NSF Boot Camp

Tuesday morning Tina, Erik, Bernadine, Kevin, Mike, and myself, along with two AAS Fellows, and about 25 others from NSF, started trickling out of NSF pulling our carryon luggage behind us toward the bus that was taking us to the "Woods" in West Virginia for Boot Camp. I have no idea the route we took because it was pouring down rain and the bus windows were steamed up.  Once we arrived, we each found our assigned "cabins" complete with fireplace, Jacuzzi, and wireless internet.

During the day, we spent our time in the conference room learning about the in's and out's of the National Science Foundation and how the process of "peer review" of proposals for grants works.  We talked about NSF's relationship with Congress and the charge given to NSF "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; [and] to secure the national defense..."  We also did a lot of eating, laughing, and sharing.

I also managed to swim a few laps in the indoor pool and lift a few weights in the exercise room.  A favorite evening activity for many of us was power walks and talks in the dark led by Kevin.