Today within the Ocean Core Academy various possible research topics and questions were generated. During the brainstorming process we had to quickly conjure up some questions for each of the topics. There were instances that I struggled to propose a question even with everything that I learned about the cores, their analyzation processes with various technology involved, and the oceanography/geological background information provided. I found that even with the in depth explanations of specific processes, there was still more that I felt impelled to understand. Although initially embarrassed for the lack of questions I could generate, this has shown me to embrace what I do not know. Instead of building confidence based on what I know, I want to begin to build confidence in the fact that I can always learn more. I look forward to put this way of thinking in practice for the rest of the program and am excited for moving forward. I am seeking to courageously ask questions and progress in my ability to ask better questions. The activities from today were very conducive to these realizations. I am really grateful I was able to hear the career pathways/life stories of the career panelists as it has provided much needed guidance that I did not know I needed!

Kristen Williams