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The student-led group is building community, driving professional development, and expanding outreach at �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder.

The Society of Physics Students (SPS) at �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder is one of many student groups helping to foster community and professional development for physics students on campus. Through weekly meetings, collaborative events, and outreach initiatives, SPS provides a welcoming and inclusive space for students interested in physics and related fields. Led by undergraduate co-presidents Aidan Janney and Alexandra Washburn, �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder’s SPS chapter is committed to making a difference for physics students of all backgrounds.

“There’s a famous quote that says something along the lines of physicists are simply particles trying to understand other particles,” Washburn said. “I think that perfectly describes SPS. We’re all trying our best to challenge one another but also supporting each other in times of struggle. I like to see us as a little family.”��

Reflecting on his journey into physics, Janney shared that his high school experience with the subject was challenging, especially with the added hurdles of learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Aidan’s experiences at �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder helped reignite his passion for the field, allowing him to discover physics in new and exciting ways. “One of the parts that is just the most enjoyable about physics is that it shows up everywhere,” he said, emphasizing how physics connects with atmospheric science and ocean dynamics.��

For her part, Washburn never took physics in high school and was never the biggest fan of math. “I realized that I wanted to help the region I so badly wanted to escape, the South.” Washburn elaborated, noting that she wants to work in quantum computing to improve the agricultural sector. “There’s a lot of money in physics, but I want to give back to those who impact everyone: small American farmers.”

As a community for physics students, one of SPS’s primary goals is to create an environment where students feel supported, regardless of their academic background.����

“A big focus is on just making it feel like an inclusive environment that people want to spend time in,” Janney explained.����

The organization actively promotes professional development by hosting events such as graduate student panels and research presentations, where students can explore careers in academia, industry, and beyond. SPS also collaborates with COSMOS, another student organization at �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder, to offer diverse perspectives and guidance on navigating careers in physics and related fields.��

“Many clubs talk about job aspirations, internships, etc., but this year I wanted to focus on helping our members slow down and enjoy life a little,” Washburn said. “What are they truly passionate about? Why? Post-graduation is terrifying for many college students so we’ve tried to give them the tools and the time to come as they are when they want–a phrase always included in our meeting postings.”��

Last year, the Dean’s Innovation Fund awarded significant funding to SPS, COSMOS, and other undergraduate and graduate student groups within physics to support students in STEM fields. As part of this award, SPS helped host an undergraduate research expo last year, with poster presentations and a keynote speech from Nobel Laureate, JILA and NIST Fellow, and �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder physicist Eric Cornell.����

Inspired by the success of this event, SPS is hoping to expand its reach to include additional departments, such as geology and molecular biology.��

Beyond the research expo, SPS has collaborated with COSMOS to help create fellowships for students to participate in research across campus. In 2023, 13 students were awarded these fellowships, with SPS and COSMOS hoping to award more this year.����

SPS also plans to extend its reach beyond campus with a budding outreach program at Bear Creek Elementary School. In partnership with COSMOS members, SPS hopes to lead interactive science activities for second graders, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists.����

“It would be a more informal community science outreach program,” Janney explained.����

The outreach initiative will introduce young students to the wonders of science in an accessible and engaging way.��

The �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder physics department has been an essential partner for SPS. �鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder Physics professor Keith Ulmer, the SPS faculty liaison, has continuously supported the group’s initiatives.����

“He just cares so much about students and making sure they’re supported and involved,” Janney said, reflecting on Dr. Ulmer's positive influence on the organization.����

Staff in the Physics Main Office have also offered invaluable assistance with logistical needs for events such as the annual pumpkin drop, hosted in collaboration with �鶹��Ѱ�����Prime and COSMOS.��

In the future, SPS wants to reach out to other student organizations and increase member retention.����

“We want to really help students feel prepared for the vast world ahead of them through financial literacy, professional skills, but also feeling confident in their person,” added Washburn.����