I would like to take this time to welcome you not only to Physics and Calculus but to myself. Physics is the study of natural phenomena and is often considered the most fundamental science. Physicists work to illuminate the underlying laws of nature through experimentation, qualitative observation, and quantitative measurements. Calculus is the language of Physics and engineering. Calculus is the area of mathematics that allows us to model continuous systems of change. My interested in physics started around 1974 in high school. After high school I went on to college at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud Mn. This was a mid sized state university, which I firmly believe was the right choice for me as opposed to a large university. Next, I went to graduate school at the University of Arkansas. After 2 years of studying Quantum electrodynamics as a theoretical physics student I was invited to go to work at Los Alamos National Laboratory. After a short yet successful time there I realized that pure research was not the lifestyle for me. So my next move was to go back to the University of Arkansas to do some graduate work in mathematics. This time I specialized in Functional Analysis and Topology. Even though pure research was not my choice I continue to be involved in research of one form or another. My current interests include Sailing, Sea Kayaking, fly fishing, and art. It is my firm belief that an active mind always learns more than a passive mind. It is much more enjoyable to keep your mind active through curiosity than the pressures of an eminent test. Mark Hardies