By Fatima Salinas 

For Mallory Weber, curiosity about the universe started long before college. When she arrived at the University of Iowa, she found a place where that interest could grow into something more through a double major in physics and astronomy. 

"My passion started with astronomy in high school, but everything really fell into place when I found out I can pair it with physics for a double major here at the University of Iowa," Weber said. "I was looking more for a challenge and just a deeper understanding about how the universe works." 

That desire to ask bigger questions led Weber to an academic experience beyond the classroom. Alongside courses that explore everything from the history of scientific discovery to advanced problem-solving, she has gained hands-on experience preparing for graduate school and future careers. 

"I know a lot of undergrads are involved in research with professors in the department, which is a great way of getting experience for grad school," Weber said. "There are opportunities in tons of areas like plasma physics and astrophysics; there's really a lot to explore." 

Weber's own research has taken her across the country. Working with Professor Casey DeRoo in X-ray instrumentation, she traveled to Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory to participate in an experimental campaign at the Advanced Light Source synchrotron facility. 

"Studying physics at Iowa has really expanded my horizons and shown me what my future could look like," Weber said. 

Whether collaborating with classmates in the undergraduate physics lounge, participating in the Society of Physics Students, or helping introduce visitors to the night sky during public observing nights at Van Allen Observatory, she has found countless ways to connect with others who share her passion. 

"My favorite thing about the department is the tight-knit community that we have," Weber said. "Everybody knows each other, and we spend a lot of time doing homework and hanging out in our undergrad physics lounge." 

Looking back, Weber says studying physics at Iowa has opened doors she never expected and expanded her vision for what comes next. 

Watch the video to learn more about Weber's journey and what makes Iowa's physics and astronomy programs unique.

Visit Physics and astronomy at iowa