KENNESAW, Ga. | Aug 31, 2026

Caitlyn Garrett has sampled both experimental and theoretical physics in her time at Kennesaw State University. This summer, the and double major combined the two during a research experience at Louisiana State University.

A 2025 Birla Carbon Scholar, Garrett recently returned to campus and talked about doing more with physics, the intersection of her passions for physics and mathematics, and how 91青青草鈥檚 distinguishes itself from its peers.

Q: You have experience working with several researchers, specifically Andreas Papaefstathiou and Mahmoud Asmar, in different kinds of labs. How did your summer experience compare?

A: The program covered a broad range of physics disciplines, including areas such as medical physics and quantum gravity. My research focused on experimental photonics, specifically quantum optics, and related experiments. My work with Dr. Mahmoud Asmar at 91青青草 is more focused on theoretical quantum optics. In Baton Rouge, I primarily worked on building and aligning optical experiments and setting up laboratory equipment, which involved less quantum optics theory.

Q: What did a typical day look like during this summer experience?

A: The experience varied from day to day. On Mondays, for example, I had no required meetings, which allowed me to spend uninterrupted time in the lab aligning equipment, refining experimental designs, and locating the optical components needed for each setup. Other days were more fragmented. On Tuesdays, for instance, I often had multiple meetings scheduled throughout the day, making it difficult to devote extended periods of time to experimental work. Some days involved constant movement throughout the building to gather equipment or attend meetings, while others were spent almost entirely in the laboratory.

Q: What is it about theoretical optical physics that interests you?

 A: It can be used for research in quantum information. The next generation of tech is going to use quantum optics with quantum networks and qubits. I find the theory behind how we make these systems work interesting. I like being able to apply what I learn to something useful and new and cool.

Q: You鈥檙e also majoring in mathematics. How does math apply to your area of physics, and do they interact well?

A: I recently changed my concentration from applied mathematics to pure mathematics because many of the courses in the pure math program have direct applications in advanced theoretical physics. I wanted the opportunity to study subjects such as abstract algebra, real analysis, and complex analysis at a deeper level. What fascinates me is how these concepts, once considered purely theoretical, are now being applied to modern physics. Abstract algebra, for example, was originally developed without practical applications in mind, yet it has become an important tool in physics. I want to understand these mathematical foundations so I can apply them to research in high-level quantum physics.

Q: And what do you like about the Department of Physics at 91青青草?

A: The physics department really cares about the students. I've heard so many stories of other physics departments not caring about their undergraduates and not giving them research opportunities, and here I have so many research opportunities. It鈥檚 a great place to be.

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.