Talked to a paleontologist- best day of my life
Just sharing for some reason- had the most interesting conversation I've ever had with someone the other day.
Sorry if this doesn't fit well, it's okay if it needs to be removed.
For some context: I'm autistic, my special interest is dinosaurs, and I've been wanting to be a paleontologist my entire life. For as long as I can remember, my love of dinosaurs is deeper than just an interest. It's my life and I yearn to know as much as I can about them.
Went to my local meseum, not the best as we're not known for dinosaurs in this area but it's my favorite place in the world. They recently got a really gorgeous edmontosaurus specimen, and they were examining it (this work station is open to the public to view, but is behind glass). The head of the project saw me through the glass and got up, walked out of the workspace and talked to me for half an hour.
We talked about dinosaurs, taxidermy (another one of my interests), his career, and more. This was one of the best interactions of my life, I wish I could've told him how much his interest in me meant to me. Nicest man ever. He gave me his business card, encouraged me to reach out, ask a question, and come by more.
My point is: if you're a paleontologist, someone who works in the field, or even someone like me: if you can, engage in conversation. This man didn't need to talk to me, even notice me but he did and it will forever mean something to me.
Thank you Micheal.