Instead of ESPN or an intense game of Halo, the giant flat screen in the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity house living room last night featured complicated diagrams of advanced physics and descriptions of abstract string theory.
Physics professor Mirjam Cvetic spoke to about 20 fraternity brothers in a presentation on the basis of string theory and her complex theoretical research on the subject.
In simple terms, string theory is a theoretical model that brings together conflicting ideas in quantum physics to create a unified theory.
Engineering sophomore Matt DiFrancesco, academic chairman of SAM, said he invited Cvetic for her expertise in the topic and her engaging classroom presence.
"The best part was that she is so excited by it," DiFrancesco said. "It was not necessary to understand it. It was nice to see someone so excited about something so abstract. It is a huge part of what a school like this is really about."
The feelings of appreciation and enjoyment were mutual.
"I love to teach undergraduates," Cvetic said. "It's a pleasure. It is a challenge to convey your thinking while trying to connect at the same time."
Judging by the number of questions and the full living room, concepts in advanced physics may have more of a place in a frat house than one would have originally thought.
The smaller, intimate setting allowed for questions and conversation, enabling attendees to gain more from the experience.
College sophomore Charlie Isaacs said he especially appreciated the comfortable location.
"It was cool because it was in our living room," he said.
The audience had physics students and humanities majors alike.
"It was nice to think of something I never understood," College sophomore Benny Laitman said. "It was kind of nice to begin to understand it. It is a more interesting kind of physics."
Whether they attended for the spread of sandwiches, wraps and free soda in the back or the enlightening lecture by an acclaimed professor, SAM brothers said they enjoyed the more educational activity.
"It's the first of many," DiFrancesco said.
