1 August, 2001
Erin Nicole DiMaggio
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Dear National Science Foundation,
The last ten weeks have been, without question, the most fulfilling of my
life. Not only did I find the environment at the Smithsonian intellectually
stimulating and personally motivating, I have found that I now have a high
standard of excellence to strive for. Working with such impressive and brilliant
people has given me a chance to see how real scientific research is conducted
and hence has furthered my desire to become a scientific researcher. Learning
in an environment that people can only dream of, I felt energized and stimulated
each day. I was especially motivated by the encouraging researchers in the
Mineral Sciences Department. Because of their guidance and welcoming attitude
I have come away with a greater appreciation for their contributions to the
scientific world. The National Science Foundation has allowed me to see, be
a part of, and contribute to a world-class institution.
As I am just about to enter my sophomore year in College, upon entrance I
felt overwhelmed with the detailed and unfamiliar topics that my project included.
However, as my research progressed I found myself acquiring the once unfamiliar
language of geologists and using it to express my many discoveries. This summer
I studied the alteration history of a group of metamorphic tuffs from California.
By studying the textures and chemical composition of these rocks I was able
to identify alteration patterns that changed these rocks. This project included
the use of many impressive instruments of which will be helpful in my future
career.
Again, I would like to thank you for your belief in the necessity for scientific
research and for allowing undergraduates to be a part of these important investigations.
With gratitude,
Erin Nicole DiMaggio
Research Training Program, 2001