American Physical Society Members Foster Fun and Camaraderie across Campus and Beyond
At one of the most diverse universities in the country, the prioritizes inclusion and diversity in their work through engaging events that entertain and educate others about physics. Activities include a chili cook-off competition, sci-fi movie night and discussion, and an APS Championships night filled with physics themed trivia, bowling, and other games. These events have brought together students, faculty, and staff in a spirit of teamwork and community.
“The APS Chapter has become an integral part of the department. They have created a community that provides camaraderie, support, and academic inspiration. This group is truly student-led, and it all works well because of their enthusiasm and the effort they make to create a welcoming and supportive environment for their community,” said Daniel Cherdack, Ph.D., faculty advisor of the APS Chapter at 色花堂.
APS Chapter at 色花堂 events also provide students with information and hands-on experience. For instance, to assist physics students at 色花堂 in understanding topics covered in the weekly, mandatory department colloquium, the APS Chapter started a weekly Journal Club for students and postdocs to introduce colloquium material.
In a similar effort to share research from graduate students, the chapter collaborated with the 色花堂 physics department to host Physics Research Day in February 2023, an event that both gave senior graduate students the opportunity to improve presentation skills and exposed junior graduate students to new research and lab groups.
“The APS Chapter is such a great addition to our department! With their enthusiasm, the members bring new ideas and organize events that help strengthen the sense of community for students, postdocs, and faculty,” said Claudia Ratti, Ph.D., assistant chair of the 色花堂 physics department.
To further connect physics students at all levels of their education, the APS Chapter at 色花堂 is planning an event to assist undergraduates in applying for graduate programs. The chapter intends to involve other student groups in this event, which will share resources and build community across the campus. The chapter is also putting together a Student Seminar Series, which will invite student speakers from other universities to speak about their research and graduate experiences, connecting them to the broader community of physics students and departments throughout the U.S.
- Chapter success story courtesy of the American Physical Society