First Physics Social Hour Connects Students with Faculty
“A degree in physics is a gateway that gives you so many opportunities in life,” said Pierce Jackson, vice president of the Society of Physics Students (SPS).
Pierce Jackson (left) and Will Pennington (right) at the first Physics Social Hour event.
On March 21, students with an interest in physics had an opportunity to connect with faculty, learn about research opportunities and see updates about the New Leach Science Center Addition at the Physics Social Hour in the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM).
“Student Advisor Katie Cooper created this physics social hour where students can easily talk with faculty from the Department of Physics and network with other students,” said Will Pennington, physics major and SPS member. “It really is a great opportunity for us.”
In addition to speaking with faculty, students could look at renderings of the new facility and see photos from the latest walk-through.
“I am excited the new Leach Science Center Addition is designed for collaboration,” explained Will Bowers, president of SPS. “It will be convenient for students to have a new group study area that also provides us to work together after classes and interact directly with faculty whose offices are right there.”
Katie Cooper (left) shares information about the new Leach Science Center Addition with future astrophysicist Valerie Green (right).
Valerie Green, a volleyball student athlete is looking forward to taking astronomy classes in 2020 in the new facility.
“I want to be an astrophysicist and the new Leach Science Center Addition will have a telescope terrace with the chance to study the solar system like never before,” Valerie said.
Any student at Auburn University who is interested in physics or astronomy can join SPS.
“SPS is a group that offers friendship, support and encouragement to everyone,” shared Will Burdett, SPS member.
SPS has no GPA requirement and is free to join. Meetings are held every other Tuesday on campus. Members share an interest in physics and enjoy opportunities to talk about their current class projects, research interests and much more.
Students can learn about research opportunities including hands-on experience in labs, annual scholarship opportunities and events for students to participate in educational outreach.
Lydia Mitchell (right) enjoyed time to connect with students who also have a passion for physics.
“I enjoy learning the fundamental building blocks of physics,” said Lydia Mitchell.
Lydia, who is a new member of SPS, highly recommends other students to join.
“You can network with other students and have fun with people who have a passion for physics,” Lydia added.
Conner Robinson (left) looks through COSAM's "Journey" magazine with another student discussing Auburn University's plasma research.
Conner Robinson, treasurer of SPS, is thrilled to have a new meeting room in the facility where students will be able to gather. He enjoys the challenge that physics offers.
“I am a physics major because I enjoy the chance to solve problems and take on more complex material,” Conner said.
Students have options to pursue learning about physics with a double major or minor.
Khendra Lucas, a COSAM student interested in the benefits of a minor in physics, (left) with Renee Kalu (right) at the Physics Social Hour event.
“I am interested in a minor in physics to help me succeed in my medical career,” said Khendra Lucas, a Biomedical Sciences major. “Physics can enhance my degree and help any student who wants to become a physician with a long-term advantage.”
Students who would like to be part of SPS can check out the AUInvolve page searching for Society of Physics Students or email sps@auburn.edu.
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