You may feel lost just because you have not experienced something before. You may feel disregarded because you don’t succeed with something as you’d hoped. Believe in yourself, in your feelings, intuition, and strengths. Find people who’ve been through a given experience before. And remember: being in a minority—being different—does not mean you are inferior. Actually, it’s what makes you stand out.
I’ve always liked how physics demonstrates its beauty in everyday phenomena and allows observing cause-effect correlations between objects and processes. Beginning at the age of 13, I joined the International Physicists’ Tournament (IPT), a competition in research problem-solving and debating. This event fostered my dedication to science, perseverance, and creativity. My passion for physics kept me involved with the IPT for more than 15 years—as a participant, mentor, judge, and organizer.
Using my theoretical physics background, I am currently a researcher in optical communications. My research project involves deriving analytical models—equations and expressions—for signal propagation in optical fiber. This is vital for equipment designers and network operators; they need to know when the signal is corrupted and how it gets detected.
It was extremely challenging to get through the PhD thesis submission. This life stage includes various competing priorities as well as shifting your identity as you transition to your new, graduated self. It takes a significant amount of effort, as well as the support of loved ones. It is a time when you must believe in yourself, work hard, and sell your strengths.
Throughout my career, I have often doubted my worthiness. I’ve felt the need to defend my results and achievements, even when they weren’t being questioned. I discovered this originated from a desire to avoid risks, but I’ve learned that risks are unavoidable. Owning our expertise is a risk, and approaching an unsolved research problem is a risk. We must accept and embrace those risks.
Anastasiia Vasylchenkova
Research Fellow, University College London, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, United Kingdom
Born in Ukraine / Resides in United Kingdom
Educational Background: BSc in Applied Physics, MSc in Nuclear Physics, Kharkiv National University, Ukraine; PhD in Optical Communications, PGCert in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, Aston University, United Kingdom
