I am a huge proponent of humanizing STEM workers - showing that we are people beyond what we do for our jobs. Allowing ourselves to be portrayed as three dimensional with diverse interests is critical to destigmatizing the ivory tower mentality that can prevent others from feeling like they can understand or relate to our work. To that end, I want to highlight something I love that goes beyond the lab or computer - rock climbing.

Climbing has been a constant in my life since childhood. It has shaped who I am. Climbing has allowed me to push myself mentally and physically, taught me how to pursue my goals while supporting and uplifting others, showed me how to build community, and inspired me to travel the world. Ascending a climb is not unlike scientific research. You need to look at the rock for patterns, ask questions, and distinguish between the time to try harder and the time to think creatively and try a different method to get to the top. Forget talking about collaborations over coffee - how about a climb instead?