SAC Students Lisa Tusko and Jessica Joyner Earn Prestigious Summer Internships at Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics

San Antonio College (SAC) is proud to announce that two outstanding members of the Society of Physics Students (SPS), Lisa Tusko, Vice President, and Jessica Joyner, Secretary, have been awarded summer internships through the prestigious CREATE program. Directed by astrophysicist Dr. Rodolfo Montez, a SAC alumnus, the program offers these talented students an incredible opportunity to work at the Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in Boston.

Lisa and Jessica, both dedicated students and passionate about astrophysics, will spend the summer immersed in research, with the goal of presenting theirfindings at the 247th American Astronomical Society (AAS) Meeting in January 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Seizing a Life-Changing Opportunity

For Lisa, this internship is more than just a research opportunity—it’s a significant milestone in her academic journey. “I want to do something with black holes. Everything is changing in astrophysics, and it’s incredibly exciting to be a part of this dynamic field,” she shared. A first-generation college student who has overcome significant challenges, Lisa is eager to immerse herself in research at one of the world’s most prestigious astrophysical institutions.

Jessica, who plans to study mechanical engineering at UT Austin, shares her excitement. “Being part of this research is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It feels like the perfect chance to jump in and learn everything I can about the field of astrophysics,” she expressed. This experience provides Jessica with a foundation for her future academic and professional aspirations.

Support from SAC and SPS

Lisa and Jessica’s journey to the CREATE program began at SAC, where they have both been active members of the Society of Physics Students (SPS). Their involvement in SPS helped them develop the skills and connections needed to apply for the internship. Both students credit Professor Alfred Alaniz, their faculty mentor and SPS sponsor, with encouraging them to apply for the internship. “Professor Alaniz always tells us that we make him look good, but he’s the one giving us all these opportunities.” 

Through their participation in SPS, both Lisa and Jessica learned about the CREATE internship. “I joined SPS because Lisa mentioned it to me. She shared all about the incredible experiences and research opportunities, and the next week, I attended a meeting. I’ve been involved ever since,” Jessica explained.

Research and Mentorship

The CREATE program is designed to provide students with hands-on research experience, mentorship, and the opportunity to develop their own research projects. “This internship is open to students with no prior research experience. It’s meant to help us build skills and connect with mentors who are experts in the field,” Jessica said. Both students emphasize that the CREATE program is about much more than research—it's about learning, growing, and connecting with mentors who will guide their academic journeys.

Lisa is particularly excited about the opportunity to present her research at the AAS meeting in 2026. "It’s a major event in the field, and being able to share our findings there is going to be incredible,” she said.

Looking to the Future

As they prepare for their summer internships, Lisa and Jessica are already thinking about the impact this experience will have on their future careers. Lisa, whose passion for black holes and astrophysical phenomena has shaped her academic path, sees this internship as a crucial step toward her goals. “I love learning about space, and this internship is giving me the chance to explore it in ways I never imagined,” she said.

Jessica, who aspires to continue her studies in mechanical engineering and astrophysics, is using this opportunity as a stepping stone to future research. “If I continue with research, grad school is the next step. I want to build my education and make connections that will help me grow in the field of mechanical engineering and astrophysics,” she said.

A Transformative Experience

The CREATE program, which includes a stipend and the opportunity to stay at the Harvard campus and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, is proving to be a transformative experience for both students. As they prepare for their research presentations in 2026, Lisa and Jessica reflect on how much they’ve learned and grown throughout this journey.

“This internship is an incredible chance, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it,” Jessica said. “It’s setting me up for the future, and I’m excited to see where this path leads.”

Lisa and Jessica’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the opportunities that arise when students are given the right mentorship, encouragement, and support. SAC is proud to support these bright students as they continue their academic journeys and contribute to the exciting world of astrophysical research. Their success is a testament to the power of education, determination, and the pursuit of passion, showing that with hard work and dedication, the sky is the limit.