Kavin Siaw, 2025 USGS Research Intern

Biography

SPS Chapter: Brigham Young University Idaho
My name is Kavin Siaw, and I am currently a senior at Brigham Young University - Idaho (BYU-I), pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Physics with an emphasis in Astronomy. Additionally, I am obtaining minors in Mathematics and Computer Programming, complementing my undergraduate studies. During my academic journey at BYU-I, I have conducted research focused on variable stars and the supermassive black hole Mrk 501 in the optical wavelength. I particularly enjoyed processing and analyzing data related to these celestial phenomena, as this research has provided valuable insights and answered intriguing questions about the universe.Beyond research and coursework, I also participated in a student-led project to build a spectrometer under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Our team used basic lenses, optical design software (OSLO), and the thin lens equation to construct the device. Through this hands-on experience, I developed a deeper understanding of photon behavior as it interacts with different media, as well as the practical limitations of various optical components.In my leisure time, I enjoy being actively involved in the local Society of Physics Students (SPS) chapter, where I help plan activities for fellow physics students. As a Planetarium Operator, I present shows to the community, sharing my passion for astronomy engagingly and educationally. I also value spending time with friends and welcoming incoming students at BYU-I. Serving as both a tutor and the director at the Physics Drop-In Tutoring Lab has deepened my understanding of core physics principles while allowing me to support others in their learning. Outside of academics, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and participating in church activities.

Internship

Host: United States Geological Survey Research Intern

Internship Blog

Week 1: What’s Up, D.C.?

The flight across the continent—from west to east—was an exciting adventure in itself. When I first landed at Dulles International Airport in D.C., I told myself, “This journey is just beginning.” I knew for certain that whatever I would experience here would be completely different from the place I had called home for the past four years.
Now that I’ve settled into what will be my home for the next ten weeks, I’m ready to get wonderfully lost in this city! 😄 Everything feels new—and honestly, a little confusing! Also, life without my car is definitely an adjustment, but I’m eager to embrace the change. At first, I wasn’t even able to pick up my bedding from the mail services at George Washington University (GWU), so I had to survive my first night with a cold, undecorated bed—haha. Not exactly the warmest welcome, but definitely a memorable one!

At first, I was nervous to meet the other interns, my mentor, and my coworkers. I was completely alone in a new place, where no one knew anything about me. But in a way, that made everything feel possible—like a fresh start, the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Walking through crowded streets, navigating the metro with barely any signs, and getting used to the frequent rain have slowly become my new normal. The time difference threw me off at first, but with each day, I’ve begun to appreciate how vibrant and full of life this city truly is. One day, I even stumbled upon a building that looked straight out of Diagon Alley from Harry Potter—it felt like I had briefly crossed into the wizarding world!

Alongside adjusting to the city and finding my footing, my internship officially began! The long-awaited morning arrived when all the interns gathered for orientation—and I was genuinely excited to finally meet everyone. During the session, we had a chance to get to know each other better and even build a spaghetti tower together (let’s just say I’m definitely not an engineer, but I gave it my best shot, haha). Our tower leaned quite a bit, and we jokingly called it another Tower of Lisa—haha! 😆 Even so, we somehow landed second place!
During orientation, I was able to soak up a wealth of helpful information that will support both my daily life and my experience here. By the end of the day, I felt truly ready to begin my research adventure at USGS the very next morning.
The next day, I made my way to Reston, Virginia, for my very first day at USGS. It was a very wet day—it rained almost nonstop for 24 hours! I had to find creative ways to stay dry, and I definitely regretted not listening to that little voice telling me to bring an umbrella. The USGS building is massive—honestly, it felt like a maze! I lost count of how many times I got turned around, and to top it off, the worst part of my first day was that I couldn’t even find the restroom! Haha… 😅
Nevertheless, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know my mentor, Dr. Hackley, along with my coworkers, Javin and Jennifer. They’ve been absolutely amazing—kind, patient, and supportive from the very start. Thanks to them, I’ve started to feel like this place is another home. I honestly wouldn’t have felt as confident in my position without their help. They’ve guided me through the lab setup, taught me how to use the microscope, introduced me to the types of rocks I’ll be studying… and handed me a wrench? Wait—what? A WRENCH??

