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The Truth is Out There
The truth is out there, waiting for me somewhere in this crazy city of San Francisco. And as they say in the CIA, the truth will set you free.
Let It Be Thunder. Burning Man 2026
Burning Man is something else for everyone, and every time. The desert will test you and reveal some truth about you. It’s almost like a mirror. This was my third burn. They say it’s three times charm.
This was my hardest year yet, and not necessarily because of the weather, but because of the personal challenges and struggles I had to face.
Lessons from Wudang: The Cradle of Daoism
A canceled flight rerouted through a Tashkent layover, then a week of tai chi and Daoist philosophy at the Wudang Taoist Wellness Academy — on why the answer to burnout is to balance out and simplify, not push harder.
Project “Safety”
It was a windy Sunday evening in San Francisco, filming my Tai Chi routine on a rooftop, when I realized I couldn’t bring myself to approach the glass barrier — not fear of heights, but of myself. That moment forced me to confront twenty years of quietly accumulating overstimulation and a lack of safety, both internal and external. From two derailed PhDs to launching a company right before a pandemic, to standing at forty caught between building a business and building a family, I trace the “unequal race” that led me to burnout. What follows is my personal codex — eleven rules for redefining safety in 2026.
The Buffet
San Francisco turned out not to be a place but a psychological interface, a mirror reflecting whatever I carried inside. I arrived expecting a broken, transactional city, and that is what I found, until a small act of kindness and months of inner work changed the signal I was sending out, and what came back.
The Path To The Woods Goes Through the Desert: Burning Man 2025
This year, I went back to Burning Man not as a tourist, but with real self-awareness: less is more. This essay reflects on serendipity, collective intelligence, and what the desert teaches about stepping outside a life built around collecting things.
The Path to Enlightenment… Via the Dalai Lama and Brain Concussion. A Postcard from India
The trip to India has changed my life. It took me a few months to realize the full impact, but the effects are quite insane.
Where is the Dark Passenger? A Postcard From Prague
I’ve just come back from a 5-day masturdating extravaganza in Prague, Czechia. It was my first vacation since a trip to Burning Man two years ago. Some conclusions from the trip will follow.
If You Are Going To San Francisco… My 25 Tips and Tricks on Networking in the City
Twenty-five hard-won lessons on networking in San Francisco: how to find the hubs, adjust to the tribe, net-weave at meetups, make yourself useful, protect your reputation, and play the long game. Plus a few brutal truths about extractors, void communities, and why the city rewards those who stay different.
Why Amsterdam?
I could list tons of reasons why Amsterdam is THE place to place my center of life. From its entrepreneurial ecosystem and international community to its safety, values, and perfect European location — here are just a few of them.
Let It Burn! I Went to Burning Man and Here Is What Happened
This year was intensive so far. The other day, I had a terrible day. All of a sudden, it came to my mind to text my friend, Nicole. When we talked on the phone on that memorable day, all of a sudden she asked if I would… go to Burning Man with her. And so we went.
House Is Not Home: How My Travels Influenced My Thoughts About Life
House is not home. After years of travels and self-development experiments, I reflect on what home means to me, what motivates me, and why the digital-nomad life is not my path.
Startup Culture in Bay Area vs Startup Culture in Amsterdam
After weeks in the Bay Area, I compare its startup culture with Amsterdam’s: networking, project execution, wealth, behavior, personal branding, and overall business dynamics — 10 differences that surprised me.
15 Years Later
I spent Christmas among family and friends quite as every time before. However, this time, I also had a few afterthoughts as there are some examples of common knowledge that stroke me really hard. You might hear some simple truths from your parents and teachers over and over again – or read about it from motivational books – but after all, you only learn how important they are when you see the consequences in real life.
