I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity to participate in an enriching summer research program. BSURF has aided me in understanding more about the scientific world and how it works, as well as what are things that can be improved. I came into this program having a research background, but I have learned a lot more about research from participating in BSURF than I did before. Dr. Gayathri Devi helped me grow and become a better scientist and problem-solver. I appreciate my graduate student mentor Risa Gearhart-Serna for assisting me in this pathway of learning about science; she was extremely helpful in my research all summer. The relationships I formed with my peers inside and outside the lab are relationships that made me happy, and hopefully, they will continue to be a part of my life in the future.
I enjoyed the weekly seminars from different faulty members. Having scientists present their research and findings, and telling us about their science career pathways, was truly revolutionary. It came to show me that you never know where you might end up in life, no matter what goals you have set for yourself.
Lastly, I want to thank Dr. Grunwald and Jason Long for giving me the chance to participate in this program. Both work hard to keep the program running and ensuring we got the best out of this experience. They made this research experience possible for me and hopefully, they will continue impacting future participants.
