Samuel

Why did you get involved in physics outreach activity at university?

Having loved science exhibitions and media as a child, it is my highest privilege now as a person in STEM to have the chance to educate and excite others in turn. There is great fulfilment to be had in participating in outreach and, frankly, it is a fantastic excuse to be in a place and community devoted to a field that I have much fondness for.

During my undergraduate studies, I spent a lot of time with telescopes for my minor in astronomy. This naturally led to stargazing sessions and field trips with the department, many of which involved public engagement. Conveying the marvels of space became a core part of my university life and has since bled into my identity as a student.

Coming to London, I wanted an opportunity to work with telescopes again. The UCL Observatory seemed perfect, and I have been so lucky to run tours at that inspiring site and assist in related physics events.

How have you benefitted from your physics outreach work, both professionally and personally?

Over the past year, I have seen myself grow in my communication skills and confidence. My work involves interpreting indirect feedback from a group and adapting my message accordingly. Different people want different things out of the tours and other events, so figuring out what piques their interest is essential to make it a good experience for them. Hearing them still talk about their excitement even as they leave is the best compliment to receive.

Personally, one of the greatest joys in stargazing is sharing what you see with others. It is incredibly validating to see others exhibit the same thrill as you do in your own passions, and it is a further pleasure to be the vehicle by which this happens. Be it the lunar surface, the rings of Saturn, or the faint fuzz of a nebula, there is something beautiful in the gasp of someone looking through an eyepiece for the first time. I am constantly thankful that I get to see that happen every time I go to work.

What hints or tips would you give to other students who are thinking of getting involved in outreach?

Outreach comes with the oh-so-light burden of spreading passion. There is a responsibility not only to educate, but also to instil wonder and curiosity. Awe is a powerful avenue for learning, and astronomy has the advantage of being a very aesthetic field. If your goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists, young and old, you are already on the right track.

Furthermore, scientific literacy and navigating falsehoods are underappreciated skills that everyone, including non-experts, should strive to have. Each person who leaves more interested than they came is a boon for the future. While it is unlikely for astrophysics to play a big role in their everyday lives, that interest is the seed for an inquisitive mindset and critical thinking.

My advice, to achieve all of this, is to share what you love. Every night, my hope is for everyone who walks through our gates to fall in love with the night sky, as I have. Even after the hundredth time, I will still jump at the next opportunity to look at Jupiter through a telescope. I believe that there is no more effective way to get someone into science than to show them how much you enjoy it.

Of course, whimsy and a genuine smile always help.

“Samuel shows great knowledge of physics and is able to adapt his message depending on his audience. He is one of the people you can rely on to turn up and deliver. Whatever the situation, I know Samuel will put his best into delivering great engaging content. What stands out about Samuel is his amazing sense of enjoyment. With his infectious smile everyone working alongside and meeting with Samuel can’t help but have fun whilst they are learning.”
Mark Fuller, UCL