Outstanding Senior Awards: Nikhil Garuda
Each semester, the College of Science recognizes outstanding graduating seniors from each of its departments. The first senior to be selected for the spring 2025 semester is Nikhil Garuda from the Department of Astronomy & Steward Observatory.
College of Science: Why did you choose your area of study?
Nikhil: I've been captivated by astronomy for as long as I can remember. The vastness of the universe and the mysteries it holds have always fascinated me. Choosing to study astronomy felt natural, especially once I discovered the welcoming and research-rich environment at the University of Arizona’s Steward Observatory. Their commitment to involving students in meaningful research from day one made it an easy decision.
COS: Tell us about a class or research project you really enjoyed.
Nikhil: One of the most rewarding projects I worked on was with Professor Chris Impey, whose Coursera lectures I had admired even before coming to UA. Getting to collaborate with him on astronomy education research—and working on the very courses that first sparked my interest—was an incredibly full-circle experience. I also loved working on strong gravitational lensing and being part of the team that discovered the first-ever triply imaged Type 1a supernova. That was truly unforgettable.
COS: What is one specific memory from your time at UA that you'll cherish forever?
Nikhil: I’ll always cherish the moments when I was able to help fellow students navigate research opportunities and coursework. There’s something incredibly meaningful about building community through shared curiosity—those late nights talking about space, mentoring peers, and seeing others succeed with a little support made a lasting impact on me.
COS: What are you most proud of having accomplished in your time at UA?
Nikhil: My proudest achievement is helping others find their path in astronomy. Whether it was sharing what I’d learned about classes or connecting people with faculty whose research aligned with their interests, those moments of peer mentorship were deeply fulfilling and embodied the collaborative spirit I value in science.
COS: What is next for you after graduation?
Nikhil: I’ll be taking a well-earned break this summer to rest and reflect before heading to graduate school in Fall 2025. I’m thrilled to be continuing my journey at the University of Texas at Austin, where I’ll dive deeper into astronomy and astrophysics research.