Dating a chemist is a challenge, not for the pros/cons of the looming “us,” but more for what it forces me to acknowledge about myself.

The reason I didn’t get into science in college was because I held myself back. Sitting in this position right now, where I have a comfortable job, and have become a resource for several attorneys, has given me enough self-confidence to consider pursuing a biomedical science degree in grad school.

However, sitting in the presence of a trained chemist, stirs up those overwhelming feelings of inadequacy. And, granted, I can tell he really likes me, but, I can’t help shying away in those moments.

It is one thing to call the experience humbling, but, I honestly find it humiliating. I forget that he has years of experience to call on, and I just have the information my curiosity finds me. I will learn, in the future, I hope, to remember he got here by working.

And, in turn, I will work just as hard.