PO3 Rayek
[Lounge]
'Share his experiences - that's what the doctor wanted. Easier said than done, at least, in this setting' Rayek thought to himself.
"Forgive my bluntness Counselor , but my past experiences are something only highest security clearances will ever get an opportunity to see. They are definitely not something to be shared in a group counselling session." Rayek tried to state this simply as a matter of fact, and not in condescending manner.
Of course he knew that answer wouldn't suffice, so he considered a moment before continueing. "Though I suppose I could speak to only the most recent of experiences - those since joining Starfleet. That would be about 2 years ago."
Rayek alertly glanced over the room once more. The room was all but empty but for them. The 'Group Counseling' sign on the Lounge entrance likely turning away those that might otherwise have stopped in for drink or some social interaction. It seemed to Rayek that he wasn't the only one adverse to open sharing, since he was the only one present on a vessel of over 500 crew. He looked back to the counselor and offered a slight smile as he settled a bit more comfortably into his chair.
"My acceptance into Starfleet as you can imagine wasn't automatic. I was questioned and tested by all manner of professionals, and amateurs playing at professionals, to determine my goals and motivations. It took nearly a year for my application to be accepted and only for the Enlisted route. I spent the next two years at the Mars Academy, tailoring myself to Starfleet standards. I would like to say I graduated top of my class, given that 90% of what was being taught I already knew and had more than enough experience with to teach the course myself, but that would have required the instructors to grade in a non-biased manner."
He paused a moment at this point, a slight frown making his forehead V stand out. He was saying too much. It was never good to divulge things - they had a way of coming back and biting you on the ass. But opening up was what this counseling session was for. He glanced about the room once more - ensuring that the room was still empty but for the two of them. Inwardly, he wished he had his old Tal Shiar scanner hidden up his sleeve to check for listening devices before continuing on. It would have made him feel slightly less vulnerable. After a moment he continued on though his voice unintentionally grew quieter, as if what he spoke was intended for just her.
"The USS Challenger is my first assignment and thus far I can count on one hand the individuals who have taken the time to introduce themselves to me civilly, that includes a one-on-one visit to the Captain - something that I suspect isn't standard practice for most Crewmen. To date, I've yet to have interaction with my own Department Head. Petty Officer Cleroux has been assuming the role of my supervisor in her place since I arrived. He tells me she down with the Urodelan flu." Rayek's tone conveyed just how much he believed that.