Janessa Renee Slone
Physics Ph.D. | Optics
“There is so much opportunity as science is constantly developing, and new discoveries are being made. Physics is a culture of a thousand different topics and I demand to know the many secrets that the Universe is keeping.”
Hometown: Elk Grove, California, USA
Hobbies: I love to read and cook! I spend most of my free time watching movies or the Big Bang Theory, and extra time is with my nose deep in a book.
One interesting fact: I had a spinal fusion when I was 18, so I have 2 titanium rods and 24 screws along my spine!
Q&A with Janessa
- What are your favorite things about the department?
- I love the LARGE community. I feel like everywhere I walk in White Hall, I meet someone new!
- What do you think is the most interesting thing about your research?
- I am currently working on a grant proposal for a project that combines optics and biology. I love that the research I’m interested in has so many applications and will be used to continue advancing quantum physics.
- Why did you want to pursue physics?
- Choosing physics was very spontaneous. Physics is one of the most demanding majors, and I like a challenge. Of course, sometimes it can be too challenging, but that’s when I look to my friends and the faculty for guidance.
- Why did you choose West Virginia University?
- Choosing a university with ample research opportunities was very important to me. I was able to discuss my long term career goals with a few faculty members, and after these meetings, I was very confident that WVU would foster the right path to help me reach my goals.
- How have your professors and/or staff helped you be successful?
- My professors have been very available for when I have questions and they have been able to adapt to my learning needs, making lessons much easier to get a grasp on. The staff is amazing here. I always feel like there is someone I can go to and I’m confident that I’ll always get an answer to my question.
- What advice would you give to an incoming student?
- For graduate students: Embrace the fact that you're in graduate school! Make memories but work on time management. It can be overwhelming at times, but stick to a schedule to guarantee success!
- For undergraduate students: Ask complicated questions and stay motivated! Work towards a goal and make those 4 years count!
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