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Rose combines maths and celebrity
Celebrity and maths don't always go together, but they come as second nature to Aoibhínn Ní Shúilleabháin. Aoibhínn has just finished a degree in theoretical physics at UCD and also won the Rose of Tralee competition in 2005. Aoibhínn says her interest in physics started when she was a little girl. "We live in the countryside so our view of the stars is absolutely amazing. My Dad used to bring me out and show me the constellations," she says. Aoibhínn was planning to do journalism, but her career guidance teacher said maths might be more suitable. That choice led on to her degree at UCD. Quantum mechanics Theoretical physics is a mathematics-based degree with a focus on physics problems. "Physics is actually really diverse," says Aoibhínn. "Last year we were studying quantum mechanics in one class, and in the next, general relativity. That's going from the really miniscule to the largest problems." Aoibhínn says that using maths to solve difficult problems and applying it to real world problems is very satisfying. Her Dad entered her into the Mayo Rose of Tralee competition while she was studying for her last exam. She was delighted to win the 2005 title. Book worm "I was happy studying last year, but this is a lot of fun because I get to tour around the world," she says. "I'm meeting so many people." "I don't think I'm a natural celebrity because I'm a little bit of a book worm, but I really am enjoying the whole experience and I'm delighted to be able to promote science as well." Aoibhínn plans to continue her postgraduate studies after taking her year out to fulfil her duties as the Rose of Tralee. She hopes to do a masters in computer science and then continue on to a PhD. Eventually, she would like to lecture or teach, because she really enjoys explaining concepts to younger people. At the same time, further study also attracts her. "I'd love to be the top researcher in my field," she says. Tall ships Learn more: Find out about studying physics Read about Einstein's achievements in physics |
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