What Patrawan says about the Master's in Experimental Particle and Nuclear Physics
Patrawan from Thailand
Please note that the programme has changed to Experimental Particle and Nuclear Physics from the autumn 2025 intake.
Why did you apply to Lund University?
"I was a summer student at CERN where I met a lot of students from all over the world, including a student who was doing his Master’s in Particle Physics at Lund University. He recommended the programme and the University to me, so I applied."
Why would you recommend the Physics programme at Lund University?
"Lund University is one of the best universities in the world. I chose Lund because of the collaborations with both the ATLAS and ALICE experiments, which are two of the main experiments at CERN that interest me.
Lund University is the right place to study physics. All the facilities you could possibly need are here – Lund has it all! Most important of all, the experts, teachers and supervisors really take care of you and guide you well.
The Master’s in Particle Physics gives you an excellent base with which to carry on your research interest into the future and Lund has a lot of choices in terms of physics disciplines.
I was also lucky enough to get a part-time job at MAX-lab."
What is the learning environment like?
"It’s really nice how the class is not too big and everyone is encouraged to ask questions. At Lund you study together in groups, whereas in Thailand you study individually. I find group study to be very effective.
Since the beginning of my one-year Master’s thesis, my supervisor has introduced me to the Lund–ATLAS group and the ATLAS analysis group at CERN, where I can attend weekly group meetings and discuss my work with the experts. Through this involvement, I am able to see what it will be like to continue a career as a particle physicist."
What is it like to live and study in the city of Lund?
"Lund is so lovely! I come from Bangkok where things can be very hectic so you can’t plan to be on time, but each day is well-planned and precise in Lund. Commuting is very easy. Not only is it bike friendly, but it is also safe – you don’t need to be scared to cross the road and if you want to walk around at night you can do so.
When I first arrived I was involved in a mentor group, which was helpful in making friends in a completely new environment. Becoming a member of a nation also helps in meeting new people from different programmes.
The majority of my classmates are Swedish but my friends here are a mix of nationalities. I don’t speak Swedish at all, but everyone switches to English so I can be involved in conversations.
Lund is a university town, you get the vibe of being in a student city. If you want to study, there are plenty of people who want to study with you."
Do you have any tips for students from Thailand?
"Thai students will often think of studying in the US, UK, Germany or Australia, but I’d definitely recommend them to study in Sweden. There is more in Sweden than what you know of!"