I have an interest in many science disciplines, but I am certain that I will pursue a career that requires a deep knowledge of physics and mathematics. I am very interested in understanding the workings of the university through exploration and research. Theoretical Astrophysics is particularly intriguing given that advances in technology are making new information available on compact objects like black holes and neutron stars. I have taken extra summer classes at Northwestern University through Center for Talent Development (CTD) in physics and computer programming along with advanced placement classes in physics, mathematics and computer programming at IMSA. I have spoken with scientists at Argonne on topics like superconductivity and research on photon acceleration, along with daily theoretical discussions with Professors at IMSA on topics such as quantum mechanics, wave structures of light, global warming and theories on the beginning of the Universe.

As a Davidson Young Scholar, I attended summits and met with notable programmers like Allen Adham and attended seminars at university research facilities on nanotechnology and neuroscience. The Davidson program also allowed me to participate in colloquiums led by Professor Ron Mallett on time travel and Dr. Sylvester James Gates on superstring theory.

My junior year, I had the chance to give a little back as a participating teacher in the Science Explorers Summer Program for 5th and 6th graders. It was a very rewarding experience to work with curious elementary students on science projects. It gave me a new appreciation for my own science and math instructors and for the hard yet rewarding work they have chosen.

This past summer I had the opportunity to work with Professors and graduate students as a research assistant in the Physics and Astronomy Department at Northwestern University. The project was supported by a grant from NASA. My job was to analyze the x ray data from NASA’s CHANDRA observatory and the XMM-Newton satellite to find tidal flares around black holes.

I hope to earn my PhD in Physics at the University of Illinois and continue to discover and explore the universe.