August 28, 2026: Stinky questions

Was your week as busy as mine?! As is typical of the first week of the semester, mine was a blur of new faces and registration challenges and computer system hiccups and questions. Lots of questions.

Amongst all these new people, new classes, and new questions, a highlight of my week was when I discovered our carrion plant flowering. It made me ask more questions. Like, why did the plant wait for a couple of years before flowering now? Is it ok that I think this flower is beautiful even though it looks and smells like rotting meat? Is it ok that the plant is tricking the flies into thinking they will find food? Why is it that flies love its smell?! Yes, I know, because they are flies.  But really, what are the structures, cells, receptors, molecules that cause these flies to be attracted?

Good scientists ask lots of questions. You might think that the best way to tackle your classes is to find answers, but rather, the best way is to ask lots of questions!

Good conversationalists ask lots of questions as well. We had a great Welcome Back Waffles and Pancakes event on Tuesday! The food was great, the company was even better, and the conversations were engaging! Thanks to those of you who came out and started the semester off well. Pancakes were followed by Convocation on Thursday and some snacks on the lawn. And the wall of biologist faces has been updated – you might find yourself there.

One thing to take note of: Change Day is coming! Please visit this page to learn about and sign up for one of the 50 different projects that are available! I think I might spend the day outside. I’m sure there is something that fits your skills and interests.

Have a blessed Sabbath rest following this busy first week of school.