High School
While studying at Chelsea High School, I took every upper level science course offered.
Thse included AP Physics, Biology II, and Chemistry II. The courses helped a great deal in
my academic development and heavily influenced my academic career as it stands today.
AP Physics
This course was taught by Mr. Swager.
Biology II
This course was taught by Mrs. Pruess.
Biology II
is an advanced course in biology that allows students the opportunity to study
more deeply several areas of biology. The class is designed to be a lab class
rather than a lecture/discussion class. Each selected area is studied using
a laboratory organism. Cell respiration and experimental design are studied
using a series of experiments on yeast metabolism of sugar. At first the experiments
are provided but later students design the experiments. Anatomy and physiology
are studied using the fetal pig. Each system is studied dissection and related
experiments. Genetics is studied using the fruit fly Drosophila. Ecology is
studied using natural areas close to the school.
Each student also chooses an area of study in which he or she has a special
interest. This area is carefully researched, a related experiment conducted,
and the results presented in a written research paper. A display of this project
is presented at the Life Science Fair in April.
Chemistry II
This course was taught by Ms. McGuire.
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Kalamazoo College
Freshman Fall
WRIT130 Illuminating
Impressionism
This course was taught by Dr. Fisher. This was my freshman writing seminar.
At "K", all freshmen take a course chosen from a variety of topics.
The topic acts as a backdrop for the overall goal of improving writing skills.
MATH112 Calculus I
This course was taught by Dr. Blefco. A unified course in analytic geometry and calculus
of functions of one variable. Students who have not had trigonometry should
consult with the instructor. QR
CHEM110 Introductory
Chemistry With Lab This course was taught by Dr. Furge. Fundamental principles of
chemistry: chemical calculations and symbolism, atomic and molecular structure
and bonding; periodic properties; properties of solids and solutions. Laboratory
work includes introduction to chemical instrumentation. Prerequisite: None.
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Freshman Winter
MATH113 Calculus II
This course was taught by Dr. Mackey. Continuation of MATH 112. QR
Prerequisite: MATH 112.
COMP105 Intro to Computer
Science w/ Lab This course was taught by Dr. McDowell. An overview of the field of
computer science. Typical topics may include the history of computers, what
computers can and cannot do, the basic concepts of computer programming, program
and user interface design, how computers represent information internally,
an introduction to artificial intelligence, and the ethical and societal issues
raised by the widespread use of computers. AOS (CS)
SPAN102 Beginning Spanish
II
MUSC240 Violin and Viola
I've played violin since middle school. I'm taking at least 5 quarters of
private violin lessons to count for a fine arts credit. Professional
musicians and teachers from the community join with the regular faculty of
Kalamazoo College to staff this facet of the music program. As many as 20
additional faculty members teach individual instruments and voice, offering
a wide range of opportunities to all students. Applied music study facilitates
technical command, interpretive insight, and understanding of pedagogical
procedures. The courses stress development of ability to perform with competence
and musical understanding, while providing a comprehensive background in music
of various periods, styles, and composers. At the end of each quarter, every
student taking applied music has the opportunity of a hearing before a group
of music faculty members. Attendance in two performance area classes per quarter
is required of all music majors as part of their applied music study and is
expected of all students enrolled in applied music. Applied music is credited
in the same manner as the ensembles: 1/5 unit is earned for each quarter of
participation, and credit toward graduation is awarded after a student has
completed five quarters of applied study in the same area. Upon the recommendation
of the instructor, very advanced students may complete a full unit in the
third or fourth quarter of study by presenting a recital. Ensemble and applied
music credit may not be combined to complete a full unit; however, credits
from different ensembles may be combined, as may piano, harpsichord, fortepiano,
and accompanying. An extra fee is charged for applied music instruction. CE
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Freshman Spring
MUSC240 Violin and Viola
COMP110 Intro to Programming
w/ Lab This course was taught by Dr. Brady. An introduction to programming and design
concepts using a modern programming language. Topics include the basic features
of the language, modular programming techniques, and appropriate design methods.
Students will have ample opportunity to revise existing programs and develop
new software. QR
Prerequisite: Familiarity with some programming language, e. g. BASIC, PASCAL,
HyperTalk. Can be satisfied by taking COMP 105.
MATH240 Linear Algebra
and Vectors This course was my first abstract math class. It was difficult
for me because I had not previously used theorems with such precision. Study
of vector spaces, matrices, determinants, linear transformations, systems
of equations, eigenvalues, and canonical forms. QR
PHYS152 Introductory
Physics II w/Lab Study of the basic concepts in mechanics, waves,
and electricity and magnetism, introducing elementary calculus when appropriate.
