Meet the REUs
 

Micah Koller

Home Institution: Carleton College
Research Project: Development of New Tests of Einstein's Equivalence Principle
UW Mentor(s): Eric Adelberger, Frank Fleischer

Q: What are your physics/science interests?
A: I am most interested in anything that can deepen my understanding of the universe, from astronomy to particle physics, and I especially admire the creativity that goes into experimentation. I'm also passionate about environmental issues, and what a physicist can do to improve the outlook of life on earth, including the realization of fusion energy and efficient photovoltaic technology.

Q: What are your other interests?
A: An avid musician, I studied violin from age five, and after a brief detour on the mandolin and blues harp, my latest project is the guitar. One day I hope to conquer the piano. Music is an endless creative outlet for me. I also enjoy spending time in nature, or what's left of it anyway.

Q: What would you like to do after college?
A: I'd like to take time to travel, experience new people, ideas, and ways of life before I return to academia. I also won't rule out space exploration in my future.

Q: Tell us one strange but interesting fact about yourself.
A: I spent several memorable childhood summers at camp affiliated with an international Jewish socialist youth movement, where we learned the joys of communal living including being yelled at in Hebrew over a loudspeaker, daily toilet cleaning, advice on escaping the grip of our greedy capitalist overlords, existentialism, and some intense games of ga-ga.