The STEM field is one that many know to be rigorous and challenging, yet knowing it will be and experiencing it are two very different things. I am an unconventional student; I returned to higher education after years in the workforce in occupations I was not satisfied by. As a current student I feel as though I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this field so greatly due to the uncertainty I once had about ever being able to return to education. I also consider myself very committed and determined at this point in my academic career, having built confidence in my previous classes and now three years of research. Although inevitably tired and weary some days like many students, I feel very suited for pursuing a STEM degree. Further, I see myself belonging in this field easily as my experience in research has shown me labs are not only something I can be good at, but allow me to use both creativity and problem solving skills in a way that k...