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Panagiotis Taoulas, a physics major from Naousa, Greece, came to 91��Ƭ�� with a dream he’s carried since childhood. Choosing to come to 91��Ƭ�� has become the foundation to his transformation in science and as an international student. As he begins his senior year, he credits faculty, resources and the diverse culture at 91��Ƭ�� to his success.

“I always knew I wanted to study physics- ever since I was 10 years old,” said Panagiotis. “I grew up watching Carl Sagan and Neil deGrasse Tyson, and I was always fascinated by looking at the stars, and studying physics at 91��Ƭ�� had made that dream come true.”

Coming to Norfolk from Greece was not a decision Panagiotis made lightly. It was his dream to study in the United States. “I’m a very adventurous person, and I wanted a good challenge, to be outside my comfort zone,” said Panagiotis. “Plus, the area is very historical, and the large Greek community here made me feel like I could find a home.”

Arriving at just 17 years old, Panagiotis described himself then as shy and reserved. “I was very introverted, and I didn’t know anybody,” he said. “I had to learn to be more extroverted to build valuable friendships, and now, I walk across campus and 50 people say hello to me.”

As an international student, Panagiotis faced challenges in adapting to a new culture and language. “One of the things I discovered was that 91��Ƭ�� is really international student friendly,” said Panagiotis. He found the 91��Ƭ�� community welcoming and supportive. “I am an international student, and English isn’t my first language, but a lot of people have helped me understand everything- sometimes with slow steps, sometimes with big ones,” said Panagiotis. “Everyone’s been really helpful.” 

Panagiotis found his academic home in the Department of Physics, where he became active in the Society of Physics Students (SPS). “It’s a great opportunity to meet other physics majors and even non majors,” said Panagiotis. “We usually discuss physics but other topics as well,” said Panagiotis. “Outreach is important because many people think physics is too hard, and while it is challenging, it’s also fantastic and beautiful once you understand it.”

His passion for physics now extends beyond the classroom into advanced research with Assistant Professor Matt Grau, Ph.D. “The general research of the lab is ion trapping, which is used to create qubits for quantum computers,” Panagiotis explained. His specific focus is on building a helical resonator and an intricate coil system designed to stabilize ions within the trap.

According to Assistant Professor Matt Grau, “Panagiotis is an incredible student to have with us in the lab. He’s taken a couple of my courses, so when he asked for a research project, I knew I could give him something rather advanced and that he would be able to run with it. Indeed, he was able to do all the background research, calculations, design, and final fabrication for the resonator, and it turned out really beautifully. He approaches research with a level of intensity that is pretty rare to see in undergraduate students.”

For Panagiotis, the work is equal parts complex and exhilarating. “Physics can be mysterious and any time you turn a corner there’s always something harder to grasp but it’s really fun,” said Panagiotis. “It’s a certain experience to study physics and I think gives you wisdom to know how the world functions as well.” 

Looking ahead, Panagiotis plans to continue his studies in nuclear engineering. “We’re very close to building nuclear fusion reactions all over the world,” said Taoulas. “I think it will be a valuable asset to understand how they work, and I want to pursue graduate studies and eventually work in nuclear fusion power production.”

Panagiotis is in his senior year at 91��Ƭ��, but he realizes his journey has already given him a sense of clarity and confidence. “Physics gives you wisdom to know how the world functions,” Panagiotis reflected. “It has helped me understand life better as well.” Panagiotis’s advice to international students considering 91��Ƭ��, “Do it, there’s nothing to lose. The friendships and experiences you again here are invaluable.”