In 2003, I was member of the US Physics Team for the second time. I went through the same qualification process and attended the 1 week training camp at the University of Maryland that I did as 2002 US Physics Team member. This year I was one of the 5 students to represent the US at the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO).
The IPhO was held in Taipei, Taiwan in 2003. Students from dozens of countries around the world compete in the Olympiad. Each country is allowed to send up to 5 students. The IPhO consists of a 5 hour theoretical exam and a 5 hour experimental exam. About 20 gold medals, 40 silver medals, and 40 bronze medals are awarded to the best students. I placed 19th overall and won a gold medal. The US won 3 gold and 2 silver medals, making it the highest scoring country. The US also won the special awards for Best Theoretical Score, Best Experimental Score, and Highest Female Scorer.
In addition to the exam, the participants had a chance to tour Taipei, and visit various locations such as the National Palace Museum, sulfur vents in the mountains, various temples, and an amusement park.
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| The US team at the opening ceremony. From left to right: Daniel Gulotta, Emily Russell, me, Immanuel Buder, and Pavel Batrachenko. |
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| The US team in front of a sign greeing us outside the hotel. |
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| The US team and our guide upon arriving at the airport. |
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