Dimitra Gregora

Why did you get involved in physics outreach activity at university?

Initially, I didn’t think much out of it, it was just a part-time job for some pocket money. But after the first shift, I realised I love talking to people about physics, especially physics at Warwick, answering questions and showing people around. I was really happy to see in real time the confusion and stress dissipate from young people’s faces, as they were, reasonably, so anxious about this huge decision impacting their life. From then on, I would take any chance offered to me to participate in outreach activities hoping to inspire more people into physics and convey my love for the field.

How have you benefitted from your physics outreach work, both professionally and personally?

I gained valuable skills from my work as an ambassador. First and foremost, in my opinion, I became more confident, through all the interactions with different people of all ages. Moreover, the ambassador work is not confined to doing just one thing, we are responsible for tours, talking with the students and making sure that they have good time and feel comfortable, answering questions from the parents about technical and financial details and many more. Therefore, it is only natural for anyone who does this job to evolve their ‘flexibility’. On a more personal level, my outreach work makes me happy as I’m given the chance to inspire other young people to get into physics and who knows, maybe one of them will make the next breakthrough!

What hints or tips would you give to other students who are thinking of getting involved in outreach?

It’s really not hard getting into outreach. Make sure you are up to date with your uni’s policies and regulations, read up on information you might be asked to provide and deal with anything that comes up with a smile.

“Dimitra is always willing to contribute to outreach activities to promote physics and share her passion.”
Liz Hall, University of Warwick