Synonym for a pleasurable coming-of-age experience

Question

I’m looking for a word, phrase, or comparison to mean a pleasurable, coming-of-age experience or discovery. Possibly with connotations of surprise or embarrassment.

I would really like to be able to compare something to a wet dream, but I suspect that is inappropriate for an audience of potential interviewers.

The context: “My discovery of atmospheric science was comparable to a wet dream.”

Answer 1

Enlightenment (“...achieving clarity of perception, reason and knowledge”), or epiphany (“An illuminating realization or discovery, often resulting in a personal feeling of elation, awe, or wonder”) probably are appropriate.

You might also say “It was nirvana” (“state of paradise; heightened or great pleasure”) or satori (“A sudden inexpressible feeling of inner understanding or enlightenment”), and the interviewers that understand will be impressed.

Also see numerous suggestions at Read ( Beautiful + Interesting ) stories. These include wonderful, captivating, enthralling, spellbinding, mesmerising, alluring, bewitching, engaging, magnificent, expressive, sublime, delightful, entrancing, amazing, and awesome, as well as the bemusing advice, “There is no common English word which means beautiful and interesting at the same time.”

Answer 2

We might be making this more freudian than it needs to be. How about "my discovery of atmospheric science was a real eye-opener." It brought my mind to life. Made me realise what I wanted to do.

Answer 3

Further to comments, here's my suggestion:

My discovery of atmospheric science was comparable to a first kiss.

Answer 4

My discovery of atmospheric science was orgasmic

noun: intense or paroxysmal excitement

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I'm aware that isn't exactly appropriate either. Why not just say

My discovery of atmospheric science was enthralling

adjective: capturing and holding one’s attention; fascinating