Curiosity creates Connection

What I’ve learned so far is that you absolutely need to be a self-starter when you venture out on your own. Having a clear purpose to get up in the morning — and the discipline to stick to a to-do list — makes all the difference in staying motivated and grounded.

I’ve also been reflecting on how to stand out as a quality consultant. I’m realizing, it's about clarity, simply knowing what I stand for and what I want to contribute.

At the core of that is curiosity — in my work, my conversations, and how I see the world. Curiosity pushes me to learn from others’ perspectives while applying the lessons I’ve gained as a quality professional.

This week reminded me how energizing real connection can be. In Bryn Mawr, I caught up over coffee with a former colleague — swapping ideas, offering advice, and discussing ways to collaborate across business lines. Later, in Princeton, I met another former quality professional colleague to test an idea I’ve been developing called Quality Conversations — stay tuned!

To top it off, the Women In Bio event in Philadelphia was a great investment of my time! I left inspired, equipped with a list of next steps. A highlight was meeting a panelist who was also a consulting lead; her openness and practical advice provided the inspiration I needed.

In the end, this week reinforced that every conversation — whether over coffee, at a conference, or waiting for a train — adds another piece to the puzzle. And that’s what makes this consulting journey so rewarding.

Even after the event ended, the networking continued — including a great conversation at Fox Chase Station with another attendee rushing to catch a flight.