PHYS2005 - Physics for Physics Majors
What?
In August 2014 I began my journey toward a physics degree from UC. This degree major requires all freshmen to take Physics 2005, which is fortunately also an honors credit. Unlike all the other physics classes the university offers, the section for physics majors and honors students focuses more on the abstract concepts behind the physics rather than the tangible, physical results. We spent a lot of time exploring the calculus side of physics and examining how equations are derived and relate to each other.
So What?
Although I took high school physics, which covered basic mechanics and thermodynamics—the same information we studied in Physics 2005, we spent most of our time memorizing equations and trying to understand simple, specific concepts. However, in Physics 2005 we learned to think more holistically. We learned why the equations worked and what this meant physically, rather than just reciting formulas without understanding what they actually implied. Once we understood the derivation of the formulas we did not have to struggle to understand why they worked and the language of physics came more fluently.
Now What?
This experience was important for my education because it provided an essential introduction to critical thinking in physics. Before this class I did not understand how the physical phenomena of this world related to each other. After this class I have a fuller understanding of just how elegant the motion of the universe is. On this foundation I can continue to develop my knowledge of physics and appreciate its abstract qualities along with its physical manifestations.
Artifact
Attached is a lab I completed as part of this course. This was the last in a series of labs that we used to measure the acceleration due to gravity of balls made of various materials. In the first lab we calculated a value for gravity ignoring air resistance. In the second we measured each ball's coefficient of drag. Finally, in the attached lab, we examined energy conservation in each trial. Throughout this specific experiment and series of reports, I used information from lecture and homework problems, as well as Mathematica skills I acquired through the class' accompanying lab.
MATH2063 - Multivariable Calculus
What?
My third semester at UC I was able to take an honors section of multivariable calculus, one of the courses required for my physics major. Multivariable calculus builds on the topics introduced in Calculus 1 and 2 classes, and extends these concepts to the third, fourth, and nth dimensions. Furthermore, the topics of multivariable calculus become increasingly relevant to physics concepts, such as fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and the motion of waves through mediums.
So What?
In the honors section of this class, we were encouraged to think beyond just memorizing the formulas and passing the class. Our class periods were much more interactive than a standard class' would be, and we spent the majority of our time deriving the concepts then applying them to generic situations. This method allowed to us to truly understand the math so we could eventually apply our understanding to broader or different circumstances.
Now What?
This class was important because although I had been using the math concepts and formulas in my physics classes for quite some time, I could not appreciate where they came from or what they truly meant. Now I have a fuller understanding of calculus and how it is manifested in nature through physics. The problem solving skills and the appreciation for calculus' profundity have become invaluable tools in my physics toolbox. I have been further exposed to the beauty of mathematics in the natural world and it has propelled me to dive even deeper into my studies.
Artifacts
As an artifact I have attached some example problems from throughout the semester. The first problem is an example of finding an area, and the other two problems find the volume of an intersection with two different methods. I chose these problems because visualization was the most significant skill I gained this semester. Before this class it was difficult for me to picture or sketch surfaces and objects. Learning the theory behind our formulas and drawing each practice problem gave me a better physical understanding of typically abstract equations and calculations.
FREN3032 - Paris
What?
During my junior year I took an honors seminar focusing on Louis XIV's influence on style, fashion, and marketing. Throughout the semester we studied the Sun King's often outrageous demands for luxury. Louis XIV accepted nothing less than the freshest food, the most technologically advanced decor, and the highest quality clothes and shoes in all the latest fashions. His lofty standards prompted innovative developments in agriculture, craftsmanship, and marketing. The class culminated in an 8-day trip to Paris where we experienced Louis XIV's legacy first hand.
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So What?
This class introduced me to the basics and origins of so many marketing techniques that are still ubiquitous today. Fashion seasons, billboards, tabloids, tourism, and countless other advertising phenomena were first utilized under the influence of Louis XIV. It was incredible to realize how intentionally the fashion and style industries were crafted to manipulate and steer consumers. Examining the origins of such powerful tools has made me even more aware of how I allow myself to be persuaded by society and advertising.
Now What?
Because of this class I am motivated to consume goods more responsibly. Since I am now more aware of the birth of haute couture and luxe living, I am more willing to examine my intentions for wanting the newest technology, clothes, or other status symbols. Further, the study abroad portion of this class allowed me to be immersed in French culture, a community I have studied and been fascinated by for most of my life. My time in Paris allowed me to speak French, interact with foreigners, and continue learning about the world beyond my comfort zone.
Artifacts
Below is a video our class created to sum up our time studying Louis XIV's France and our time in Paris. All pictures and videos were taken by our group as we explored the city and experienced the culture. We also all took a moment to reflect on our favorite part of the seminar.
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