Can you name someone that pulled off a certain impossible feat academically?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Gary_T2018
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Impossible
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion centers on individuals who have achieved remarkable academic feats, often perceived as "impossible." Notable examples include Emily Calandarelli, who holds four STEM degrees including two M.A.s from MIT, and Frank Ryan, who earned a PhD in mathematics while playing in the NFL. The conversation also highlights the achievements of Igor Lovchinsky, a classical pianist with a PhD in Physics from Harvard, and Michael Griffin, a former NASA Administrator with six graduate degrees. Participants debate the definition of "impossible" in the context of academic achievements, suggesting that many feats, while impressive, may not be truly impossible.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of academic degree structures (e.g., PhD, M.A., M.Sc.)
  • Familiarity with notable figures in academia and their contributions
  • Knowledge of standardized testing metrics (e.g., SAT scores)
  • Awareness of interdisciplinary achievements (e.g., combining sports and academia)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the academic achievements of Emily Calandarelli and her contributions to STEM fields.
  • Explore the life and work of Frank Ryan, focusing on his dual career in mathematics and professional football.
  • Investigate the contributions of Igor Lovchinsky to both music and physics.
  • Study the educational background and impact of Michael Griffin on NASA and defense research.
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and professionals interested in the intersection of academic excellence and diverse career paths, as well as those seeking inspiration from extraordinary achievements in academia.

  • #31
Ygggdrasil said:
I always knew Newton's style would be quite derivative.
Don't worry. We won't tell anyone you said that.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
Getting multiple degrees is not that difficult if you have the money/financial support and don't have to work. Continually going to school is hardly a feat. Getting degrees in related disciplines is even easier because previous coursework can be used for some of the degree requirements.

And that guy who's a pianist and has a physics doctorate...he's been playing since he was two. Probably had a teacher for years and years. Not at all difficult to excel at something one has been doing for as long as one can walk.

What's really amazing is how far socioeconomic privilege alone can take a person.
 
  • #33
Judah_Idris said:
socioeconomic privilege

I'm so old I remember when that was called "money".
 
  • Wow
Likes   Reactions: Tom.G

Similar threads

  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 80 ·
3
Replies
80
Views
69K
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
26K