Hello! My name is Ella, and I'm a 22-year-old scientist studying black holes at the National Institute for Astrophysics in Bologna, Italy! Growing up in Phoenix, Arizona, I could enjoy the beauty of the night sky from the middle of the desert. When I went to college at Michigan State University, I knew I wanted to study astrophysics and astronomy. Astrophysics is the study of space using math and physics to understand how the planets, stars, and galaxies function in our universe.
In college, I did research on exoplanets, planets outside of our solar system, and quasars, the bright centers of giant galaxies. These experiences taught me how to operate telescopes, analyze data to plot the path of planets, and create simulations of our universe. After graduating from Michigan State, I applied to a U.S. Fulbright Research Award in Italy. This program is run by our American government to send students and researchers across the world to learn from different experts and then bring that knowledge home. The Fulbright allows me to combine my love of travel and a passion for space science! I’m excited to get to know you all and share my experiences in Italy!
Want to learn how you could be a Fulbright Scholar like me? The Fulbright Program is the United States government's flagship international exchange program. Fulbrighters foster mutual understanding between the United States and partner nations, share knowledge across communities, and improve lives around the world. Learn more by clicking here!
