Meet the CAS Student Marshal: Joel Jarusek

From laboratories, to classrooms, to planetariums — Joel Jarusek has followed his love for physics across Omaha. And soon, he’ll be sharing that passion with the next generation.

Jarusek, a University of Nebraska at Omaha physics major, will begin teaching high school math and science in the coming fall. It's a career step the Omaha native is excited about, albeit one that was unexpected.

Initially, Jarusek had been drawn towards a research-driven Ph.D. career track. But as he reflected on the aspects of physics that brought him the most joy — namely his jobs as a teaching assistant and planetarium educator — his path curved towards education. He discovered that even though he enjoyed delving into niche research focuses, he felt most excited when he was sharing the broader aspects of science with new audiences.

While changing career goals may feel fraught for some, Jarusek felt encouraged by his professors and mentors when he discussed his new goals with them.

“Everybody I talked to is very encouraging and very excited to see one of their physics students go into education,” Jarusek said.

In addition to beginning his teaching career this fall, he’ll also be starting his master’s in secondary education here at UNO.

Jarusek’s adaptability and authenticity when changing his career ambitions is emblematic of the Maverick spirit — always forging ahead, even when it can be intimidating.

“I think it's just a different path,” Jarusek said, “And it was the right one for me.”