Graduate uses imagination to explore physics, mathematics, future in quantum information
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2024 graduates.
While Phi Hung Nguyen completed two academically rigorous degrees during a shortened timeline, he still found time to further enrich his undergraduate experience with extracurriculars that encouraged him to impact the ASU community.
During his early years at ASU, he was elected into a position in the Undergraduate Student Government where he contributed to many events and initiatives. He also leveraged his leadership to initiate a project with the dean of the College of Integrated Sciences and Arts to remove intramural sports fees for the college's students.
As schoolwork became more challenging, he focused more on studying and family. To speed up his education, he memorized his syllabi and major maps, a trick that he said enabled him to graduate a year early.
Something he couldn’t memorize was physics because, he said, “It’s less about memorization and more about imagination and, of course, a lot of math. During my years at ASU, I have learned to vividly visualize physical concepts at ease.”
Attesting to Nguyen’s abilities is Igor Shovkovy, a professor in the School of Applied Sciences and Arts at CISA, who said that Nguyen is one of the most remarkable undergraduate students he has had the privilege of teaching and mentoring during his 15-year tenure at ASU.
“His foundation in mathematics is robust and he possesses an innate intuition for physics that is truly remarkable,” Shovkovy said. “His multifaceted talents promise a future brimming with potential and success.”
His academic accomplishments are being honored by the School of Applied Sciences and Arts with a prestigious Dean’s Medalist award this spring. Dean’s Medalists from the College of Integrated Sciences and Arts are honored for their display of exemplary academic achievement and record of leadership and service.
Following graduation, Nguyen looks forward to furthering his pursuits in a doctoral program in optics at the University of Arizona.
Question: Did a scholarship help fund your academic journey at ASU?
Answer: Yes, the Provost's Award. Without financial burdens, I was able to focus totally on my studies, which helped me thrive in classes.
Q: Why did you choose ASU?
A: ASU is close to my house. I can have a good education as well as a good time with my family. And of course, homemade food was a benefit of being close to home. Besides, ASU ranks No. 1 in innovation for many years straight!
Q: During your time at ASU, did you have any significant projects?
A: I was able to simulate various physical phenomena in my numerical methods class. One of my projects ended up simulating quantum tunneling — a very intriguing quantum phenomenon. This experience helped me apply physical laws learned in theories to real-life applications.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU and what was it?
A: Dr. Igor Shovkovy is always on time and disciplined, and these traits taught me how I could be a good researcher in the future. Also, his ability to answer technical questions in understandable ways is very impressive and inspiring. He reminds me of why I chose to study physics.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I will attend a PhD program in optics at the University of Arizona. My goal is to study quantum information and dive deeper into this high-potential technology that could possibly change the world.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: I would most likely spend the money on free education. If I want to solve any problem, I should start by nurturing the younger generations. Many talented people have not been given an opportunity to thrive.
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