Hello! My name is Taylor Overcast and I am very excited to be the AAPT intern for the summer! I just completed my junior year at Union University where I am a double major in mathematics and physics. While my degrees are not in education, I have had a desire to teach from a young age; however, I realized that I wanted to make a change in the way students are taught and, thus, how students view their education.

In my time at Union, one of the most influential experiences for me has been the opportunity to tutor physics and math courses through our Center for Academic Success – giving me insight to the joys and challenges of teaching. Similarly, during the summer of 2020, I was given a position to work in a local non-profit organization through Tennessee Tutoring Corps to curb summer learning loss that was magnified by months of online learning due to the pandemic. This opportunity was challenging to say the least, but it reminded me of the purpose of a teacher – to bring education and, therefore, hope to young minds. Education is more than learning – education is the key to opening doors for a bright future and a life of purpose.

I enjoy the lively theoretical banter of Union’s academic organizations such as the Society of Physics Students, Sigma Pi Sigma, and Kappa Mu Epsilon and appreciate the mentors and friendships that these organizations have brought me. In my time away from math and physics, I enjoy being involved on and off campus and spending time outdoors. I am a member of my university’s ultimate frisbee team and love the adrenaline of the game, the comradery of my teammates, and the opportunity to travel. I also love playing instruments and can often be found serving on a piano or guitar in my church’s band.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be involved in an internship that combines these interests and am excited to see what this summer holds!