The seminar entitled “The Physicist Beyond Physics,” presented by UNPAR Physics alumnus Clementine F. Sunandar, S.Si., on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, in Room 9035, explored how the principles and ways of thinking developed through physics can be applied across a wide range of professional fields. The seminar provided a broader perspective on career opportunities for physics graduates, demonstrating that their expertise can extend beyond academia and research into industry, engineering, cosmetics, and fields related to human behavior.
In the field of wood engineering, physics principles are applied to understand loads, stress, strain, center of gravity, as well as the effects of moisture content and thermal properties on the strength and durability of materials. The use of various testing instruments also plays an important role in generating reliable data to support the development of interior and exterior products.
The application of physics was also discussed in cosmetic formulation and testing. The speaker explained how scientific knowledge of material properties and chemical composition can be utilized to evaluate the stability and quality of skincare products.
Another interesting aspect of the seminar was the application of scientific thinking to psychological counseling. Skills developed through the study of physics—such as observation, cause-and-effect analysis, systematic thinking, and the use of statistics and probability—can be transferred to the study of human behavior, enabling a more objective and analytical understanding of behavioral patterns.
The seminar also featured a discussion on astronomy and astrology, particularly the importance of distinguishing the scientific observation of celestial phenomena from astrological interpretations. This discussion provided an opportunity to reflect on how observation, patterns, and probability can be used to explore and understand various phenomena.
Through this seminar, students were encouraged to recognize that physics is not merely a collection of formulas and theories, but also a way of thinking that can be applied to a wide range of situations. Analytical, systematic, critical, and data-driven thinking are valuable skills that can be transferred to diverse professional fields.
At the end of the session, students were encouraged to identify their interests and potential from an early stage, actively seek experience through research projects and industry-related activities, and develop competencies that can support diverse career paths. The seminar “The Physicist Beyond Physics” served as a reminder that the boundaries of physics can extend far beyond traditional applications when scientific knowledge and ways of thinking are combined with creativity and personal interests.
