Tell Us about Yourself
Morgan: Apprentice
Dr. Garrison: Mentor
What AEOP program(s) did you participate in?
Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
What got You Interested in This Field?
Morgan: School classrooms have always been the same to me, no matter the subject. Science was the only subject that felt unique when I was growing up. I loved learning new things every day which is truly possible in this field.
Dr. Garrison:I explored several fields of microbiology until I determined what excited me enough to go back to school and earn my Ph.D. in virology. I love a good mystery, and determining how viruses gain control of host cells, dodge the host immune system and replicate and spread is a mystery that I love to try and solve.
Why does the World Need Scientists?
Morgan: We need scientists to answer questions about the world around us. Scientists are the people that are passionate about finding the answers to those questions.
Dr. Garrison: There is so much we still do not understand about the world around us, and without a thorough understanding of the sciences we cannot improve our lives and protect our planet from the unintended consequences of human activity.
What is Your Advice to an Aspiring Scientist?
Morgan: It is important to try out many facets of science. There might be some topic or field that you never knew existed. You also have to be a hard worker and understand that everything will not come easily.
Dr. Garrison: Virology, and science in general, is as much about communicating your research effectively as it is about the research itself. Along with gaining as much knowledge of virology as you can by talking to other scientists in your field and reading research papers, it is important to develop the skills to explain your research to others who may not be experts. In addition, there will be many people along the way that can serve as mentors. Take the time to learn as much as you can from these people.
