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Sherry Feng, Ph.D. candidate at the Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester, is the 2024 recipient of the Michael Kidger Memorial Scholarship. The award was established to honor Michael John Kidger, a well-respected educator, design software developer and member of the optical science and engineering community. Sherry was also a Robert S. Hilbert Memorial Optical Design Competition winner in 2023.
We interviewed Sherry to learn how she became interested in optics, her current research projects, and her future goals.
Q. What does receiving the Kidger Scholarship award mean to you?
A. I’m deeply honored to be selected as this year’s Michael Kidger Memorial Scholarship winner. This recognition means a lot to me, acknowledging the hard work I’ve put in over the past few years. It also reassures me that my passion for optics is well-placed. Thanks to Tina Kidger, Kidger Optics, and the Kidger Scholarship, Michael Kidger’s great legacy can continue, inspiring and spreading among young researchers like myself.
Q. How did you get interested in optics?
A. My interest in engineering began at home, where my parents, both engineers—my dad is a mechanical engineer, and my mom is an electrical engineer—introduced me to various engineering concepts from a young age. They encouraged me to work with my hands, fixing and creating things on my own. While I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in engineering, I decided to explore a field different from what my parents had chosen.
This led me to study optics at the National Central University in Taiwan, where I was fortunate to be guided by my undergraduate advisor, Yin-Jung Chang, who helped me discover that optics resonated deeply with me. In my senior year, I went to the University of Arizona as an exchange student, where I later completed my master’s degree under the guidance of my advisor, Daewook Kim. Eventually, this journey brought me to the University of Rochester, where I’m currently pursuing my Ph.D. in optics under the guidance of Miguel A. Alonso and Thomas G. Brown.
The more I learn about optics, whether through theoretical study or hands-on work, the more captivated I become. It’s fascinating that we can control, manipulate, and interact with the fastest thing in the universe—light. Even now, I’m still fascinated by optics, learning something new every day and continuously exploring new ideas and concepts.
Sherry’s current advisor, Thomas G. Brown, along with Miguel A. Alonso, and Sherry Feng
Q. What are some accomplishments that you are proud of?
A. One accomplishment I’m particularly proud of is maintaining my overall well-being. In the past, I was too focused on my work and neglected my health, which left me feeling weak and lacking energy. However, I’ve worked hard to stay in good shape—mentally, physically, and emotionally—while balancing the demands of my academic and professional life. Pursuing my passion for optics while prioritizing self-care has been essential to my personal growth.
Q. What are you doing now and what do you hope to do in the future?
A. Currently, I am beginning to build my experiments to verify my simulations and optical designs, and I hope to publish some results soon. In the near future, regardless of whether I pursue a career in industry or academia, I aim to find a position where I can leverage both my technical and interpersonal skills to benefit others. Inspired by my past and current advisors, who have influenced not only my understanding of optics but also my personal growth, I want to make a positive impact on people’s lives and contribute to building tangible solutions that enhance everyday experiences.
Q. What other hobbies or fun activities do you like to do in your spare time?
A. In my spare time, I enjoy learning languages, going to the gym, and exploring new places through sightseeing. Learning languages keeps my mind sharp and allows me to connect with different cultures. Going to the gym helps me stay fit and energized, providing a great outlet for stress. Sightseeing, on the other hand, lets me immerse myself in nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around us, whether it’s hiking in the mountains or strolling through vibrant city streets. Together, these activities nourish my body, stimulate my mind, and enrich my overall well-being.
Q. What would be your advice for students who are studying optics?
A. It feels a bit humbling to offer advice, but my suggestion for students studying optics—and in life in general—is to stay curious and open-minded. Appreciate the people and events happening around you; they will help you find joy and fulfillment in life. Be willing to discover every fascinating detail, no matter how small. This mindset will not only deepen your understanding of optics but also help you find inspiration in unexpected places throughout your life.
The 2024 Kidger Scholarship Award was presented to Sherry
at SPIE Optics + Photonics 2024, San Diego, California, by Tina Kidger, 20 August 2024.
We’d like to thank Sherry for taking the time for this interview and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.