Our understanding of particle physics began with atmospheric studies. Victor Hess’s balloon flights in 1911 kicked off this revolution when he discovered a new type of radiation [1]. By distinguishing ground radiation and extrasolar radiation, mainly from the sun, the new field of astroparticle physics was created. As detectors increased in their capabilities, individual cosmic ray showers could be spotted by coupling Geiger counters and cameras to photograph a cloud chamber [2].

I have always been naturally inclined towards mathematics and science, but a field as foreign as astrophysics seemed like a topic that I would never explore. It wasn’t until the spring of 2013 when I was introduced to the Science Internship Program at UC Santa Cruz, a program that primarily offers astrophysics internships, that I took interest in the topic. Instead of being turned away by the unknown world of outer space, I took it as an opportunity to take a chance and learn something new … I was placed under the mentorship of Dr.

Despite the changes in custom and language that occurred simultaneously in my life as I moved from South Korea to America, math was the one thing that made me feel secure and confident. Math provided me with a sense of direction through the confusion and cultural difference I had to overcome. Therefore, I began to devote my time to mathematics, taking advantage of all the research opportunities that were available in the field .

Astronomy has always captivated me, and after being introduced to the constellation Orion at a young age, I marveled at its steadfast loyalty as it returned each winter. The night sky seemed awesome and mystifying . . . I began researching and following the patterns of the moon and the night sky, as well as lunar and solar eclipses. I was thrilled when our family got a telescope . . .