So Close yet so Far: A Postcard From Kilimanjaro
Five years have passed since I hiked to the top of Kilimanjaro; it happened precisely on the morning of 16th September 2013. It surprises me how vivid this memory still remains. Especially the last day of the hike, a lonely path from the last camp of Barafu towards the peak, I remember as bright as if it happened yesterday – maybe because finishing a PhD feels EXACTLY like that day.
On the Womb
This evening, I was sitting at the Didirion Station in San Jose waiting for a bus to Los Angeles. It was a Monday evening, 11pm. I just finished a goodbye dinner in a good restaurant with my sister.
Uber
It seems to me that the whole Uber phenomenon is ephemeral as in a few years, cab drivers – especially here, in Sillicon Valley – will most probably be replaced by self-driving cars. However, it is interesting to observe this phenomenon from the psychological point of view.
The American Dream
A visit to California is an eye-opener. The Dutch job market could not be any more different from the American one. In the Netherlands, it is way easier to get funding when your project is eco-friendly, employee-friendly and has a societal impact. In Silicon Valley, the thinking is different — and after a week in Mountain View, I finally understand the idea behind the American dream.
The Power Animal
Los Angeles has such a rich religious culture. From scientologists, through the Unitarian Universalists, to shamanistic associations. Every time you start talking to a new person, you can end up with a private lecture on an unexpected, spiritual topic. This time, two folks I met at a cheap hostel on Hollywood Boulevard took me to a shamanic workshop — where I found my power animal.
About the Effects of Living in a Nice Country
The doctors were truly confused; they knew about my previous records, but could not explain what had happened to my body in the meantime. But I think I know why this is the case. My lifestyle did not change since seven years ago. Only one thing substantially changed.
Democratic or Republican
Tomorrow, the parliament elections will be held in Poland. Therefore, today, on this particular day, I need to keep calm about my choices and I cannot speak about it to public. However, I think I am still allowed to talk a little bit about my general political preferences.
A Visit To Argentina
I recently took another excursion to South America, and more specifically to Córdoba in Argentina. I got to know the Argentine culture a bit more. For example, I visited bars where cougars hunt for young boys, bars for gays with beards only, bars with everyday drag queen shows… Literally all kinds of unusual nightclubs. However, despite the variety of places I had a chance to visit, this whole trip was a bit sad. Namely, daily life is really inconvenient here.
Gaze or Timbre? On Non-verbal Communication in the Netherlands
In Polish culture, persistently staring at someone is seen as rude, pretentious and may be considered a taunt. While in the Netherlands, it has a completely different meaning. Admittedly, the locals here have mastered the use of their eyes as an exchange of information. The Dutch, flirting with each other, do not use any compliments or other verbal signals, do not turn red on their faces, do not use any specific facial expressions. They talk as usual. The only difference is that they look at each other in a different way.
New Year’s Eve Afterthoughts: Gay Life in Poland Still Isn’t Easy…
I feel ashamed. I feel ashamed after the New Year’s party. It has never happened to me before to feel so ashamed after a party. More precisely, I am ashamed to see how unimportant my problems are compared to my new gay friends. I just learned a little bit about the gay community in Poland and its brutal rules… and I am shocked with what I heard.
Postcard From the Mountains: What Hiking Taught Me About Science
Academic life is not easy. “The closer to the sky, the closer to hell.” Well, so far, I manage somehow but it took me a long time to grow this skin. Hiking helped me get tougher and persevere. So, I created a list of 21 things that mountaineering has taught me about science so far. Some are obvious and cliché, but I hope some of them will be useful to you.
A Lonely Hike in the Andes
I embarked on a solo hike to Lake Potrerillos, seeking solitude in the Andes. The unmarked trail led me through dense bushes and fog, but I persevered and eventually reached the summit, despite challenging conditions. The fog was so thick that I couldn’t see the waterfall I aimed to find, yet I felt immense satisfaction knowing I had reached my goal. The eerie landscape and unexpected encounters added to the surreal experience. After my hike, I was invited to a barbecue by some locals, which ended my day with warmth and new culinary insights. Despite losing all my photos, the journey left me with a deep sense of fulfillment and joy.
