I didn’t start off in physics, My original background is in biochemistry, and I happened across the world of Quantum Physics from a book written by Michio Kaku. This planted a small seed that soon developed into a full-fledged fascination with physics and quantum mechanics, and it is safe to say that that one book changed my life. It is this one, nominal experience that truly showcases the importance of physics outreach. If the trajectory of my life could have been so shifted just by a single book, what could happen if a child were introduced to the world of physics early on in life, when they can still see the magic in science?
It is this belief that led me to the Wonders of Physics Outreach Fellowship. In 2024 and 2025, I have been blessed to have the opportunities to help at various outreach events, such as Expanding Your Horizons, Super Science Sunday, and others. Watching the joy in a child’s face- and often, their parents’ too!- as you perform feats that they would otherwise have thought impossible is such an incredible feeling. One of my favorite experiences was playing the theremin at Science on the Square. At first, people look confused, as they see you waving your hands around- then they get closer and hear the music. The sheer joy and excitement as they reach their hands forward to play music in the air is an experience I’ll never forget.
The outreach has also been immensely helpful for me, learning how best to communicate complex physics topics to all age ranges and education. Be it a child who is yet ignorant to the world of physics, or an adult who has more complex knowledge, I now feel confident and comfortable with explaining the physics behind phenomena at an appropriate level. It has also shown me that most people are fascinated with science, and enjoy discussing it, allowing me to build new connections and promote a better view of science overall.
Physics outreach was never something that I had previously considered, but through all of my experiences I have come to understand that it is extraordinarily important. “Knowledge is power”, and the opportunity to share that knowledge and empower children in building their own future and understanding of the world is something that I aspire to continue doing no matter where I go.