I agree with most of what is said on this thread. Like you KimWipes, I have always dreamt of winning a Nobel Prize in Medicine. Althought I am now 23, I was told like you since school days that I possess the potential to win it if I dedicate my life for science. However, after studying at university and meeting Mrs Right, I seldom think about the Nobel Prize. Instead, I think my (and your) efforts are better focused in SERVING HUMANITY. I came to realize that the yearning for an international scientific recognition is in my view dangerous, as it diverts your focus from scientific interest to recognition interest. Before long, you will feel disconnected from science, your whole career becomes a struggle and your days of youth lost in pursuing something that is unlikely to be a reality. What matters is what you think of yourself and not what people think of you, and I think you should be tremendously proud of your achievements in receiving those many educational awards.