Impressions and Memories From My Stay in Chile
I discovered some surprising habits among Chilean locals, like feeding seafood to chickens and unconventional practices at a university that left me astonished and amused. Chile’s approach to art is unique and unconventional, blurring the lines between reality and creativity. I was captivated by the vibrant and spontaneous artistic expressions that differ greatly from European norms. Living in Chile has made me realize I might have a Latin soul, which explains why I never felt fully at home in Europe. My experiences here are helping me find clarity and a renewed sense of purpose in life.
Summer School in Chile
My first visit to South America was eye-opening, where I experienced a mix of Americanized culture, high prices despite being a third-world region, and evident social inequalities, especially in places like Panama City. Living with a Chilean family taught me about resourcefulness and the warmth of the locals, who even renovated their home out of excitement for hosting a European guest. This experience sparked new ideas for my dream home. The summer school in Chile was transformative. I learned to focus on my own growth rather than comparing myself to others, which led to personal success, new connections, and a renewed belief in my ability to tackle challenging projects.
My First Time in the High Tatra Mountains: Impressions from the Mountaineering Course
I recently discovered the rugged beauty of mountaineering and the sense of camaraderie it brings, especially in places like the Tatra Mountains and Chata Pri Zelenom Plese. Despite the challenges and discomforts, the experience was deeply fulfilling. The mountaineering course was tough, especially for a beginner like me, but it offered valuable lessons in climbing skills and mountain safety. The stories of dangerous expeditions, like the 2013 Nanga Parbat massacre, highlighted the seriousness of the sport. Reflecting on the course, I realized the importance of mental preparedness in mountaineering. I might have been too eager to challenge the Andes, and now I believe it’s wiser to build my fitness and skills before attempting such a demanding expedition.
Time to Travel!
At 27, I see this as the perfect time to travel, explore the world, and grow personally, rather than settling down too soon. It’s crucial to invest in experiences and self-discovery before life becomes more rigid. Traveling and exploring diverse cultures have broadened my perspectives, helping me avoid the stagnation that I’ve noticed in some of my peers who haven’t ventured out. This phase of life is about experimenting, finding passions, and understanding oneself better. I’m embracing this dynamic period, balancing an intense workload with personal well-being. I focus on staying active, spending time outdoors, and maintaining a positive mindset, knowing that these habits will benefit my mental health and future.
Don’t Sleep! Sightsee
After returning from the Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting in San Diego, I realized the importance of being selective with information. Neuroscience has grown so vast that it’s impossible to grasp everything, and I now focus on the essentials rather than trying to absorb it all. My perspective on working in the USA has shifted. While I used to fear the American work culture, I’ve become more confident and open to the idea of living and working there. I now understand that when you enjoy your work and stay active, you can handle the demands with enthusiasm. My recent experiences have brought me a newfound sense of well-being and optimism. Regular travel and daily exercise have boosted my spirits, and I’m determined to maintain this positive mindset as I continue pursuing my passions and professional goals.
The Netherlands Never Fails to Amaze Me
Living in the Netherlands has been full of surprises. For instance, the Dutch approach to legal disputes is casual; filing a lawsuit for a minor amount like 10 euros seems common, contrasting sharply with Polish attitudes towards courts. The Dutch also have a unique level of openness, even discussing restroom plans without hesitation, which might shock visitors. This candidness is part of their broader cultural norms that I find both amusing and intriguing. As I prepare for my upcoming trip to South America for summer school and hiking, I’ve been getting ready by packing and training for the journey. Additionally, I’ll make my TV debut soon, adding an exciting twist to my current adventures.
