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"So what do you do? I mean, what do you actually do?" This is one of the mostcommon questions one theoretical physicist receives from her students, and isrepresentative of a common curiosity among aspiring physicists. Students oftenmisunderstand what different types of physicists actually do. For many, theterm "theoretical physicist" likely conjures mental images of Einstein,Feynman, or Sheldon Cooper discerning the underlying operating principles ofthe universe, armed with only pencil and paper. Such imagery is representativeof the "lone genius" stereotype many students ascribe to physicists. However,this common perception of physicists is known to discourage students,particularly underrepresented gender and racial groups, from pursuing it as acareer. Moreover, students of all demographic backgrounds may avoid physics ifthey feel they do not understand what different kinds of physicists do on adaily basis. Therefore, providing students with an accurate depiction of theskills, practices, motivations, and daily routines in different types physicscareers is essential for helping them make decisions about their future. Inthis article, we offer students a glimpse into what a career in theoreticalphysics is like. Through interviews with 11 practicing theoretical physicsfaculty, we reveal a variety of misconceptions theorists believe students holdabout their work. Addressing these misconceptions will provide students withimportant details to consider as they navigate their career decision process.

Beyond The Big Bang Theory: Revealing the everyday research lives of theoretical physics faculty