Student Voices

Justin Sebens, ’11

Major: Physics
Minor: Math
Hometown: Seymour, Ill.

Justin Sebens plans to go to graduate school in engineering so he can work as an engineer at a civil engineering company.

"I decided to study physics because getting a four-year physics degree first will make graduate school a lot easier," he said. "Also, this way I can get a masters in engineering in two years of grad school.

"Lastly, physics is just awesome."

So are his professors. Justin said the quality of the faculty is what convinced him to come to Carthage. "The professors' attitudes and laid-back personality outside of classes – they are really there for you if you need them,” he explained. "Just the amount of knowledge the professors have really impressed me too. ... The best opportunity I have been given so far is just my relationship with the professors."

One of his favorite places on campus is the B-2 Physics Room, in the basement of the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Natural and Social Sciences. "There are always kids in there studying and everyone is willing to help, even if they are not tutoring," he said. "It seems like the physics students have great relationships with each other."

Favorite professor: "Professor Arion, because he is like a big kid. He loves to show off his toys and he will do just about anything for you to help enhance your physics and Carthage experience."

Favorite class: A J-Term course on telescope making. "I was just amazed at how much work goes into making a perfect lens for the telescope."

Favorite moments at Carthage: "Going to the beach with the cross country team and grilling out at south and playing volleyball."

Favorite spot on campus: The racquetball courts.

Advice for students considering a major in physics: "Prepare yourself by taking lots of math classes."

Student Voices

Isa Fritz, '10

"Favorite class? Hands down, Observational Astrophysics. I learned so much during that course — from all about how telescopes work, to how to operate a professional 61" Kuiper telescope, to how to compile images. Read more ...

Emily Schiavone, '10

"Favorite spot on campus? The B-2 Physics Lab." Read more ...

Justin Sebens, '11

"Favorite professor? Professor Arion, because he is like a big kid. He loves to show off his toys and he will do just about anything for you to help enhance your physics and Carthage experience." Read more ...

Cecilia Grove, '11

"Physics is not for people who want an easy ticket; it is hard. But perservere." Read more ...

Research Opportunities

Carthage students have access to some of the world's largest observatories. Read more.

Summer Undergraduate Research Experience lets students work one-on-one with a faculty mentor.