Julia Radtke

“I’m interested in either going to graduate school for something science-related or doing more research after I graduate.”

“I was originally planning on majoring in physics, but I added the chemistry major because Professor Christine Blaine suggested that I do both chemistry and physics. Now, I’m really happy that I decided to do a double major because I’ve loved all my classes, and I enjoy seeing the overlap between sciences.

“When I was applying for a summer research program, my professors wrote letters of recommendation for me, and I got chosen to research the ionic conductivity of glass. I’m grateful that I’ve had that opportunity because I became more experienced in the lab while doing something I enjoy.”

“My favorite class is Physical Chemistry because I love understanding the overlap between chemistry and physics, and it involves a lot of problem-solving.”

“I’m involved in Chemistry Club, Chemistry Honors Society, Society of Physics Students, and Carthage Tea Club. I enjoy talking to people with common interests and getting to know my classmates outside of school. The clubs are usually very low-key and fun.”

“Modern Physics was my most difficult class because many of the concepts were new to me, and there was a lot of difficult math involved.”

“I’ve been a biology lab assistant for over a year, and I love my job. I enjoy helping people and working with science. Another awesome part about my job is everyone I’ve worked with. When I was new, some of the lab assistants who were upperclassmen gave me great advice about how to succeed in college and apply for research opportunities.”

“I received a Math/Science Scholarship from Carthage. It was meaningful to me because I was glad that my interest in science and math had paid off.”

“One of my favorite parts about being on campus is running by the lake. I also love getting coffee or playing card games with friends. I have a group of friends who cook dinner together once a week, and it’s super fun to hang out with them and talk about how our weeks are going.”

“My favorite spot on campus is the Einstein Bros. Bagels in the Hedberg Library. I like the view of the lake, and they have great coffee!”

“I’ve just been surprised by how much I enjoy my classes. When I first started college, I thought that school would be difficult and overwhelming, but even in the more challenging classes, we have a lot of opportunities to practice new material and ask questions. I have also learned a lot from working with my classmates.”

“My younger self would be surprised by where I’m at today because I’m much more interested in science now than when I was as a kid. The science classes I have taken at Carthage have helped me see how interesting and complex science can be.”

“Majoring in physics and chemistry is challenging in a good way. I love having the chance to solve problems and understand how the world works. The double major has helped me make connections between the two sciences. The advice I would give to other science majors is to challenge yourself and take opportunities.”

“I liked the small class sizes, and Carthage offered a lot of science classes that interested me. I got to sit in on a physics class, and I really liked it. I also received a Math/Science Scholarship.”