Undergraduate Student Committee

PUC2526

Our Mission:
The Physics Undergraduate Committee (PUC) strives to be a community-oriented organization for undergraduate students studying physics at the University of Maryland. We provide both academic and mental health resources in order to cultivate a well-roundedness in the undergraduate department. Supporting our peers is important to us, and ultimately we want every physics major to feel welcomed.

Undergraduate Research Colloquium:
PUC hosts undergraduate colloquia biweekly on Tuesday at 6:15 PM in Toll 2211, in whichundergraduate students are given the opportunity to present information regarding their scientific interests and research to their peers. Attending and speaking during colloquia is a great way to practice your scientific communication skills, so we encourage you to sign up with our interest form!

Soccer Tournament:
Every spring, we host our PUC Champions League soccer tournament. In the past, we’ve had over 60 players! Look out for the sign up in your email during the spring semester.

Mental Health Events:
To help de-stress during midterms, finals, and other critical points of the semester, the PUC mental health committee organizes activities like tea time, paper airplane building, and raises awareness for the mental health resources on campus. Check your email and for posted reminders for these activities on the 1st floor of Toll.

Leadership Bios:

Rafael Romero Mendez

Hello, I am Rafael, a senior in physics, and one of the presidents of PUC. Outside studying and quantum optics research, I enjoy listening to classical music (especially Ludovico Einaudi), reading books, and drinking coffee anywhere in DC.

Nathan Constantinides

Hello! I’m Nathan, and I’m a senior and co-president of PUC. I’m majoring in Physics and Computer Science. In my free time, I enjoy playing casual games like Stardew Valley, and am a big cat lover.

Samantha Otazo

Hi! I’m Sam, a junior double degree in Physics and Electrical Engineering! I’m serving on the Physics Undergraduate Committee's Communications team. Outside of teaching and research, I like trying new restaurants and taking walks around Lake Artemesia with my roommates.

David Giandrea

Hello, my name is David, and I am a junior physics and math double-major. I am part of PUC’s academic committee. Outside of physics, I enjoy coaching and playing basketball and playing guitar.

Paige Nolan

Hello, I’m Paige, and I am a sophomore double-majoring in physics and astronomy. I am part of PUC’s academic committee. Outside of physics, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and exercising!

Aashreya Govindu

Hello, I’m Aashreya, and I’m a sophomore double-majoring in physics and astronomy. I’m a part of PUC’s mental health committee. Outside of PUC and physics, I love to read, travel, and listen to music.

Chinmay Bharathulwar

Hello, I’m Chinmay, a freshman majoring in Physics. I am a member of PUC’s Communications committee. Outside of physics, I love watching the Knicks, Dolphins and Yankees.

Elliott Dansberger

Hello, my name is Elliott and I’m a freshman double-majoring in physics and chemistry. When not focused on my studies, I often spend my free time either coding or gaming, though I enjoy quiet reading too.

Sophie Parker

Hi! My name is Sophie and I am a freshman majoring in physics. I am a member of PUC’s mental health committee. Outside of PUC, I am an avid gym-goer, dog-lover, and piano enthusiast.

Contact Information:

Rafael Romero Mendez, Co-President