That curiosity has helped him secure an internship with the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Valpo houses an on-campus nuclear physics lab in the Neils Science Center, which serves students specializing in nuclear science as part of the bachelor of science in physics program. At Valpo, students are encouraged to grow as people as well as professionals, developing their soft skills and ability to work within diverse teams and communities. “The most important things I’ve learned at Valpo aren’t really the technical skills,” Opiola said. Opiola’s internship is just one example of the meaningful opportunities Valpo students are pursuing this summer.