Robin Toonen

Robin Toonen
I think this Master's really takes you to the limits of what we know and can do, and you get to push those limits during your internship.
Name
Robin Toonen
Programme
Physical Chemistry
Study start date
Study end date
Previous education
Science (Radboud University)

Master's student Robin Toonen is studying Physical Chemistry at Radboud University.

What do you like about the programme/specialisation and why?

I have always wanted to know how things work and what causes chemical processes. In the Physical Chemistry specialisation, you get all kinds of things that help you with that. From how liquids can form to detecting the smallest concentrations of substances. You will also get a good basis for doing computer calculations of things you really don't want to do by heart because it takes far too long. You can also do your internship with the coolest devices to quote ‘Very very big magnet with very very bright laser’.

What do you think about the atmosphere in class?

Because the specialisation consists of a small group, you get to know everyone pretty well and you are not a number to the professors. You have nice conversations with fellow students and professors about all kinds of things. Many research groups are also very sociable almost everyone talks to each other during lunch. In addition, the study association has a committee that organises a quarterly activity for master's students, allowing you to have contact with other specialisations.

What do you find most challenging in your Master’s (specialisation)? Have you encountered any obstacles?

The material is not the easiest you really have to keep up, but if you can handle quantum and thermodynamics a bit, you can pass even the most difficult subjects.

Are you currently doing an internship? Or what is your thesis about?

I myself am an intern at theoretical chemistry and without going into details, they are all lovely and helpful people. Sometimes one computer crashes where the calculations do on, but fortunately there are several and you can collectively complain that it doesn't work.

Why do you think it is important that there are people with this degree? What are your plans once you have received your Master's degree?

You can stand in the lab and see if things respond to intuition, but there should also be people who can explain why something does or does not work. I think this Master's really takes you to the limits of what we know and can do, and you get to push those limits during your internship.