Between the Reston Town Center Metro Station and the USGS building, there’s a beautiful wooded path that winds quietly through the trees, connecting the busy road to the campus. It feels like a hidden gem tucked between the buzz of city life and the seriousness of scientific work. During my breaks—especially after spending hours focused in the lab or at my desk—I love stepping outside and walking along this peaceful trail. The fresh air, the rustling leaves, and the soft crunch of gravel beneath my shoes help ease the tension and clear my mind. It’s the perfect little reset that recharges me and restores my enthusiasm for the research I’m doing.
These walks have become one of my favorite parts of the day. They remind me to slow down, reflect, and appreciate not just the science, but the environment I’m working in. I’ve truly been enjoying my research so far—there’s something really fulfilling about getting to apply what I’ve learned while constantly discovering more along the way.
On a wonderful Friday night, we had the opportunity to attend the Trimble Lecture hosted by the American Institute of Physics (AIP), featuring Dr. Peter Galison, a renowned professor from Harvard University. His talk, titled “History, Philosophy, and Culture of Black Holes in the Midst,” was absolutely fascinating. Dr. Galison shared the incredible journey he and his students took in helping to produce the very first image of the supermassive black hole M87, captured in radio wavelengths back in 2017. Hearing this story firsthand—from someone directly involved—made me feel like a close second-hand witness to one of the most groundbreaking moments in modern astrophysics.
He went on to explain the concept of the photon ring, a glowing halo of light caused by photons orbiting near the black hole’s event horizon before reaching us. The way he described the physics and the philosophical implications behind imaging the “invisible” truly captivated the audience. I even had the chance to ask him a question about the photon ring itself—specifically, how scientists can determine which photons had actually orbited the black hole before traveling to Earth. His answer sparked even more curiosity in me. The entire experience was not only intellectually engaging but also deeply inspiring. It reminded me why I’m passionate about astronomy and research in the first place.

After that, we had a “happy hour” with all of the interns, heading out for dinner—and potentially some karaoke afterward! I may have accidentally ordered way too many tater tots (no regrets though—they were delicious 😄). It was such a fun evening, and I was truly amazed by the different talents my fellow interns brought to the table. Whether it was singing, storytelling, or just being hilariously entertaining, they’re all incredible people.
Despite coming from so many different places and backgrounds, we found a surprising number of things in common. Hanging out together like that really brought us closer—we shared laughs, stories, and a genuine sense of connection. I left that night feeling grateful to be part of such a diverse and talented group.

Despite all the different things that have happened this week, one of my favorite things to do is simply take a moment to reflect—and appreciate what a blessing this internship truly is. It honestly feels like a miracle to be here. From the moment I first got to know the Society of Physics Students (SPS) Internship Committee and Dr. Hackley, I felt something special. I’m so grateful for the promptings I received from God, and for the faith and confidence I’ve placed in Him—and in myself. Without that guidance, and without the support of the SPS committee, my mentor, and the incredible interns around me, I probably would’ve been back in Idaho by now!
Adjusting at first was tough—nothing felt familiar, and not having bedding on my first two nights definitely didn’t help me feel at home. Everything felt off, and for a moment, I doubted whether I could really do this. But as the week went on, those worries were replaced by small but powerful affirmations: supportive conversations, new friendships, peaceful walks, and a growing sense of belonging. Every positive experience, every little success, and every comforting moment reminded me that I am meant to be here. I’m truly thankful for the incredible people, the inspiring environment, and the strength that comes from listening to promptings and trusting in God’s plan. This first week has shown me that while the beginning might feel uncertain, I’m already growing—and ready to contribute meaningfully to the work ahead.

