Woody's Stars Scholars

Hello, my name is Caisa. I’m from sunny Central Oregon and am currently studying Earth Sciences at the University of Oregon. Outside of my coursework, I am a member of two labs, one specializing in paleontology and the other in astronomy. Combining insights from both disciplines, I hope to one day contribute to the growing field of astrobiology, a field which seeks to answer questions regarding humanity’s place in the universe, and the future distribution of life on Earth and in the rest of the cosmos.

When I’m not studying, you can find me hiking in the Cascades with my watercolors, attempting to complete my goal of cooking a dish from every country, or at the Pine Mountain Observatory operating telescopes and rambling on about nebulas to visitors. I am proud to be one of the first Woody’s Stars and the support from the program will make a big difference in my college experience!

Hey! I’m Mariano, I'm majoring in Physics. I also happen to be an international student from Mexico City. I am an undergraduate researcher in Professor James Brau’s research group, where we are investigating electron-positron collisions with the proposed International Linear Collider. My main goal during my time here at the University of Oregon is to narrow down my dozens of interests. I’ve heard about and seen so many interesting areas that professional researchers are working in that I want to be in all of them! My Woody’s Star award will allow me to take part in research related activities like traveling to present my work at conferences.

My time in Oregon has been wonderful so far. I’ve met a lot of very interesting folks and made plenty of friends. I treasure the time I’ve spent here and can’t wait to experience everything college has to offer!

Hello! My name is Alex, and I'm a physics major at the University of Oregon. Outside of my academic interests, I enjoy creating art in a variety of media, exploring nature, and listening to music, among other things. However, one of my biggest passions is astronomy, and it has been a long-held dream of mine to pursue a career in the field. Currently, I am a part of the Astro Academic Residential Community led by Dr. Scott Fisher, which focuses on experiential astronomical education, research, and outreach for a diverse group utilizing a variety of methods, including hands-on work with the Pine Mountain Observatory. As I continue my studies, I hope to participate in research efforts in astronomy to further develop and refine my interests, knowledge, and skills, with the goal of progressing towards conducting research of my own someday.

Being a part of the Woody's Stars program will provide invaluable support in achieving this goal, and I am truly honored to be chosen to participate in such an amazing program. I can't wait to see what fantastic opportunities and experiences the future holds.

Hi! My name is Paul, and I am a second-year physics major at the University of Oregon and a student in the Clark Honors College. I am a second-generation Korean American, and I have lived in Eugene, Oregon for the past seven years. Currently, I am in a research group studying high-energy particle physics, specifically electron–positron collisions using Monte Carlo simulations and Python. My hope is to continue studying physics through attending graduate school, and to make a lasting impact on the scientific community through my work.

Outside of academics, I enjoy watching movies and TV shows, bowling, and trying out new things. I am very proud to be a Woody’s Stars award recipient, and I plan to use this support to the fullest as I continue my journey in physics!

Tiana Okuma is a physics major at the University of Oregon with growing interests in astronomy, optics, and quantum science. She is an OPIRC Scholar and an active member of the UO physics community, where she is building a strong foundation in research, observational astronomy, and science outreach.

Born and raised in Hawai‘i, Tiana brings her cultural values and a strong sense of purpose to her academic journey, returning to higher education later in life with a renewed commitment to scientific inquiry and community impact. Before studying physics, she worked professionally in advanced medical aesthetics, laser technologies, and education.

Beyond her academic work, Tiana enjoys time with her family, learning new subjects that inspire her, and exploring the world with creativity, curiosity, and a strong appreciation for both science and culture.