Why did you choose to study Mathematics at Bristol?

At the end of my studies in Barcelona I was not sure whether to study analysis or number theory. Also, I was highly encouraged to leave Spain in order to broaden my vision of mathematics and start off on the right track for a good PhD.

After consulting with different researchers from many different places around Europe, I got the impression that Bristol University was one of the best places in Europe to study analytic number theory. So it was one of my most desired destinations.

What do you enjoy about your programme?

This MSc provides an extremely personalised opportunity to smoothly enter postgrad life. One of the most beneficial things is the small number of students – we are a group of eight from different places in the world with different backgrounds and ambitions.

We’ve therefore been able to give each other a lot of help with things such as discussing mathematical problems and giving advice for our future.

Another highlight is the research project. There are a fairly wide number of proposed projects on which one can work to try to get some original work done.

Furthermore, you get to get in touch with many researchers in the field you are keen to study.

How does postgrad study differ from undergrad life?

Firstly, there is a demand for a level of sharpness in your work; you have to learn to work on your own and provide polished work to your supervisor every meeting.

The second clear difference is the amount of seminars one can attend in order to increase one’s knowledge.

You also discover through these seminars how people from all around the world work and face problems.

What advice would you give to any students thinking about this programme?

This programme provides a wonderful opportunity to discover the research being undertaken at the highest level all around the world.

Coming from Barcelona this is one of the points I value the most about my studies in Bristol.

My advice is to try to attend as many different seminars as possible and try to learn about different things, not to narrow down your studies to a single subject.

On a side note I would encourage anyone to try to enjoy the city of Bristol which has an incredible vibe.

Have your studies influenced your future plans?

I have discovered a bit more about analytic number theory and have decided that I would like to start a PhD on harmonic analysis.

I have received a lot of help from staff from Bristol helping me decide where to continue my studies and providing me with recommendation letters.

My research project is also helping me deepen my knowledge and learn how to work more sharply. I plan to start a PhD in order to enter the academic world and research on pure mathematics. However, I still have a long way to prove if I am capable of doing so.

For now I will do my best and try to push the boundaries of my capabilities every day.