphony and with fundamentals of improvisation this term. I can also play beginner piano and saxophone but definitely not as good as clarinet.

                      Me and education:
                      I’ve completed my first two pracs so far! Last years placement was really fun to be able to start teaching years 7/8 music classes, observe lessons that the music teachers taught and be involved with bands/choir. This year I’ve started working with a school band; I get to run short sectionals with the woodwind students and play clarinet with the band. It’s only 1 1/2 hours a week but its been awesome to have a job at a school doing music stuff!! I’m hoping to be able to sort out my teaching number/accreditation details these uni holidays. Then I can potentially casual teach next term. I’ll probably only be able to work one day a week because of uni but would be great to have experience in a school.

                      Highlights of uni so far:

                      • Making friends who also study music and/or education.
                      • Being a part of Wind Sympth/Fundamentals of Improv & learning so many new and challenging pieces.
                      • Becoming a Christian through reading the Bible with one of my music friends and the Christian group at uni.
                      • Campus Bible Study (uni’s Christian group)! Going to Bible talks, studies & training and being able to spend weeks away in the holidays working out what I believe and how that should affect the way I live.
                      • Placements! And having actual experience teaching music in a classroom!

                      This year:
                      I started uni this year really grateful that I had another year left of in-person classes. I really didn’t enjoy online classes during covid and I didn’t feel ready to go into teaching full time. It’s been a bit disappointing though that some of my closer friends have already graduated: music is a 4yr degree and some of the other education combos are 4years. So, while I’ve been at uni, I’ve been hearing stories of friends who are full time teaching, doing placements or onto their next degree. And while I’m not exactly jealous, I’ve kinda felt a little left behind. It’s also hard because I’ve finished all of my education subjects besides placement so the years spent doing music subjects. And I haven’t enjoyed some of my final year music subjects as much as I thought I would-sometimes music philosophy/politics don’t feel super relevant to music education. I’ve been able to make some music friends in the lower years though! We’ve been able to hang out in the music corridors, classes or ensembles!

                      This term I did two courses:

                      • Critical practice in music: The main part of tis was a group assignment and our group chose to look at gender and music (particularly Spotify listening patterns). We had to do a manifesto, academic research, interviews and eventually an event (which we recorded a podcast). Then at the end of the term, we had to present it to the class. This group assignment was huge and sometimes frustrating!!

                      • Music ensembles: This was an elective that just needed you to be in two different ensembles. I chose wind symphony (which Ive already done for my entire degree) and fundamentals of improvisation. I was a bit nervous about fundamentals going in but it was so much fun!! We had a group of around 15 people and got to be comfy around everyone. We learnt how to play some jazz pieces (Dinah, Lonesome Road, Kalimba & Corcavardo) and how to do solos on top of them. Wind sympth was another awesome term where we got to play some challenging music I’d never played before. Our program for the concert was a tribute to Percy Grainger and one of my favourite pieces was Lincolnshire Posy! I’m really going to miss wind sympathy next year!

                      I'm on holidays now & head back to uni in around 4 weeks! Honestly, I don’t know how much I’ll update this thread. This post took ages and I didn’t really know what to say. I’d love to hear your thoughts/questions on anything! 💜😄

                    • In A Particle in an Electric Field | Ashmi's Uni Journal

                      Hi everyone!

                      With the new ATAR Notes website now running, I thought it would be a good change of pace to get a new refreshed journey journal started.

                      For those that don’t know me, I’m Ashmi but everyone calls me Ash. You can find both my VCE Journey Journal and the first half of my uni journal in the ATAR Notes Archives below:
                      https://archive.atarnotes.com/forum/index.php?topic=194099.0

                      What are you currently studying?
                      Right now, I’m doing my Bachelor of Science, majoring in Physics at the University of Melbourne. After year 12, I enrolled myself into the BSCI/Master of Engineering package, however now I am 100% discarding the Master of Engineering offer. I realised that engineering was not what I wanted to do and that a life in academia and research was more fulfilling. After completing my bachelor's, I also want to continue my studies through a Master of Science (Physics) degree and if my scores are high enough for a scholarship, a PhD.

