Yaretzi V. A.

Hello everyone! My name is Yaretzi and I am a rising junior at The Bush School. I was honored to be selected for the 2026 Pathways Research Explorers Program. During my time at Fred Hutch, I’ve gained a lot of valuable experiences, including time in the lab, learning from guest speakers, and building connections with my peers. On the first day of the Explorers program, I felt nervous, as it was my first time working in a lab and experiencing what research truly looks like. Luckily, my passion for hands-on activities and meeting new people made this experience even more exciting and enjoyable. Throughout the program, I learned that research isn’t only about conducting experiments, but also about teamwork, precision, preparation, and learning from those around you.

Session 2 Identity Artifact

  An important skill that I learned was how to use a micropipette. The first time I learned how to use one, I was amazed that I could pick up such tiny amounts of liquid. Sometimes, during lab experiments, I couldn’t tell if I had actually picked up the liquid we were working with because the amount was so small. Learning how to properly use a micropipette is important because it allows scientists and other professionals to accurately measure and transfer liquid, ranging from 1 to 1,000 microliters. This helps ensure that experiments are consistent, precise, and accurate. Learning this skill showed me how even a small mistake can affect an experiment and how important it is to be careful when working in a lab.

Barbara & I in the lab using a micropipette

One of my favorite labs was the Cas9/gRNA Reactions. The purpose of the lab was to cut our BRCA1 PCR product using CRISPR/Cas9 and guide RNAs. CRISPR/Cas9 is a tool that scientists can use to make a cut at a specific location in DNA. In our experiment, the guide RNA helped direct Cas9 to the BRCA1 DNA. The day before the lab, we completed an activity to model CRISPR-Cas9. This was very helpful to prepare for the lab that we had the next day. I enjoyed creating gels from agarose and TAE buffer. Our first step was to set up the gel casting system to make two 6-well gels for DNA. Then, my lab partner, Barbara, poured half of 1.0% agarose into each casting tray and waited 15 minutes for it to cool and solidify. After the gel was solid, we removed the gel tray and the gel from the casting system to place it into the gel box. After, we poured 140 ml of 0.5X TAE until both tanks were full. Finally, we were able to start micropipetting our samples. As time went by, we observed how the DNA migrated through the gel. This process, called gel electrophoresis, allowed us to see how the DNA moved through the gel and helped me understand how scientists can study DNA in a laboratory.  

Barbara & I running the Electrophoresis

            Lastly, a meaningful experience for me was the Glassware tour. Before this tour, I never knew that this was a job and how important it was. Ms. LaToya, supervisor of the Glassware Services team at Fred Hutch, explained what the Glassware Services team does every day. The Glassware Services team cleans, sanitizes, and prepares essential lab equipment like beakers and flasks. Their work keeps research labs running not only efficiently but also safely. Another important person who is part of the team is Ms. Tracy. We got to see how Ms. Tracy loaded the equipment into automatic laboratory glassware washers. This tour made me realize that there are many different people and jobs that contribute to scientific research. Before the tour, I had never really thought about who prepares and cleans the equipment that is needed every day for scientists. 

Ms. Tracy loading the beakers into the washer (left) & Ms. LaToya (right)

Looking back, I am extremely grateful that I had the opportunity to experience what research is like at Fred Hutch. Now, I have a better understanding of the time, effort, and teamwork that goes into research. I also learned about the many different jobs that there are within the healthcare field. Most importantly, I will remember how much fun I had throughout the program. While I learned many scientific skills, I also made new friends, met amazing people, and created unforgettable memories that I know I will look back on.

I want to thank my entire cohort of Explorers. You guys were so kind and made this program unforgettable. I will always remember our amazing Mafia games and the impossible puzzles, which I am proud that we managed to finish at least one. Thank you to our favorite alumni helper, Eden, our delightful TAs, Dustin, Adrianna, and Kat. I want to thank all of the staff who helped us and were so nice. Finally, I want to thank Dr. G and the staff for making this program happen and giving me this opportunity. I am truly grateful for everything I learned, everyone I met, and all of the memories I made during my time as a Pathways Explorer.

Session 2 Explorers 2026 and Dr.G