Young leaders in Optics: Find your passions, ask the right questions, and pursue them!
by Pedro Vallejo-Ramirez
Today at the 2014 Student Leadership Conference we had an excellent talk by Professor Alain Aspect from the Institut D’Optique in France on following your passions in life, even when it’s a risky choice. Professor Aspect’s passions were the basic concepts in physics, and he led his life choices to pursue this passion without regrets. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing your interests over job perks, financial rewards, or scientific accolades. Identify your passions, and delve deeply in them; when you pursue them great things will ensue.
Following closely this topic, James Fisher, Vice-President of Newport Corporation, spoke about asking the right questions to the right people. The theme of the talk was centered on the importance of context and awareness in your search for success. Regarding job interviews, this means doing your homework to understand the principles of the company, thinking of how you would fit within the company, and how you can contribute in the company operations. From the interviewer’s point of view, this shows preparation and genuine interest—this will give you an edge over other job candidates. In order to gain insights on how you would fit in the context of a company, you first need to be an expert on yourself: know yourself well so you can find the passion that drives you. Ask yourself the right questions before you can ask others.
In a nutshell, don’t let yourself be pressured by societal influences on success, define your own metric for success based on your passions and stick to it. I understand these words can seem overused, but it is shocking how often we forget to reassess our lives and to re-kindle the fire that drives our lives. Take some time this week to look within yourselves and assert your driving force.
It was a pleasure meeting such exceptional student leaders today, I wish you the best in all your future endeavors, fare well and good luck!
Posted: 19 Oct 2014 by Pedro Vallejo-Ramirez