                      What area of physics do you want to focus on and what do you want to accomplish?
                      The area of physics that I want to pursue in the future is in the field of particle physics, in particular the experimental side. The experimental particle physics research area has always seemed to appeal to me, especially in dark matter detection and reinventing the standard model.

                      There are a few things that have always been on my bucket list to visit and research, such as CERN (especially the Large Hadron Collider!) and any particle physics experiments like Belle II, DAMA/LIBRA and a couple more that I need to refrain from mentioning or else this post will become too long.

                      The main thing I want to accomplish through this physics degree is to improve on my research skills and start publishing some papers! I also want to go overseas to work on research one day, maybe through an exchange or postgraduate study research.

                      I’ll end it there for today’s introduction. Hope you continue to stick around to see this journey unfold.

                    • In If you could have any skill without learning what would you pick?

                      GAMSAT

                      Lifting -- purely because I am not anywhere close to weighing 150 kg like a lot of top strength athletes, so being able to smash out a 500 kg deadlift would be hilarious.

                    • In [99+ ATAR, studied Arts] Ask Me Anything!

                      ArtyDReams Thanks for the questions!

                      What's your favourite part about working in education?

                      I guess I was drawn to it initially because I just wanted to help people, and ultimately I think that's probably still the case. It's nice working in an area that feels genuine and wholesome in many respects, so I think I'll go with that. I'd like to stay in education for the indefinite future at this stage.

                      What is one hobby that you used to have but don't have now?

                      I used to draw and do design stuff a lot more than I do now - I think just due to time constraints. And I also used to write a lot of poetry (varying quality), which I don't really do now, either.

                      Top 3 musical artists?

                      A clear number one for me is The Avett Brothers, which has been the case since 2009 haha. For number two, I'll have to go Orla Gartland. Number three is a bit trickier - maybe Josh Rouse?

                      • In [99+ ATAR, studied Arts] Ask Me Anything!

                        Joseph41

                        Joseph41 Best of luck for your test! Hope it all goes well and there's a favourable result. 😃

                        Thanks Nick! I had my test yesterday and....[drumroll] I passed! 🥳 Actually so happy right now, I finally have my Ps after all these years! Regarding the actual test, I think I kind of messed up my kerbside stop by parking too far away from the kerb because I was overly anxious that I would hit it. And I made a few minor positioning errors with the car as well. But the rest went pretty smoothly, even the reverse parallel park! I'm just relieved my performance overall was still good enough to pass which is what matters! Now can I be one of those people who can say they passed on their first go 😁

                        Joseph41 I went for the GAN Mirror Block, which is purple and shiny and magnetic haha

                        Oh, that one is gorgeous! The magnetism must make for a pretty smooth experience as well! My biggest issue with my gold mirror block is that it can be a bit stiff to turn. Do you solve it the same way you would a normal 3x3? I can only use the beginner's method on the mirror block because I have yet to figure out how intuitive F2L translates when you are dealing with shape/size not colour haha.

                        Joseph41 Where'd you find the picture cube?

                        I custom-ordered it from V-Cubes! Here are some photos if you were interested:

                        Joseph41 @hums_student made a cubing discussion - join us here.

                        Cool, will definitely check that out!

                        Joseph41 I'm not too sure! With COVID over the last few years, interstate travel has become a lot more difficult, but we'll see! 😁

                        Would be so keen for an interstate meet-up in the future with everyone!

                                  • In VCE Chem Questions Thread

                                    Hi everyone,
                                    just quickly,
                                    does a high melting point also mean that an element will have a high boiling point too?
                                    thank you!

                                    • In What do you think are the main factors for subject selection?

