Joy of Outreach
Serving as a Senior Outreach Fellow for the Wonders of Physics (WoP) Outreach Program has been an incredibly rewarding experience. In 2022-23, I began as a fellow in training, contributing to various outreach and tutoring initiatives at the University, such as PEOPLE, GPU, The Wonders of Physics Annual shows, and off-campus events like the STEAM Saturday at Monona Public Library. These experiences not only bolstered my confidence, but also provided me with a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to successfully organize outreach events.
Last year, I was selected as a Senior Fellow, which allowed me to take on more responsibility in the Department’s outreach efforts. In the Fall, my colleague Tali Oh and I organized an event with UW Space Place, centered around the theme of Sound & Waves. I was deeply involved in every aspect of this event, from curating the demonstrations and coordinating with UW Space Place to executing the event, which culminated in a successful Pan Flute making workshop. Encouraged by this success, We independently organized a similar event on Electromagnetism in January. This time, I handled all aspects of the event—from initial communication with UW Space Place to planning and execution.
These experiences have significantly contributed to my growth, especially in managing unforeseen challenges, simplifying complex physics concepts and using effective analogies to explain scientific principles. Before any event, I always ensure I have a backup plan in case something goes wrong or equipment fails. Additionally, I’ve made it a point to introduce new and rarely used demonstrations, for e.g. Fluorescence, Theremin, etc. which have been particularly well-received. I am confident that if I continue with the WoP Outreach program, I will strive to bring even more unique and engaging demonstrations to future events.
As for my future involvement in outreach, I am committed to continuing these activities, although my level of participation may shift as I progress in my PhD research. In 2025, I am expected to move to Europe for 2-3 years to work on the Compact Muon Solenoid Experiment at CERN, Switzerland. This multinational collaboration has a dedicated outreach team, and I intend to contribute to their efforts. While the outcome is uncertain, I am eager to bring my outreach experience to an international stage.
Reflecting on my journey into physics, it has not been without its challenges. I come from a family where I am the first in generations to pursue a career in the natural sciences, let alone become a professional scientist. As a result, I grew up without a “role model” to guide or encourage me towards doing science. Our existence has meaning only in how we affect the lives of others, and for me, communicating scientific advancements and fostering a scientific mindset across diverse audiences is the best way to give back to society. In my culture, there is a proverb, “Vidya Daan, Maha Daan”, meaning that the greatest charity is the sharing of knowledge. Teaching others free of cost illuminates not only one individual but also their community and future generations. I’ve even made it my mission to guide and support others, especially my juniors and school kids, by being the ‘familiar face in science’ that I never had. Prospective students and students from other institutions often seek my advice on pursuing their interest in physics, especially particle physics and I make it a point to be available to them because I understand the agony of being clueless and directionless. During any outreach event, the excitement I see in kids’ eyes at the conclusion of a scientific demonstration brings me immense satisfaction and reinforces my commitment to science outreach.