University of North Texas 
Mackenzie Lew is an outstanding undergrad who started working on her physics degree at UNT in 2022 as a transfer student.
Mackenzie Lew is an outstanding undergrad who started working on her physics degree
at UNT in 2022 as a transfer student. She is also minoring in mathematics and working
towards her teaching certification through Teach North Texas, UNT’s teacher preparation program for science and mathematics majors.
"I have fallen in love with the community at UNT and feel that moving to Denton has
changed my life for the better,” said Mackenzie, who started her college journey at UTSA
as a 4-8 grade science education major. "When I got here, I changed my major to mathematics
education, but after my first physics class I was hooked and switched majors again!The physics faculty is supportive and passionate, and the subject is rich, challenging,
and beautiful. I have had some bumps in the road, but I’m so glad to be where I am
right now.”
Though she didn’t know exactly where her journey would lead, Mackenzie always knew
she wanted to be a teacher, and next semester she will begin student teaching as part
of her training with Teach North Texas.
“My grandmother was a teacher and has inspired me so much; thinking of her keeps me
motivated for my studies and future career,” she said. “I have gone through several
different subjects as I’ve gotten older, but I’m so glad to have settled on a true
passion: high school physics.”
In addition to her coursework, Mackenzie also recently completed UNT's new Semiconductor Device Processing Microcredential with Dr. Usha Philipose, designed to equip students with foundational techniques in
semiconductor fabrication.
“Semiconductors have interested me since I first learned about them. The way that
their properties are so malleable and can be applied in so many ways is fascinating
to me,” said Mackenzie. “I also really wanted to study with Dr. Philipose. I had her
for PHYS 2220 (electricity and magnetism) and really wanted another chance to learn
from her!”
To complete the credential, students must create a device step-by-step that can be
used to measure the electrical properties of a given material using photolithography,
metallization, wire bonding, electrical testing, and Reactive Ion Etching (RIE).
“It may not seem immediately obvious how to apply semiconductor manufacturing to a
teaching setting but not only are there great opportunities for students to get jobs
in the semiconductor field, I plan to use this experience in my future classroom,”
said Mackenzie. “Problem solving and working incrementally towards a larger goal are
characteristics I hope to bring out in all of my future students, and I am now better
prepared to help others develop those mindsets.”
Mackenzie said that the emphasis on student focused learning at TNT has also helped
inspire and shape who she wants to be as an educator.
“Learning science changes lives, and to be a part of a young person’s introduction
to physics seems like a magical opportunity,” she said. “I look up to Dr. Philipose
and Mr. Hufford from TNT. They both have pushed me to do better in my academic journey,
and I hope to emulate them in my future classroom."