Shrey Kalpeshkumar PATEL,
2nd year PhD
My day commences between 7:00 and 9:00 AM, contingent upon my first class. I begin my day cooking a basic yet nutritious breakfast—overnight oats with honey, almonds, and chia seeds. I enjoy sitting by the window in my room, relishing the early light while consuming breakfast and planning my day on a sticky note. Planning enhances my concentration, and marking items off a list is profoundly satisfying. Before my departure, I water my succulents (every three days)—a little, tranquil routine that maintains my sense of stability. The morning walk to campus is one of my favorite parts of the day. It takes about 25 minutes down Walnut Street. I prefer walking eastward, facing the rising sun; it is a relaxing and energizing way to begin my day. With my headphones on, I usually listen to a playlist of my favorite music, which ranges from Bill Withers to Stromae and even Indian classical when I’m feeling reflective. This stroll allows me to center myself and mentally prepare for the upcoming busy day.
Lab Meeting and Collaboration: Biweekly, we convene for lab meetings to review relevant publications, research papers, or events pertinent to carbon management. These gatherings serve not only to disseminate information but also to foster connections with my labmates. The interchange of ideas is invaluable, and I consider myself fortunate to be part of a creative and supportive group. I constantly learn new things, so it is satisfying to read about the fascinating research that my colleagues have done.
Exploring Courses: Nano-Transport, Clean Energy Deployment, and Negotiation Strategies: My academic day commences with classes, of which I am enrolled in three this semester. I am enrolled in Nano-Transport with Professor Crocker, Clean Energy Deployment to Achieve Net Zero with my advisor, Professor Wilcox, and Negotiations at Wharton with Professor Max. Each of these classes is crucial in enhancing my knowledge and propelling me toward my objective of dedicating myself to research full-time upon completion of my coursework. The material is captivating, and the instructors exhibit considerable enthusiasm in their pedagogy, enhancing its engagement. I am particularly enthusiastic about the talks in my clean energy course, as they are directly relevant to my study on carbon dioxide removal.
Midday Relief and Rejuvenation: At noon, I require a pause. I often prepare lunch at home, utilizing cooking to unwind following arduous days. On days when I desire a change, I visit one of my preferred establishments—Chipotle or Goldie Falafel—both conveniently located near the university. During my breaks, I frequently stroll around Penn’s picturesque campus, with the Bio Pond being one of my preferred tranquil locations. During an extended break, I will visit the Schuylkill River trail for fresh air and exercise, or participate in a seminar or lecture occurring on campus. These intervals facilitate my rejuvenation and provide me with vitality for the remainder of the day. On Wednesdays, I enjoy participating in CBE seminars in the afternoon and have the opportunity to engage with the lecture speaker at lunch.
Laboratory Work and Research: I dedicate my afternoons to research, using simulations in ASPEN Plus to build a thorough geothermal-powered carbon removal pathway. This is where I engage in the technological processes of capturing and storing carbon dioxide. The potential of fundamental chemical engineering principles to address the pressing issue of climate change intrigues me. During my recent visit to Nevada, I explored mines, and a geothermal company was transformative. Observing geological faults firsthand and comprehending geothermal potential in practical contexts provided me with new insights and perspectives regarding my career.
Gym Sessions and Basketball at Pottruck: It is time to unwind by late afternoon. I go to Pottruck Fitness Center for exercise, basketball, or swimming when the pool is available. I believe sustaining an active lifestyle is essential for fitness and overall well-being. I relish the exhilaration of engaging in sports (basketball, tennis, volleyball)—it refreshes my mind following a day of rigorous academic concentration. Occasionally, I convene with peers from my cohort to participate in intramural sports. This semester, we will engage in soccer and volleyball, which I anticipate with enthusiasm.
Conclusion of the Day with Culinary Activities and Relaxation: Following my gym session, I return home, prepare a delicious lunch, and relax. Cooking serves as a means of relaxation for me; it provides a creative expression and an opportunity to disengage from academic obligations. Depending on the evening, I may socialize with friends, take a stroll, or view a film. Engaging in research or revising my notes constitutes my productive activity; however, rest and recuperation hold equal significance.
Weekend Adventures: Hiking and Social Engagement: Weekends represent an ideal combination of productivity and enjoyment. I utilize Saturdays and Sundays to complete household tasks—laundry, food shopping, and cleaning—while also engaging in my passions. As president of the Graduate Student Hiking Club, I coordinate monthly excursions with peers and colleague students. Exploring locations such as Wissahickon and Hawk Mountain or even traveling further to Jim Thorpe has become a preferred pastime of mine. Escaping the urban environment for wilderness is invigorating and facilitates my mental reset for the forthcoming week. I engage in tennis, basketball, and volleyball with friends, ensuring my weekends remain active.