How would you summarize your grand prize trip?Our trip to Stockholm was one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences I’ve had. Our reception everywhere we went, from the airport, to the hotel, to the Nobel Prize festivities, was exceptional. We were able to see many tourist sites, acquaint ourselves with the Scandinavian culture and enjoy ourselves, all in a short period of time.
What was your first impression of Sweden? Our first impression of Sweden was when we came off the Arlanda express train, which in itself is a symbol of Sweden’s technological innovations, into the city of Stockholm. It is an extraordinary city with architecture that is unequaled to any that I’ve seen in the United States.
How would you describe the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony and the Nobel Banquet? The Nobel Prize Award Ceremony and Nobel Banquet were majestic. There was an aura of splendor throughout the whole evening and it was almost unreal to think that we were sitting in the same hall as the Swedish royal family and some of the greatest scientific minds from around the world. The presentation of awards, the symphonic music, the dinner setting, and the show performed at the banquet were all very beautiful.
Did you learn any Swedish words during your stay? Ja. I learned some basics like yes, and no, thank you, and Merry Christmas (since we were in Sweden during the holiday season).
Do you have any advice for next year's winners of The Laureates of Tomorrow - Nobel Essay Contest?The only advice I can suggest for next year’s winners is to enjoy themselves to the fullest. The trip is exceptionally well planned, so just relax and make the most of this wonderful opportunity. For more information about the essay contest: www.laureatesoftomorrow.orgPhoto: Michael Vishnevetsky, Jedtsada Laucharoen and Alina Fradlis at the Nobel Banquet, December 10, 2005 © Hans Mehlin / Nobelprize.org