As scientists and engineers, we inherently live in a world of unknown—we investigate and explain phenomena that are not yet understood. This is what makes a career in science so rewarding.

However, it certainly brings along challenges as well. As a graduate student pursuing a Ph.D. in materials science, I am often reminded that “if it was easy, everyone would do it.” The important message of this adage is to not focus on difficulties associated with working in technical fields, but to focus on opportunities that those difficulties afford. It also should serve as a reminder that embracing the difficulties of science is one of the first steps to achieving success.