One of the most rewarding experiences that one can have as a scientist is mentoring the next generation. Fostering diversity, equitability, inclusivity, and accessibility has been an important aspect of my growth as a scientist and I continue to practice these principles in order to make the field more equitable to all.

Currently, I am mentoring a post-bac student who is participating in the Fisk-Vanderbuilt Master’s-to-PhD Bridge Program, a program meant to increase the population of under-represented students in STEM PhD programs. In the past, I have acted as a mentor to many undergraduate students in the OSU Astronomy Club, where I attempted to foster an inclusive atmosphere where those interested in astronomy can achieve their career goals.

In the effort to increase diversity and foster scientific curiosity, I also try to engage all members of the public in astronomy. Below are some of my outreach efforts to accomplish this goal as an American Astronomical Society Astronomy Ambassador. Click on each header to find out more information.

Astronomy Open House Outreach

Total Solar Eclipse Outreach

Outreach

Eclipse

For the Total Solar Eclipse on August 21st 2017, I conducted a variety of astronomy outreach events including the aforementioned Astronomy Open House. I was designated a NASA Oregon Space Grant Consortium Astronomer-In-Residence, to answer any questions members of the public may have about the event, and I was interviewed for a video on the eclipse which was produced by the local community library. Oregon State University also had a festival on the weekend leading up to the eclipse.
Outreach

OSU Astronomy Open House and the Astronomy Club

During my time at OSU, myself and another graduate student, Atul Chhotray, hosted events where members of the public visited the Oregon State University Physics Department and participated in interactive physics demos in addition to star gazing through telescopes that we had set up on the rooftop. This was the first event of its type at OSU that is open to the public. We worked with the local library, the local amateur astronomy club, and other community organizations to ensure that this event was accessible and inclusive to all memebers of the community.