A native French speaker from the Ivory Coast in Africa, Desire Degny's attitude toward life takes him where opportunities exist, no matter the location.
Before the current Mississippi State graduate student completed his bachelor's degree at the university in geology, he found a fascination for earth sciences. This led him to study geology, which blends different science disciplines together and helps people explore the world around them.
Degny has worked with oil companies and received experience related to oil drilling and many other areas related to energy. His studies and practical experience have helped him see energy exploration as the key to the world's present and future.
"Take your body, you need energy for nourishment," he said. "In the world, we need energy to do anything."
However, for Degny, exploring the world around him involves more than science. He learned much of the English he speaks four years ago as he completed English as a second language courses. He also learned the importance of getting to know others and introducing them to the wonders of science, particularly geology. He works with Dr. Brenda Kirkand, an associate professor of geosciences, on outreach to encourage more students from underrepresented backgrounds to study geology.
As for the young scientist's future plans, he intends to find his place in geology, but he can't say exactly where just yet.
"I want to do what I love," he said. "I'm flexible about where I do it."