Seven Questions with... Luke McAdie

What are you studying, why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I’m studying a fantastic course called Natural Sciences, which allows me to combine a variety of subjects and interests with my streams being Physics and History and Philosophy of Science. I am fascinated in observing and understanding the world around me and combining both the critical thinking and historical lessons of philosophy and history with the modelling and mathematical descriptions of the world in physics. An ideal future would be some fusion of an Explorer, Scientist, Diplomat and Thinker. I am thinking of applying to the UK Diplomatic Service or pursuing further research into impactful scientific discoveries linked to climate change, the environment and global development. 

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or gotten involved with while at UCL?

As part of the Millennium Fellowship cohort at UCL, I have been planning and am in the process of launching my own expedition to Oman to retrace the footsteps of Wilfred Thesiger and his Bedu companions across the empty quarter, with the aim of producing a small documentary on the amazing ways people of different cultures and beliefs can work together to achieve some of the most amazing feats I’ve ever heard of. This has led me to start my very own society, the UCL Expedition and Fieldwork Society which has brought me into contact with some fantastic students and academics at UCL, hopefully culminating in a very special talk at the end of the term, Keep posted!!!

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

The Institute of Archaeology library is a definite must-see! Every alcove of books opens up a whole new universe of knowledge and they have plants with labelled descriptions, so when you’re procrastinating you can learn some useful plant lore. Or Cruciform Hub where you can study while staring at brains and other pickled body parts!

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

• British Museum members' evening
• Hampstead Heath swimming ponds
• Natural History Museum silent disco nights

If you could study a different subject, what would it be and why?

This is probably a classic answer from a Natsci student, but the UCL BASc course looks incredibly fun, you can literally combine anything you’re interested in and take some really quirky courses like global cinema. Another degree that I mulled over before UCL was Medicine, the interaction with patients and science really appealed to me, alongside the incredible impact doctors have on people around the world.

Who inspires you and why?

I would usually say some great hero of history, but thinking about someone I have encountered who has really spurred me on, it would have to be my godfather Paul. He is a true Renaissance man, someone who has sailed around the world, conducts experiments in his garden and even stitched his daughter's own wedding dress. On top of all that is an unmatched sense of calm leadership and respect which he doesn't lose, even in the most pressing moments. 

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I was going to become a professional musician.