Isra A.

These past two weeks I took part in the Fred Hutch Pathways Research Explorers Program. At first I felt intimidated given it was my first time in a semi-professional environment, let alone a lab. Frankly, I entered being unsure of what to expect and not knowing a single thing about research. As we quickly delved into the foundational skills used in benchside work and conducted experiments integrating laboratory instruments while simultaneously simulating the research environment; I was able to further understand how broad STEM-based careers are and the many aspects that make up the research field.

A machine used for X-ray Crystallography in Dr. Barry Stoddard

Many of the lectures that I listened to held deep meaning and new information that I enjoyed learning about, but one in particular that stood out to me was learning about the mutation that occurs within the Breast Cancer Susceptibility Gene 1 also known as BRCA 1. BRCA 1 is a tumor suppressor gene with its main function being to produce a protein that aids in the repair of a mutation in your DNA. Two copies are inherited from your parents, but only one copy is required in a cell to function. Having a mutated BRCA 1 can increase the risk of  developing cancer by about 55%. Along with the common demographics and statistics in Breast Cancer, I learned about the disparities that occur during diagnosis. So when I was able to apply what I learned about BRCA 1 in the classroom to a Polymerase Chain Reaction and successfully amplify the DNA. I felt a newfound excitement being able to translate something I felt is profound into hands-on laboratory work.

Behind the scenes of a special edition lab ASMR.

Outside of the lab I enjoyed spending time with my cohort. Even though many of us were in different grades and attended different schools, we were still able to form a bond and make memories that I'll hold on to. From playing mafia everyday (with Eden’s exceptional narrating), pranking Dr. G, going on Sandwich Shop runs, fitting our entire cohort into elevators, trying to finish puzzles, and sharing snacks together we were able to overcome the boundary of shyness and create many friendships. I’m fortunate to have met so many passionate students that share similar goals and look forward to seeing ourselves grow and thrive.

A sunny day on the roof of Fred Hutch.

Although this program is coming to an end I am sure that my learning won’t. An important lesson I learned is that Fred Hutch is an amalgamation of people, each person holding diversity within their roles and expertise. Its success is due to people working together to make the institution function. But it wasn't just the program that I gained knowledge from. It was our STEM Outreach Advocate Dr. G and a member of SciEd Dr. Jeanne Ting Chowning, the many students in my cohort, our TAs Kat, Dustin, and Ariana, Ms. Latoya from the glassware facility, the friendly faculty around Fred Hutch, and the many Doctors and Scientists who took the time to give lectures, lab tours, and life advice that will be extremely useful when I take the next steps in my academic career in the near future. I’m eternally grateful for those who made this program possible and I hope to return to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center not as an explorer, but as someone who can make an impact on Cancer research.