Hi everyone! My name is Reese Laushot, and I am a second-year student majoring in Physics on the Astronomy track at UCF. I graduated from Pasco-Hernando State College with my associate’s degree before transferring here. One of my favorite classes has been Galaxies and Cosmology because it gave me the chance to explore big questions about the universe and how physics connects to them. 

I decided to become a STEM Ambassador because of an astronomy course I took at PHSC. My professor in that class inspired me to share the same excitement for space with others, and I hope to bring wide-scale concepts into a classroom setting where students can appreciate both the beauty and the significance of the universe. I also believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue what they love most, whether it be in STEM or beyond, and I would like to help bridge the gap for those who are interested in this path. 

My advice for future STEM students is captured in the phrase Ad astra per aspera — “to the stars through difficulties.” It’s a reminder that the path to your goals, whether in STEM or in life, is rarely easy, but each challenge brings you closer to reaching something extraordinary. 

In my free time, I like to play video games, draw, listen to music, and cosplay. I’m also fascinated by astrobiology and love all things alien or deer-related (or both!).