The Settled Systems is home to untold alien species. And while none of htrem have yet proven sentient, that never deterred you. So you sought out and studied them for whatever gifts they offered.
Starting Skills
Lasers
Personal laser weapons are in widespread use across the Settled Ssytems, and specialized training can greatly increase their effectiveness.
Surveying
Humanity now has access to untold alien worlds, and the ability to decipher all that data while on the ground has become an essential skillset.
Fitness
In space, the greatest commodity is oxygen, and the increased lung capacity gained by a regular physical fitness regimen is essential to survival.