                                      When I chose my subjects back in year 10, I mainly chose my subjects purely out of interest and what I already knew I enjoyed. Year 11 and 12 are some of the hardest years of schooling (nothing like previous school years), and from my own experience so far, doing subjects that I love has made it so much more enjoyable. Yes, it's hard, but when you are genuinely learning and studying what you love, year 11 and year 12 are much more enjoyable. That said, I know some people really struggle with choosing subjects because they simply don't know what they're interested in. I recommend having a look at the study designs/syllabuses to at least get a feel for what you are learning and pick subjects that you know you will find somewhat more bearable than others. Also chat to your career's counsellor if you need help (although, this may be hard if your school doesn't have one). If you need certain subjects as prerequisites, make sure to look into those too.

                                      Anyway, here are my general tips/list of things to consider.

                                      1. Interest -> Pick something that excites or fascinates you, or at least you can imagine yourself enjoying to some degree. There is no point picking a subject for the sake of picking it, because I promise you, you will likely regret that decision pretty early on.
                                      2. Prerequisites -> This is important. Have a look at a range of courses that might interest you and assess the prerequisites. If you want to keep your options open, maybe pick a maths subject (but DON'T do maths if you know you will hate studying it). If you are interested in a course but it has a prerequisite subject that you really don't like, say chemistry for example, then you should really consider if that course would be right for you anyway (because that course will likely entail some element of that subject, meaning if you already hate it, you might want to reconsider the course).
                                      3. Balance -> If you can, try and have some balance in your subjects. It helps keep your options open, and can also ensure that you have some variation in your studying/what you are learning. Of course, don't let this deter you from picking similar subjects though. You do what's best for you, but from experience, I've really liked having a range of different subjects from design and art to maths and science.

                                      Things that shouldn't be your sole reason to study a subject:

                                      1. Scaling -> So many people put so much emphasis on scaling when choosing subjects, but it really shouldn't be what solely influences your subject choices. Scaling genuinely is not as important as people make it out to be. So many people do amazingly and achieve really high ATAR scores with low scaling subjects/subjects that scale down, and many who do all high scaling subjects do not perform as well, vice versa. Scaling is out of your control, and it can be really problematic if you pick a subject that you hate only because it scales up. You can perform just as well in a low scaling subject, if not better, because you genuinely enjoy it. Just don't think about scaling, rather focus on your interests and future goals. (Exception - Of course, some students will want to aim for a high ATAR to get into a certain course, such as undergrad med, meaning high scaling subjects may be considered. However, this still shouldn't be the sole reason for picking a subject).
                                      2. Teachers -> Like Aaron said, teachers change. Unless you are aware of the teacher that will be teaching the subject the following year for certain, this should not really be a big factor in choosing your subjects. Yes, a good teacher can make a massive difference, but it's really out of your control who will be teaching, etc. I wouldn't place too much emphasis on it.
                                      3. Friends -> Don't just pick subjects because your friends are doing it. Firstly, you might not even be in their class, but also, if your not genuinely interested in the subject, it's still not going to be all that fun. I've got and had classes with none of my close friends, but if anything, I've enjoyed being able to get to know other people. Your friends will have different aspirations, and not being in the same class does not mean you cannot continue to be friends.
                                      4. Workload and "easiness" -> Don't assume that a subject is quote on quote "easier" than other subject. All subjects are hard and challenging, but some people will find certain subjects more suited to their abilities. Just because someone tells you to do a subject because it's "easy", it does not mean you will find it easy too. Also, don't assume this in relation to workload, as hard work and effort is required no matter the subject.
                                      5. Prestige -> This is linked to scaling, but don't pick a subject just because you think it will "look" better. Just do what you're interested in, as you're much more likely to enjoy your last two years of school and perform well.