Week 2: Aurora? Cruise? Museums?

The week flew by quickly, especially because I’ve genuinely been enjoying the research I’m involved in! It’s been a fulfilling and meaningful experience. This week, I reached several milestones in the project I’ve been assigned, and as my understanding deepens, I’ve started working more independently—bringing in new ideas and perspectives along the way. I’m really starting to love what I’m doing, and I can feel myself growing by stepping out of my comfort zone. It’s exciting to see how much I’m learning and contributing already!

While working alongside Dr. Hackley and Javin in the Organic Petrology Laboratory, I’ve been expanding my understanding of how organic matter within rocks can reveal a wide range of valuable information. This week, I’ve focused on learning to identify different types of organic material under the microscope, and through careful observation, I’ve begun drawing meaningful insights from what I see. It’s been a fascinating process—each slide feels like a puzzle that helps piece together the story of the rock’s formation and composition.
In addition to my research progressing at a steady and fulfilling pace, a few interesting things happened this week outside the lab as well. According to recent news, a series of solar winds from the Sun reached Earth, triggering auroras of varying intensity across the northern hemisphere. Based on the aurora forecast, I realized there was a small chance I might be able to witness this incredible astronomical event right here in Washington, D.C.
Excited by the possibility, I made a plan and headed out with James to a local park for some late-night skywatching. The trip there went smoothly, but unfortunately, due to the heavy light pollution, we couldn’t see anything—no auroras, no stars, not even a hint of green in the sky.
Still, the adventure didn’t end there. I may have freaked James out a little when I led him down a dark, unlit trail in the middle of the park. There were literally no lights anywhere—we had to rely entirely on the flashlights from our phones to find our way. 😂 Despite not spotting the aurora, the experience turned into a memorable (and slightly spooky) adventure of its own!

On our way back to the dorm, James asked if I had already planned our return trip. I casually told him, “We’ll figure it out soon.” He was clearly surprised—and maybe a little concerned—that I hadn’t actually planned how we’d get back, especially since it was already around 11 p.m. and public transportation options were starting to disappear. I reassured him that Uber drivers were still out and about, and I was confident we’d find our way home.
Thankfully, we did! We made it back safely and wrapped up our spontaneous late-night adventure with one final surprise: witnessing a car accident on the way back. 😅 Not exactly how we expected to end the night, but it definitely made the evening even more memorable.
As the week progressed, I had the special opportunity to attend a dinner with the SPS board members and executives—held aboard a cruise ship! The event was truly remarkable, not only for the scenic setting but also for the meaningful conversations and connections we were able to make. Over dinner, I had the chance to learn more about the board members’ journeys, their involvement with SPS, and their diverse career paths in physics and beyond.
One moment that stood out was when we, the interns, asked a light-hearted but surprisingly revealing question: “Do you prefer Washington or New York?” Since some of the board members had lived or worked in New York before, their responses were especially interesting. The majority said they preferred New York—even though they admitted it’s far more overwhelming. They shared reflections on the energy, intensity, and pace of the city compared to the more structured and calm environment in D.C.
That casual exchange gave me a deeper appreciation not just for their professional insight, but also for their personal perspectives—how their environments shaped their work, and how they found balance between excitement and sustainability in their careers. It reminded me that even in the physics world, place and lifestyle matter just as much as equations and data.

During the cruise, we also had the chance to participate in some dancing (though I’ll admit—I’m definitely not a great dancer, haha!). Still, it was a lot of fun and a great way to bond and build connections with everyone. To end the evening on a calm and thoughtful note, a few of us decided to sit down at the bar and unwind together.
As we chatted, I found myself truly enjoying the chance to get to know some of the board members better. They shared stories about their journeys through physics and their current careers, and I felt inspired by their openness and insight. I took the opportunity to ask for advice on writing essays for both graduate school and job applications. One key suggestion they gave me was to work on my “elevator speech”—a quick but powerful way to market myself. They encouraged me to identify and highlight the unique strengths and perspectives that I, as a physicist, can bring to the table for recruiters.
Hearing this reminded me that I’m not alone in navigating the challenge of defining what a physicist can do in today’s world. More importantly, it helped me realize how many critical and valuable attributes we, as physicists, actually possess—skills like problem-solving, analytical thinking, creativity, and perseverance. These conversations left me feeling more confident and excited about how I can grow, contribute, and shape my future moving forward.

