Creativity or will

Urmas, from Estonia, asks:
- I have always dreamed of being a scientist but this seems like a far
fetched dream. Almost everyone I know says that you must have at least a
PhD in a field and be brilliant to have a small chance. I have always been solid in
maths but I am not creative. Does creativity play a major role or is it
possible to get through without it?

Dear Urmas, let me say that, if you love the knowledge, if you are curious and if, of course, you don't dislike too much to study, you shouldn't be discouraged by what people say. You should go on with your studies not necessarily to be a scientist, but just because you like what you are going to study. Your qualities will emerge at the right moment. Creativity is important, but, in my opinion, it is possible to be a good researcher also without it.

- How hard is it to get involved in research?

It can be hard or not: it depends entirely on you. Look at what other quantum diarists already wrote: my job is my hobby.