Hey Everybody,
The program has come to a close and with it, a stimulating two months of science. We read paper after paper, we wrote methods, proposals, lines of code. We tested subjects and made posters. Above all, we were given the incredible opportunity to work in world-class research labs. I wasn’t sure at first how much work wold be required over the 8 week period (the answer is a lot), but it was all worth it to see the project come to somewhat of a close with the creation of the poster. I was thrown into the deep end of research, something that I am very glad for looking back. My PI gave me a general direction and, in conjunction with three other rising-sophomores, allowed me to pursue it in whatever way I wished. I feel like I really gained an appreciation for the academic process as a whole, having to pull a project up from the ground.
This summer taught me a great deal about work ethic. One of the realizations I made was that, if I didn’t decide to work, nothing would get done. We were all determining the success of our project based on how fully we were willing to commit ourselves to it. I learned that it’s OK to not know what I want to do with my life right at this second, having heard from all of the guest speakers who very coincidentally fell in love with scientific work. I learned that it’s too early to tell is research will fill the rest of my life, but intend to continue striving to find out.
The Howard Hughes program was a joy and an honor, from the moment I was accepted to the finishing of this final post. I need to thank Dr. Ron Grunwald for organizing everything and keeping us in check (reminding us that punctuality is important!). Thank you as well to Dr. Paul Durst and Kathryn Picard who gave us real advice and insight into graduate life. Thank you hugely to Dr. Jennifer Groh and everyone in the lab who supported me throughout this summer. I’ll see you all soon!
-Wilson
