When I knew people who were much smarter and more diligent than me also applied to this program, I thought I might be the first one to be crossed out on the list. Surprisingly, I have been selected as an Explorer to join this unforgettable experience at Fred Hutch. I still remember how nervous I was when I checked all the options of “not experienced” for every question on the survey of laboratory skills. Looking back, I realized how immense the amount of knowledge I have gained throughout these two weeks.
My uneasy and intimidating feelings resolved immediately on the first day of the internship. We started to find connections with others and recognized this feeling — which I later learned is called imposter syndrome — was among every one of us. Even though we only knew most of the people only for two weeks, our friendships felt like more than two years. We support, help, and care about each other. We had lunch together on the roof, enjoying the Seattle skyline and bathing in the warm sunlight. We even named two bees who always buzzed around us, Fred and Freda.
The Seattle skyline on the balcony.
One of my favorite labs was CRISPR, which was what I had not heard before. This completely fascinated me. CRISPR is found in a bacteria’s immune system. Unlike other proteins, this protein can carry gRNA, cut at the right place, and replace the mutated part of the DNA. Furthermore, this discovery did not make by one scientist, but by many scientists around the world from the past to now. It was a blank paper with art created by diverse artists. CRISPR consisted of all the skills I had not learned from school: PCR, spot test, CRISPR digestion, and gel electrophoresis. We know that each step we did in the lab was also what the scientists do. To me, this is not merely a lab, but a foresight of the future.
The gel electrophoresis of the DNA to see if CRISPR has effectively processed.
Despite the hands-on experience, I also discovered more possibilities of careers and inspired by many guest speakers. We learned their paths to today and their efforts to better the world. I found a strong affinity with one of the guest speakers who is also an English second language speaker. Her diligence and passion deeply impressed me. Another memorable experience was to visit the labs. It was my first time to be in a real scientists’ lab. The vials, microscopes, and equipment intrigued me. It gave me a taste of what it is like to be a scientist.
Visiting a flies lab and observing flies under the microscope
These two weeks in Fred Hutch went by in a flash. However, this is not the end, but the start of the journey of science. After the Fred Hutch Explorers Program, I am more certain of what I am aspired to. I highly appreciate this precious given opportunity for me to learn. I am thankful for every staff in Fred Hutch who are affable and patient, handing their torches down to the next generation. I am also glad to meet all the interns who gave me an amazing and fun end of summer. Explorers, never stop exploring.
2019 Fred Hutch Explorers Program second session.
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