Home Institution: Hampshire College
Research Project: Quantum Simulation with Interacting Photons
UW Mentor(s): Arka Majumdar

Q: What are your physics/science interests?
Nary a thing in theoretical Physics I aint interested in. I am especially fascinated by the issue of quantum gravity. Outside of physics, I'm also interested in climate modelling and specifically its connection to chaos theory.

Q: What are your other interests?
I am also completing a minor in ethnomusicology, with a focus on celtic music. I personally play a traditional, simple style flute, and often go to music sessions around the country. I am also a lover of all things history. If only you could see the fabulous array of nerdy, history podcasts I have accrued. Finally, I love to dance salsa and Bachata, and I can't live without hiking.

Q: What would you like to do after college?
I'd like to spend some time back home (Ecuador), but afterwards, I will definitely go on to graduate school, as I really want to embroil myself in research; either theoretical physics, applied physics or atmospheric sciences. (Hopefully somewhere where I can keep playing music, with gorgeous mountains).

Q: Tell us one strange but interesting fact about yourself.
I've lived through three volcanic eruptions, by three different volcanoes. The strange fact is that the last one was happening a bit away, but my father, brother, grandpa and I went on a road trip to go and see it.

Q: What first sparked your interest in Physics?
I read about Nikola Tesla and his ambition for wireless electricity when I was 14. Thought it was an amazing idea that needed to be brought back.

Q: If you had a free month and unlimited funds, how would you spend your time?
I'd gather some good friends and take them all on a month long trek. There are more than a few spectacular, long term treks to choose from. A few that come to mind: Pacific Crest Trail or The Israeli national trail.

Q: If you could get a grant to study anything what would it be?
I'd study to eventually discover that magical cure to climate change that would make it all disappear like nothing but a bad dream. If I'm being more realistic, I'd study climate modelling, quantum gravity or perhaps inflation theory.