Home Institution: University of Illinois, Urbana-Champagne
Research Project: Nuclear Dynamics and Cold Atoms: Computational Many-Body Physics
UW Mentor(s): Michael Forbes, Aurel Bulgac

Q: What are your physics/science interests?
I am most interested in nuclear physics, particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. My favorite physics courses thus far have been quantum physics, special relativity, and general relativity.

Q: What are your other interests?
I am vice president and play on my school's club water polo team, I participate in intramural volleyball, I like to sew, I play the harmonica, and as for entertainment I try to go to as many concerts as my free-time and money permit me.

Q: What would you like to do after college?
I plan on going to graduate school to earn my Ph.D. in physics and then pursue a career of research.

Q: Tell us one strange but interesting fact about yourself.
I would rather listen to podcasts than watch television.

Q: What first sparked your interest in Physics?
I have always loved science and math, and I enjoyed my high school physics course so much I decided I wanted to become a high school physics teacher. However, after I learned special relativity- I decided I did not want a career of teaching but instead a career of researching so I can keep learning physics.

Q: If you could have any pet what would it be?
A pet sloth would be cool.

Q: If you had a free month and unlimited funds, how would you spend your time?
Fund NASA to launch me to Mars- or if that's not feasible I guess the Moon will suffice.

Q: If you could get a grant to study anything what would it be?
That is something I am still trying to figure out.