Besides the cruise, I’ve continued to enjoy my peaceful walks in the woods around the USGS campus in Reston. Although the wooded area isn’t large, it offers just the right amount of quiet and greenery to feel like a true escape from the busyness of the day. The path winds gently beneath the trees, with birdsong in the background and the occasional breeze rustling through the leaves—simple things that bring a sense of calm I didn’t know I needed until I experienced them.
These walks have quickly become one of my favorite routines. They offer me a moment to pause, breathe, and reset—not just physically, but mentally. After spending long hours immersed in research, staring at microscope slides or thinking through data, stepping outside into nature helps me clear my mind and refocus my thoughts. It’s in those quiet moments that some of my best ideas come together—whether it’s a new approach to analyzing a sample or a personal insight about the direction I want to take in life.
This small wooded trail has become more than just a break spot; it’s a personal sanctuary. It reminds me that in the midst of work, productivity, and goals, it’s okay—and necessary—to slow down and simply be present. The stillness helps me reconnect with both my research and myself, making it one of the most meaningful parts of my week.

The week ended on a high note with an exploration of the incredible museums around the Washington, D.C. area. We had the chance to visit several U.S. history museums, and I genuinely enjoyed learning more about the nation’s past—even if, by the end of the day, I couldn’t feel my legs anymore from all the walking, haha!
As we moved through the exhibits, I found myself captivated by the richness of detail and the wide array of cultural histories on display—many of which I hadn’t known before. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of the humanities and reminded me that progress in society isn’t just built on science and technology, but on unity, shared stories, and mutual respect among diverse cultures.
Seeing how different traditions, struggles, and contributions have come together to shape this country was humbling. I realized that when we embrace diversity and step outside our own boxes, we open the door to greater creativity, empathy, and inspiration. I’ve learned to look for the strengths in others, and I’ve been moved by the resilience and beauty found in each culture’s journey.
Most of all, I’m grateful to have witnessed the hand of God in all of this—the way He blesses us with opportunities to grow, connect, and find joy in our shared humanity. This experience not only taught me more about history—it also helped me see more clearly the divine love and purpose that we are each meant to discover in this life.

Week 3: Fire Alarm? Karaoke? Orchestra?

It is hard to believe that I am already in my third week here in D.C., working with USGS! Time is flying by, and it has been another great week filled with progress and new discoveries. I have reached several important milestones in my internship, and each one has brought a sense of fulfillment and motivation to keep going.
Working with the microscope and preparing samples for analysis has been a true adventure. As I dive deeper into the research process, I have been noticing new patterns, features, and even small behaviors in how I collect and interpret data. It is fascinating how much I am learning—not just from the materials themselves, but from refining my own approach along the way. I am genuinely excited to continue expanding this research and exploring the questions that have started to emerge from my findings.

Throughout the week, I made the decision to start going to the gym and get back into working out. I honestly couldn’t believe how out of shape I felt—just walking around the city was enough to leave me tired! 😅 Restarting a fitness routine hasn’t been easy, but I know it’s a step in the right direction. It’s tough at first, but I’m slowly building momentum—and at least now I can say I’m getting somewhere, haha. Small progress is still progress!
Besides going to the gym, walking down the riverside near the Lincoln Memorial—crossing the bridge—was a refreshing and memorable adventure. I enjoyed feeling the breeze and observing the casual rhythm of people passing by—walking, jogging, and cycling. It all added to the vibrant energy of the city. Each person seemed to carry their own story, their own life, hopes, and ambitions for the future.
Moments like these remind me of how alive Washington, D.C. truly is. With every step I take through its streets and paths, I find myself becoming more curious—wanting to learn about the city’s background, its culture, and the people who shape it day by day. There’s something inspiring about being surrounded by so much movement and purpose.

