Jackson Hanson grew up in West Palm Beach, Florida. As a consummate student, he strove to compete at the highest levels in school and valued his academic education.
During his high school years, Jackson worked for a cold brew coffee stand, a position that ultimately fueled his passion for entrepreneurship.
He went on to attend Villanova University, a private research University in Pennsylvania. However, as the global pandemic impacted the education system, Jackson took a leave of absence to pursue other professional opportunities. He spent several years building a website that allows individuals and businesses to sell equity. Jackson has since returned to the University of Villanova in pursuit of his degree in Physics. In his free time, he enjoys researching effective altruism and existential risk.
What are you currently majoring in at University?
I am majoring in physics. It is my belief that everyone should know and understand the way the world comes together and operates. Physics is the path for many changes and improvements and understanding.
Why did you choose this major?
It is critical to understanding the world around us. The new approaches to studying physics fascinate me as well. We’re able to do deep research into things on the quantum level now. It’s going to be a journey worth enjoying. It’ll be fun diving deeper into research and application of science.
What are you hoping to do with your degree?
Everyone should have a firm understanding of physics. It’s a tool for manipulating the world around us, ideally for the better. Using it to improve our understanding allows us to improve how we treat what we interact with everyday. In my opinion, this is the foundation for executing change on a grand scale, benefiting society as a whole instead of micro levels. I am hoping to execute those goals and lead the change that can come to the world around us.
What keys to being productive can you share?
That’s a tough question because I’ve never given it much thought. I stay productive by just doing. I work long hours and strive to maintain my grades. I guess I would strongly recommend staying constantly curious. It motivates a lot of things, including change and improvement to the world around us.
What advice would you give to others starting to study in your field?
Before you get to university level courses, you should have an understanding of the core concepts as it applies to physics specifically. Understanding the basic principles lays the foundation of understanding the greater more complex nuances.
What are some of your favorite things to do outside of school?
I like to read bibliographies and history. I also enjoy playing chess. Participating competitively hasn’t crossed my mind, but it’s been good to connect with others who also enjoy the game. While I spend the majority of my time studying, I think it’s important to make time to decompress as a way to avoid stress and burnout.
How would your peers describe you?
They’d probably say I’m observant and that I can provide a unique perspective on any project we’re working on. Having multiple perspectives on a project is beneficial because the different insights point out unique options and situations others might not notice in the same project.
What is one piece of technology that helps you the most in your daily routine?
My iPhone helps me stay in contact with teachers, students, and friends. This allows me to stay on track each day depending on what needs to be accomplished.
Who has been a role model to you and why?
One of my role models is Elon Musk. He demonstrates how one person can change the world. It’s empowering to read about his life and learn about how far he’s come.
What does success look like to you?
For me, success is being able to provide value to many people. Whatever form that ultimately takes, I want to know that my efforts are benefiting many others. I see physics as the stepping stone to making things happen.
What is one piece of advice you would like to leave our readers with?
That is a good question. One thing I heard all of my life that really applies to everything we do is: “Try and leave this world a little better than you found it” a quote by Robert Baden-Powell. I find this to be true of everything. School projects may be my focus now, but even when I am working on one of my own projects, or at work, it’s how I approach everything. I think it’s important that we all self-reflect and make choices that can positively impact our communities.
