I first got in touch with Almaz more than a year ago. I was in the midst of my senior year and extremely busy with classes, medical school applications, and my Fulbright proposal. I was beginning to wonder whether I would ever find a strong affiliation when I came across a website with Almaz's contact information. I was soon in touch with his friends in the US, notably Dr Kurt Gottschalk. Then, I emailed Almaz, and called him several times.
From the very beginning, Almaz proved to be an exceptional communicator and contact. I am convinced that his letter of support was a deciding factor in my Fulbright award. Now after working with Almaz nearly every day for many months, he is more than just a good contact. He is also a good friend.
Almaz and I share a passion for networking, but I'm a neophyte next to Almaz. Most people have no idea what he accomplishes each day--myself included. All I know is that almost every country in Europe has representatives, colleagues, or students showing up at Almaz's office at the Kyrgyz National Agrarian University (KNAU). I can think of at least five US scientists woven into the mix as well. Then, let's not forget the contacts in Thailand, Korea, China, and a host of other Asian countries. He's a networking titan. Right now, Almaz has three students working at KNAU, a Pole, American, and Finn.
He's more than just a networker, however. He's an extremely active scientist, heavily involved in a diverse array of fields, including entomology, dendrochronology, and most recently, icthology! He just published an article about Gypsy moth in the American Entomologist: Orozumbekov, A.A., A.M. Liebhold, V.I. Ponomarev and P.C. Tobin. 2009.Gypsy moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) in Central Asia. AmericanEntomologist 55: 258-264
This American contact better get back to work for now :)
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He is a treasure! You have been greatly blessed to work with him. Enjoy these months.
ReplyDeleteWell barry, it really sounds like your hopes and dreams for this Nutty year are coming to fruition! Praise God! I pray for you still, because i know God has you just where He wants you. God's into networking too! *** on another note, (a late note!) it just occurred to me i never responded to your query! It will be an honor to take part in your matrimonial escapade! I may miss my cousin's wedding, but your friendship is of such import, it seems the singular option.
ReplyDeleteSee You There!