Mitchell Paul '16

 Name: Mitchell Paul

Major: Physics

Hometown: Beavercreek, OH

 Post-graduation plans: I am currently enrolled in the 4+1 program and am graduating with my bachelor's this spring, meaning I am fortunate enough to have another year at Wright State and will graduate again next spring with my master's degree.

 

Why did you choose to become a Raider?
For me, Wright State was a perfect fit. Academically, Wright State's physics program had exactly what I was looking for in that it's a small department with the resources of a large school. I was also able to fulfill my dream of swimming in college. Additionally, it made the most sense financially.

 What is your favorite Wright State memory?
Hands down the time I have spent in the pool with my teammates.

What is your favorite place on campus?
Most days you can find me hiding in one of the labs in the basement of Fawcett Hall.

What student organizations or activities have you been involved in at Wright State?
For the past two years I have been part of Athletes in Action, a group for student athletes to grow in their faith by learning how it can apply to both sport and lifestyle. It has been a great way to meet other athletes I wouldn’t have interacted with otherwise while also helping me understand what my faith means to me.

What will you miss the most about Wright State?
What I will miss the most about Wright State, and in particular the Physics Department, is having instructors that have taken the time to get to know me and that genuinely care about both my education and future.

What was your favorite class you took at Wright State?
I'm going to cheat the question a little and give two answers. During my time as a student, I made sure to take a step away from Physics and pursue some of my other interests and I'm really glad that Wright State provided me the opportunity to do so. In that regard, the music classes I have taken here have both exposed me to some really great music that I wouldn’t have encountered on my own and have deepened my appreciation of how important music can be in our lives. In Physics, I would have to say the class I have most enjoyed and that has been the most fun is lasers.

What advice do you have for underclassmen?
The best advice that I can give is to get to know your professors. Attend office hours. If you can build a relationship with your professors, you will be more eager to learn from them, and they will be more willing to help you, especially if they can see the effort you're putting in. 

Would you like toshoutoutany professors or staff who helped you get to this point?
I can honestly say that I have learned the most about physics from Dr. Clark, and I wouldn’t have made it to this point without the coaching and advising from Dr. Deibel and Dr. Petkie.  Special thanks to coaches Kyle Oaks and Sean Dwyer for encouraging and promoting my success in the pool and in the classroom.