Have you ever heard the saying that our destiny is revealed in the games we play as preschoolers? Some children dance, others build, and some, from a very young age, are budding scientists. This is the story of someone who followed that early calling, even when it set her on a path completely different from her family’s.
We’re talking about Dr. Karen Davidowitz Corbin, a researcher whose fascination with science began on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. Surrounded by lush plants and fascinating rocks, her curiosity was boundless. From a young age, she had a recurring dream: to wear a white coat and make groundbreaking discoveries. But where did this dream come from, especially since she didn’t know any scientists?
The “Wonder Woman” Effect
Dr. Corbin traces the initial spark of inspiration back to her favorite childhood TV show: the original “Wonder Woman” starring Lynda Carter. It wasn’t just the action that captivated her; it was the character’s genius-level intellect. The fact that Wonder Woman sometimes wore a lab coat planted a powerful seed in her young mind, associating intelligence and discovery with heroism.
However, inspiration alone isn’t enough. Her dream was nurtured by her parents, who, despite having non-scientific backgrounds (her father was a computer programmer and her mother an actress), gave her the greatest gift possible: the freedom to be curious. They encouraged her to ask questions, to explore, and instilled in her the belief that she could achieve anything with hard work.
This powerful blend of creative and technical influences, combined with unwavering support, allowed her to pursue a dream she had never seen up close.
To truly appreciate Dr. Corbin’s incredible story and insights, take a moment to watch the full conversation here. You’ll get a deeper understanding of her journey and the passion that drives her.
From Fear to a Powerful Mission
The journey to becoming a renowned researcher was filled with twists and turns. Dr. Corbin’s path led her to a deep fascination with nutrition, where she began her career as a dietitian. She became intrigued by why different people have unique responses to the same foods, a question that propelled her back to academia to earn her doctorate.
But her journey wasn’t without its challenges. Surprisingly, she admits she used to hate public speaking, a fear born from being teased for her accent as a child. She believed silence was safety. Over time, however, she realized that discovery is meaningless if it isn’t shared. Science, she learned, is not just about data; it’s about telling a story that makes information memorable and impactful.
This realization became her mission. After a boss once advised her to “tone down her personality,” she did the opposite. She embraced her unique voice and founded Geeks that Speak, an organization dedicated to training scientists to be engaging and effective communicators. Her goal is to break down complex topics and, most importantly, to inspire the next generation—especially young girls—by showing them what is possible. As she powerfully states, “You can’t be what you haven’t seen.”
Nurturing the Next Generation of Innovators
Dr. Corbin’s story is a testament to the power of fostering a child’s natural interests. For parents, her message is clear: pay attention to what sparks your child’s curiosity. Provide them with diverse experiences, whether it’s a trip to a science center or simply giving them a microscope instead of a doll. Don’t be afraid of failure; instead, frame it as a crucial part of the learning and problem-solving process.
By encouraging curiosity and providing opportunities for exploration, we can help our children discover their passions and, just like Dr. Corbin, turn a childhood dream into a world-changing reality.
