Belonging : My Journey with SPS

In the summer of 2023, I decided to change my major from education to physics at East Tennessee State University (ETSU). My one goal walking into a new department was to get involved and make myself known. So, when two older students came into my introductory lab advertising a “physics club” meeting, I knew I had to go. When I arrived, someone asked me, “Are you here for SPS?” I stared at them like a deer in headlights. Luckily, another person explained that SPS stood for the Society of Physics Students and that I was in the right place.

When I became involved with SPS, I felt at home. I truly believe that I would not be where I am today, or even still in physics, if
it had not been for the community that SPS provided me with.

Toward the end of my first year as a physics major, I attended the Zone 8 Meeting at Southern Illinois University. There I listened to our zone counselor, Professor Richard Prince, talk about different opportunities SPS provides, including hosting zone meetings, being inducted into the Physics and Astronomy Honor Society, Sigma Pi Sigma, and running for associate zone counselor (AZC). I was inspired by the amount of support and resources available to undergraduates.

Recognizing that ETSU did not have a Sigma Pi Sigma chapter, I reached out to the SPS National Office and immediately started the process of establishing a chapter and organizing our inaugural induction ceremony. I am thrilled to say that we inducted eight members in September of 2024, and we are currently planning our second induction ceremony for this spring. Just two weeks after our induction ceremony, we welcomed more than 40 students from eight institutions to campus for the Zone 8 meeting. Hosting a zone meeting was one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic career. It was incredible to witness the connections forming between like-minded students from our region and the community that we built.

This year, I was elected by chapters in my zone to represent the student voice on the SPS National Council as the AZC for Zone 8. In this role, I serve on the Community Building and Belonging Committee and am dedicated to increasing student resources and fellowship.

I recently attended the 2025 Physics and Astronomy Congress in Denver, Colorado—an amazing and insightful experience. Before the conference began, I attended an SPS National Council meeting, where I met my fellow AZCs and the SPS staff. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to be serving alongside such motivated and caring people. During the Congress, I was elected by the AZCs to represent all SPS students as the AZC representative on the SPS Executive Committee. I am indescribably honored to hold this position, and I am eager to serve as a strong advocate for you, ensuring that every student voice is heard and valued.

I am especially focused on creating a platform for students from underrepresented groups, such as first-generation college students, and for those from small liberal arts schools. I encourage you to reach out to me with any concerns or ideas that I may be able to support. I am here to be your advocate and foster the sense of community that is so vital to our success.

Reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of how much SPS has shaped both my academic path and my sense of purpose. What began as a simple decision to attend a club meeting has evolved into one of the most transformative experiences of my life. My goal as AZC representative is to pay forward the mentorship and encouragement that helped me find my place in physics.

As I look to the coming year, I hope to continue building bridges between chapters and creating opportunities for collaboration. My vision is that every student, regardless of background, institution size, or access to resources, feel connected to the larger physics and astronomy community. I am excited to see what we can accomplish together as we continue strengthening SPS as a place where every student can belong and thrive.

Learn more about the SPS National Council at students.aip.org/leadership.