Kali M.

My name is Kali and I am a rising junior at North Kitsap High School. Before my first day of this two weeklong internship, I remember being anxious about what was in store for me. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to relax and simply enjoy my time spent during this program, because there was nothing to fret over. Fred Hutch is a warm and welcoming environment that simultaneously motivates you to do better every single day. The Explorers program includes multiple engaging and exciting activities that last until the very end of the day.

  I came into this internship hoping to expand on my little to no research experience, and this internship gave me the best opportunity possible to do so. I got to be in a lab where I could learn collaboratively about exciting scientific concepts, as well as use new laboratory devices I had never even heard of before my time spent here. I was able to learn about fundamental biological concepts such as cancer hallmarks and the cell cycle, as well as equally important laboratory techniques including a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) with BRCA 1, gel electrophoresis, and how to function micropipettes.

My cohort on the rooftop of the Allen Institute during a tour.

Our gel electrophoresis lab used to split DNA with CRISPR technology!

My favorite topic I learned about as an Explorer is the gene editing technology named CRISPR. This biotechnology tool is intriguing to me because it allows for precise edits of DNA, which in my eyes holds promise for the future of cancer treatment. My favorite lab we did involves the splitting of DNA using gene editing technology, as well as gel electrophoresis to visualize and examine the results. Through analysis my partner and I concluded that the gRNA1 gene successfully guided the Cas9 enzyme towards the DNA, affirmatively splitting the DNA into two fragments. This is shown by the two bands on the first column of our gel electrophoresis. Getting to see visible results of altering something as foundational as DNA with modern technology felt thrilling!

Me while asleep during a round of mafia!

This program helped me consider future career paths related to biology and research while also allowing me to build connections with the people around me. My favorite activity I did with my session during our free time was play rounds of mafia, a game that is tradition during the Explorers program. Trying to solve mysteries with the people around me allowed us to grow closer and made downtime entertaining!

Me extracting the DNA of a strawberry!

During this internship you gain experience in the lab, make connections with others, learn useful information through diligent lectures, and tour various labs. I am extremely thankful to every person who helps make this program possible for me and other students as it was the highlight of my summer. Even though my personal commute was long, I would gladly do it over again as this program allows you to learn about interesting scientific concepts in fun and interactive ways. I am excited to progress further into my academia with the knowledge I have acquired and hope to remain a part of this amazing community here at Fred Hutch!