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Get to know a physics major

Zach Long ('23) is a senior in the Physics program from Boston, Massachusetts. He was president of the Loyola Physics Club from 2021-2022. 

What have you enjoyed about Loyola?  I like all the opportunities to get involved on campus and meet people from all backgrounds. For example, I have enjoyed working in campus ministry as a sacristan for the chapel. I’ve been able to meet people I couldn’t imagine life without. Physics at Loyola has allowed me the opportunity to investigate topics not covered in the classroom with different professors. Every professor is very approachable with questions about their area of expertise.

What interested you about Physics?  Physics has allowed me to investigate the fundamental questions of the universe and look at phenomena from the ground up.

How did you get started in research?  I did my freshmen project under Dr. Brian Cannon investigating human ear biomechanics. In addition, this is my third year researching high energy theory with Dr. Walter Tangarife. Last summer, I also worked on dual energy CT scans at Loyola Medical Center with Dr. Hyejoo Kang.

What do enjoy outside of class?  I greatly enjoy learning special topics in physics outside the classroom, teaching myself to cook, and playing video games. 

What are your post-Loyola plans?  I have applied to graduate programs in medical physics, nuclear physics, and nuclear engineering.

Do you have any advice for incoming physics students?  Embrace the community of the department and get involved. If you want research experience, just ask.