Student Spotlight: Thomas Bruce
Thomas Bruce is a junior at Florida State University pursuing a bachelor’s degree through the Department of Physics, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He currently interns with the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Institute where he models fire dynamics by analyzing prescribed burns, or controlled fires used to maintain forest health and reduce wildfire risk. Bruce is also the ringmaster for the FSU Flying High Circus, a role in which he writes scripts and leads the fall and spring shows. He plans to graduate in Spring 2027.
Tell us about your background and what brought you to FSU.
I grew up in Kansas City, Missouri for most of my life, but about four years ago, my family moved to Pensacola, Florida. I wasn’t completely sure where I wanted to go for college, but FSU felt like the right fit.
What inspired you to pursue physics?
I’ve been interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics since my childhood and competed in several STEM-based competitions growing up. I always enjoyed science classes, but physics stood out to me the most. My passion was solidified when I moved to Florida and began taking physics courses in high school. I had incredible instructors who made a huge impact and solidified my passion for the subject.
Break down your research at the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Institute.
My research focuses on fire dynamics, which treats fire as a fluid. In my internship, I study how liquids and gases move and interact by modeling their behaviors and exploring the principles of fluid dynamics. I’m currently researching prescribed burns, so I often travel to St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, located approximately 25 miles south of Tallahassee, to collaborate with the fire management team there. They conduct burns across designated plots of land, and I take measurements before and after each burn to determine how much material was consumed by the fire. We also fly drones overhead to measure a fire’s power output, or the amount of energy a fire releases over time, and collect data on air plumes — the visible and invisible clouds of hot air, smoke, and particles that move upward from a prescribed burn — to model how the fire behaves.
What should the public know about your research?
Prescribed burns are essential. Before human intervention, wildfires occurred naturally during storms because lightning serves as a powerful ignition source and gusty winds can spread flames quickly. Fires play a crucial role in maintaining balanced ecosystems; many forests evolved to depend on periodic fires to clear dense underbrush and promote regrowth. By conducting controlled burns every few years, we help prevent overgrowth and ensure the long-term health of these ecosystems.
Tell us about your involvement with the FSU Flying High Circus.
As ringmaster for the circus, I announce shows and write the scripts. I come from a speech and debate background, so speaking in front of people has always felt natural to me. My elementary school had a circus program where we learned to juggle and ride unicycles, so when I found out that FSU had a circus, I was determined to join. I tried out my freshman year and got the role of ringmaster.
Since then, I’ve watched incredible performers do unbelievable things right before my eyes. I’m constantly in awe of their talent and dedication. Being part of the circus has been one of the most unique and rewarding experiences during my time at FSU.
When two significant tornadoes hit Tallahassee on May 10, 2024 and destroyed the circus tent, it was a crushing moment for all of us. Fortunately, we were only out of commission for a year. During that time, we focused on rebuilding and keeping the program alive.
How have the clubs, organizations, and leadership roles you’ve been involved in shaped your experience at FSU?
Every organization I’m involved in has given me a sense of community. I’m part of several clubs, including the Society of Physics Students at FSU, the Society of Undergraduate Mathematics Students and the Pride Student Union. These involvements have opened my eyes to how many wonderful and welcoming communities exist on campus. No matter what part of yourself you want to explore, there’s a home for you here. It’s been incredible to see the reach of FSU’s organizations.
What faculty or staff members have helped or inspired you?
All the professors I’ve had in physics and philosophy — another academic interest I plan to pursue as a double-major — are incredible people who have shaped how I think and learn. Two mentors who especially stand out are Academic Center for Excellence assistant director Shane Hockin and senior academic program specialist Kim Jin. They’ve supported my work as an ACE tutor, accommodated my busy schedule and offered incredible advice. They’re wonderful people who have really helped me succeed.
What on-campus resources have helped you achieve success?
The abundance of study spaces across campus has made a great difference when it comes to maintaining my productivity and staying organized. I also love the Askew Student Life Center, especially the movie theater there. Whether I’m playing board games with friends or catching a weekly movie screening, it’s been an amazing way to unwind.
What is the most rewarding part of being a tutor at FSU’s Academic Center for Excellence?
Knowing you’ve helped change the trajectory of a student’s education is the most rewarding part of tutoring. Watching them gain confidence, understand the material, and succeed in their courses is incredibly satisfying.
Following graduation, what are your plans? Even though you might miss FSU, what are you looking forward to once you graduate?
I plan to pursue higher education in physics, so much of my summer will be spent studying and preparing for that next step. While I’m not entirely sure where that path will lead, I find that uncertainty exciting. I’m looking forward to discovering what the next chapter of my life has in store beyond FSU.