Meet Alex, a motivated first-year student with a passion for the cosmos and a knack for numbers. Growing up in a small town, Alex would often stargaze with their telescope, dreaming of one day unraveling the mysteries of the universe. With a 37 in Physics and a particular interest in astrophysics, they took a leap of faith and applied to the Physics and Astronomy program at the University of Waterloo, eager to dive deeper into their passion. Alex is keenly aware of the competitive landscape of Computer Science, which intrigues them but also fills them with a hint of trepidation. Balancing ambition with a realistic outlook, they aim to share insights with fellow prospective students while navigating their own path in academia.