After5Chicago - Physics 101... In Heels

A Conversation on Science, Curiosity, and Seeing the World Differently

Join a theoretical particle physicist and physics educator for Physics 101… In Heels, a fun, approachable, and slightly fabulous exploration of the fundamental principles of physics and how they show up in the world around us. From gravity and motion to forces and energy, we'll break down the science behind everyday experiences without the intimidating equations or traditional lecture-hall feel.

And yes, we're doing physics in heels.

What We'll Cover:

• The forces all around us - Explore the fundamental forces that shape our everyday world, from gravity and friction to the forces that keep us moving, standing, and occasionally stumbling.

• Why things move the way they do - Discover the basics of motion, momentum, acceleration, and Newton's Laws, and how these principles explain everything from a moving car to a dancer in motion.

• The physics hiding in plain sight - See how physics shows up in everyday life, from walking and balancing to dancing, falling, spinning, and everything in between.

Whether you loved physics in school, struggled with it, or haven't thought about it since your last science class, you'll leave seeing the world a little differently and realizing that physics is happening all around you.

Don't miss this chance to connect with your After5Society.

About The Speaker:

Raresh Fota is a theoretical particle physicist and physics educator currently pursuing his PhD in Physics at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He graduated from UCLA with a degree in Physics in 2024, and his research focuses on understanding why particles stay together to form matter. Beyond his research, Rares is passionate about making physics accessible and helping students discover the field. Outside of academia, Rares is also a dancer and the creator behind Professor Diva, his physics-teaching alter ego. Through Professor Diva, he combines science, performance, and personality to make physics approachable, entertaining, and accessible to everyone.

Good to know before you come:

• Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email

• Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled

• The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward

• This is a participatory event

• Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate