Posted by Cadet Thomas Buckingham (Doctor) in Counselor’s Office - Cadet Buckingham reporting for Evaluation

Posted by Lieutenant Commander Liadra (Counselor) in Counselor’s Office - Cadet Buckingham reporting for Evaluation

(snip)

“Do you think you would notice if there was a point where more risks were being taken? Either in yourself or in those around you?” She knew that when you were in the thick of it with others it could be hard to call someone on something that didn’t feel right and many cadets still didn’t know that line between their oaths and following orders. It was a tricky balance to find and one that even the most seasoned officers could still struggle with.

Lt. Cmdr. Liadra, CNS

“In all honesty, I’m not sure” Buckingham answered. “I’d like to think I’d notice, but I’m just not sure. You see, before I trained in medicine, I was a Science Teacher in a High School” He explained “So there were very few risks involved. Star Fleet is very much a new chapter in my life, which means encountering situations that I haven’t been in before, So I expect I shall learn a great deal more about myself in my time serving.” As Tom spoke he could sense the conversation was quite deep and meaningful, and he was being quite open about himself, which wasn’t the norm, but he continued to answer in an open way, simply out of comfort more than anything else. It felt good to speak sincerely to somebody.

• Cadet Thomas Buckingham, Medical

Sensing that it was an appropriate time to shift the conversation, Liadra nodded. “Learn is the correct answer,” she said with a soft smile. “You may not be able to recognize it, but you will undoubtedly encounter it . And when you do, hopefully you’ll know what to do.”

Leaning back, she studied him for a moment. “I know these past couple of years have been hard on you. Where do you feel you are at after losing your wife?” she asked gently.

Lt. Cmdr. Liadra, CNS