This week, we celebrated the birthday of one of our fellow interns! We sang a birthday song for her and made sure her special day felt meaningful. That evening, we all decided to wind down with a fun karaoke and movie night in one of the dorms. I honestly can’t believe how patient everyone was with my singing—let’s just say I’m definitely not winning any vocal awards, haha—but we had a blast!
What made the night even more special was seeing just how talented and spirited my fellow interns are. Whether it was singing, sharing movie trivia, or just having genuine conversations, they continue to impress me with their knowledge, creativity, and kindness. I truly feel lucky to be surrounded by such amazing people—it’s been a real pleasure getting to know each of them! 😊
We also watched the movie Mamma Mia, and I absolutely loved the vibe and the music—it was so full of life and energy! Even though I still haven’t figured out who Sophie’s true father is (haha), what really stood out to me was the genuine growth and understanding that developed between the characters—between family, friends, and relationships. It reminded me that love isn’t always about having all the answers, but about being present, supportive, and open to connections.
Watching the film made me reflect on how important it is to appreciate the people around me—those who care about me and love me for who I am. I’m truly grateful to have met so many wonderful friends during this internship who continue to support and uplift me. As I continue on my life journey, moments like these remind me that I’m not alone—and that’s a gift I’ll always treasure.

On Thursday night, just as I got back to Foggy Bottom from Reston, I found out that the fire alarm had gone off—and everyone in Shenkman Hall had been evacuated! That meant I couldn’t get back into my dorm… and I was starving. 😅
Since there wasn’t much I could do, I decided to make the most of it and hang out with a few of the other interns at the park near the Washington Monument. We tossed a ball around, had some fun conversations, and just enjoyed each other’s company as the sun set. It actually turned into a really nice, spontaneous evening. The only downside? The flies! They were everywhere—definitely a reminder that D.C. summers are no joke when it comes to humidity, haha.

We finally made our way back around 9 p.m., and even though it was a long walk, it felt much easier with good company. Once I was able to get back into the dorm, I quickly made myself a much-needed dinner—and then completely passed out right after eating. 😴 It was a chaotic night that turned into a memorable one, and honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
On Saturday, I was absolutely thrilled to receive an invitation to attend a live orchestra concert—shoutout to Naomi and Jack for organizing everything and generously providing the tickets! Although I don’t consider myself an expert in music, being present at a live performance was truly incredible. There’s something so special about sitting in the concert hall, immersed in the sounds, feeling the vibrations of the instruments, and witnessing the passion of the musicians. I was especially struck by the stories and emotions behind each piece, as well as the intentions of the composer. It opened my eyes to how powerful music can be in expressing the depths of human experience.

The theme of the evening’s performance was Resurrection. At first, I instinctively connected it to the resurrection of Christ. But after taking time to read through the program and reflect more deeply, I realized the piece was also about something even more intimate and universal—our resurrection. It explores the final moments of life, the grief of a funeral, and the hope of rising again to stand before our Heavenly Father. The way the music unfolded—through quiet moments, sudden crescendos, and the blending of different instruments—beautifully captured the emotional complexity of that journey: sorrow, fear, longing, peace, and finally, joy.
This concert was the first time I truly felt the full emotional weight and spiritual power of music. It reminded me that people express their emotions and stories in many different ways—through words, actions, writing, or in this case, music. Each form of expression holds a unique beauty, and on that night, I witnessed how music can connect us to something greater than ourselves. It was a humbling, soul-stirring experience I’ll never forget.

