Two SNP Physics Scholarship holders at Heidelberg University tell their stories
Two outstanding physics students from Heidelberg University, Rabea Freis and Nils Bock, have concluded their SNP Physics Scholarship, an initiative honoring the legacy of Heidelberg physics alumnus and SNP founder Andreas Schneider-Neureither. Now in its third year, the scholarship supports talented young people in pursuing their academic and professional ambitions in physics, especially students who have shown resilience and dedication in the face of personal challenges. Both scholarship recipients were selected for the second year in a row, reflecting their exceptional commitment to their studies and their passion for science.
Opening doors to new opportunities
For Rabea Freis, the scholarship arrived at a crucial moment: “Before applying, I was thinking about quitting my physics degree because of serious health issues,” she recalls. “When I learned I had been selected, it was a huge relief. It allowed me to focus on my health and continue studying without financial pressure.”
The support not only enabled her to remain in the program but also to explore new interests. During an internship at SNP, Rabea gained experience across departments and discovered a passion for AI and data science. “Working with the AI team was amazing. I learned about artificial intelligence and prompt engineering - areas I hadn’t explored before. It changed how I see the connection between technology and physics,” she continues.
Balancing science and family life
For Nils Bock, a father of two young children and a master’s student, the scholarship provided vital stability. “Thanks to SNP, I was able to focus on my studies and my children,” he explains. “The financial support meant I didn’t need extra jobs: I could be both a student and a parent.”
During his two-year scholarship, Nils attended a language and science summer school in Cambridge and completed a three-month internship at CERN in Geneva while collaborating with the Max Planck Institute for Particle Physics in Heidelberg. “Working at CERN was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Nils. “My supervisors supported a hybrid setup that let me balance research and family life. It wouldn’t have been possible without SNP,” he explains.
Inspiring the next generation
Both recipients emphasize that the scholarship is more than financial aid, as it broadens horizons and connects academia with current innovation. “I never considered the tech industry before,” says Rabea. “Now I see how essential AI and digital tools are in every field of physics,” she confirms.
“The scholarship gave me the courage to think about pursuing a PhD,” adds Nils. “It showed me that people believe in my potential. And that I can go further than I thought.”
Both Rabea and Nils shared their message for future applicants: Simply go for it! Both encouraged students to apply and take advantage of every opportunity, from internships to company events, such as Transformation World.
Two new students have already been selected after applications were collected by November 16, 2025. The SNP Physics Scholarship will provide initial financial help towards the academic education of two students per academic year who started in the winter semester of 2025/26.