Major: Physics

What made you decide to study physics? I have an intense curiosity, innate to my being. What better way to satiate such a desire than to be on the absolute edge or our understanding of reality? In my effort to understand and expand the knowledge pool of what exists around me, I learn physics.

Favorite part of being a physics major? This year has been….different than all years prior, and as such, I don’t know if my thoughts here are helpful, but the honest answer is the content. Learning, in and of itself, is a passion of mine. Learning new concepts like electric flux and magnetic field, while simultaneously understanding the mathematics that describes such concepts is exhilarating. To finally know is the greatest feeling I’ve experienced.

Are you involved in any type of research at MU? I am but a lowly freshman, so no, unfortunately, though I certainly plan to after I get more courses under my belt and in-person activities are more available.

What has been your best (or most surprising) MU experience so far? Hmm…I would have to say my interactions with my professors has been my best experience thus far. They are easygoing, genuine, and they sincerely try to impart some of their expertise onto their students. It is a delightful thing to view in real time.

What are your career goals? I want to be on one of the international teams of scientists trying to come together to solve a deep mystery of the cosmos. In recent years, scientific discovery has largely moved away from individual contributions to large groups and their goals, whether that be the Human Genome Project or Fermilab. I would be humbled and honored to end up there in my time on Earth.

What is/was your favorite physics course and why? Again, lowly freshman, here, but I would have to say Physics 1 and 2, that is, 2750H and 2760H. The professors have been very helpful and genuine, and that is so powerful to have at your back.

How would you describe (overall impression) the environment in the physics department? I think many people have this view of scientific communities that is quite unfortunate. They are often seen as uppity and too self-important for their own good. This just isn’t the case. You are about as likely to see true arrogance within an honest, scientific community as you are to see nudity. Everything that is said is hedged behind “I am sure there is someone that knows more about this than me, but…” I think that is a great thing to witness. The physics department, at least in my experience, exemplifies this. They are always willing to explain, in detail, some concept or math in ways that don’t insult your capabilities and respect your personhood. It is something to behold, and it is something to value, and I thank the department for this level of discourse and understanding.

What advice would you offer to current and/or future physics majors? This is sincere. Physics is hard. Physics with math is even harder. So if you really want to learn about this field, you have to want it. Don’t do it to get a good job. Don’t do it for your parents. Only learn about physics if you genuinely want to learn about physics. From there, it becomes much easier. Suddenly, you simply do not have to artificially manufacture engagement and motivation. It just arises naturally. And that is half of the battle, there.

What do you think is the social relevance of physics; why is it important that there are people with this expertise?  Whenever I encounter an expert in something I hate, I am profoundly grateful. I am so glad that there are people that enjoy doing what I hate. I imagine there are many people who are just as disinterested in physics as I am in business management. But then you realize just how much good physics has done in the world. And then I realize how much good business management has done in the world. And then we both realize that both fields do even more good when the people in those fields really enjoy them. In this sense physics, and every other area of expertise, is valuable.

Favorite activities outside the lab/school? Personally, I love to sing. I am aware that a physicist with a draw to the voice is unusual, but that is a passion of mine nonetheless. Though this particular year forced me out of a university choir, I fully intend to join some vocal group in the coming months. Don’t be afraid to do what you love.

Aside from subject matter, what have you learned from your university experience? How have your extra-curricular activities influenced your experience? The most powerful thing that I have learned is that the faculty wants you to succeed. They want you to contribute to society and to discover new things, and they are fully willing to do whatever they have the power to do to support you in those endeavors. It is a tremendous boost to have access to a vast network of accomplished, knowledgeable individuals who are so committed to your fulfillment and wellbeing.