                                      Key things to remember:

                                      • Subjects are not set in stone -> Most schools allow you to change your subject preferences or drop subjects after the initial subject selection date (usually there is a date window for this/due date for changes, so you'd need to check with your school).
                                      • It is not the be all and end all -> Sometimes you will realise that a subject just doesn't work for you throughout the year and that's fine. You can always change or drop the subject, and that's ok.
                                      • Acceleration -> Some schools allow students to accelerate subjects. Only do this if you are genuinely interested in the subject and know that you are willing to put the hard yards in (i.e. I accelerated visual communication and design over the last two years and absolutely loved it, despite the many tears shed over my folio and the exam haha). Don't accelerate because all your friends are, or because you think it will "look" better. You don't have to accelerate to do well, but for some people, subject acceleration is really helpful and great opportunity for them to study more subjects that they're interested in.
                                    • In Rank your favourite units from uni!

                                      I only just completed my first semester so it's a short list but....

                                      1) CHM1011
                                      2) ATS1061 (French Inrto)
                                      3) BIO1011
                                      And currently even though it's only been a week
                                      1)ATS1298 (Proffesional writting)
                                      Am I actually an arts student??????
                                      2) CHM1022
                                      3) ATS1062 (French intro 2)
                                      4) BIO1022

                                    • In VCE Physics Questions Thread

                                      SnekiSnek

                                      Unlike other subjects, for physics, you really need to understand the material rather than doing a tedious amount of practice questions. Physics questions tend to test you on your understanding so it's really important you understand the material rather than doing the practice questions! Physics is not a subject like maths where you get better over a lot of practice, rather you get better by understanding the material better (and having the VCE Formula sheet on you).

                                      I would definitely go back to basics with your fundamental understanding of light as a wave, and before you start trying more practice questions, watch a few demos on light experiments and how they can be analysed graphically. When it comes to answering physics questions, really think about what it's asking you and think about how you may get there. There are many ways to answer physics questions so that's why it's important to understand the topic inside out before continuing!

                                      Hope that helps 😄

                                      • In Ask Me Anything!

                                        Thank you for the questions everyone!

                                        Owlbird83

                                        1. if you could only eat the same food every day your whole life what would be your (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack)?

                                        For this I'm thinking more from the viewpoint of utility so probably some staple (e.g. rice) + as many different meats/veggies/toppings/sides so I could deconstruct and eat certain parts of it for each meal to produce more variety for different meals

                                        1. who do you think is the most underrated artist?

                                        I'm basing underrated on a ratio of how good the artist is to popularity so probably Run the Jewels

                                        1. what's a topic people should know more about?

                                        Public Health

                                        beep_boop

                                        1. What are you currently studying at uni?

                                        Doctor of Medicine and Surgery at ANU

                                        1. What advice would you give to your younger self (especially in yr 12)?

                                        That it isn't as serious as everyone makes it out to be. I was probably too pedantic over sac marks/ranking whilst doing a 3/4 during year 11 but by the time I was in year 12 I was more relaxed I think. Obviously everyone should still do their best but once you start university everyone forgets about VCE. Although I feel like if I was in year 12 right now I may not take that advice.

                                        1. Whats your favourite colour?

                                        Had to think about this a little and settled on a light blue

                                        1. How would you spend your last day on earth?

                                        I am assuming this means it is just my last day on earth and not everyone's. If so I would try to spend as much time as possible with those close to me. I feel like doing extravagant things wouldn't feel that great if you knew it was your last day.

                                        ArtyDReams

                                        1. What are you studying at uni/how did you decide what you wanted to do?

                                        Answered above! I feel like I still haven't decided on exactly what I would like to do, but a few factors I considered is that I would like to do something in a field that is constantly evolving to allow for continued learning and education as well as something that I felt I would be self-motivated to do.

                                        1. Favourite sports to play and/or watch?

                                        Football (Soccer), Cricket, Basketball, F1

                                        Will get to the remaining questions a little later!

                                            • In University General Chat

                                              ArtyDReams
                                              Do you prefer doing a Physics degree then going into engineering or doing a general science degree then going into engineering?
                                              I am unsure what engineering I want to do yet (they all seem so cool), so my first preference is going to be a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), and in the first year, you get a taste of all the subjects and you choose your major in the 2nd year.