Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) physics student Julian Douglas took a chance on himself this summer that changed the trajectory of his academic career. Douglas, who is completing his associate’s degree in science at PVCC and plans to transfer to Arizona State University in spring 2026 to study physics, spent two months at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in Knoxville, Tennessee, one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s premier research facilities.
It wasn’t an easy start. Surrounded by some of the country’s brightest scientists, mathematicians, and engineers, Douglas admitted he struggled with imposter syndrome – the nagging feeling that you don’t belong or haven’t earned your place.
“Once you’ve got your boots on the ground, everyone is so helpful, nice, and welcoming,” Douglas said. “The community, the scientists and engineers—they want to teach you, mentor you. They make certain you know you matter, you belong here.”
That encouragement, he said, helped him settle in, grow as a researcher, and expand his outlook on what’s possible in science.
While his main focus has been nuclear engineering, Douglas left ORNL with a newfound curiosity for theoretical science and data science, exploring how correlations in large datasets can reveal entirely new areas of study. The experience shifted him toward an even deeper science focus, something he hadn’t anticipated before applying.
His biggest takeaway? Take a chance.
“Put yourself out there. Throw your application in. You will thank yourself later,” Douglas urged fellow students, explaining it's all about networking. “Once you get your foot in the door you begin to grow your network. I’m still talking with and emailing my mentor at Oak Ridge even now back in Arizona.”
Douglas also stressed the value of exploration: “Try everything! It’s invaluable to learn not only what IS for you, but what IS NOT for you. Find the environment that’s good for you.”
For PVCC students who may be hesitant, Douglas offered reassurance: “A lot of students at PVCC have the knowledge and smarts to follow a similar path. Get to know your professors, ask for letters of recommendation, and just try. You never know unless you try.”
Internship opportunities like ORNL’s exist at every academic level from community college and undergraduate programs to graduate and even faculty opportunities. To learn more about PVCC’s Science programs specifically, visit our website.