To wrap up this week’s journey, I want to express my deep gratitude for the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience life here in Washington, D.C. This experience has gone far beyond what I anticipated when I first accepted the offer to come here. It has challenged me, stretched me, and blessed me in ways I never expected.
Above all, I’m grateful for the gentle promptings of the Spirit and the unwavering love of my Heavenly Father, who continues to watch over me and guide me along the right path. Even when I make mistakes—whether in my research or in life—I know He is always there. He is my constant shelter in the storms of uncertainty and doubt. (And yes—D.C. had a real thunderstorm the other night! ⛈️) That moment reminded me, quite literally, that no matter how loud or chaotic life becomes, God is still near.
What gives me the most peace is knowing that He doesn’t require perfection—only a willing heart. Regardless of who I am or where I fall short, He rejoices with me when I choose to follow His will. That love and grace continue to be the foundation of everything I do, and I carry it with me as I step into each new week with hope and humility.

Week 4: Tour? Thunderstorm? AIP?

It’s hard to believe another week has already passed since my last blog entry. Things have definitely gotten busier than I expected—especially with the Juneteenth holiday and a group tour taking place during the week. While I appreciated the chance to rest and explore, staying productive with my research proved to be a bit of a challenge due to the shorter work time.
That said, I’ve still made some meaningful progress. One of the highlights this week was diving deep into a new part of my project—developing a Python program to help streamline the analysis process. I ended up spending nearly 15 hours building and refining the code, but it was worth it. Not only will it be a helpful tool for my current research, but it can also be reused in future projects to save time and improve efficiency. It’s been a rewarding (and at times, exhausting, haha) coding journey—but a fulfilling one nonetheless.

Throughout the week, it’s been unusually wet in both Washington, D.C. and Reston, Virginia. I’ve honestly lost count of how many times I had to pull out my umbrella, only to put it right back in my bag when the rain stopped—and then pull it out again five minutes later. The weather’s been all over the place!
Unfortunately, my shoes didn’t survive the constant downpours, and my feet were pretty much soaked every time I arrived at work. Still, I consider it a small miracle that I didn’t end up with smelly feet by the end of the day—haha, small blessings! Despite the soggy inconvenience, it definitely added some unexpected character to my daily routine.
On Wednesday, we were blessed with an organized trip to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Maryland. (Fun fact: this was actually only my second time visiting Maryland—I don’t usually go there, haha.) The visit offered a meaningful opportunity to better understand what NIST is all about, and it gave us the chance to engage in conversations with faculty and professionals during a career panel Q&A session. I walked away from that experience with not only new insights into the world of research and standards, but also some valuable life advice—especially when it comes to making thoughtful and intentional career decisions.
Hearing the panelists share their stories about how they transitioned from their early dreams to their current careers truly expanded my perspective. It was eye-opening to see how many paths a scientist’s journey can take, and how flexible and dynamic a scientific career can be. For a long time, I’ve had the dream of becoming an astronomer and focusing my research on Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN)—a passion that still holds a big place in my heart. However, I’ve also started to question where that path might lead in the long term, and whether there might be other ways I can grow professionally beyond that specific niche.

The visit to NIST helped me realize that exploring new directions doesn’t mean giving up on my passion—it just means being open to growth and the possibility of detours. My interest in astronomy is still strong, but now I feel more confident that it’s okay to remain curious, to adapt, and to explore different options along the way.
During the tour, we also had the opportunity to visit the nuclear accelerator laboratory—and I was absolutely amazed by how massive the facility was compared to the lab I work in at USGS. The sheer scale of the space, the complex systems, and the high-tech equipment made quite an impression. Honestly, seeing it made me feel a bit more at peace with my “tiny” lab back at USGS. At least there, I don’t have to worry about managing high voltages, intricate safety protocols, or operating machinery with a million buttons and functions tied to complicated code!
At one point, I asked the team a rather silly question: “What’s the number one no-go rule for users operating the equipment in this lab?” Technically, they said they didn’t have any specific no-go rules—though I’m pretty sure there must be some (haha), just not something they could recall right off the top of their heads.
Despite the size of the lab and its intimidating setup, I’m proud to say I didn’t get lost! Still, I’m pretty sure I would get lost if I ever had to navigate that place alone on my first day. (To be fair, I already got lost in the USGS lab on my first day… so that’s saying something!) It was a fun and eye-opening experience that gave me even more appreciation for the variety of work environments in science.

