Donovan Flagg

Astronomy videos on YouTube constantly intrigued me as I grew up. I wanted to find out why the “Top 10 Strangest Planets” were, in fact, strange. Initially, I planned to major in astronomy, but Missouri only offered astronomy as a physics emphasis. Even though it was not my plan, I’ve grown to really enjoy physics.

I am most passionate about how physics is so broad and focused on finding the answers to every question imaginable. There’s never a point in time where we, as physicists, are not wondering what’s next.

I want to earn a Ph.D. while doing either astrophysics or material science research. Afterward, I want to be a full-time researcher and host programs for minority youth to become involved in STEM fields.

I’ve presented at five physics conferences including APS, NSBP, and ABRCMS. I’ve also completed three research projects over the summers after my first year in college. I’m currently working on a project at the University of Missouri with Professor Yicheng Guo, studying the evolution of galaxies from the early universe to present day.

TEAM-UP Together Scholarship Recipient in 2023 and 2024.