Student Spotlight Novemeber 2014

George Anderson

George Anderson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Physics from Eastern Kentucky University in 2010.  He then came to the University of Louisville where he earned a Master of Science degree in Physics in 2012 and is currently working towards a PhD in the Physics and Astronomy department.

Interview:

1.  What brought you to the University of Louisville?

I chose the University of Louisville, in part, because the former chair of EKU convinced me that furthering my education would not only benefit me tremendously, but would be one of the most challenging and rewarding endeavors that I could pursue.  Furthermore, the UofL Physics department offered me a fellowship.

2.  Specific areas of research (how you chose this research, why it interested you):

My research is in Condensed Matter Physics with a focus on two dimensional semiconductors. It would be erroneous to say that I chose my research topic, but rather my research topic chose me.  Once my advisor presented his ideas to me on two dimensional nanostructures, there was no looking back!

3.  How do you think this advanced degree will change your role in society?

I am one of the first people in my family to pursue a PhD, especially in a scientific field. I hope that I can be an example for the other members of my family, showing them that there are other things that we can do with our lives.

4.  What accomplishment, academic or otherwise, are you most proud of?

My greatest academic accomplishment is to have simply set foot on a college campus as a student. One of my grandfather’s only made it to the third grade. Having already earned a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, and to be now working towards a PhD is beyond anything I could have ever imagined.