My Profession in Earth Science

Most of us as kids would have played a lot with little rocks and pebbles in the parks and brought some home too, specially the smooth shiny one. I was in no way different and loved playing with dolls as much as with rocks, just loved the ripples created when you throw a small rock in water one after another. Well, as I grew up my interest in all things related to earth, its formation, evolution, mineral composition were topics that fascinated me. More so, as my Mom was a Science teacher, I used to watch her prepare for student projects and avidly noticed that it was indeed an exciting subject.

When most of my friends chose to study popular subjects related to physics, health care, pharmacy, engineering etc. based on their aptitude I chose something different. Well, I have been very unique in most things I did in my life which is not what I want to have a dissertation through this article. But yes, I chose to study Earth Science and planned to take it up as a profession. Well, for those who are ignorant as to what involves Earth Science is, it has a very broad scope and is a “branch of science that deals with the physical constitution of Earth and its atmosphere”.

I aimed to be a Geo Scientist and be famous someday. I wanted to find answers to all my questions that crept to my mind since childhood about earth, mountains, environment etc. like a ‘detective’ and so I chose to study Earth Science. The best part about this study is that you do spend a lot out doors as part of the course and I just loved it. I studied at the Simon Fraser University for four years and graduated with a Bachelor degree in Earth Science. I wanted to choose my profession based on my ‘calling’ and not another 10-6 job for earning my bread and butter.

However, there was a twist in my career planning to an extent, with a diagnosis of early stage Breast Cancer. During treatment, I had to forego a lot of the strenuous expeditions and explorations. My life changed and though I did not become a Geo Scientist I did end up becoming a Professor in the same University teaching my favorite subject, Earth Science. This setting did keep me somewhat grounded compared to the numerous camping and clambering across rocks and what not during my student years, in field trips mostly across the coast of North America. It helped me on my health grounds and also still allowed me to stay in touch with what I loved.

As a professor of Earth Science, I get very much involved in preparing, examining, appraising and lecturing students apart from assignments in the laboratory. The one part I dislike is the red tape and paper work involving in funding requests for projects that are so important for the future of Earth Science development. I devote significant time to researching on Earth Science projects.

It is very intriguing while discovering interesting aspects of this wonderful science when on an expedition with my students. Even, while outdoors I do take care of my health and pack up a healthy diet for lunch. Usually that may include salad, some protein and a fruit or yogurt with lots of water. My students comment that my lunch menu had almost become predictable. I encourage them to eat healthy too since being lean and fit while climbing, hiking and exploring is very important.

Well, I am a survivor of a life threatening disease and this profession in Earth Science has still allowed me to live my life to the fullest, exploring, teaching and trying to find answers to the questions raised by my inner child as well.. Exploration with students on these field trips are also very intriguing to me as you never know what to expect and when back in the University, we write up reports and projects based on our findings. Well, not all trips may be adventurous but I never underestimate each discovery made. I don’t push my limits

Driving back home after a tiring and satisfying day in the University, I could never imagine myself doing anything else for a living. I am very much in my essence and thoroughly enjoy my profession as a Professor in Earth Science and imparting the knowledge I have to my students.