Speaker's Academic Journey and Interests

The speaker shares their journey from an early interest in science, influenced by post-WWII surplus equipment, to a career in mechanical engineering. They discuss their education at West Virginia University and the University of Michigan, where they worked on hydrodynamic stability theory. Later, they shifted focus to holography and developed techniques for quantitative measurements, contributing to computer tomography. The speaker emphasizes their passion for teaching and research.

What sparked the speaker's early interest in science?

• Army surplus equipment

• School science fairs

• Mathematics classes

• Family influence

Which magazines did the speaker read to fuel their interest in science?

• Scientific American

• National Geographic

• Time Magazine

• Popular Mechanics

Where did the speaker complete their undergraduate studies?

• West Virginia University

• University of Michigan

• Harvard University

• Stanford University

What field did the speaker's thesis work focus on?

• Quantum Physics

• Hydrodynamic Stability Theory

• Astrophysics

• Genetic Engineering

Which new field did the speaker decide to explore at the University of Michigan?

• Nanotechnology

• Artificial Intelligence

• Holography

• Robotics

What was the speaker's main interest in using holography?

• Quantitative measurements

• Entertainment industry

• Creating art

• Developing new cameras

What did the speaker emphasize as their primary reason for becoming a professor?

• Research opportunities

• Teaching passion

• Administrative roles

• Travel opportunities

What unexpected event occurred later in the speaker's career?

• Winning a Nobel Prize

• Moving abroad

• A career shift

• Starting a new business

What was the speaker's approach to their academic career?

• Avoid teaching responsibilities

• Switch fields frequently

• Pursue a straightforward academic path

• Focus on administrative roles

What did the speaker enjoy most about their academic career?

• Writing books

• Conducting experiments

• Teaching and mentoring students

• Attending conferences