Crestview Residents Celebrate Daughter’s Graduation From Clarkson University

By Northwest Florida Daily News, Fort Walton Beach

Jan. 3–Sarah Phillips, daughter of John and Karen Phillips of Crestview, participated in the commencement services held on Saturday, Dec. 9, at Clarkson University as an early graduate. Phillips received a bachelor of science degree in physics with a minor in mathematics as well as being listed on the Dean’s List and awarded the prestigious Ronald McNair Scholar Honor.

Clarkson ranks among the finest universities in the nation, according to such diverse measures as U.S. News and World Report, the Association for Independent Technological Universities, and corporate recruiters. Clarkson focuses on providing a rigorous professional experience, real-world experiences for a real-world education, and developing a collaborative community for students, faculty, and staff.

Physics combines abstract concepts of mathematics and philosophy with applied aspects of instrumentation and engineering. It deals with the behavior and interaction of matter, energy, space and time, and also provides the basis for the development of technology. The physics program at Clarkson encompasses these broad facets of this unique subject.

While at Clarkson University, Phillips conducted physics education research; participated in Mathcounts (a program designed to prepare middle school students for a statewide math competition); and participated in research with IMPETUS, a New York State Department of Education summer program for students in grades 7-11 in the area of math and physics. She was a member the Physics Design Team where she collaboratively developed a theoretical model and collected experimental data.

Phillips served as vicepresident and president of the Physics Club. She worked as a freshman physics grader, exam proctor and held office hours during her junior and senior years to assist students with their homework and prepare for exams. Phillips also had an opportunity to present her research during a summer symposium. While at Clarkson University she became a member of the American Association of Physics Teachers

Phillip’s plans now include attending the University of Texas to complete her master’s degree in secondary education. She has been accepted into the Teaching Certification program in Houston to begin teaching physics and mathematics.

Phillips is the grandaughter of Howard and Beverly Phillips of Big Flats, N.Y., and Byron and Patricia Copp of Panama City. She is a 2003 graduate of Horseheads High School, Horseheads, N.Y.

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Copyright (c) 2007, Northwest Florida Daily News, Fort Walton Beach

Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Business News.

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