Memories from Tanzania, Part II
During my trip to Tanzania, I was surprised by the local preference for bongo flava music over Western hits like Nicki Minaj or Pitbull. Despite not understanding Swahili, I found the music catchy and now enjoy it myself. The lack of clean drinking water in Tanzania was alarming, especially compared to the Netherlands’ safe tap water. An environmental studies graduate I met believed it might be too late to save the Earth due to extensive damage and water scarcity. The job market in Tanzania, particularly around Kilimanjaro, is quite unique. For instance, the lack of wells to avoid reducing local porter jobs and the mafia-like operations in the tourism industry, including deceptive practices, were striking and eye-opening.
Memories From Tanzania, Part I
My trip to Tanzania was unforgettable, featuring breathtaking landscapes, cultural surprises, and encounters with remarkable people. Despite the high costs and occasional local opportunism, there were some genuinely kind individuals who helped me during challenging moments. I undertook a three-stage journey: climbing Kilimanjaro, going on a safari, and finishing with a relaxing cruise to Zanzibar. Climbing Kilimanjaro was particularly challenging but rewarding, with memorable experiences of camaraderie and perseverance amidst stunning views. While climbing Kilimanjaro, I encountered local customs and challenges, including dealing with altitude sickness and navigating the complex dynamics of climbing culture. Despite the physical strain, the experience was profoundly enriching and affirming. The safari offered a contrast to the intense climb, providing relaxation and interaction with fellow travelers. Each person had unique stories and backgrounds, highlighting the diverse reasons people seek adventure and escape in travel. My time in Zanzibar was a fitting end to the trip, with its laid-back atmosphere and warm hospitality. Reflecting on the journey, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and personal growth, recognizing the value of solo travel in discovering one’s true self and capabilities.
A Visit to a Dutch TV Station
Despite recent successes and a new approach to prayer, my collaborative effort on an abstract for an invited publication ended in disappointment when it was rejected, making me appreciate the ups and downs of teamwork more. On a brighter note, I was featured on Dutch TV for a program about mathematical theories, where I presented in a lively setting with circus performers, showcasing my newfound comfort and skill in front of the camera. Even with some personal stress and a minor health issue, I managed to perform well on camera and am excited for the show to air on October 17. This experience has highlighted how presenters can activate a special mode to stay energetic and positive on screen.
On the Differences Between Poles and Dutchies
After a recent trip to Warsaw, I noticed significant changes in the city’s landscape, including new city bikes, more greenery, and a striking skyscraper, but also encountered humorous local news about the Pendolino trains missing their defining feature. Returning to Poland highlighted a personal shift as I felt out of place at a wedding with old friends, exacerbated by my two-year experience in the Netherlands, which has altered my sense of connection with my Polish roots. The Dutch approach to life emphasizes self-development and inner fulfillment before settling into serious relationships, contrasting with the Polish focus on stability and family. This shift has led me to appreciate Dutch values and feel more at ease in the Netherlands, despite the cultural differences.
Easter at Family Home
My family continues to amaze me with their accomplishments: my sister’s fencing success and publication in Nature Genetics, my father’s ongoing work with young chess players, and my mother starting studies at NYU despite initial hesitations. Inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s biography, I realize the importance of pursuing personal goals with unwavering focus, something I’m working on but often find complicated by my reliance on others’ expectations. Reflecting on my life and goals, I see a connection between my experiences and my work on cognitive disease modeling, as my mental imagery of overcoming challenges in the mountains parallels the themes in my manuscript.
My First Time at the Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting
Attending my first Society for Neuroscience (SfN) Annual Meeting in New Orleans was a thrilling experience. Despite the conference’s vast scale, I felt at ease and enjoyed exploring the diverse sessions and interactions without the stress of presenting. Though I had to manage my expenses carefully, including spending hours at the Atlanta airport for compensation, the trip was financially successful. I found it rewarding to be frugal and still make a positive impact, with a small net gain from the adventure. I was pleasantly surprised by the scale of the computational neuroscience community and the engaging encounters I had during my spontaneous explorations. This experience reinforced my sense of belonging in the global neuroscience network and highlighted the importance of a supportive professional and personal circle.
