If you want to know who your classmates are, here is a quick way to get acquainted. We invite you to learn about the kinds of people who will be your colleagues and friends at Cornell, and often for the rest of your life.
Spotlight on Students: Lena Fitting Kourkoutis
Lena Fitting Kourkoutis
Why did you choose Cornell?
"Cornell has a strong experimental physics research program and is located in a small town, surrounded by nature."
Why are you pursuing a Ph.D. degree?
"I really enjoy research and as a Ph.D. student I can spend at least 5 year doing just that."
What is your research project?
"I am using electron microscopy techniques to study interface phenomenon in complex oxide heterostructures."
Who is your adviser? How has he/she influenced your graduate educational experience?
"David A. Mulle.r I joined David Muller's research group in my first year as a graduate student and over the last few years he has not only introduced me to the exciting field of complex oxides, but also to many of the people who define this field. In addition he has sent me to a number of international conferences to present our work, which I've particularly enjoyed."
What other activities are you involved in?
"I've really enjoyed helping with outreach activities organized by the Cornell Center for Materials Research (CCMR). I was also part of Expanding Your Horizons (EYH), an annual one-day conference for middle school girls organized by Cornell graduate students."
What has been your greatest moment or accomplishment so far at Cornell?
"The first time I biked up the hill to Cornell. It gets much easier after that..."
What do you like about living in Ithaca?
"Ithaca is a wonderful small town with a great community and many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, music and other cultural events. Everything can be reached by bicycle, walking or (in the winter) skiing...."
How do you make it work financially?
"The stipend for a Graduate Research Assistant is quite reasonable."
What are your plans after graduation?
"Continue research in an academic environment.
