The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Corps are chosen to serve as representatives to all constituents of CAS and to create, promote and execute opportunities for academic and professional growth. These students represent a variety of departments from across CAS and will represent the College at events through interaction among current students, future students, parents, donors and alumni.
Throughout the semester, we will be introducing new students representing the College in the 2025-26 academic year through a question-and-answer format. For more about the CAS Corps, visit: cas.appstate.edu/students/cas-corps.
Cade Tischer
Year: Senior
Major: Physics - Applied Physics
Minor: Mathematics
Hometown: Cary
What brought you to App State?
“The location. The thought of being able to attend school in the mountains was hard to pass up.”
What scholarship(s) have you received from Appalachian or while studying at Appalachian?
“I have received the Karl C. Mamola Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Physics and Astronomy Research.”
What research or coursework have you been most passionate about?
“I have spent a lot of my time doing research at AppalAIR under Dr. James Sherman. Working under him has opened the door to many amazing opportunities that I may not have had the chance to take if I didn't research with him and his team.”
Where is your favorite place on campus and why?
“Being a physics student, my favorite place on campus is Garwood Hall. It's always filled with friends and faculty who have you and your success in their best interest. It's a wonderful community to get the chance to be a part of.”
What is one of your favorite memories at Appalachian thus far?
“I recently had the opportunity to travel to Italy for a research conference, and it was an unforgettable experience. Being able to explore a new part of the world while also presenting the research I have been working on was absolutely amazing.”
What do you like about Boone and the surrounding community?
“I think the Boone community is filled with kind people who enjoy each other as well as the place that they are in. It's hard to spend a day around town without being reminded what an amazing community and place Boone is.”
What are your hobbies?
“I very much so like to travel. The feeling of exploring a new place is something that will always be special to me. On the more local side of things, I enjoy running, reading, and most of all, spending time with my friends.”
What is your favorite book, podcast, artist, and/or television show?
“My favorite book is A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving. My favorite artist is Frank Sinatra.”
Tell us about one faculty or staff member who has made an impact on your life and how.
“Dr. James Sherman has made a monumental impact on my life during my time at Appalachian State. In my first year studying physics, he welcomed me into his research group and gave me the chance to learn the ropes of a real-world lab. Through his mentorship, I have had the opportunity to receive the North Carolina / NASA Space Grant, earn the Karl C. Mamola Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Physics and Astronomy Research, and travel internationally to share my work. Beyond all of that, his research group has also given me the chance to form amazing friendships within my community.”
What do you feel has been valuable in your education at Appalachian versus another institution?
“I think the Appalachian State Department of Physics and Astronomy is filled with students and professors who genuinely want to see you succeed in STEM. To me, the most beneficial aspect of the department is that you can reach out to anyone at any time, and they will be there to help as best they can. It’s a community built on camaraderie and collaboration.”
What do you hope to do after graduation?
“Once I graduate, I plan on taking some personal time to travel and see the things I might not have had the time for during school. Once that is done, I plan on returning to Appalachian State to get my master's in Engineering Physics. After that, I plan on working in industry. Not certain as to what field yet, but leaning towards electrical engineering.”
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About the Department of Physics and Astronomy
The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s curriculum has an applied nature that includes a core of fundamental physics courses and laboratory experiences. The department prepares graduates for a variety of scientific, teaching or engineering professions, as well as future educational endeavors. Learn more at physics.appstate.edu.
About the College of Arts and Sciences
The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) at Appalachian State University is home to 17 academic departments, two centers and one residential college. These units span the humanities and the social, mathematical and natural sciences. CAS aims to develop a distinctive identity built upon our university's strengths, traditions and locations. The college’s values lie not only in service to the university and local community, but through inspiring, training, educating and sustaining the development of its students as global citizens. More than 6,800 student majors are enrolled in the college. As the college is also largely responsible for implementing App State’s general education curriculum, it is heavily involved in the education of all students at the university, including those pursuing majors in other colleges. Learn more at cas.appstate.edu.
Compiled by Lauren Gibbs
October 30, 2025
BOONE, N.C.
CAS Corps member Cade Tischer is a senior applied physics major from Cary. Photo submitted
CAS Corps member Cade Tischer is a senior applied physics major from Cary. Photo submitted