Don is from Houston Texas. Don is currently attending the University of Houston. Don previously attended the University of Houston Clear Lake and Colorado State University. Here are his responses to some questions:
What have you studied in science or are currently studying?
I am currently studying geology with a focus in planetary geology. I have samples of regolith (soil) brought back by the Apollo 15 and 17 astronauts. I am examining the chemistry, crystal growths and petrology of volcanic green and orange glasses.
Do you have any ideas on what a middle school student could do in Science right now?
Two things come to mind. The first has to do with basic fundamental science. We mistakenly seem to believe that just because someone has previously studied a topic or area that we know all there is to know about it. When in reality, it is more likely that the surface has only been scratched. We further assume that previous studies were completely correct, yet many errors or omissions do occur.
The second area that comes to mind occurs at the boundaries of specific topic or the "big picture" interactions in nature. Rarely does anything in nature exist alone and unaltered by its surroundings. Biology effects geology, climate changes drive erosion and so on. So, I suggest picking a local topic, with hands on capability, see what has been studied before, ask more questions and follow the scientific method in looking at the topic of interest. And don't be afraid to expand across all fields.
What or who inspired you to get into Science in the first place? What do you like about Science?
Curiosity, exposure and a desire to understand inspired me the most. Growing up in Colorado gave me the mountains and geology. My parents liked to travel in the southwest and go to museums which allowed me to learn history, anthropology, cultural differences, and other fields. But somewhere along the line, space flight took front stage; possibly the Voyager and Viking space craft and the wonders they presented. I soon developed the want to go, see and understand such places myself.
What advice do you have for a middle school student who is interested in becoming a scientist?
Ultimately, science is just the process of accurately observing, describing and recording how the processes in the universe work. So feed your curiosity in everything. Don't stop asking questions. Look for connections in everything. Learn the language and process of science (math and statistics). Know that it is not easy, but persistence and patience will pay off. And have fun.
Don added this:
The recent iMUSH experiment is a good example of fulfilling ones curiosity. Though it was not my experiment and though I have studied seismology and volcanic processes, this work was not necessarily directly related to my current studies. Therefore I was able to learn some new and interesting things about the Cascades volcanoes and environment. Such events also provide a great chance to travel to see new and beautiful environments and meet and work with many interesting people all interested in science.