Outstanding Seniors in the College of Science: Sean Driskill

Dec. 9, 2022
By Adam Gonzales, College of Science
Sean Driskill

This fall, departments in the University of Arizona's College of Science nominated an outstanding senior who went above and beyond during their time as a Wildcat. We are pleased to share their stories as they reflect on their time at UArizona. Next up in the senior spotlight series is Sean Driskill.

Sean Driskill
Physics

College of Science: Why did you choose your area of study?
Driskill: I took a physics 101 class as a gen-ed requirement for a construction management program. Almost no math was involved, and that qualitative study allowed me to see just how cool physics can be. After catching up on math classes, I took a calculus-based physics class, and I haven't looked back since.

COS: Tell us about a class or research project you really enjoyed
Driskill: I've enjoyed all of my undergraduate research. The first time I assembled an optical setup for a new measurement was a big highlight. Both my in-lab training and lessons from PHYS320, Optics, were put to the test. I proved to myself that I knew how to handle equipment, independently study unfamiliar components, and most importantly, not hurt myself or others with a stray laser beam.

COS: What is one specific memory from your time at UA that you'll cherish forever?
Driskill: This one might be a bit weird, but it was when I lost my 4.0 GPA. I wasn't an ambitious student in high school by any metric. Coming back to school after a few years away, I took a great deal of pride in maintaining a "perfect" GPA throughout community college and my first couple of terms at U of A, but this also came with compounding stress every semester as I continued my streak. Getting my first "B" was devastating for a couple of days, but it led to a brief period of growth that ultimately boosted my self-esteem and ambitions.

COS: What is next for you after graduation?
Driskill: I've applied to some physics graduate programs, and I'll be hearing back from these programs in the spring. In the meantime, I'll be continuing my work in the Schaibley Lab.