My First Year in the Chemical Industry

It's been just over a year since I started my new journey in the chemical industry. I am not a chemist by training. I probably can't even make the simplest chemicals that high school graduates who have studied chemistry could create. I still remember the time when I was going over my job offers and had to make a decision within a couple of weeks. I felt relieved to see the end of the job search process and the approaching completion of my PhD, but at the same time, I was a bit overwhelmed and nervous about entering a field without any formal training.

I was just armed with nothing but my passion and a willingness to learn. But I was determined to take a stab at it. The language of chemistry was foreign to me, more so than English itself. But now, reflecting my last one year, I'm becoming slowly yet increasingly acquainted with it, and it's a thrilling feeling. One of the things I love about my work is the ability to combine my knowledge of mechanics of soft materials with chemistry. I am still not really sure how the combination could make a real impact to the world and bring in financial opportunities, but I am just making a go of it. Maybe one day, unique knowledge of both fields may eventually lead to a successful commercial application, possibly resulting in a "jackpot"? Although there are lots of uncertainties, one thing that is within my control is to enhance my understanding in both fields, while actively seeking out chances to apply my current knowledge and make a valuable contribution.

I also appreciate the culture of top-notch professionalism and rich career opportunities that my company must have worked hard so long to cultivate and would like to help maintain it going forward. As someone who is cognizant of how "a bad apple can spoil the bunch", I can't emphasize enough the importance of a positive work culture for one's mental health and an overall life quality.

​It's been a challenging but rewarding journey so far, and I can't wait to see where it takes me next!