Connor Penfold MPhys Physics with Industrial Placement, 2017

Connor Penfold studied MPhys Physics with Industrial Placement, giving him the opportunity to spend 6 months gaining valuable industry experience at NKT Photonics.

I spent my 6-month industrial placement at NKT Photonics, which gave me industry experience that will set me aside from other students, and a valuable insight to how physics is used in industry.

Industrial placement spent at one of the world’s largest fibre laser manufacturers

I spent my 6-month industrial placement at NKT Photonics, which gave me industry experience that will set me aside from other students, and a valuable insight to how physics is used in industry. I worked on a project important to the company and am proud to say I did a placement with one of the world's largest fibre laser manufacturers.

Throughout my degree, it’s not surprising to say that I have learned a lot about physics, but I’ve also learned about how physics is applied in industry. Being more knowledgeable has given me more confidence when having to talk about my work and studies. 

Excellent lecturers

The lecturers are very good and the faculty is good at quickly sorting out problems. The lecturers I had for particularly difficult subjects, such as quantum mechanics and special relativity, were excellent. They were good at explaining the theory if I was having trouble.

Opportunities to tailor your degree

There are plenty of opportunities at Southampton, like taking a language module. I stuck to physics-based modules, but I have enjoyed seeing how physics is linked with other subjects like chemistry and medicine when I studied nanoscience and applied nuclear physics.

City and campus life

I've lived in Southampton all my life. There are some decent pubs and nightclubs around, and there are some great music venues for gigs.  On campus, I found Hartley Library a great place to study. The gym on Highfield campus is also good.

My Southampton experience in one word…

Fulfilled.