During the tour, we also had the opportunity to visit the Newton Tree—yes, that tree! The one connected to the famous story of Isaac Newton and the falling apple that inspired his thoughts on gravity. I’ve always found the story fascinating, but I recently heard that Newton didn’t actually sit under the tree when the apple fell. Apparently, he was watching it from a window instead. Is that true? At this point, I’m honestly not sure if I want to dive into a full research rabbit hole just to find out… haha. 😄 Either way, it was still amazing to stand near a descendant of the tree that sparked one of the most important discoveries in physics history.

In the end, I decided to go into work on Thursday—even though it was the Juneteenth holiday—because I was seriously behind on my research progress (shh… don’t tell my mentor! 😅). While I was in the lab, surrounded by noisy machines, I actually heard thunder rumbling inside the building. That’s when I realized just how intense the storm outside had become.
At one point, I even got an emergency alert on my phone telling me to seek shelter—it was that wild. Thankfully, the thunderstorm didn’t last too long. I was honestly relieved, because the last thing I wanted was to figure out how to get home in the middle of a lightning show! Still, it made for a pretty memorable workday—and probably one of the loudest research sessions I’ve ever had.
We had a professional training session in the morning with the Talent and Culture Officer at AIP in Washington, D.C. The session was insightful and gave us useful tools for professional development. After the meeting, I decided to stay at AIP to finish up some of my work—especially since I’m preparing to submit paperwork that will allow me to work remotely.
Admittedly, the workflow turned out to be longer than I expected, but I’m happy to say that I’ve caught up on about 90% of my tasks—haha, progress! One of the highlights was getting to work alongside other interns. Since I usually work alone in the lab at USGS, it was such a refreshing change to be surrounded by peers, bouncing ideas around and sharing quiet moments of productivity. It reminded me how much fun and motivating it can be to work in a collaborative environment. 😊

Lastly, I want to share just how grateful I am for the influence of the incredible interns I’ve met and for the opportunity to be part of this amazing program. Each of them has inspired me in different ways, and being surrounded by such thoughtful, passionate people has truly been a blessing.
I’m also deeply thankful for the promptings and quiet guidance I’ve received from my Heavenly Father throughout my research journey. There have been many moments when imposter syndrome crept in—trying to convince me that I didn’t belong, or that I wasn’t good enough. But over time, my confidence has started to grow. I’ve learned that when I genuinely humble myself and allow Him to shape my path, He helps me become more than I ever thought I could be.
As a scientist with a strong faith in the gospel, I’ve begun to see the world differently. I find meaning in the smallest details and strength in the challenges. I know that He is walking with me—not only as I work through my current research, but as I continue to figure out my life and future career. 😊

Bonus moment of the week: On Saturday evening, I went for a jog around the Washington Monument park, and to my surprise, I saw several fireflies dancing around the field. It was such a peaceful and magical sight—one of those quiet, simple joys that makes you pause and smile.
Of course, I couldn’t resist the idea—so I asked ChatGPT to generate an image of me jogging with the fireflies, haha. 😊 It’s moments like these that remind me how special this experience has been, both in and out of the lab.

Week 4: Heat? Storm? Haircut?

This week has felt a bit more personal and introspective, as I’ve been focusing less on exploring new places and more on staying committed to the goals I’ve set for my research. With the end of the internship slowly approaching, I’ve been determined to make steady progress and ensure everything gets completed on time.
As a result, I’ve spent most of my days alone in a dark room, hunched over the microscope with my samples. It’s a quiet and focused environment—but I’ll admit, I’ve caught myself dozing off more than once, haha. Still, even in those long, sleepy hours, I feel like I’m growing—not just in knowledge, but in discipline and persistence too.