Return From Summer Schools: Regaining Passion for Neuroscience
Returning from my travels, I’ve discovered a profound passion for neuroscience, driven by the excitement of exploring neural diagrams and engaging lectures. The diversity in the neuroscience community, with its blend of backgrounds and interests, makes every gathering feel like a vibrant celebration of knowledge and culture. My experiences revealed that faculty members, often perceived as perfectionists, are actually quite human, balancing their professional work with personal passions like dancing and stand-up comedy. This alignment with my own optimistic outlook on life and work has been refreshing and inspiring. Traveling through summer schools in China and Poland taught me the value of interacting with diverse, talented individuals and the importance of resilience. Despite challenges, these experiences have reinforced my commitment to reclaiming my personal values and inspired me to engage more deeply with my peers and the world around me.
Preparing for Summer Schools in Computational Neuroscience
As I prepare for a summer school tour, I’m both excited and overwhelmed by the rapid advancements in computational neuroscience. The field’s vastness and the intense competition make me sometimes long for a quieter, more focused research niche. Recent high-profile projects, like Henry Markram’s €1 billion cortical column reconstruction and the Allen Institute’s $300 million brain slicing initiative, highlight the immense funding in neuroscience. While promising, they also attract a lot of pseudo-experts, complicating the search for genuine scientific talent. Currently undecided about my specialization, I hope the upcoming summer schools will provide clarity. My goal is to align my PhD focus with my true interests and ultimately secure a position that fits my career aspirations amidst the stringent requirements of the Dutch system.
A Visit To a Wrestling Gala
Living abroad has sparked my interest in different cultural phenomena, such as American WWE wrestling and Polish MMA. Despite finding wrestling’s charm elusive, I appreciate its role in reflecting human emotions and cultural differences. Attending the KSW MMA gala in Poland was a surprising delight. The event surpassed American equivalents in its presentation and audience engagement. The unique demographics of the crowd and the spectacle itself offered a fresh perspective on modern entertainment. My dive into computational neuroscience reveals the vast unknowns of brain research. Despite significant progress, many aspects of neuronal signal transduction remain unexplored. My recent findings about the brain’s structural properties highlight the field’s potential for groundbreaking discoveries.
Expedition to the Caribbean Islands
Our Caribbean excursion was an exhilarating adventure filled with tropical marvels like palm trees, exotic fruits, and thrilling activities such as snorkeling and zip-lining. Despite being a first-time traveler, I found the trip both affordable and transformative, offering a refreshing break from work. The experience revealed a unique blend of Caribbean culture and economy, from luxury cruise ships to the intriguing mix of currencies and local trade. Interactions with the warm and genuine locals highlighted the Caribbean’s distinct charm and its prowess in tourism. Traveling with my partner tested our problem-solving skills and resilience, especially during tight schedules and logistical challenges. Despite the occasional squabble, our teamwork and adaptability shone through, reinforcing our bond and proving that navigating difficulties together strengthens our relationship.
How to Cope in a Dutch Lab as a Polish Expat
At 26, juggling a career amidst cultural stereotypes about Polish people, like the unfounded association with drinking and stealing, has been challenging. These biases have made it difficult to fit in, especially in a competitive environment where my efforts and successes are sometimes undermined by colleagues. Since joining the lab, I’ve noticed a shift in my Dutch colleagues’ behavior. Initially, they would leave work promptly at 5 p.m., but now they stay late to showcase their dedication, creating a competitive atmosphere. Their initial advice was helpful, but as I began to outperform them, their attitude changed, attributing my success to “sheer luck.” While working on an intriguing essay about the small-world effect in networks, I’ve been reflecting on the nature of connections and efficiency in various systems. This topic, relevant across neuroscience, sociology, and mathematics, highlights the significance of network structure and has influenced my recent social choices.
