PSP aims to bridge the gap between high school and college physics for those in need and interested in majoring in physics. If you are a prospective physics major and feel like you could benefit by getting involved, let us know you're interested by filling out this form!
About
Spectra initiated the Physics Scholars Program (PSP) in Spring 2021 as a way to offer first-years the opportunity to bridge the gap between high school physics and introductory sequence physics at Columbia. Due to various socioeconomic circumstances, low-income students may enter college without foundational skills in both math and coding, which lead to a disparity between levels of preparation for both classes and research. PSP aims to teach those skills and build community, while providing students with a support system to succeed in physics.
In the fall, PSP students will meet once a week for a 75 minute active learning session that will cover a number of fundamentals that will be relevant for all physics courses and research. Topics will include basic coding, steps on obtaining a research position, calculus, and other focus areas that are relevant for the class of students. The point is to learn how to solve problems together, build a concrete foundation for your future physics career, and, most importantly, make friends!
In the spring, PSP students will break off into small groups with an assigned graduate student based on fields of interest. This will allow students to be given a first look at what research entails, including the day to day and skill needed. In the past, this has been a great resume builder for freshmen students and helped in getting into research positions across the country, including Princeton's Plasma Physics Laboratory and the University of Washington's Astrophysics department for astrobiology.
PSP has no grading, but optional handouts for additional practice. There are no prerequisites for the course except an interest in majoring in physics. We hope that this program will encourage more students to pursue physics beyond the introductory level.
Reviews
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Slide 1: "I really enjoyed learning how to code, and getting a head start on learning basic material I know I will have to understand in future classes. I would definitely do it again next semester." - PSP Alumni, Spring 2021
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Slide 2: "This was a very helpful program. I was surrounded with those who understood my struggles and let me express myself. We reviewed and learned many topics that will be very useful for the future." - PSP Alumni, Spring 2021
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Slide 3: "Thank you so, so, so much for absolutely everything, for the wonderful PSP sessions each week, and taking the time to work with me, run problems, and make sure I had a more solid conceptual foundation for my midterm!" - PSP Alumni, Spring 2021
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Slide 4: I absolutely would recommend this program and would do it again if I had the chance. I would tell them that it is well worth their time to spend just an hour a week to attend the meetings because they will help you explore the many fields of research in physics as well offer you resources to help succeed in your physics classes. Also, definitely take advantage of the research projects. The grad students are phenomenal mentors too!
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Slide 5: I would highly recommend this program to any freshman that is interested in physics. You get amazing advice on topics ranging from classes to research. You also get to be part of a community that supports each other and celebrates each other's successes. Couldn't recommend joining more, especially if you are looking for a group of like-minded people!
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Slide 6: I absolutely recommend this program. Even if you're comfortable with Physics, I think this program is always going to be helpful is sharpening up your skills, allowing you to connect with the Physics community here in Columbia, and in becoming a leeway towards finding research no campus.