However, I’m really looking forward to next week—especially with the upcoming Fourth of July! I’ll be traveling to western New York state with two of my friends who are also interning this summer, one in Pennsylvania and the other in New York. We’ve been planning this trip for a while, and I can’t believe it’s finally happening! We’ll be spending the weekend together exploring, relaxing, and making the most of the holiday break before I return to D.C. to continue my internship. I’m excited for the change of scenery and the chance to reconnect with them.
Nevertheless, I’ve been slowly getting used to the summer heat that’s finally settling into the area—even though it’s still wet and rainy in Reston, Virginia. One day this week, Washington, D.C. actually hit triple digits in temperature, which completely caught me off guard! I wasn’t expecting that kind of heat just yet.
It’s been an interesting experience bouncing back and forth between Reston and D.C.—from cool, damp mornings to hot, humid afternoons. The constant shift from wet chill to wet heat has definitely been something to adjust to. Still, I’m surviving (with the help of lots of water, shade, and maybe a few extra snacks here and there, haha).

Aside from work, I’ve been doing my best to keep up with my routine of going to the gym and jogging around the Washington Monument Park. I’ve noticed that I’m gradually gaining more strength and stamina—both in lifting and in my endurance while running. It’s also been a humbling reminder of how out of shape I was at the beginning, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made so far.
One of my favorite parts of jogging in the park is witnessing the sunset almost every evening. There’s something so peaceful about how nature quietly echoes into my soul—it helps me slow down, reflect, and truly appreciate the beauty around me. It’s become a grounding part of my day.
One important lesson I’ve learned through jogging is not to rush. I’ve realized that focusing on my breathing—keeping a steady, consistent rhythm—is key to maintaining endurance. The same goes for life: persistence and patience matter more than speed. 😊

Over the weekend, I had the chance to walk around the city—though it was incredibly hot. I was sweating nonstop the moment I stepped out of my dorm! Despite the heat, it was a good outing. I treated myself to some Japanese cuisine, and it had been a while since I’d had a meal like that. The food was absolutely delicious and tasted very authentic. I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor, and the staff at the restaurant were incredibly kind and welcoming.

After lunch, I decided to go get a haircut… which, in hindsight, may not have been the best idea. Let’s just say the barber got a little too enthusiastic with the scissors, and now my hair is way shorter than I wanted. I was pretty upset at first, especially because I thought I had explained clearly what I wanted. But maybe I need to improve how I communicate my hairstyle preferences—this is actually the second time this has happened to me, haha. Still, once that big chunk of hair was gone, there was no going back! 😅 Hopefully, it’ll grow out soon—and I’ll definitely be more cautious next time.

Although this week’s blog might seem a bit quiet or uneventful, I want to emphasize that this, too, is part of life. Life isn’t always filled with highs, nor is it always consumed by lows—we all experience a mix of ups, downs, and ordinary moments. And that’s okay. What truly matters is how we choose to respond to those moments: to stay hopeful, to seek joy, and to find meaning in the small, everyday experiences.
One of my favorite hymns to sing at church is Count Your Blessings. It reminds me to appreciate everything that happens in my life, no matter how big or small. Whether an experience is the result of my own choices or something completely unexpected, there’s always something I can learn from it. That perspective has helped me grow through both mistakes and blessings.
Even when I feel unsure of myself or question my capabilities, I take comfort in knowing that my Heavenly Father knows me deeply. He sees the potential in me that I sometimes struggle to see in myself. I know He is guiding me—not only to accomplish my own dreams, but also to fulfill His will. I love the gospel, my education, and the career path I’m building. Each of these holds great value in my life and gives me purpose in my journey.