Just Go With the Flow

Just Go with the Flow

BHAVNEET

Photo by Thirdman on Pexels

Dear insecure one,

I know you weren’t exactly a science kid during school, nor were you ever really inclined toward it for the right reasons. You were generally good at school, but science was just another subject to study and get a good score. At the time, there was history, literature, commerce, so many options! But your parents suggested Mathematics and Sciences would open up more options.

When people around you had been preparing for competitive exams forever, you were googling the full form of IIT, thinking it was some kind of a coaching center. Trust me, you’ll find it funny looking back, but I also know it was tough to catch up with everyone. But you did!

I am very grateful that you made that effort despite people telling you it was too late to start, for you have found this beautiful place, surrounded by the amazing research and aspiring scientists."

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You may have gotten into science to please your parents, but you stayed to quench your curiosity. It may seem to you right now that a successful life in academia is limited to publications, grants, and positions, but I assure you it’s much more than that.

It's about being excited by the little questions and trying to find an answer to them."

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You’ll soon find a field you love, until then, don’t be scared of experimenting, because who said you have to stick to one discipline forever?

As someone who chose to specialise in an interdisciplinary field, my relationship with other sciences evolved purely out of my fidgety personality. I had questions about what Einstein was on about, so I got into the Special theory of relativity. I was fascinated by lasers, I worked on Blue diodes. Then when a senior explained their research in biophysics, I was drawn to the dynamics of biological processes.

I understand it’s a bit scary, to be around such passionate people who have been so well-connected with science since childhood. All of them seem to have a plan which they follow with conviction. You feel a bit timid, and maybe a little stupid too. But looking back, I urge you to not be intimidated by those people, rather stick around and ask as many questions as you can. There wouldn’t be a point in being in college if you already knew everything, so please don’t be so scared, and ask away.

Illustration by Bhavneet

However, it soon started getting a bit monotonous dealing with all the differential equations. But then one of the Biology professors taught a beautiful course on evolutionary biology and ecology, I was just smitten. This motivated me to explore more such connections between Mathematics and Biology. Right there, I knew I wanted to stay connected to biology. But then again, the logical and categorical nature of mathematics was what I needed to keep me sane. So, here I am, studying the topological properties of DNA crystals.

I am telling you this because I want you to understand, that you don’t have to know what you want to do in science. It’s not an intersection of roads, rather you are in a boat called Life floating in the ocean of scientific pursuits, and you can pick any direction you want. And guess what? You can always edit your course as you go along. I believe the key is to go with the flow in your undergraduate years. You don’t have to stick to something early on, give a chance to whatever is available around you, and if in that process you find something that can hold your attention, follow that direction into your Master’s degree.

Illustration by Bhavneet

Still, you don’t have to do anything, you’ll meet people who shift areas during or even after their Ph.Ds. You are just a curious kid, you can’t know everything, So, don’t be scared, and never stop asking questions! I am sure you will chart a beautiful course which will be yours to reminisce.

Rooting for you,
Bhavneet

About Bhavneet

Bhavneet Singh is a Mathematician by training with an interest in Biology, primarily studying knotty linear polymer chains (pun intended :D). Science writing and communication has been a source of contentment for him, but more importantly he believes that it is his responsibility as a researcher. He believes that scientific temperament and empathy are very closely associated and in today's world where our society is becoming increasingly intolerant, we need science communicators to help humans reconnect with themselves.