Harsh Rules of Dutch PhD Programs
Two months into my PhD in the Netherlands, I feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the program and the high expectations, particularly given the low completion rate and the challenges of theoretical research compared to experimental work. Despite the pressure, I’m discovering hidden gems at the university, like the beautiful lake and insightful lectures from renowned experts, which add a sense of wonder and opportunity to my experience. I’ve learned about the importance of scientific integrity and the strict rules at Donders, reflecting on how even prestigious achievements can be overshadowed by issues of ethics and the need for vigilance in academic integrity.
Hard Beginnings in Exile in the Netherlands
After two months in the Netherlands, I’m struggling with the cultural separation between colleagues and friends, finding it difficult to form meaningful connections despite my efforts. Despite a hopeful invitation to a Dutch friend’s birthday, the event was filled with other foreigners, highlighting the challenge of breaking into local social circles. I’m feeling disheartened by the sense of exclusion and administrative barriers, as Dutch citizens seem to receive preferential treatment, making it hard to feel truly at home in this new environment.
Behave Normally — It’s Crazy Enough. Navigating Dutch Culture.
Returning from Poland, I’m facing housing issues that dominate my lab discussions. Although I’m stressed, I’m optimistic that I’ll find a solution as I usually manage to navigate challenges effectively. My recent encounter with travelers in Poland offered insight into Dutch culture, revealing their reserved nature and the principle of “behave normally, as it’s already crazy enough,” which has helped me understand local attitudes better. Despite feelings of isolation in the Netherlands, I’m learning to connect with the Dutch on deeper, meaningful levels, and I’ve come to appreciate the open yet reserved nature of their social interactions.
A Rough Start in Nijmegen
My start in Nijmegen has been rough: a disappointing room, an unhelpful rental agency, and one of the tightest student housing markets in the Netherlands. Juggling that with a demanding PhD is exhausting. Still, biographies of people who began in worse conditions, and Thelema’s idea of following your true will, keep me going.
First Impressions of Nijmegen
Preparing for my big move to the Netherlands has been challenging with a tight budget, an old, overpriced house, and high expectations from my young, ambitious tutor from Harvard. I’m diving into the field of neural networks and cognitive science, despite the uncharted territory and the additional stress of working without overtime pay in a cold, rainy summer. Though the city is vibrant with student life and opportunities, I feel isolated and prefer to focus on my work rather than engage in social activities, reflecting on the tough beginnings of my journey.
On the Trip To Italy and Austria
During my travels in Milan and Soelden, I observed contrasting aspects of Italian and Austrian cultures, noting Milan’s blend of traditional charm with modern struggles, and Austria’s focus on skiing and unique local customs. In Milan, I was struck by the juxtaposition of glamour with social issues and the absence of children, while Soelden’s tourism-centric focus revealed a different side of local life. Both experiences offered insights into regional lifestyles and societal trends. Reflecting on my journey, I pondered the concept of “depressive realism” and its implications, while also grappling with my evolving views on Buddhism and its authenticity in the modern world. My ongoing search for genuine spiritual experiences continues, leading me to contemplate a trip to Tibet.
Impressions from South Korea
During my time in South Korea, I discovered unique local preferences, such as a fascination with fair skin and double eyelids, which are believed to enhance attractiveness and success. Koreans also place importance on blood type traits in personality assessments. South Korea blends Western influence with its own traditions. Chain stores like Starbucks are common, yet Korean cuisine and fashion remain distinctly unique, reflecting a preference for functionality and creativity over Western trends. The Korean lifestyle and mentality impressed me with their emphasis on traditional values and emotional warmth. I found the cultural practices, such as eating with chopsticks and enjoying spicy cuisine, to be both enriching and eye-opening, enhancing my overall appreciation for global diversity.