QR
Prerequisite: Taking online mathematics skills test.
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Freshman
Summer
MATH272 VECTOR/MULTIVAR
CALC This course was aken at Western Michigan University as equivalent to MATH214,
Calculus III, at "K", taught by Dr. Zhu.
Vectors and geometry in two and three dimensions, matrix algebra, determinants,
vector differentiation, functions of several variables, partial differentiation,
linear transformations, multiple integration, and change of variables. The
computer algebra system Maple will be used to explore some of these topics.
Prerequisite: MATH 123.
ResearchDuring this summer, I worked with Dr. Jan Tobochnik on Java applets for
Physics education. I have a few pages on my website about this experience.
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Sophomore Fall
COMP210 Data Structures
This course was taught by Dr. Cutter. Provides students an opportunity to refine programming
and design skills. Emphasis is on techniques of data abstraction, including
encapsulation and inheritance; implementation and appropriate use of common
data structures (such as lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs); recursion;
and the close relationship between data structures and algorithms. AOS (CS)
Prerequisites: COMP 105 and COMP 110 or permission.
PHYS220 Quantum Physics
w/Lab Study
of light, special relativity, and quantum physics with applications. AOS (NS)
Prerequisite: PHYS 152 and MATH 113. Suggested: MATH 214.
RELG235 Native
American Religions This course was taught by Dr. Anderson.
Survey of the historical encounter between Native and European Americans;
examination of the study of Native American religions; and detailed analysis
of the rituals, myths, and cosmologies of at least two Native American peoples.
AOS (REL); CR (US)
MUSC240 Violin
and Viola
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Sophomore Winter
PHYS370 Electromagnetics
& Electronics I Basic
concepts of modern electronics taught along with circuit analysis and electromagnetic
field theory. Advanced techniques in vector calculus are developed as needed.
The lab portion emphasizes practical experience including circuit construction
and use of digital and analog instruments. AOS (NS). Prerequisite: PHYS 220.
MATH250 Discrete Mathematics
This course was taught by Dr. Fink. Introduction to formal structures and mathematical
reasoning. Graphs, sets, logic, induction, structure of mathematical proof,
counting, relations, and algebraic structures.
Prerequisite: MATH 112 and one computer science course.
MATH280 Diff Equations/Numerical
Methods This course was taught by Dr. Barth. Introduction to key concepts underlying
analytical methods for the solution of ordinary differential equations and
first-order systems studied together with techniques for constructing approximate
numerical solutions. Prerequisite: MATH 214, 240, and PHYS 106, or permission.
MUSC240 Violin and Viola
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Sophomore Spring
PHYS380 Electromagnetics
& Electronics II This course was taught by Dr. Askew.
COMP215 Computer
Algorithms Introduction to a variety of algorithms
and algorithm design techniques that recur in computer science literature
and applications. These include common sorting and searching algorithms, divideandconquer
and dynamic programming algorithms, and algorithms in the areas of string
processing, geometry, and graph theory. This course also provides an introduction
to the math ematical analysis of the complexity and performance of algorithms.
AOS (CS)
Prerequisites: COMP 210 and MATH 250.
COMP415 Computational
Neuroscience
MUSC240 Violin and Viola
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Junior Fall and Winter (Study Abroad at Curtin University)
7911 Applied Optics 302 (v.7)
Prerequisite(s): 001737 Particles and Waves 101 v.3 or any previous version
001744 Structure of Matter 102 v.3 or any previous version
008648 Mathematical Methods 201 v.3 or any previous version
Complex wave representation, wave equation, scalar and vector waves, electromagnetism and optics, photons, momentum and radiation fields, Fresnel's equations, optical properties of solids and liquids, review of polarization and optical activity, electro-optical devices, optical modulators, interference and interferometers, diffraction and aperture optics, Fourier optics and beam coherence. Other topics.
12848 Digital Electronics 304 (v.4)
Prerequisite(s) 012710 Analogue Electronics 204 v.2 or any previous version
OR
300539 Transmission and Interface Design 303 v.2 or any previous version
CMOS, ECL, BICMOS, and GaAs digital technology, sequential logic circuits, metastability, buffering and interfacing, semiconductor memory, VHDL and programmable logic.
Introduction to Indigenous Australians
Introduction to the cultural, historical and social conditions, and issues that have shaped and continue to shape the lives of Indigenous people in Australia. Features a number of core themes providing an introduction to experiences of Indigenous Australians in remote, rural and urban contexts.
