Blog post #2: Professional Identity

Professional identity refers to the beliefs and values you share with other professionals in your field of interest. I think that it is what brings you close to other connections within the same branch because of the similar interests one may have. I think that professional identity sometimes begins to shape when you start working in your field of interest and can actually see how important it is to develop your professional identity. For instance, my major is Biology and my main focus is animals. I did not really shape my professional identity until I started working as a technician. I realized how much impact the knowledge, ability, and skills I can provide to the job can have in a vulnerable community like stray animals. I think professional identity in STEM is necessary to provide the best of us. 

Something I remember from Dakota's presentation is that making connections sometimes can be scary. But, it is okay because the worst thing that can happen is that the person you are trying to connect with says "no" or doesn't reply. But, even then, when you connect with someone in your field, you are already building your professional identity. I think this is why some people are scared to make connections or reach out to other professionals. The best advice that Dakota gave was the video she presented. I think the video went over how so many people are happy to share their experiences more than you think. I think this information and the concept of professional identity are so beneficial to learn for future TRAIN students and for their lives after graduation.

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