A Brief Letter From a Korean Temple
During my week in Seoul at the International Seon Center, I’ve noticed that Koreans and Poles share similarities in mentality, largely due to historical struggles with neighboring powers, which fostered a strong sense of national pride and traditional values. Koreans are both fascinated by Western features and cultures, admiring Hollywood stars, while also holding on to their traditional customs, which can sometimes make Westerners feel like outsiders, even if they are treated warmly as tourists. Korean family dynamics are influenced by traditional values, with elderly women (ajummas) holding significant power within families. Mixed marriages are sometimes met with resistance, and Korean men, while passionate, may lead to complex dynamics in such relationships.
Once Upon a Time… Life
Two sources worth your time: the Polish series “Professions” and the French classic “Once Upon a Time… Life,” which taught me about abstract symbols at age seven. Then a question: why does traveling by Polish train leave me so drained, especially as a woman? And where did the 7%-38%-55% communication myth come from?
Celebrating My Masters Diploma in Mathematics: A Short Vacation in Mikołajki
To celebrate my math diploma I spent five book-free days in Mikołajki. Back home, reality returned: PhD applications going nowhere, a Physics thesis to untangle, a math discovery made by accident, and a neuromarketing internship. I’m juggling everything at once, and the cure for the chaos is Woodstock.
I Was Just Packing For Vacation in Masuria When Suddenly…
Despite my excitement for a peaceful July and my plans to finally enjoy a vacation in Masuria, I was hit with the news of a major mathematical challenge at my department, throwing my plans into disarray. Even with the added stress and the possibility of disruption, I’ve promised myself to pack my backpack and head to Masuria next Thursday, regardless of the outcome of the challenge, to either celebrate or find solace. Reflecting on my high school literature class, I’m reminded that life often leaves us with unresolved matters, and true vacation is a state of mind. I remain determined to visit Masuria and make it a reality someday.
Impressions From the Neuronus Conference
At the 3rd Neuronus student conference, I found a far more welcoming atmosphere than at competitive physics seminars. I explore Ramachandran’s view that qualia help build a coherent perception of reality despite incomplete sensory input, and a surprise student sexology conference led me into alcohol-induced mental conditions and their impact on criminal responsibility.
Impressions from the Woodstock Festival
Przystanek Woodstock and Madonna’s show deepened my interest in the psychology of crowds. Despite very different settings, one communal and one financially exclusive, the two audiences looked surprisingly alike in demographics and attire. Their behavior differed, though: Woodstock fostered community and mutual tolerance, which made me think about how concert settings shape crowd dynamics.
Impressions from Traveling Through Western Europe: Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden
I’ve recently been navigating through a period of uncertainty but managed to reengage with life by attending a vibrant science evening and exploring Europe. My travels took me through Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden, where I immersed myself in local atmospheres and cultures.
A Trip to California, Part II
After a few weeks in California, I have noticed that Americans can be more conservative than Europeans, especially at the beach and at the doctor’s. The friendly atmosphere and strict laws sit alongside a subtle but evident racial segregation. On the bright side, Californian tourism is refreshingly affordable, and my first baseball game was a revelation.
A Trip To California, Part I
My American adventure starts with a canceled flight and a night at an $85 airport Marriott, but I am staying positive. Despite pushing the baggage limits and feeling unprepared for coding, I am excited to see whether California is a good fit for me. I also completed the mandatory NIH course on research with human subjects, so I am certified and ready for lab work.
I’m Going to Caltech!
I’ve been accepted into the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) 2008 program at Caltech, and I’m thrilled to embark on this exciting adventure in California! My research will focus on autism and perception, specifically comparing how individuals with autism and those without perceive and interact with faces. We’ll test the hypothesis that people with autism experience increased social anxiety, leading to reduced eye contact, using an eyetracker to measure gaze patterns on human and animal eyes.
On My Internship Project at Caltech
My research project, and possible ticket to an internship abroad: why do autistic people avoid direct eye contact? Current theories point to the moving mouth or a general pull toward motion. I will test a different idea, that social stress drives gaze away, using an eyetracker on human and animal faces.