What Are Your Happiest Moments?

Reflecting on the happiest moments as a researcher reveals the profound joy found in discovery rather than societal impact. These moments, often tied to personal feelings of accomplishment and excitement about potential discoveries, contrast with expectations or interpretations placed upon the work. The essence of research is the relentless pursuit of understanding, where genuine excitement can emerge from foundational discoveries, such as the advancement of statistical learning and machine theory. All experiences, whether met with skepticism or eventually embraced by the community, contribute to that deep sense of fulfillment. The journey of research includes both the triumphs and the realization that new insights can lead to great advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, further separating practical applications from technical complexities.