You don't have to be smart to be a Physicist

Cheryl, from Singapore, asks:

This is a question concerning the intellectual requirements to be able to
land a job as a physicist. Ideally, interest, passion and determination
should see one through, but on the practical side: If one has an inclination towards maths and physics, but is not brilliant, or anywhere near brilliant, at either, what are the chances of being able to complete studies in physics and become a physicist (especially a theoretical
physicist)? Thank you!

Dear Cheryl,

thanks for your question, which allows me to shed a bit of light on a gross misconception.

No, you don't have to be bright to be a physicist. Indeed, quite a few of my colleagues are nowhere near that ;) You just need to WANT to be one. I have a lot of experience in seeing young, motivated students who want to become physicists who succeed, and brighter minds who know better who move into Finance... Don't get me wrong. I would loathe to do analyses of financiary fluxes to get my company one more million dollar a month, I would think my life is not spent very well - but many prefer to look at the salary and take their own conclusions.

I think you need to be motivated, work your b**t out to study until you are at a decent level for your exams, and show your motivation to a possible advisor. He will pick you up from there and you will be in business. Being bright is a plus but is absolutely not necessary.

Hope that helps!