Home Institution: University of South Carolina
Research Project: Chiral photocurrent in carbon nanotubes and graphene
UW Mentor(s): David Cobden

Q: What are your physics/science interests?
I am interested in the fields of solid state physics and optics, including their various applications in areas such as semiconductor devices and optoelectronics. I have also recently developed an interest in electrical engineering that I am just starting to explore via elective courses and research at my home institution. I strongly enjoy the experimental aspects of research; the opportunity to devise experiments and use my hands to construct experimental setups in order to answer particular questions is what I find most engaging and satisfying.

Q: What are your other interests?
In my free time, I love exercising by hiking, throwing frisbee, and going to the gym to play pick-up basketball. I also enjoy photography as it provides me a different means of exploring my creativity compared to the daily problem solving required in physics. These are some of the few things that allow me to completely forget about physics when I'm doing them, which is pretty nice sometimes.

Q: What would you like to do after college?
I haven't quite decided if I want to take a year off after undergrad, but at some point after college, I will pursue a PhD in physics, hopefully in an interdisciplinary applied physics program in which I can explore my interests in both physics and electrical engineering. This type of program will help me most as I seek a position in industry following grad school.

Q: Tell us one strange but interesting fact about yourself.
I have once been told I have unusually stretchy skin...

Q: What first sparked your interest in Physics?
The first spark was in 9th grade when my science class was learning about rollercoasters. I liked rollercoasters, rollercoasters were associated with physics, and so I presumed to like physics. Perhaps the more important spark though was two years later when I took AP Physics and realized that it was easily the most difficult class I had taken in all my schooling. I was drawn by the challenge it presented and consequently pursued that challenge into college.

Q: If you could have any pet what would it be?
A cat. But not just any cat. My best friend's cat, Spencer...he's the best!

Q: If you had a free month and unlimited funds, how would you spend your time?
I would definitely go around the world to explore and eat amazing food.

Q: If you could get a grant to study anything what would it be?
I had a brief tour of Japan last summer and have remained perpetually reminiscent. With unlimited funds I would have to go back for a month, take the same group with me, and do it all (and more!) over again.