Why did you choose research?

From an undergrad cycling through existential crises while writing fellowship applications. I’m no longer a freshman and can’t pull out “scientific discovery & saving the world” bullshit anymore.

I’ve asked everyone in my lab why they chose to pursue research, and they don’t have an answer (“It just happened”; OTL). Perhaps their lack of a better answer and my inability to find an answer for myself right now reflect what may happen to my future aspirations… 🙂‍↕️ so I’m a bit worried.