Lawrence Berkeley

After a well deserved break in San Francisco we were back on the move as we had a jam packed schedule. Waking up early we hurriedly dressed in our uniforms, cleaned the room, checked out, and drove to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Both the host and the guests were equally excited for this visit as the National lab wanted to live up to its name and the cadets were eager to learn about the emerging technology. I particularly took interest in the bio-fuel technology that was being developed. I was fascinated to learn about new method creating diesel fuel via sugars. The scientist took the basic concept of fermenting yeast to expanding that process to create fuel. They’re ultimate goal is to create a plant that will naturally produce fuel, much like a Maple tree producing maple from its sap. Our main host was Edward Turano, an energetic, smart, and very schedule oriented man. As soon as we arrived we were given an overview of the lab and then introduced to Associate Laboratory Directors in the computing sciences, general sciences, and environmental science. As each associate director blew our minds with what they did, from trying to detect dark matter and energy to the world’s fastest computers, I found Mr. Turano’s intellect to be even more impressive. Although his field of expertise was in physics he was very well educated in almost all the fields the directors talked about or mentioned as he knew more than the basics about each and every field. Whether it was about the detailed project of bio-fuel or the difficult concepts of dark matter, Mr. Turano seemed to be up to date with everything. I was fascinated and honored that an individual as smart as Mr. Turano was so willing to explain and show us a prestigious lab such as Lawrence Berkeley. 
 After a fast paced tour in Berkeley, we were able to change to a slower pace when we arrived to the Steinbeck National Museum. Our tour guide was eccentric and full of energy. I feel fortunate that we have been blessed with tour guides who are so passionate about their work/lab. As she filled our brains with Steinbeck trivia we were able to better understand the man we were following. I give props to Mr. Steinbeck after finding out that he didn't believe that chivalry was dead as he personally defended his wife and friends from any taunts or insults. Kudos to you Mr. Steinbeck.


-Clay Sohn