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Ben White

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Ben White
B.S. in Physics, Minor in Communications
Graduating May 2026

“I moved up here from my home in Waco, Texas, where I've lived almost my whole life. I'm planning on attending two semesters of school then serving a mission this coming May! After that, I don't really know what I want to do with my life. Research? Med School? Law School? Grad School? I honestly have no idea yet. However, I've got no doubt that the Honors Program will give me experience and connections that will guide me towards a bright future (whatever that may be). Outside of my academics, I really enjoy music. I play piano, cello, bass, and I am learning the guitar. I've also been in studio recordings and music videos. However, my favorite thing to do is just go on the street and play these instruments for hours. I also like hiking and trail biking!”

What sparked your interest in your major?
Growing up, I never had an answer for the question "what do you want to be when you grow up?" Even now, I don't know what I want to do with my life. I first took a Physics course during an academic summer camp at the University of Texas. Physics gave me a new paradigm of the world. Even today, I marvel at the ability to use mathematics and science to understand and even predict life on both a macroscopic and microscopic scale. I love Physics, and I can't wait to see where it takes me.

If there was an Olympics for everyday activities, what activity would you have a good chance at winning a medal in? 
I can make 1 minute rice in 59 seconds. I'm pretty sure that'd be a world record!

Why did you decide to join the Honors Program?
I joined the Honors Program because I knew that it was a community of curiosity, diligence, and scholarship. I joined to surround myself with brilliant professors, studious peers, and fascinating studies. I joined because I knew that whether through academic distinction or through the friends I make along the way (or both), Honors would change my life for the better. And, of course, it didn't hurt that everybody in the program had nothing but positive things to say about it!

What has been your favorite part of your Honors Experience?
Granted, I've only been in the Honors Program for about two weeks, but I've really enjoyed getting to connect with professors and higher level students! It's been especially cool talking to individuals working their way through senior theses or even grad school. During the COVID-19 pandemic it hasn't been easy to meet new people, so the Honors Program is a welcome change of pace.

 What is your next step in Honors?
This semester, I will be taking HONRS 110 and HONRS 120, the two introductory classes. I am excited to get to know the program better and get going with my thesis as soon as possible!