1922 (v.6) Software Technology 152
Prerequisite(s): 1920 (v.6) Software Technology 151 or any previous version
Data abstraction and algorithmic use of complex data stuctures - files, lists, queues, stacks, trees. Development of recursive algorithms, their implementation and comparison with interation. Advances sorting, searching and file accessing techniques.
11592 Solid State Physics 302 (v.2)
Prerequisite(s): 001744 Structure of Matter 102 v.3 or any previous version
007907 Particles and Waves 201 v.5 or any previous version
Elements of crystallography. Scattering of radiation by crystals. Imperfections in crystals. Lattice vibration theory of phonon model and thermal properties. Free electrons in crystals. Electrical conductivity and the band theory. Introduction to the physics of semiconductor devices.
301582 (v.2) Three-dimensional Computer Animation 292
The unit exists as an introduction to the vocabulary, concepts and methodologies inherent to 3D animation. The unit lectures provide instruction on the principles and concepts of 3D computer animation. The unit tutorials are an opportunity for students to apply lecture content into their project work. Students are expected to spend the majority of their time working independently and largely self-supervised. The tutor is available to help guide in the problem solving process but should not be relied upon to directly fix or solve problems.
Integrative Cultural Research Project (ICRP)
My ICRP had two components. The first was in the area of career development.
I did research in the area of Solid State Physics with Dr. Rob Hart (Dept. of Applied Physics)
at Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia. The second part of the ICRP
was a cultural experience. I wrote a reflective essay describing my
entire experience in Australia, including a section about differences in
the Australian educational system and scientific research.
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Junior Spring (back at "K" now)
PHYS340 Intermediate
Mechanics This course was taught by Dr. Bloom. Mathematical course emphasizing physical reasoning and problem
solving; planetary motion, oscillation, accelerating reference frames, and
rigid body motion. AOS (NS)
Prerequisite: PHYS 220 and MATH 280.
PHYS360 Thermal Physics
w/Lab This course was taught by Dr. Tobochnik. Introduction to thermal physics with emphasis on a statistical
approach to the treatment of thermodynamic properties of bulk material. AOS
(NS). Prerequisite: PHYS 220.
RELG 365 Buddhism in East Asia This course was taught by Dr. Anderson.
An examination of the historical development of the textual traditions, symbols, doctrines, myths, and communities of Buddhism throughout east Asia. Explores the introduction and establishment of Buddhism in China, Korea, and Japan, and compares the different schools of Buddhism that developed in dialogue with Daoism and Shinto. AOS (REL); CR (Asia)
Prerequisite: One previous religion course, preferably RELG 125 or 130, or permission. Biblical Literature
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Summer 2003
PHYS593 SIPMy Senior Individual Project (SIP) was a research project I completed with
Dr. Péter Érdi. Nature of Physics Department SIP’s:
Senior Individualized Projects supervised by the Department of Physics can be done by any student, however, only those majoring or occasionally minoring in Physics will be able to meet departmental requirements. In most cases the SIP involves doing research in physics or a very closely related field either under the direction of a Kalamazoo College faculty member or a research group off campus. Appropriate off campus opportunities include research at national labs, REU programs at colleges and universities, research with individual faculty or research groups at other colleges and universities, and research labs in industry. Students interested in high school teaching normally do a 3 unit SIP of student teaching organized by the Education Department. Other possible SIP’s include developing new materials for physics education and independent projects which are not part of an ongoing research program.
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Senior Fall
PHYS420 Quantum Mechanics
This course was taught by Dr. Johnson. Study of the principles and mathematical techniques of quantum mechanics
with applications to barrier problems, the harmonic oscillator, and the hydrogen
atom. AOS (NS)
Prerequisite: PHYS 340 or permission. Recommended: MATH 380.
MATH305 Dynamic Models in the Social Sciences
This course was taught by Dr. Péter Érdi.
PHYS593 SIP Research continued through the Fall quarter.
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Planned Courses
Physics
PHYS410 Advanced Electricity/Magnetism
I will take this course during winter quarter of my senior year. Study of electromagnetic field theory, electrostatics, potential theory,
dielectric and magnetic media, Maxwell's field equations, and electromagnetic
waves; vector calculus developed as needed. AOS (NS). Prerequisite: PHYS 380
or permission.
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Computer Science
COMP230 Computer Architecture
I will take this course during winter quarter of my senior year. Introduction to computer organization; gates, truth tables, and logic
design; number representation and arithmetic; assemblylanguage programming
and the assembly process; and current techniques for improving computer performance.
AOS (CS)
Prerequisite: COMP 210.
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Others
Neurobiology
Applied Statistics
Spanish 201
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