Aleena Rafique
Research associate
Argonne National Laboratory, United States

When I was little, I remember, the thing that interested me about physics was that we can learn a lot about the universe, from the smallest particles to the stars. I have always been a curious child who wanted to know more about the universe. Why is it the way it is? Why not in another way? I chose physics as a major because of the fact that it basically covers everything in your surroundings. Understanding physics means understanding the whole universe. I am the type of a person who always wants to try and learn new things. I am adventurous. I like travel, camping, and paragliding. I’m a very strong advocate of women’s rights and women in science. I moved to the United States from Pakistan to pursue my education, and I met such great people here, and I am a part of such great scientific collaborations, that I am proud of my decision today.