TEDxCaltech - Jordan Theriot - The Pleasure of Finding Things Out

Jordan Theriot is a third-year undergraduate majoring in chemistry at Caltech. Jordan is working in the lab of
Professor Robert Grubbs designing and synthesizing new metathesis catalysts, which are important for the formation of new carbon-carbon bonds. Shortly after Hurricane Katrina, she left her native New Orleans to attend the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts. Since then, she has gone to some unusual measures to immerse herself in the academic world, not the least of which is attending Caltech. Her interests include French literature and making the most of the educational experience.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event: In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)

[Konig]

Jordan is so enthusiastic and inspirational when it comes to academics. I'm proud to have gone to high school with her. She was always an interesting person to talk to and it seems that she indeed still is.

[morganhendry]

I had the pleasure of attending this TEDx event, and, hands down, this was the best talk of the day. Jordan really captured the essence of what the conference was supposed to be about and was able to convey it (better than most of the folks that actually knew Feynman).

[zenwithamit]

I am completely moved by her presentation. So honest and captivating. I realize today how people make choices in their life and looking back at my own it seems to be making sense that I want to be a teacher too as a mark of respect to few of the great teachers in my life.

[shivyabansal]

SHE WAS MY TA AT BERKELEY!!! the best TA I've had so far. I wish she hadn't left Berkeley! I miss her, we all do! 

[TurielD]

I'm a psychology student with a lot of physics in my background, and I've recently become inspired by Richard Feynman. I wish there were more really inspirational teachers - in fact I'm now looking at researching what makes these particular types of professors and mentors effective during my master's degree...

[beningtirta]

Oh my goodness. You energized my spirit in doing my research..

[aaron]

She represents LSMSA well.
You go Jordan.

[mike]

She has quite the ability to articulate her thoughts. I was impressed and jealous lol

[rafaelkoki]

A passionate one immediatelly recognizes another!
True scientists (the Feynman-like ones, not the phonies...) must teach the common man how to love Nature and glorify her forever, and learn to accept her the way she is, and adjust to it.

[FrancoisLabelle-yftj]

I wish she could spell her name as it should, Theriault...wonderful presentation!

[andyrooney]

That is the hottest researcher I've ever seen...nerds these days don't come with glasses & pocket protectors anymore. My sister works in a lab @ USC and her research center throws parties all the time during which a lot of people get drunk. I've talked to some of these people & they're just brilliant but they also know how to party & the women are just FINE. Makes me wish I was a geek.