Sara Moore 
Astronomy and Astrophysics, Physics, and Mathematics triple major
Chillicothe, Illinois
Co-curricular activities and/or internships: Physics REU at the University of Rochester; Butler Women in STEM Treasurer; Holcomb Observatory Tour Guide

What were some of your favorite memories as a Butler student? 
One of my favorite memories at Butler was the ability to participate in Math Research Camp. This two-week program occurred just before the beginning of the fall semester, where a group of undergraduate Mathematics majors worked one-on-one with math faculty on exciting research topics. I participated in this program twice, both times exploring problems in mathematics that nobody before me had ever done. Through this program, I also became very good friends with other Mathematics majors and developed strong personal relationships with many of the faculty within the Department of Mathematical Sciences. 

What were the best parts about your major and/or your College? 
One of the best parts of Butler is the community. Specifically, the Astronomy and Astrophysics Department is smaller, so getting to know my classmates was easy. I am good friends with all of the students in this major and we tend to hang out between our classes each day and study together for exams. One of the other amazing opportunities that I have as an Astronomy and Astrophysics student at Butler is the ability to work at Holcomb Observatory. I’ve enjoyed sharing my passion for astronomy with members of the Indianapolis community. 

What professor and/or staff member played an important role during your time at Butler? 
One professor who was very influential in my time at Butler is Dr. William Johnston. He has taught several of my favorite math courses because he is passionate about his work. The summer before my second year at Butler, Dr. Johnston and I collaborated on a research project in Complex Analysis and even co-authored a paper. I did not know it was possible to start doing research so soon during my undergraduate career, so I was very thankful for Dr. Johnston’s mentorship and encouragement. 

What are your plans after graduation? 
After graduation, I will join the Physics doctorate program at the University of Rochester where I will do research in cosmology. That is, studying the large-scale structure of the universe and how galaxies have evolved over the past few billion years. Ultimately, I intend to pursue a career in astrophysics research either working as a professor or in a national lab. 

How did Butler prepare you for this next step? 
Butler has provided me with a lot of individualized support. Before I arrived, my academic advisor helped me develop a custom schedule to ensure that I was able to complete all three of my majors. I have also had countless opportunities to do research projects, work in science outreach, and serve in tutoring and mentorship roles. All of these experiences are incredibly useful and will help me to be successful in a doctoral program. 

What are your long-term career goals? 
So far, I have absolutely loved my work researching the large-scale structure and evolution of the universe and hope to continue a career in this. I’m not sure exactly what career I will have with this but am open to the possibility of becoming a professor or working in a national lab. 

What are you going to miss most about your time at Butler? 
One thing that was really cool about Butler is how many events occur on campus. I loved attending Butler Basketball games as a member of the Dawg Pound. There are also so many cool performances that happen at Clowes like Broadway shows or performances by the Butler Ballet. It was so convenient to be able to attend all these events without worrying about logistics. 

What advice would you give a first-year student? 
The best advice I could give to incoming Butler students is to really get to know your professors. Most professors at Butler are very eager to connect with their students, and these connections will serve you well both academically and as you pursue opportunities outside of Butler. At this point, it is rare for me to go an entire day without dropping by the office of one of my professors.