This summer has been a wonderful opportunity for me. I know anyone reading this expects me to say that, but I really do feel like I’ve learned so much about the research process these past eight weeks. Before coming to Duke I hadn’t had any exposure to what an academic research life is like. I knew there were researchers and PhDs, but I had no idea what exactly one does to earn that title and how you spend your life answering questions. This summer I’ve enjoyed getting to know the people in the Haase lab and learning a lot more about my options for a career in the sciences. More than just opening career options though, I feel like the mentorship program this summer has taught me about how to go about thinking critically. I look forward to future research opportunities where I will continue to improve at asking meaningful questions. No question worth pursuing is going to be easy or immediately obvious, and I’ve learned to live with a certain amount of uncertainty and frustration while still working towards answers. I hope to continue to dedicate my time to research in the future. I’m very glad I was able to participate in the Howard Hughes Research Fellows Program this summer, and I wish the best of luck to next years group!
