General exam: Another attendee seated next to me, Nikita, just told me that this was his 3rd time watching this presentation and was dying for the next phase of work.

We're ending our live coverage of the exam now but thank you for joining us!

#physics @seattlekraken.com

LIVE: Raucous applause as Murali finishes his general exam; audience members are thrilled and his advisor is beaming.

"It's hard work, it takes time to understand, but it's important. I'll start taking questions now."

#physics @seattletimes-rss.bsky.social @seahawksofficial.com

Murali lands the plane on BAO data and ties it all together with an eloquent reconciliation of free streaming fractions.

It's evident to see the impacts his time at Cornell and as a teacher at the Breakthrough Collaborative has had on his communication style.

Attached: Hackathon photo
#physics

"Things are getting a little complicated, but bear with me"

A rare acknowledgement from Saravanan about the intricacies of the cosmology space. Thinking that we're in the meatiest part of the discussion yet, focused on BAO data.

#physics @seattletimes-rss.bsky.social

📊 ANALYSIS: Saravanan's analysis of degeneracy is reminiscent of his time conducting research as an undergrad.

In the attached photo from our partners at the University of Michigan, taken in CERN in 2019, viewers will note the change in looks -- but recognize the same grit and focus.

#physics

Just like that, we're already a quarter of the way through the exam -- Saravanan is absolutely in a flow right right now, and on pace to record a historic exam.

"I'm about to throw a lot at you, but don't worry, I'll hold your hand."

@aurahack.bsky.social #physics #science #STEM

Murali's rocking a topline set of gear, including:
-a green laser pointer (some speculate it's the $785 DSAN PC-433-Mini)
-state of the art animation embedded within the presentation
-and as always, custom designed sweater made for this event

@seattletimes-rss.bsky.social @bjpols.bsky.social

🔴 LIVE: The exam has begun. Saravanan begins with a history of the universe. He's gregarious, confident -- channeling the presence of effective physics communicators in the field.

"Things are really hot, things are really dense."

#Physics

@scifri.bsky.social @science.org

A touching moment as Murali's parents call in from the East Coast. It's been a long journey to the Emerald City for Murali since he began his young, rising career as a high schooler in NC competing in @HOSA.

@seattletimes-rss.bsky.social @sea.nws-bot.us

🏕️ BREAKING: Speaking to undergrads lined up, it’s clear that some have camped out overnight outside UW’s Physics & Astronomy Building to secure prime seats for Saravanan’s exam. Overall, a festive mood, though security mentioned isolated incidents of a few isolated fights. #Physics