A When I was in third grade, I watched a video that recreated the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s tomb. I remember Howard Carter peering through a narrow hole in the tomb with a candle. A workman asked what he could see: “Wonderful things!” Carter said. From that moment, I knew what I wanted to do with my life.

B Today, I’m lucky to work as an archeologist. I study the lives of people who lived in Egypt’s Nile Delta. It’s exciting work. Sometimes you find something that was buried three thousand years ago. Holding a piece of history is an amazing feeling.

C So I decided what I wanted to be at the age of nine, and I made it happen. Seems easy, right? Not quite! The road wasn’t easy. I did my studies—university, then a PhD. But along the way I was told many things: I was too young, I wasn’t qualified, I should get married and have kids. I also needed money, so I applied for six grants. The first five replies I got said no. Six months later, the last reply came: This time it was yes. Finally, I could start my own excavation.

D For anyone thinking about a career, I would say: Never give up. If you want to do something, keep trying. If people tell you no, use that—it will push you. At the beginning, it hurts. But the next no hurts a little less. It makes you stronger and actually helps you.

E Second, focus on your goals. And I stress yours. You don’t have to follow other people. If they say something has never been done, make it happen. You may be the first to do it! There are always challenges, but you overcome them in the end.