Sandy Chilson teaches science in and out of the classroom

“What can physicists do? ” is an interview series that profiles physicists who opted for careers outside of academia.

What were you looking for in a job?

I had wanted to get a PhD in astrophysics since I was 14. But when it was time to start applying for graduate school, I realized that was not what I wanted to do. I felt like a failure.

I realized that what I love about astrophysics is learning about it, thinking about it, and teaching about it. In research, you become a world expert in something small. That wasn’t what I wanted to do.

How did you get into teaching?

As an undergraduate, I tutored and served as a teaching assistant. I had a skill set, but I was resistant—I didn’t want to be a teacher like my mom. I graduated during COVID, and I ended up working at a microschool. I taught five third graders math and science. I realized I was good at it and liked it.

How did you get your job?

I listed myself on the education job search site Carney Sandoe, and the Barrie School reached out to me. I teach science and math to middle and high schoolers.

What do you do in your role as director of outdoor education?

I petitioned the school for a budget for outdoor education. We run weekend camping trips and overnights and teach outdoor classes.

How do you use your physics in your job?

My physics background has helped me create engaging projects and problem sets. I help students learn physics, the most hated topic of all time. I think having a physics background and my love for physics has made it easier to get my students to engage.

What new skills have you needed?

Mostly stuff like classroom management and lesson planning.

What do you like most about teaching?

Seeing students overcome struggles. I also like planning the experiential stuff and running programs. For example, I set up a Lunch with a Scientist series.

Is there anything you’d like to add?

I want to apply my skills more broadly to educational programming and science communication. I want to remain in the education sphere but not as a teacher.