Graduating Student Spotlight: Roswell Roberts IV, Outstanding Senior in the Dept. of Hydrology & Atmospheric Science
Roswell graduates this spring with a BS in Astronomy and a BS in Atmospheric Science
Congratulations to Roswell Roberts IV, Astronomy major and winner of the Outstanding Senior Award in the Dept. of Hydrology & Atmospheric Science! Roswell graduates this spring with BS degrees in both Astronomy and Atmospheric Science. He is the great-great grandson of Clara Fish--the first-ever student of University of Arizona! Clara Fish first introduced A.E. Douglass to Lavinia Steward, who the observatory is named after. Below, Roz reflects on highlights from his time at Steward Observatory.
What brought you to Steward Observatory?
The original allure to go to Steward Observatory was twofold. First when I toured both Steward and the university, I could truly see myself as a part of the community. Second, I've always been in love with both weather and the stars above, so I had hoped to pursue one or both of these interests, which led me down the path of choosing the U of A for its astronomy program. This would later give me an opportunity to pursue other interest in weather.
Can you describe your research and any especially interesting learning experiences you’ve had during your time here?
Currently I am doing research outside the field of astronomy. Specifically, I'm working on my Masters research in Atmospheric Science. However, the most interesting experience I have had while at Steward was being present and mentioned during the 100th year anniversary as my family has a long legacy at the U of A and have in a small part helped make Steward what it is today and the Steward Observatory I was able to fall in love with.
What's your greatest point of pride from your time at Steward?
My greatest point of pride while being at Steward Observatory, was being able to operate the 21 inch Steward Observatory telescope. There I was able to do science outreach which would eventually led me to my positions at the Mount Lemmon Sky Center and at Kitt Peak National Observatory.
Can you share piece of wisdom from your time as an astronomy student?
The road is a long one, but if you take it one day at a time it will fly by. So persevere, you got this! Also don't forget to relax and have fun at times, you only get to be in your undergraduate for so long, so you might as well enjoy it!
What’s next?
After graduation I will be taking a nice break from university and spend some time with my loved ones. However, I will be returning to the U of A in the fall to work on my Masters in Atmospheric Science!
We’re excited to celebrate our students who graduated this semester. Stayed tuned for more Spotlight profiles on Steward Observatory graduates, and follow our social media channels for more insight into the lives of our students, staff and faculty.