I am a prime example of this. I have always enjoyed taking on big challenges, and that’s exactly what physics gave me – the opportunity to challenge myself and broaden my perspective of the world. I’ve realized that science is not just theory or experiments – it’s an opportunity to change one’s thinking and open doors to the future, moreover, there are no age limits in science. Science is about understanding the world, no matter what stage of life we discover it in.
A career change fulfills a long-cherished dream
This summer, I graduated from the University of Latvia’s bachelor’s program in “Physics,” and now I am studying at the University of Helsinki in the program “Elementary Particle Physics and Astrophysical Sciences.” However, the beginning of my career journey was quite different – I started in financial consulting, later moved to aviation, and eventually worked in startup management. It was challenging and provided immeasurable professional knowledge, but deep in my heart and mind I always had an interest in science, particularly physics.
My path to physics and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), where the experimental peaks of particle physics are a daily reality, has been atypical but incredibly exciting and filled with revelations.
Like many others, the rhythm of daily life and professional challenges had overshadowed the possibility of fulfilling my dream. But during the pandemic, when the world slowed down, new opportunities emerged, such as remote studies. This reminded me of my long-held desire, and studying physics became not only an academic choice but a personal mission, where I could focus on complex problems and gain immense satisfaction from finding solutions.
CERN – The epicenter of scientific achievements
During my studies, I learned about the joint project Girls Go CERN by the Riga TechGirls association and Riga Technical University (RTU), which offers the opportunity to visit CERN, the world leader in particle physics research. It is a place that symbolizes not only scientific achievements but also humanity’s ability to push boundaries and solve the universe’s complex mysteries.
Visiting CERN was a dream come true. Physics is fascinating, containing the deepest secrets of the universe, and CERN is one of the places where these secrets are uncovered.
With great excitement, I followed the experiments and met people who “live and breathe science” every day. Scientists, doctoral students, and researchers, whom I had the opportunity to meet, work on a variety of projects – from quantum research to Higgs boson analysis.
I was surprised by how carefully the CERN team evaluated each of the project participants. They paid attention to everyone’s interests, career goals, and opportunities, providing practical advice and involving us in projects that directly aligned with our scientific interests. This project strengthened my confidence in my chosen field and my understanding of what skills and knowledge are needed and how they can be developed. CERN offers not only an opportunity to conduct research in person but also an opportunity to participate in projects remotely, for example, working in Latvia and at the same time cooperating with scientists from other countries. This approach showed me that even from Latvia, it is possible to get involved in world-class research, as long as there is motivation and desire.
Motivation and hard work
Today, we often hear about how to overcome fear and stop being afraid of difficulties. However, when we talk about the exact sciences, the issue of fear might not be as relevant. In order to achieve success in the exact sciences, regardless of gender or age, it is necessary to realize one truth – success requires regular and purposeful work.
Perhaps there are people for whom these sciences seem easy, and everything comes easy and naturally. However, for most people, including those who may not initially feel confident, this field is accessible if they are willing to put in the necessary work.
In today’s world, where quick solutions and promises of easy success are often offered, many young people might expect that everything in life will happen easily and effortlessly. However, in the exact sciences, there is no room for illusions about quick results. Success here requires consistency, persistence, and often a great deal of patience. One doesn’t need to be born with special abilities to succeed in physics, mathematics, or chemistry – what matters more is the desire to learn and grow.
Flexibility in education – a path to greater female involvement in science
One of the goals of Girls Go CERN is also to increase female participation in science, so the question arises: how can this be promoted? In my opinion, one of the most significant changes that emerged during the pandemic was the flexibility of the educational process. These circumstances made it clear that students don’t necessarily need to be in lecture halls every day to successfully learn the material and conduct research. These changes could be the key to attracting more women to the field of science. They enable women to balance family life with education and career.
Science is not just an elitist sphere accessible only to a certain social class or gender. It is a field that requires curiosity, perseverance, and a desire to learn about the world, and these traits are not tied to one’s location. The freedom to plan one’s own time and adapt to life circumstances provides many more people with the opportunity to fully participate in scientific processes.
Physics has become a new source of knowledge for me, and I continue to learn more and more. The opportunity to participate in CERN projects has reminded me that science is limitless – it is open to anyone willing to ask questions and seek answers. I hope that my journey will also inspire other people who may still doubt whether they can retrain or follow their dreams. There is one thing I have learned – it’s never too late to start something new and exciting. Even if the path to the goal seems difficult and unusual.
